Best guns in Rust for each tier (2024)

Survival game enthusiasts often seek the best guns in Rust for each tier, as equipping those in-game weapons can help players survive through different phases regardless of their base level. The developers have introduced a plethora of weapons, including automatic pistols, shotguns, assault, and bolt action rifles. Of these, some are extremely powerful, while others are just decent.

Hence, players might find it difficult to determine which weapon to use in which phase of the game. With that in mind, this article will explore some of the best guns in Rust and what materials they need in each tier for 2024.

Note: This list is subjective and solely reflects the author's opinion.

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Best Tier 1 guns in Rust

Level 1 workbench tech tree (Image via Facepunch Studios)

Players can build certain weapons to survive through the initial phases of the in-game server with the help of a Level 1 Workbench. Here are the best Tier 1 guns in Rust that players can build:

Revolver

Revolver is one of the best guns in Rust to build from a Level 1 Workbench. It’s more versatile in terms of range than any other weapons that can be built from the bench. Players comfortable with taking long-range fights can use this weapon. Although a lot of materials, namely 25 cloths, and 125 metal fragments, are needed for building this weapon, it’s definitely worth the price and is exceptional as an early-game weapon.

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Double barrel

Players who prefer engaging in close-range combat can opt for a Double-barrel shotgun. It shoots two consecutive slug shots with a wide spread, and is very lethal in a short vicinity due to its ability to kill a player with one shot. Hence, it’s a good option in an early game.

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Waterpipe

If players can’t handle the recoil of a Double-barrel shotgun in Rust, they might opt for a Waterpipe shotgun instead. Unlike the DB shotgun, it requires a certain amount of wood instead of metal pipes. It also holds a single bullet in its magazine, which might put player at a disadvantage if they miss a shot.

However, it provides lethal damage at close range. If players need some weapons in early rounds with fewer materials, they can opt for this.

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Best Tier 2 guns in Rust

Level 2 Workbench tech tree (Image via Facepunch Studios)

Having a Level 2 Workbench can help players build slightly advanced weapons from the tech tree, which will help them survive mid-game situations. Players who are planning to raid some small areas for loot or plan to take flights against various NPCs like Scientist, and other world animals, can opt for the following weapons.

Semi-Automatic Rifle

The semi-automatic rifle is the best gun in Rust to build with a Level 2 Workbench. It has controllable recoil, making it suitable for taking mid-range fights. Players looking to survive in the mid-game must opt for this weapon.

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Thompson

Thompson stands out as one of the most reliable submachine guns in Rust. Based on certain attachments, it provides less recoil than many other SMGs in the game. It’s also one of the most lethal mid-range weapons, and provides 7-15 bleed damage upon hitting certain parts of a player’s body. However, the developers should introduce the Drum magazine to amp up its effectiveness.

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Semi-Automatic Pistol

Semi-Automatic Pistol is one of the most affordable and most used ranged in-game weapons. It is an effective weapon that bring results with its fast rate of fire. The fan-favorite P2 inflicts sufficient damage during mid-game light armor players.

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Python Revolver

Rust players with exceptional aim and precision can opt for this revolver. With an immense amount of normal and bleed damage, this could be a game-changer if players are comfortable in taking on long-range fights. However, the only drawback is its recoil is high, and its capacity to holds only six bullets in its magazine.

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Custom SMG

If Thompson isn’t someone’s forte, they can opt for this Custom SMG. Despite having lower damage than most weapons inside the Level 2 Workbench, it stands out as one of the reliable weapons in medium range. It possesses easy-to-control recoil and holds 30 bullets inside the magazine.

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Best Tier 3 guns in Rust

Level 3 Workbench tech tree (Image via Facepunch Studios)

AK-47

AK-47 or Assault Rifle is one of the best ranged automatic guns in Rust. Players can build it out of the Level 3 Workbench tech tree. Regardless of the range, this is the most reliable weapon players can use on the server. With the right set of attachments, they can reduce the overall recoil of the weapon. Since it holds 30 bullets inside the magazine, it should be enough to shred a decent armor-equipped opponent.

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Bolt Action Rifle

Apart from the AK-47, the Bolt Action rifle is one the reliable guns in Rust that can be used to fight strong opponents and NPCs like Scientist. It has a decent controllable recoil and inflicts a decent amount of damage regardless of the range. However, the only drawback is that it holds only four bullets inside its magazine.

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MP5A4

The MP5A4 is the only SMG players can equip from the Level 3 Workbench. It has exceptional accuracy, which makes it one of the best SMGs in the game. It also stacks 30 bullets in its magazine, making it easier for players to shred down opponents, especially in mid-range.

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For more content regarding Rust, make sure to click on the articles below:

• Rust "Steam auth timeout" error: Potential fixes and reasons
• Rust Patch Notes (July 2024 update): Bicycles, Prisoner update, Travelling Vendors, and more