Armored Core 6 BEST Weapons: Melee, Launchers, Shotguns

Armored Core 6 comes with a variety of weapons like Melee, Shotguns, Rifles, and Handguns. But among all these weapons, which one is the best suited to your playstyle? Let’s find out!

Also Read: Armored Core 6 Best Early Builds

Weapons Comparison Table

Weapon Type	Weapon Name	In-game Description
Melee	Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A	Pulse blade developed by Takigawa Harmonics. Delivers slashing attacks with a high-frequency oscillation that are ideal for canceling out pulse defenses. Charge to increase output and pound targets with more powerful oscillation.
Melee	Laser Blade Vvc-770LB	Laser blade developed by VCPL/ Stable laser control enables powerful, energy-based slashing attacks. Charge the weapon to increase laser output, enabling combo attacks that sweep through the surrounding area.
Melee	Pile Bunker PB-033M ASHMEAD	Pile bunker developed by Balam. This weapon gores the target with a massive steel pile, obliterating it through sheer physical force. Charge to prime the firing hammer, enabling attacks that are enhanced by explosive damage.
Bomb Launcher	Napalm Bomb Launcher MA-T-222 KYORAI	Napalm bomb launcher developed by BAWS. Launches ultra-hot incendiary rounds that scorch the areas around the point of impact, limiting the maneuverability of ground-based enemies.
Missile Launcher	Plasma Missile Launcher Vvc-70VPM	Vertical plasma missile launcher developed by VCPL. Overhead plasma explosions help to circumvent cover or similar defenses. The verticle trajectory of the missiles further hinders enemy evasion. Capable of multi-lock.
Missile Launcher	BML-G1/P03VTC-08 Missile Launcher	Eight-cell vertical missile launcher developed by Furlong Dynamics. High vertical trajectory allows missiles to deny enemies cover and circumvent such defenses. This is the medium-weight AC model, and is also capable of multi-lock.
Cannon	Grenade Cannon SONGBIRDS	Compact double-barreled grenade cannon developed by Melinite. Commissioned for medium-weight ACs, its compact size reduces its explosive power, but the double-barreled format makes strides toward resolving the issues.
Bazooka	Detonating Bazooka 44-141 JVLN ALPHA	Special bazooka developed by ALLMIND. Creates a chain of explosions on contact that layers on impact damage. Compared to standard explosive weapons, this weapon has notably high direct hit damage.
Shotgun	Shotgun WR-0777 Sweet Sixteen	Special shotgun developed by RaD. Strictly speaking, this unique weapon is not a true shotgun, as its area attacks are enabled by firing individual projectiles from multiple barrels simultaneously.
Shotgun	Shotgun SG-027 ZIMMERMAN	Long-range shotgun developed by Balam. Uses specialized large shells to improve shot density, extending effective range but reducing the firing cycle.
Machine Gun	Gatling Gun DF-GA-08 HU-BEN	Gatling gun developed by Dafeng Core Industries. Equipped with overwhelming rapid-fire performance and sustained firepower, it embodies the “domination through material superiority” mantra of Dafeng’s parent company, Balam.
Machine Gun	Machine Gun DF-MG-02 Chang-Chen	Machine gun developed by Dafeng Core Industries. this weapon was designed for sustained combat potential and uses oversized ammunition magazines. The minimal need for reloading makes it well-suited for suppressive fire.
Rifle	Plasma Rifle Vvc-760PR	Plasma rifle developed by VCPL. Plasma explosions create a damage-inflicting area that remains active for a brief period of time. Charging the weapon causes the plasma fire to scatter, producing multiple explosions.

Comparison Table. 

Best Melee Weapons

If you’re into assassin-style gameplay and like playing in close range, equipping at least two melee/sword weapons should be your focus. Perform rush attacks to break enemy mechs’ shields and deal continuous damage up close.

Here are some of my picks for the best melee weapons to attach to your mech:

1. Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A

Best Melee Weapon for Close-Range Combat.

• In-game Description: Pulse blade developed by Takigawa Harmonics. Delivers slashing attacks with a high-frequency oscillation that is ideal for canceling out pulse defenses. Charge to increase output and pound targets with more powerful oscillation.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	963
Impact	710
Consecutive Hits	2
Weight	1800
EN Load	213

Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A Stats Table. 

You unlock Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A automatically at the start of your playthrough. The weapon performs two consecutive slashes, each dealing a considerable amount of damage.

Your opponents with heavy armor or shield won’t stand a chance if you attach Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A on your mech because of its penetrating damage.

