Helldivers 2 AR-61 Tenderizer vs AR-23 Comparison

VelvetWolf

In Helldivers 2, the choice of your primary weapon can make or break your mission efficiency. Two of the most popular assault rifles—the AR-61 Tenderizer and the AR-23 Liberator—offer distinct advantages depending on your playstyle and the types of enemies you’re facing. While both fall under the assault rifle category, their performance in combat differs significantly. Let’s break down how these two weapons compare in terms of power, control, and overall utility.

Damage and Firepower

The AR-61 Tenderizer stands out for its sheer stopping power. Each shot hits noticeably harder than the AR-23, making it especially effective against medium-armored enemies like Terminid Chargers or Automaton Devastators. However, the increased damage comes at the cost of slower handling and heavier recoil. You’ll need to pace your shots carefully to stay accurate during sustained engagements.

The AR-23 Liberator, on the other hand, is a reliable all-rounder. Its balanced damage output and manageable recoil make it perfect for players who prefer steady accuracy over brute force. The AR-23 shines when dealing with large groups of smaller enemies where mobility and ammo conservation matter more than single-shot lethality.

Recoil and Accuracy

Recoil management is a key factor in this comparison. The Tenderizer has a noticeable vertical climb, making it difficult to control in automatic fire. Players often switch to short bursts to maintain precision. Meanwhile, the Liberator’s recoil is much gentler, allowing you to stay on target easily even during prolonged firing. If you often engage from medium range or need to conserve ammo, the AR-23 is a better fit.

Rate of Fire and Reload Speed

The AR-23 offers a faster rate of fire and a slightly quicker reload time, which gives it an edge in chaotic missions where constant pressure is key. The AR-61, though slower, delivers higher damage per bullet, rewarding players who take the time to line up shots and stay disciplined under pressure.

Situational Use

When facing Terminids, the AR-23 is often preferred for its agility and accuracy—perfect for clearing out swarms of bugs quickly. Against Automatons, however, the AR-61’s stopping power becomes much more valuable, especially when targeting armor plates and weak points.

If you’re the kind of player who enjoys flexible loadouts, the Liberator remains a solid default choice for most missions. But if your squad already has enough crowd-control weapons and you need something to crack tough targets, the Tenderizer is worth bringing along.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the AR-61 Tenderizer and AR-23 Liberator depends on your mission priorities.

• Pick the AR-23 if you want balance, accuracy, and consistent performance in any scenario.
  
• Choose the AR-61 if you value raw damage and can handle its recoil under pressure.
  
  

For players experimenting with builds or trying to optimize loadouts, it’s worth investing time to unlock both weapons and test them across different missions. And if you’re looking to expand your arsenal faster, earning or spending resources wisely is key. Many players choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals through in-game progression or check trusted communities on the Helldivers 2 marketplace for guidance on efficient resource farming. Sites like U4GM are often discussed in player circles as references for understanding the game’s economy and item values.