The early stages of survival in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl can be a grueling ordeal if you don’t have the right gear. In this guide, we’ll show you where to find the best starter kit (weapons, armor, and an artifact) that will serve you well for the next 25–30 hours of gameplay.

Two of these items are located in the very first region—the Lesser Zone—and the third can be picked up at the Dump about three hours after the story begins.

1. Best Early Weapon: Valik Lumik’s AKM-74

This is a unique assault rifle that will easily carry you through the middle of the game. It has excellent damage and a comfortable sight, which is crucial since headshots are the key to success in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 firefights.

  • Location: Lesser Zone, near Zalissya.
  • Related quest: “Warlock’s Debt.”
  • How to obtain: As part of one of the game’s first quests, you’ll need to climb the water tower near Zalissya. You’ll find this weapon at the top. Be sure to keep the rifle for yourself.
  • Usage Tip: Install modifications on it and have it repaired regularly by technicians. If you let the weapon wear out completely, it may break permanently.

2. Best Early Artifact: “Weird Ball”

An amazing legendary artifact that every beginner should have in their inventory. Its main feature is the complete absence of negative effects. At the same time, it significantly reduces damage from firearms.

  • Location: Lesser Zone, near Zalesye.
  • Where to find it: The artifact lies next to the extremely dangerous “Bulba” anomaly.
  • How to obtain: This anomaly sucks in its victim and kills instantly. You must proceed with extreme caution:
  • Be sure to save manually; it’s very easy to die here.
  • Approach the artifact while crouching (stealth).
  • Use your surroundings: hide behind objects and the ambulance so you don’t get pulled inside.
  • Grab the artifact and retreat quickly.

3. Best Early Armor: PSZ-5V “Guardian of Freedom”

This suit will provide you with the best protection for the next few dozen hours of gameplay. You won’t find anything more reliable in the early stages.

  • Location: Garbage. This area becomes accessible approximately 3 hours into the main story.
  • Where to find it: Head to the Slag Pit. You’ll need to go to the complex of buildings in the western part of this location.
  • How to get it: The armor is hidden on the roof. To reach it, climb onto the sloped roof of the first building, then walk along the pipes to get to the adjacent roof. The suit will be there.