5.1. Handguns Guide & Upgrades — Resident Evil 4 (Remake) Guide
Handguns are your most reliable and frequently used sidearm throughout Resident Evil 4 (Remake). While they may not boast the raw stopping power of shotguns or rifles, their versatility, ammo availability, and upgrade potential make them indispensable tools for survival. This guide details the handguns available, their unique characteristics, and the crucial upgrades that can transform them into formidable weapons.
Leon starts with the SG-09 R, a balanced handgun that serves as a solid foundation. Its strengths lie in its decent accuracy and rate of fire. As you progress, you'll acquire other handguns, each with its own pros and cons. The Red9, for instance, offers significantly higher firepower but comes with a slower rate of fire and is best paired with its stock for improved stability. The Blacktail boasts an excellent rate of fire and accuracy, making it ideal for quick follow-up shots.
Upgrading handguns at the merchant is paramount. Each upgrade path typically enhances key stats: Firepower (damage per shot), Firing Speed (rate of fire), Reload Speed, and Capacity (magazine size). The ultimate upgrade for most handguns is the Exclusive upgrade, which often grants a unique bonus, such as increased critical hit chance or infinite ammo after reaching a certain level. Prioritizing which handgun to invest in depends on your playstyle.
Handgun Comparison & Upgrade Focus:
| Handgun | Strengths | Weaknesses | Upgrade Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| SG-09 R | Balanced, good accuracy | Moderate firepower | Firepower, Capacity |
| Red9 | High firepower, good for staggering | Slow firing speed, requires stock | Firepower, Stock, Reload Speed |
| Blacktail | Fast firing speed, excellent accuracy | Lower base firepower | Firepower, Capacity, Firing Speed |
| Punisher | Penetrates shields, good for groups | Lower firepower | Firepower, Capacity |
The Punisher is a unique handgun that can penetrate enemy shields, making it invaluable against certain enemy types. Its firepower is lower, but its ability to hit multiple enemies or bypass defenses is a significant tactical advantage. Investing in its firepower and capacity can make it a surprisingly effective tool, especially in crowded encounters.
When deciding on upgrades, consider the Exclusive bonus. For the SG-09 R, the Exclusive increases critical hit rate, making headshots even more devastating. The Red9's Exclusive grants infinite ammo if fully upgraded, a game-changer for New Game+. The Blacktail's Exclusive increases its already impressive critical hit rate. Choose upgrades that complement your preferred combat style and the challenges you anticipate facing.