Heavy weapons are some of the most powerful tools in Helldivers 2, but they can also be the most dangerous if used without proper planning.Unlike standard rifles or sidearms, these weapons are designed for specific purposes—taking down armored targets, clearing swarms, or holding a defensive line. Using them effectively can be the difference between mission success and a costly wipe. Here are some tips to make sure you’re handling heavy weapons the right way.

Know When to Bring Them

Heavy weapons are not always necessary in every mission. On lower-difficulty runs, you may find them more of a burden than a benefit due to their weight and limited ammo. However, once you’re facing Terminid Chargers, Bile Titans, or Automatons with heavy armor, heavy weapons become essential. Planning your loadout with the right weapon for the right mission is a skill that will improve your squad’s survival rate.

Manage Ammo Carefully

Most heavy weapons in Helldivers 2 come with very limited ammunition. The Recoilless Rifle and Autocannon, for example, are devastating but can run out of ammo quickly if used carelessly. Instead of firing at every enemy you see, save those rounds for priority targets. Coordination with your team is critical—don’t waste heavy rounds on grunts when a squadmate with a standard rifle can clean them up.

Work with a Dedicated Loader

Some heavy weapons shine when paired with a teammate. The Recoilless Rifle in particular benefits from having a designated loader to handle reloads while you focus on aiming and firing. This teamwork not only speeds up your fire rate but also allows you to keep your attention on the battlefield instead of fumbling with reloads under pressure.

Positioning Is Everything

Heavy weapons often limit your mobility. While you can still run and roll, the setup time for some weapons and their slower handling make you vulnerable. Always find solid cover or a defensible position before deploying them. In defensive missions, setting up behind choke points is ideal, while in assault missions, try to keep your team between you and incoming enemies to avoid being swarmed.

Don’t Forget Stratagems

Even though heavy weapons feel powerful, they are not the only answer to armored threats. Combining them with stratagems like Eagle Strafes, Orbital Bombardments, or Supply Packs can help you balance firepower with sustainability. Smart players rotate between stratagem support and heavy weapon use to maximize efficiency.

Progression and Unlocking Options

As you advance, you’ll gain access to more powerful heavy weapons through Warbonds and other progression systems. If you’re looking to speed things up, some players choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals or even buy Helldivers 2 super credits to unlock new gear faster. While not necessary to enjoy the game, having quicker access to different heavy weapons can give you more flexibility in adapting to mission challenges.

Heavy weapons in Helldivers 2 are not just about raw firepower—they’re about precision, timing, and teamwork. Treat them as specialized tools rather than your main damage source. If you plan your loadout carefully, manage your ammo, and coordinate with your squad, heavy weapons will turn the tide of battle in your favor without putting your team at unnecessary risk.