Unlock the full potential of your assault rifles in S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky - Enhanced Edition. Learn about upgrades, costs, and how to optimize your firepower.
Alright, let's talk about the backbone of your arsenal in the Zone: assault rifles. These bad boys are your go-to for most situations, from clearing out bandit camps to holding down a choke point against a horde of mutants. We'll cover the AKM 74/2U, the classic AKM 74/2, and the AC96/2, breaking down what makes them tick and how to make them even deadlier.
Think of these upgrades like tuning up your car. You can slap on some new parts and make it faster, more accurate, or just handle better. It all costs money, though, so you'll need to be smart about which upgrades you prioritize based on your playstyle and what you're facing.
AKM 74/2U Upgrades
This is a solid, compact option, often found early on. It's a bit of a workhorse, and with the right tweaks, it can become even more reliable.
| Upgrade | Cost | Notes | Requires |
| Bolt Mechanism Modification | 903 | Rate Of Fire +15% | |
| Bolt Mechanism Modification | 903 | Accuracy +20% | |
| Barrel Modification | 903 | Handling | |
| Barrel Replacement | 903 | Flatness +50% | |
| Operating Rod Modification | 903 | Recoil -30% | |
| Operating Rod Modification | 750 | Recoil -50% (RPM lowered) | |
| Extend Magazine | 120 | Magazine Size +15 Ammo | |
| Improved Mechanism | 120 | Rate Of Fire +25% | 1+3 |
| Barrel Modification | 120 | Flatness +50% | 2+4 |
AKM 74/2 Upgrades
The bigger brother to the 74/2U, this rifle offers more punch and a wider range of customization. It's a popular choice for a reason.
| Upgrade | Cost | Notes | Requires |
| Bolt Mechanism Modification | 1600 | Rate Of Fire +15% | |
| Bolt Mechanism Modification | 1600 | Accuracy +10% | |
| Operating Rod Modification | 1600 | Recoil -30% | |
| Operating Rod Modification | 1600 | Recoil -50% (RPM lowered) | |
| Under Barrel Attachment | 1600 | Under Barrel Mount | |
| Barrel Modification | 1600 | Flatness +50% | |
| Polymer Stock | 1600 | Handling +15% | |
| Pneumatic Stock | 1600 | Recoil -10% | |
| Extend Magazine | 1600 | Magazine Size +15 Ammo | |
| Improved Mechanism Balance | 2400 | Rate Of Fire +25% | 1+3 |
| Barrel Replacement | 2400 | Flatness +50% | 2+4 |
| Barrel Modification | 2400 | Recoil -20% | 5+7 |
| Soft Trigger | 2400 | Accuracy +20% | 6+8 |
| Scope Mount | 1600 | Optical Scope x1.6 | |
| Gas System Modification | Rate Of Fire +30% | 1+3+5+7, 10+12 | |
| Gravitational Stabilizer | 4000 | Accuracy +30% | 2+4+6+8, 11+13 |
| 5.56 x 45mm | 1600 | Caliber 5.53 x 45 |
AC96/2 Upgrades
This one's a bit more advanced, and you'll likely find it later in your playthrough. It's got a good base, and the upgrades focus on making it a precision instrument.
| Upgrade | Cost | Notes | Requires |
| Bolt Mechanism Modification | 2000 | Rate Of Fire +15% |
- Prioritize recoil reduction and accuracy upgrades if you plan on engaging targets at longer ranges.
- If you're in close-quarters combat, increasing the rate of fire and magazine size will give you a significant edge.
- Don't forget about the caliber change for the AKM 74/2; switching to 5.56 x 45mm ammo can offer better performance if you can find it.
- Some upgrades have prerequisites, so make sure you've installed the required parts before attempting a new one.
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