2. Laser Blade Vvc-770LB

Best Melee Weapon for Sweeping Attacks.

• In-game Description: Laser blade developed by VCPL/ Stable laser control enables powerful, energy-based slashing attacks. Charge the weapon to increase laser output, enabling combo attacks that sweep through the surrounding area.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	1639
Impact	1100
Consecutive Hits	1
Weight	2680
EN Load	365

Laser Blade Vvc-770LB Stats Table. 

If you’re aiming for high mobility but impressive damage output at the same time, save one of the four slots for Laser Blade Vvc-770LB. This lightweight arsenal piece contains incredible attack power when charged fully.

I will advise you to keep timing in mind while performing a Laser Blade attack, as missing the hit with this one is quite easy. However, if the hit lands successfully throughout the area, the risk will be worth it.

One major drawback you may face is Wind-up animation, which locks your player temporarily in its spot upon using Laser Blade for a melee attack. Therefore, use your Laser blade when enemies are staggered or at a bad positioning.

To unlock Laser Blade Vvc-770LB, you must clear Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber in Chapter 1. Visit the shop, and the weapon will be available for 121,000 COAM.

3. Pile Bunker PB-033M ASHMEAD

Best Melee Weapon for Single-Hit Strikes.

• In-game Description: Pile bunker developed by Balam. This weapon gores the target with a massive steel pile, obliterating it through sheer physical force. Charge to prime the firing hammer, enabling attacks that are enhanced by explosive damage.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	1688
Impact	1150
Consecutive Hits	1
Weight	4180
EN Load	225

Pile Bunker PB-033M ASHMEAD Stats Table. 

Destroy enemies with Pile Bunker’s steel pile, driving straight into them. The damage output has the potential to go up to 4500 in just a single hit. Charge the weapon for increased explosive damage and destroy the enemy with a single, consecutive hit.

The weapon is available after the completion of chapter 1 in Armored Core 6. Pile Bunker PB-033M ASHMEAD will then become available at the shop in exchange for 185,000 COAM.

Best Launchers (Bomb/Grenade/Missile)

Whether you prefer a safer approach of staying back or rushing in like a true assassin, Bomb/Grenade or Missile launchers go well as a Back Unit with both playstyles.

These Launchers deal massive AOE damage that usually lasts over time. Some of these launchers are hard to dodge, making them a must against swift foes.

1. Napalm Bomb Launcher MA-T-222 KYORAI

Best Bomb Launcher for Continuous Damage.

• In-game Description: Napalm bomb launcher developed by BAWS. Launches ultra-hot incendiary rounds that scorch the areas around the point of impact, limiting the maneuverability of ground-based enemies.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	366 x 3
Impact	149 x 3
Total Rounds	63
Weight	2890
EN Load	60

Napalm Bomb Launcher MA-T-222 KYORAI Stats Table. 

Deals AOE damage to enemies and slows them down immensely. Whether you’re carrying rifles, shotguns, or melee equipment, Napalm Bomb Launcher helps finish opponents off quickly as the burning area directly impacts their mobility and deals high DPS.

You can unlock the weapon by clearing the Attack The Watchpoint mission. It will be available in the shop for 90,000 COAM.

2. Plasma Missile Launcher Vvc-70VPM

Best Missile Launcher for Hitting Multiple Targets.

• In-game Description: Vertical plasma missile launcher developed by VCPL. Overhead plasma explosions help to circumvent cover or similar defenses. The verticle trajectory of the missiles further hinders enemy evasion. Capable of multi-lock.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	760
Impact	384
Total Rounds	240
Weight	3760
EN Load	268

Plasma Missile Launcher Vvc-70VPM Stats Table. 

Without any doubt, equipping the Plasma missile launcher Vvc-70VPM itself makes a huge difference in your overall gameplay. Its ability to multi-lock targets at a time helps against groups of enemies without having them escape incoming projectiles.

The devastating Plasma Missile Launcher becomes available at Parts Shop after the end of Mission 7: Destroy the Weaponizing Mining Ship. The price it comes with is 96,000 COAM.

3. BML-G1/P03VTC-08 Missile Launcher

Best Missile Launcher for Massive Damage.

• In-game Description: Eight-cell vertical missile launcher developed by Furlong Dynamics. High vertical trajectory allows missiles to deny enemies cover and circumvent such defenses. This is the medium-weight AC model and is also capable of multi-lock.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	124 x 8
Impact	89 X 8
Total Rounds	224
Weight	3920
EN Load	380

BML-G1/P03VTC-08 Missile Launcher Stats Table. 

