6 Mechanics to Master Bullet Penetration in Helldivers 2
Bullet penetration in Helldivers 2 is more than just a flashy visual effect—it’s a core combat mechanic that can dramatically influence your efficiency, survivability, and strategy. Whether you’re fighting Automatons behind cover or trying to hit multiple targets with a single shot, understanding bullet penetration is essential to becoming a high-level Helldiver.
In this guide, I’ll share six key mechanics to master bullet penetration, drawing from my own experience and highlighting the advantages it offers for players who want to maximize their firepower. This is especially important for players looking to get the most value from their loadouts after they buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits or buy helldivers 2 medals to unlock premium weapons and armor.
1. Understand Weapon Penetration Ratings
Each weapon in Helldivers 2 has a unique penetration value that determines how many enemies or objects it can shoot through. For example, the Railgun or the Anti-Materiel Rifle can punch through thick armor and multiple enemies. If you’re investing your resources after you buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits, make sure you prioritize weapons with high penetration for missions involving dense enemy formations or fortifications.
When I first started, I underestimated this. But after switching from standard assault rifles to higher-penetration weapons, I noticed I could take out multiple targets lined up in corridors with just one well-placed shot.
2. Learn Which Materials Can Be Penetrated
Not all objects are created equal. Wooden barriers, sandbags, and thin metallic walls can usually be penetrated, while reinforced steel or heavy vehicle armor can’t. Knowing what your shots can pass through is crucial, especially when taking cover or shooting at enemies who think they’re protected.
In one mission, I was pinned behind a thin wall with bugs charging in. I switched to my Breaker Incendiary and shot through the wall, clearing the swarm before they even reached me.
3. Take Advantage of Angle and Distance
Bullet penetration decreases with distance and poor angles. Shooting directly at a surface offers better chances of penetration than at a shallow angle. If you’re trying to hit enemies behind cover, adjust your positioning to get a better angle and stay within effective range.
When farming Super Credits during a defense mission, I noticed my shots were bouncing off angled metal panels. By repositioning slightly and shooting head-on, I could penetrate through cover and eliminate targets much faster.
4. Use Penetration to Control Crowds
Penetrating bullets are extremely effective at crowd control. Line up multiple enemies and let your shots pass through all of them, reducing the need to reload or reposition constantly. Weapons like the EAT-17 or the Dominator excel in these situations.
If you’re spending resources after you buy helldivers 2 medals, focus on upgrades and stratagems that enhance this aspect. I once cleared a hallway full of Automatons with a single Railgun blast—possibly my most satisfying moment in the game.
5. Combine Stratagems for Maximum Effect
Combine penetrating weapons with stratagems like scan drones or wallhacks to detect enemies behind surfaces. Knowing where enemies are hiding allows you to use bullet penetration to your advantage without exposing yourself to fire.
In a co-op mission, our squad used UAV pings to reveal enemies behind a ridge. We each took turns using the Anti-Materiel Rifle to shoot through the rock and clean up enemies we couldn’t even see directly. That coordination saved us time and ammo.
6. Adjust to Armor Types
Some enemies, especially heavy Automatons, have armor that resists bullet penetration. Switch to anti-armor or explosive weapons when facing such units. Not all high-penetration weapons are good against every enemy, so versatility matters.
This is where your investment in the right equipment pays off. After using buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits to unlock the Arc Thrower and the Recoilless Rifle, I finally had options to deal with any situation, regardless of armor or cover.
Mastering bullet penetration in Helldivers 2 isn’t just about picking the strongest weapon—it’s about understanding how to use it effectively in different combat situations. From knowing what materials you can shoot through, to coordinating with your team, every detail counts.
If you’re looking to elevate your performance, consider unlocking high-penetration weapons or support tools with your resources. Whether you buy helldivers 2 medals for gear upgrades or buy Helldivers 2 Super Credits to access elite stratagems, investing smartly makes all the difference.
