Helldivers 2 has more than 50 weapons for players to choose from, and a lot of them have come in and out of the meta since the game’s release. Weapons are usually unlocked from the game’s Warbonds system and are generally very unique and fun to use.
The R-36 Eruptor has quickly become one of the most powerful primary weapons in the game. This bolt-action rifle fires jet-assisted shells that explode on impact and is one of the best options for you against medium and heavy-armored enemies.
Its explosive nature makes it a dangerous choice in close-quarters combat. But if you want to try out this beast of a gun, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about unlocking and using the R-36 Eruptor in Helldivers 2.
How to unlock the Eruptor in Helldivers 2
The R-36 Eruptor is available through the Democratic Detonations Warbond, which can be purchased for 1,000 Super Credits. Once you’ve unlocked this Warbond, go to the second page, and you’ll find the Eruptor available for 60 Medals. These Medals can be earned by completing missions and Major Orders, so you will have to put some effort into unlocking the weapon.
It does cost a pretty penny, but the Eruptor’s strength makes up for it. It is classified as an explosive weapon, meaning it won’t appear in standard rifle categories. Instead, you’ll find it under the explosive weapons section in the Warbond. After you unlock it, you’ll have to equip it before taking it to battle; don’t forget that part!
New Eruptor can one-shot Harvesters#Helldivers2 pic.twitter.com/WbTVz6r3qG
— Helldivers 2 Media (@Helldiversmedia) March 18, 2025
What are the pros and cons of the Eruptor
The Eruptor is one of the most powerful primary weapons in Helldivers 2, thanks to its ability to penetrate heavy armor. This sets it apart from most other primary weapons, as armor penetration of this level is typically reserved for support weapons. We’d recommend it as a counter to enemies like Terminid Bile Spewers, Automaton Devastators, and Illuminate Overseers.
Despite how good it is, the Eruptor has a few things that players must account for, which is beyond Arrowhead’s constant tendency to buff and nerf the weapon. Its slow bolt-action reload speed makes it ineffective in close-quarters combat. On top of that, its explosive rounds can also damage both you and your squad if you use it at close range.
Because of its weaknesses at close range, pairing the Eruptor with the right secondary weapon and support stratagems is essential. You have some good and reliable secondary firearms like the Stalwart or Flamethrower that help with the close-quarters problem.
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