Location: Quarry Junction, Deathclaw Promontory, various caves, Lonesome Road DLC.
Strategy: Deathclaws are extremely dangerous, especially in groups. They have high health, high damage threshold, and devastating melee attacks.
- Avoidance: Early in the game, it's best to avoid Deathclaws entirely. They are often found in areas that are too high-level for new players.
- Long Range: If you must fight, use long-range, high-damage weapons. The Anti-Materiel Rifle with armor-piercing rounds is highly effective. Gauss Rifles and powerful energy weapons also work well.
- Crippling Legs: Target their legs in VATS to cripple them, significantly reducing their movement speed and making them easier to kite.
- Explosives: Mines (especially Bottlecap Mines) can be pre-placed to deal massive damage as they charge. Missile launchers are also effective.
- Companions: Use companions as distractions. Veronica or Lily can tank some hits while you attack from a distance.
- Chems: Jet and Turbo are invaluable for slowing down time, allowing you to get more shots in or escape. Med-X and Psycho can help you survive a few hits.
- Terrain: Use elevated positions or narrow passages to your advantage, creating choke points or areas where they can't reach you easily.
Weaknesses: Vulnerable to critical hits, especially headshots. Legs can be crippled. Explosives are very effective.
Recommended Gear: Anti-Materiel Rifle (AP rounds), Gauss Rifle, Missile Launcher, Mines, Power Armor, Stimpaks, Jet, Turbo, Med-X, Psycho.
Rewards: Deathclaw Hides, Deathclaw Hands (can be crafted into Deathclaw Gauntlets).