If you’re trying to get a handle on the Ferro in Arc Raiders, it helps to look at it from a practical gameplay perspective. Most players encounter this weapon early in Free Loadout mode, and it tends to attract attention because of its raw damage output and long-range capabilities. Below, I’ll break down how it works, what to expect in real matches, and some tips for making the most of it.

What Is the Ferro and How Does It Work?

The Ferro is a break-action Battle Rifle that uses Heavy Ammo. In general, this means each shot deals a significant amount of damage, but you need to reload after every shot. Its base stats include:

  • Damage: 40 per shot

  • Headshot Multiplier: 2.5x

  • Fire Rate: 6.6

  • Range: 53.1

  • Stability: 78.1

  • Agility: 32.1

  • Stealth: 8

Most players notice that the Ferro hits hard, especially at medium-to-long range, but the low fire rate and single-shot reload make it risky in close combat. If an opponent gets too close, your effectiveness drops quickly unless you’re highly accurate and can time your shots.

How Do You Get and Upgrade the Ferro?

Acquiring the Ferro

In general gameplay, Raiders using a Free Loadout can get a Ferro as part of their kit. Otherwise, you can also craft or buy it from the NPC Tian Wen. Some players prefer buying it directly to save time on gathering materials, while others like to craft it to improve durability and reload perks. It’s worth noting that you can also find cheap ARC Raiders blueprints from verified sellers on U4N, which helps streamline crafting if you’re trying to upgrade quickly.

Crafting Steps

Crafting the Ferro is a step-by-step process, and upgrades improve reload speed and durability:

  1. Ferro I:

    • Ingredients: 5× Metal Parts, 2× Rubber Parts

    • Workbench level: Gunsmith 1

  2. Ferro II:

    • Requires Ferro I + 7× Metal Parts

    • Perks: 13% reduced reload time, +10 durability

  3. Ferro III:

    • Requires Ferro II + 9× Metal Parts + 1× Simple Gun Parts

    • Perks: 26% reduced reload time, +20 durability

  4. Ferro IV:

    • Requires Ferro III + 1× Mechanical Components + 1× Simple Gun Parts

    • Perks: 39% reduced reload time, +30 durability

Most players aim to get to Ferro III or IV because the faster reload makes a huge difference in combat, and the durability perks mean fewer repairs.

Repair and Salvage Considerations

Maintaining the Ferro is important, especially if you’re relying on it in multiple matches. Repair costs scale with the level of the weapon:

  • Ferro I: 2× Metal Parts, 1× Rubber Part

  • Ferro II: 4× Metal Parts, 3× Rubber Parts

  • Ferro III: 6× Metal Parts, 1× Simple Gun Part

  • Ferro IV: 1× Mechanical Component, 2× Simple Gun Parts

If you recycle or salvage the weapon, you get some components back, but not always the full amount you invested. In general, players recycle when they need parts for other upgrades or if the weapon is no longer useful in their loadout.

How Does the Ferro Perform in Real Matches?

Medium-Range Advantage

Most players use the Ferro at medium to long distances. Its stability and damage allow you to reliably hit targets at 40–50 meters. Headshots are particularly deadly because of the 2.5x multiplier. In practice, this means a single well-aimed shot can take down an unarmored enemy quickly.

Close-Range Risk

Because the Ferro is a break-action rifle with only one shot before reloading, close-quarters fights are tricky. Many players carry a secondary weapon, such as a SMG or shotgun, to cover themselves if enemies close the distance. In general, you want to control engagement range when using the Ferro.

Modifications

The Ferro allows Muzzle, Underbarrel, and Stock modifications. Most players prioritize stability and reload speed, since these are the stats that make the biggest difference in a firefight. Agility and stealth improvements are usually secondary but can help if you want to reposition quickly or stay hidden.

Tips From Experienced Players

  1. Pick Your Range: Stay at mid-to-long range whenever possible. Your reload time at close range can be fatal.

  2. Plan Reloads: Use cover to reload. Most deaths with the Ferro happen because players reload in the open.

  3. Upgrade Strategically: Focus on reducing reload time first. Durability is helpful, but speed matters more in actual fights.

  4. Backup Weapon: Always carry a fast-firing secondary weapon for close encounters.

  5. Resource Management: Keep an eye on Heavy Ammo since you only get one shot per reload cycle. Avoid wasting shots.

Is the Ferro Worth Crafting?

In general, the Ferro is a solid weapon for players who like precision and long-range play. It’s not the best choice if you prefer aggressive, fast-paced combat, but most players find it reliable once upgraded. Crafting up to Ferro III or IV usually pays off because you gain both reload speed and durability, making it a staple in many mid-tier loadouts.

If you’re starting out or need an affordable option, it’s worth noting that some players turn to cheap ARC Raiders blueprints from verified sellers on U4N to speed up the process without grinding for parts, which can save a lot of time.

The Ferro is a weapon that rewards careful aim and strategic positioning. Most players rely on it for mid- to long-range combat, and upgrades make a big difference in reload speed and durability. By managing your engagements carefully and pairing it with a secondary weapon for close range, you can make the Ferro a dependable part of your loadout.

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