Another Back-Unit missile launcher that helps against hordes of enemies. The launched projectile won’t stop any covers from getting in their way to enemies.

Even though the damage lacks, the precision and ability to deal AOE damage this weapon comes with assists players in securing kills with another weapon later on.

You can purchase BML-G1/P03VTC-08 Missile Launcher from Parts Shop while clearing Chapter 1 of the playthrough.

Best Cannons/Bazookas

Causing explosions across the land never gets old. If you like destroying an area, resulting in massive damage output, consider equipping a cannon or bazooka as one of your four weapons.

1. Grenade Cannon SONGBIRDS

Best Cannon for Staggering Foes.

• In-game Description: Compact double-barreled grenade cannon developed by Melinite. Commissioned for medium-weight ACs, its compact size reduces its explosive power, but the double-barreled format makes strides toward resolving the issues.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	754x2
Impact	745x2
Total Rounds	42
Weight	5500
EN Load	285

Grenade Cannon SONGBIRDS Stats Table. 

This dual-barrel Grenade Cannon can surely be considered the most powerful of its category if played strategically. The attack power may lack a bit, but dual grenade explosion will stagger enemies to the fullest in the shortest period.

I recommend taking this opportunity to finish them off with another, high damage-dealing weaponry such as rifles or shotguns.

You can unlock Grenade Cannon SONGBIRDS by clearing Mission 11, named Attack the Watchpoint. The weapon will be available for 182,000 COAM.

2. Detonating Bazooka 44-141 JVLN ALPHA

Best Bazooka for High-Impact Explosions.

• In-game Description: Special bazooka developed by ALLMIND. Creates a chain of explosions on contact that layers on impact damage. Compared to standard explosive weapons, this weapon has notably high direct-hit damage.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	1075
Impact	1390
Total Rounds	44
Weight	7420
EN Load	299

Detonating Bazooka Stats Table. 

Bazookas are hard to move around with, but if your build requires one, I would highly recommend Detonating Bazooka 44-141 JVLN ALPHA. The damage may not be as much as its weight, but the impact upon hit creates massive explosions.

This is great for distorting enemy locations and gaining an upper hand in a battle. Carry a lightweight weapon with high damage output alongside Detonating Bazooka to use it to its full potential.

Once you complete Mission 3: Ocean Crossing, Detonating Bazooka will become available for purchase in Parts Shop.

Best Shotguns

Want to finish off low-health foes? Carry a shotgun with you and blast those robot faces off in a single burst of damage.

1. Shotgun WR-0777 Sweet Sixteen

Best Close-Range Shotgun.

• In-game Description: Special shotgun developed by RaD. Strictly speaking, this unique weapon is not a true shotgun, as its area attacks are enabled by firing individual projectiles from multiple barrels simultaneously.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	85 x 13
Impact	61 x 13
Total Rounds	546
Weight	1640
EN Load	268

Shotgun WR-0777 Sweet Sixteen Stats Table. 

Sweet Sixteen Shotgun isn’t your typical armament of its type. You won’t be shooting a single projectile at once as you’re attached to a multi-barrel launcher rather than a single one. The damage is devastating, but only if you’re precise with your shot.

Miss it, and you’ll have to instantly switch to your other weapon for backup. This weapon is designed in a way so you can carry it around swiftly and bash open any robot getting a bit too close, so don’t expect it to work the same in long ranges.

Sweet Sixteen Shotgun is available after clearing Mission 14: Ocean Crossing. Visit Parts Shop and pay the 49,000 COAM for your new weapon.

2. Shotgun SG-027 ZIMMERMAN

Best Shotgun for Long-Range Blasts.

• In-game Description: Long-range shotgun developed by Balam. Uses specialized large shells to improve shot density, extending effective range but reducing the firing cycle.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	900
Impact	840
Total Rounds	53
Weight	4400
EN Load	242

SG-027 ZIMMERMAN Stats Table. 

SG-027 ZIMMERMAN may be heavier than Sweet Sixteen, but it isn’t limited to close ranges. Each projectile will travel mid to long-range and deal massive burst damage. So, if you’re avoiding close encounters but prefer having a shotgun in your build, SG-027 is another option to consider.

Available in Parts Shop after completing Mission 3: Ocean Crossing in Chapter 2. You can purchase SG-027 ZIMMERMAN for 115,000 COAM.

