Top 5 Best Assault Rifles in Helldivers 2 Ranked by Power
When it comes to surviving the chaos of Helldivers 2, your weapon choice can mean the difference between glorious victory and an explosive respawn. Assault rifles are the backbone of any well-rounded loadout — versatile, reliable, and deadly in the right hands. After testing each rifle across countless missions, here’s a ranked breakdown of the five most powerful assault rifles currently available in Helldivers 2.
1. AR-23 Liberator – The Balanced Classic
The AR-23 Liberator remains the gold standard for assault rifles in Helldivers 2. It’s not flashy, but its reliability is unmatched. The weapon’s moderate recoil, solid fire rate, and consistent damage output make it ideal for both new recruits and veteran Helldivers. Whether you’re mowing down Automatons or defending objectives from Terminids, the Liberator delivers under pressure.
While some players quickly move on to more specialized weapons, the Liberator’s adaptability ensures it stays relevant in any mission type — especially when ammo conservation is key.
2. AR-23P Liberator Penetrator – Piercing Power
For players who love the feel of the standard Liberator but crave a little extra punch, the AR-23P Penetrator is the next step up. Its armor-piercing rounds can shred through medium-tier enemies that would normally soak up your bullets.
The trade-off is a slightly slower rate of fire, which means precision is key. If you can manage your shots, this rifle rewards patience and accuracy with devastating results. It’s particularly effective against bug hordes with armored shells — just make sure to line up your shots carefully.
3. BR-14 Adjudicator – High-Caliber Justice
The BR-14 Adjudicator is the powerhouse of the group, boasting the highest single-shot damage among assault rifles. It feels closer to a battle rifle than a true assault weapon, offering semi-automatic fire that excels at picking off high-priority targets.
This rifle demands discipline. Each bullet counts, and every miss hurts your efficiency. However, for experienced players who prefer tactical engagement over spray-and-pray, the Adjudicator is incredibly satisfying to use. It shines in co-op missions where teammates can cover your reloads while you deliver heavy-hitting precision fire.
4. AR-61 Tenderizer – The Close-Range Monster
The AR-61 Tenderizer is all about aggressive play. With a blistering rate of fire and respectable stopping power, this rifle turns you into a walking storm of lead. It’s best used in mid-to-close range combat, where its high DPS can melt through crowds before they even touch your armor.
The downside is ammo efficiency — you’ll burn through magazines quickly, and recoil control takes practice. Still, if you love charging into the fray and fighting up close, the Tenderizer will feel right at home in your hands.
5. AR-48 Conviction – Precision and Control
Rounding out the list is the AR-48 Conviction, a refined and well-balanced rifle that rewards accuracy. It doesn’t top the charts in any single category, but its stability and manageable recoil make it a great all-rounder for players who like to stay mobile while maintaining consistent firepower.
It’s especially effective when paired with support Stratagems or armor builds that enhance accuracy. The Conviction’s main advantage is its reliability — you can trust it to perform consistently under pressure, no matter the mission type.
Every rifle on this list serves a unique purpose, and the “best” one ultimately depends on your playstyle. Whether you prefer the raw stopping power of the Adjudicator or the balanced performance of the Liberator, mastering these rifles is key to dominating any battlefield.
Of course, part of becoming a top-tier Helldiver isn’t just about weapon choice — it’s also about progression. Many players enhance their arsenal by collecting medals and credits through gameplay or from trusted community sources. If you’re looking to buy Helldivers 2 medals or browse the Helldivers 2 super credits store online, platforms like U4GM are well-known among players for their reliability and fast delivery. Just remember: no amount of currency replaces good aim and teamwork.