Helldivers 2 AR-61 Tenderizer Guide – Stats, Loadouts & Tactics

[NovaBlaze]

The AR-61 Tenderizer in Helldivers 2 is a powerhouse assault rifle designed for players who want a balance between raw firepower and squad utility. While not the flashiest weapon in the armory, it rewards precision and controlled aggression. This Helldivers 2 AR-61 Tenderizer Guide – Stats, Loadouts & Tactics breaks down its performance, best builds, and strategies to help you get the most out of it.
Weapon Stats and Performance
The AR-61 Tenderizer sits in the mid-to-heavy assault rifle category, offering solid damage output with a focus on consistency. Key highlights include:

• Damage: High per-shot impact, making it effective against medium armor.
  
• Fire Rate: Moderate, best suited for controlled bursts rather than spraying.
  
• Accuracy: Tight spread at medium range but drops off at long distances.
  
• Reload Speed: Average, so careful timing during firefights is essential.
  
• Recoil Control: Noticeable kick, requiring practice for sustained fire.
  

Overall, the weapon excels in mid-range engagements where you can pace your shots and prioritize targets efficiently.
Recommended Loadouts
Pairing the AR-61 with the right gear ensures you can cover multiple combat scenarios:

• Primary Stratagem Support: Consider bringing anti-armor options like the Recoilless Rifle or Railgun to cover the Tenderizer’s lack of heavy penetration.
  
• Grenade Choice: Impact grenades complement the weapon’s playstyle, allowing you to quickly finish off groups of enemies.
  
• Secondary Weapons: A reliable sidearm such as the P-19 Redeemer helps in close-quarters combat when the Tenderizer’s recoil becomes a disadvantage.
  
• Armor Mods: Mobility-focused armor works best, letting you reposition quickly while laying down controlled fire.
  

Tactical Use
The AR-61 Tenderizer thrives when used with discipline. Here are some tactics to maximize its potential:

• Burst Fire for Accuracy: Resist the temptation to go full auto. Short bursts keep recoil manageable and ammo consumption reasonable.
  
• Target Priority: Use the rifle to shred medium enemies like armored bugs or cyborg troops, while leaving heavy targets to squadmates or stratagems.
  
• Squad Role: The Tenderizer works best in a supporting role, covering allies while they deploy heavy ordnance.
  
• Positioning: Stay at medium range where accuracy is optimal. Avoid extended long-range duels where the rifle’s spread becomes a liability.
  

The AR-61 Tenderizer may not be the most glamorous rifle in the game, but in the hands of a disciplined Helldiver it becomes a dependable workhorse. This Helldivers 2 AR-61 Tenderizer Guide – Stats, Loadouts & Tactics shows that with the right squad coordination, it can be the backbone of many successful missions.