Cordon Stashes

Find Cordon stashes in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Chapter 3. Learn key locations, common loot, and tips for gathering essential supplies.

The Cordon, a familiar starting area for many Stalkers, remains a crucial zone for resource gathering in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Within its relatively safe, albeit patrolled, boundaries lie numerous stashes containing essential supplies, ammunition, and valuable items that can significantly aid your progression through Chapter 3: The Mystery of the Cordon.

This section focuses on uncovering these hidden caches. The Cordon is patrolled by both friendly and hostile factions, as well as the occasional mutant, so careful exploration and awareness of your surroundings are key. Finding these stashes can provide you with the edge needed to tackle the chapter's objectives and prepare for the deeper Zone.

General Cordon Stash Hunting Tips:

• PDA Markers: Pay close attention to your PDA. Quests, notes from fallen Stalkers, or information from traders might reveal specific stash locations.
• Environmental Cues: Look for unusual terrain features, discarded items, or ss of disturbance that might indicate a hidden cache.
• Guard Patrols: Be aware of the patrols from the Loners and Duty factions, as well as any bandit camps. Some stashes might be located near their territories, requiring stealth or a tactical approach.
• Anomaly Awareness: The Cordon has its share of anomalies. Use your detector and be cautious when exploring areas with high anomaly density, as stashes can sometimes be found near them.

Key Stash Locations within the Cordon:

1. The Old Village: This cluster of dilapidated houses often contains multiple stashes. Check inside buildings, under floorboards, and in basements. Some might be hidden in the surrounding sheds or wells.
2. The Bridge Area: The bridges and the areas beneath them are common hiding spots. Look for stashes within the bridge supports or along the riverbanks.
3. The Bandit Camp: While risky, the area around bandit camps can sometimes yield stashes. They might be hidden in tents, supply crates, or in the surrounding wilderness. Approach with extreme caution.
4. The Military Checkpoints: Abandoned or active military checkpoints can contain stashes in their guard posts, barracks, or surrounding defensive structures.
5. The Forested Areas: The wooded sections of the Cordon often hide stashes within hollow logs, under large rocks, or in dense undergrowth.
6. Near the Swampy Edges: The transition zones between the Cordon and the Swamps can also contain stashes, often near submerged debris or in overgrown areas.

Typical Loot Found in Cordon Stashes:

Item Category	Common Contents
Ammunition	9x18mm, 5.45x39mm, 7.62x39mm rounds, shotgun shells
Consumables	Basic medkits, bandages, food rations, anti-radiation pills
Weapon/Armor Parts	Basic repair kits, cleaning supplies, spare parts
Artifacts	Low-tier artifacts like 'Stone Flower' or 'Jellyfish'
Money	Roubles, sometimes valuable trade items like bolts or screws

Specific Tips for Chapter 3:

• Quest-Related Stashes: Pay extra attention to any stashes mentioned or hinted at during the main quests of Chapter 3.
• Trader Stock: The Cordon has several traders. Selling your excess loot from stashes can fund essential purchases for the chapter's objectives.
• Prepare for the Unknown: While the Cordon is relatively safe, don't underestimate the threats. Ensure you have enough ammo and healing supplies from stashes before venturing into more dangerous areas.

The Cordon might be your first taste of the Zone, but its stashes are a constant source of valuable resources. Diligent exploration and a keen eye will ensure you are well-equipped to unravel the mysteries that lie ahead.