Players spent nearly two weeks after launch trying to find one of the game’s most elusive unique items. Thanks to the community’s efforts (specifically, Reddit user pojo), we finally know where the unique Cavalier bolt-action sniper rifle is hidden.

In this guide, we’ll explain in detail what story conditions you need to complete to obtain it, and we’ll also show you where to pick up an extended magazine for the Mark 1 EMR rifle nearby.

Mandatory plot requirements

The weapon is located in the Duga region. This is a high-level area (you’ll reach it in the second half of the game), and you won’t be able to just go there for the rifle at the start of your playthrough—you’ll be killed quickly.

To move freely and safely around the Duga military base, you need to progress through the story and complete the following main missions:

  1. The Assault on Duga
  2. Happiness for Everyone
  3. Once more unto the breach

Once you start the “Visions of Truth” quest, you’ll be able to freely explore the military base without fear of coming under fire.

Where to Find the Cavalier Sniper Rifle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve made sure the story conditions are met, go get that coveted loot:

  • Step 1: Technical Tunnel Descent. Head to the point on the map labeled “Technical Tunnel Descent.” Important: You do not need to go down into the tunnels themselves. This location serves only as a landmark—the entrance to the base is here.
  • Step 2: Military Unit. Follow the road to the intersection and enter the building. Once you pass through it, you will find yourself in a small enclosed complex called the “Military Unit.”
  • Step 3: Clearing the Area. Inside the complex, you’ll encounter hostile soldiers and a dangerous mutant—the Pseudogiant. Eliminate them to safely explore the area.
  • Step 4: Warehouse with Greenhouses. Head to the back of the complex. There you will find a warehouse with two greenhouses outside.
  • Step 5: Rats at the entrance. The entrance to the warehouse is blocked by a pack of rats. Throw a grenade in there or shoot them with a firearm.
  • Step 6: Obtaining the Cavalier. Go inside the warehouse. The weapon is cleverly hidden: look up and find a fragile wooden plank. Shoot it—the plank will break, and the unique Cavalier rifle will fall right at your feet.

Fun fact: The long search for the Cavalier has come to an end, but the Stalker community is still looking for the Raika shotgun and the Shield G exoskeleton. It remains unclear whether they are just as well-hidden or have been temporarily removed from the game’s release version.

Bonus: Extended magazine for the Mark 1 EMR

Since you’ve come this far and are now at the military base, don’t leave empty-handed! Right next to where you found the Cavalier, there’s another valuable upgrade.

Go around the “Military Unit” complex. Hidden in one of the small buildings nearby is an upgraded magazine for the Mark 1 EMR sniper rifle. Be sure to check the nearby buildings before leaving.