Dirty Ammo and Military Grade Ammo

Confused about ammo types in Metro 2033? Learn the difference between Military Grade (bullets) and dirty rounds, how they're used, and their exchange rates at stations.

Alright, let's talk about ammo in Metro 2033. It can be a little confusing at first because there are two main types: the fancy pre-war stuff and the rounds made right here in the Metro. Knowing the difference is key, not just for shooting, but because one type is also your currency!

The good stuff, the pre-war ammo, is called Military Grade ammo. The game also just calls it 'bullets' when NPCs talk about it, so don't get tripped up by that. It's got a distinct green case, a copper jacket, and a red and gold center. You can use this in most machine guns like the Bastard, Kalash, VSV, and Kalash 2012, but it won't work in a revolver. When you run out of the regular 'dirty' rounds in a weapon that uses Military Grade ammo, it'll automatically switch over to these.

Then you've got your dirty rounds. These are made right here in the Metro. They're used for specific weapons: revolvers take .44 caliber rounds, shotguns use 12 gauge/70mm ammo, the Tihar fires 15mm ball bearings, and the Helsing uses arrows. The machine guns use 5.45x39mm dirty rounds, which have a dull brass casing, a lead jacket, and a grey center.

Here's the kicker: Military Grade ammo is also your currency. You can exchange both types at any station. The table below shows you the rates. Basically, you sell your dirty rounds for bullets, and you buy Military Grade ammo using bullets. Keep an eye on these rates, especially if you're low on cash (bullets!).

Key Takeaway: Always try to keep a good stock of Military Grade ammo (bullets), not just for shooting, but because you'll need them to buy other essential supplies and ammo types. Don't spend all your bullets on just one weapon type if you plan on using others!