If you're looking to step up your firepower in Helldivers 2, understanding the intricacies of your arsenal can make a massive difference. This isn't just about grabbing the highest DPS weapon — it's about how you use it, how you build around it, and when you deploy it. Below are 18 proven weapon strategies that will help you boost your damage output across all mission types, from solo objectives to chaotic four-player bug hunts.

1. Prioritize Armor Penetration for Heavily Armored Foes

Use weapons like the Railgun or Recoilless Rifle when dealing with armored Automatons or Chargers. These weapons punch through plating, dealing consistent, lethal damage where lighter weapons fail.

2. Focus on Burst Damage for Objectives

When defending a point or taking down a target fast, go for high burst weapons like the EAT-17 or Autocannon. Quick damage output wins time-sensitive fights.

3. Equip the Right Perks

Weapon strategies aren’t just about firepower. Pairing damage-enhancing perks such as “Extra Ammo” or “Quick Reload” can significantly increase your sustained DPS.

4. Use the Arc Thrower Against Clusters

This underrated weapon is phenomenal in tight spaces or when enemy groups clump together. Its chain-lightning style effect can decimate squads in a single charge.

5. Conserve Ammo with Precision

Spraying and praying is a fast way to run out of resources. Aim for weak points and control your rate of fire to maximize ammo efficiency.

6. Stack Team Synergies

Combine suppressive weapons like the MG-43 with precision weapons from teammates. While one player keeps enemies pinned, the other lands clean shots.

7. Learn Reload Timings

Some weapons have quirks in their reload cycles. Learning when to cancel animations or time your reloads can keep your damage output high.

8. Use Stratagem Weapons Effectively

The Orbital 120mm or Eagle Napalm Airstrike aren't just for show. Time them to interrupt boss phases or large enemy spawns for maximum effect.

9. Exploit Explosive Radius

Weapons like the Grenade Launcher can deal extra damage if you aim near enemies instead of direct hits. Use splash damage to your advantage.

10. Rotate Weapons Based on Enemy Type

Don’t stick to a single weapon across all missions. Rotate based on biome, enemy faction, and objective. Bugs and Automatons require very different tools.

11. Buy Helldivers 2 Items to Supplement Loadouts

When you're looking to optimize damage output, sometimes grabbing specific gear is necessary. Many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 Items to ensure they have access to the weapons and mods needed for high-damage builds.

12. Utilize Cheap Helldivers 2 Items for Experimentation

Experimenting with different loadouts doesn’t have to drain your resources. You can try new setups by acquiring cheap Helldivers 2 Items through trusted platforms, making it easier to refine your personal meta.

13. Positioning = Damage

No matter how powerful your weapon is, poor positioning will ruin your potential. Stay elevated, behind cover, and in sync with your team to maintain output.

14. Practice Recoil Control

Weapons like the AR-23P Liberator Penetrator have wild recoil but great damage. Learning to handle them boosts performance significantly.

15. Master the Flamethrower’s Range

This weapon is deadly but misunderstood. It requires close range and movement prediction to land full damage. Perfect for tunnel-heavy maps.

16. Optimize Drone Usage

Drone stratagems can support high-damage weapons by marking enemies or absorbing hits. They help you stay focused on offense.

17. Reload Before You're Empty

Many weapons reload faster from partial mags. Time your reloads before you're totally out to keep your uptime high.

18. U4GM Can Support Your Loadout Goals

If you're seeking specific builds or gear to push your DPS further, U4GM is a reliable name among players for quick access to useful resources, letting you focus on building smarter rather than grinding endlessly.

Maximizing damage in Helldivers 2 is about more than the weapon in your hands — it's about strategy, synergy, and adaptability. Whether you're pushing for faster clears, climbing difficulties, or just surviving longer in chaotic missions, these 18 strategies will help you squeeze every bit of power from your loadout.