Best Rifles and Machine Guns

If you’re looking for the best Rifles and Machine guns for your Arm Units, consider the following:

1. Gatling Gun DF-GA-08 HU-BEN

Best Gun for Overwhelming Firepower.

• In-game Description: Gatling gun developed by Dafeng Core Industries. Equipped with overwhelming rapid-fire performance and sustained firepower, it embodies the “domination through material superiority” mantra of Dafeng’s parent company, Balam.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	25
Impact	25
Total Rounds	1300
Weight	5800
EN Load	425

Gatling Gun DF-GA-08 HU-BEN Stats Table. 

Gatling Gun is currently a fan favorite, and right so. This fast-firing weapon is an ideal choice for overwhelming enemies with a plethora of bullets hitting them each second.

If you keep your hands steady and deal continuous damage without wasting many bullets, the enemy will be down in no time. Pair your Gatling Gun with a launcher or bazooka and create havoc on the battlefield.

To unlock the Gatling Gun DF-GA-08 HU-BEN, complete Chapter 1 Mission: Attack the Watchpoint. The gun will then become available in Parts Shop for 170,000 COAM.

2. Machine Gun DF-MG-02 Chang-Chen

Best Machine Gun for Brutal Combat.

• In-game Description: Machine gun developed by Dafeng Core Industries. This weapon was designed for sustained combat potential and uses oversized ammunition magazines. The minimal need for reloading makes it well-suited for suppressive fire.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	32
Impact	40
Total Rounds	720
Weight	3280
Total Rounds	143

Chang-Chen Machine Gun Stats Table. 

Just like the description says, DF-MG-02 Chang-Chen is known for its oversized magazines. More bullets means less reloading and more shooting.

So, if your build focus is lightweight weaponry with a more rapid firing rate, do consider Chang-Chen machine gun. Keep your aim steady, and low attack power won’t even be a bother.

Obtain Chang-Chen Machine Gun from Parts Shop for 120,000 COAM; however, do complete Destroy the Ice Worm mission to unlock it first.

3. Plasma Rifle Vvc-760PR

Best Rifle for High-Damage Single shots.

• In-game Description: Plasma rifle developed by VCPL. Plasma explosions create a damage-inflicting area that remains active for a brief period. Charging the weapon causes the plasma fire to scatter, producing multiple explosions.

Part Specs	Value
Attack Power	936
Impact	384
Total Rounds	90
Weight	3330
EN Load	490

Plasma Rifle Vvc-760PR Stats Table. 

A type of energy weapon that, as the name suggests, shoots beams of plasma and deals massive damage output on each shot. To double up the Plasma Rifle’s ability, let it fully charge to deal AOE damage throughout the battlefield.

I highly recommend players consider squeezing this weapon in their builds as not only does it contain decent damage per round, but also its expanded AoE turns the tables around if you’re struggling against hordes of enemies.

Complete Mission 7: Destroy the Weaponized Mining Ship to unlock the Plasma Rifle in the Parts Shop for 202,000 COAM.

Alternative Weapons

• VP-66LH Laser Handgun: While accurate and offering a high fire rate, its damage output is relatively low compared to other options.
• Stun Baton: Provides limited damage and utility outside of specific circumstances.
• CE-012D Cannon (Howitzer): Its slow projectile speed and limited ammunition make it less versatile in general combat scenarios.
• RF-08-AURA Rifle: While offering decent damage, its effectiveness is limited by a lower fire rate.
• BF06-STINGER Flamethrower: Its short effective range makes it a risky choice in many battlefields.
• RGM-011-KRAKEN Rocket Launcher: Offers decent damage but is outclassed in both power and versatility by other missile/launcher options

What Would I Recommend?

I’d pick the Gatling Gun DF-GA-08 HU-BEN and Plasma Rifle Vvc-760PR as my top two weapon recommendations.

If you want raw firepower and enjoy overwhelming your enemies with a relentless storm of bullets, the Gatling Gun is an excellent choice. Its ability to quickly shred through shields and armor makes it incredibly versatile. Pair it with a powerful launcher or melee weapon for maximum devastation.

For those seeking both single-target power and crowd control potential, the Plasma Rifle is a fantastic option. Its charged shots create lingering damage zones and can devastate multiple enemies at once. Combine it with another close-range weapon like a shotgun or melee option for a well-rounded build.

If you enjoyed my guide, make sure to look out for some other coverages:

• Armored Core 6 Difficulty Settings 
• Armored Core 6 First Boss
• Armored Core 6 Chapter 1 Final Boss