Experimenting with new weapons in Helldivers 2 can be both exciting and risky. The training range gives you a controlled space to understand recoil, fire rate, and damage output, but nothing compares to seeing how your weapon of choice performs in the chaos of a real operation. Testing weapons during live missions is a great way to find your preferred loadouts, provided you approach it with the right mindset.
Start with Low-Risk Deployments
If you want to try out a brand-new rifle or heavy weapon, consider dropping into lower-difficulty missions first. These operations still provide plenty of enemies but won’t punish you as harshly for mistakes. It’s the perfect environment to figure out reload times, how effective a gun is against armor, and whether it fits your style before taking it into high-threat battles.
Pair With Reliable Backup Gear
When you’re testing weapons, it’s smart to bring along a safety net. A dependable sidearm or a stratagem you trust can keep you alive if the experimental gun doesn’t perform as expected. For example, pairing a newly unlocked assault rifle with an autocannon or orbital strike ensures you still have reliable damage output when things get messy.
Observe Ammo Efficiency
Some weapons in Helldivers 2 chew through ammunition faster than you expect. Live missions help you gauge whether a gun is sustainable for extended fights or if you constantly need resupply. If you find yourself running dry too often, adjust your strategy or swap in support stratagems that keep your team stocked.
Communicate With Your Squad
Your teammates should know if you’re testing out gear mid-mission. A quick heads-up lets them prepare in case your weapon doesn’t hold up under pressure. Helldivers 2 thrives on teamwork, and good communication ensures your experiments don’t put the whole squad at unnecessary risk.
Rewarding Progress
Part of the fun is that trying new loadouts also contributes to your overall progression. Whether you’re hunting for medals, unlocking achievements, or refining your style, live testing makes the grind more engaging. Some players even time their experiments with resource farming—especially when planning to buy Helldivers 2 super credits for cosmetic upgrades or new gear. If you’re on console, you might also look into options to buy Helldivers 2 super credits Xbox to keep your arsenal fresh.
Testing weapons in live missions isn’t just about firepower—it’s about learning how each tool fits into your squad’s overall tactics. By starting on easier missions, backing yourself up with reliable gear, and communicating with your team, you can safely experiment without jeopardizing the mission. Many players use resources from communities and stores like U4GM to accelerate their unlocks, but the real payoff comes from mastering your tools under live combat conditions.