Tarkov Lend Lease Part 1: Gearing Up for Survival – A New Player’s Essential Starter Pack

Introduction

Escape from Tarkov. The name itself conjures images of brutal firefights, desperate scavenging, and the constant threat of losing everything. For a new player venturing into the harsh realities of Tarkov, the initial experience can be overwhelming, akin to being thrown into the deep end of a survival simulator. Resources are scarce, experienced players roam the maps, and even a seemingly simple raid can quickly turn into a frustrating and costly defeat.

In the real world, the “Lend Lease” program was a vital lifeline during World War II, providing essential supplies to allied nations. Think of this article as a similar program, tailored for the fledgling PMC just starting their Tarkov journey. We’re offering a “Lend Lease” of knowledge and strategy, designed to equip you with the basic tools and understanding needed to survive and thrive in this unforgiving world. This isn’t about getting rich quick or turning you into a master raider overnight. It’s about giving you a fighting chance.

This article, “Tarkov Lend Lease Part 1”, is the first installment of a multi-part series focusing on the specific skills needed to grow into a dominant Tarkov player. We will cover basic gear, ammo, and strategy to put you on the right track toward enjoying the game. While high-level players often focus on advanced tactics and expensive equipment, new players need a foundational understanding of Tarkov’s mechanics. This first step focuses on what to buy.

This article will outline a suggested “Lend Lease” package of essential gear, strategies, and resources to significantly boost a new player’s chances of survival and success in their early Escape From Tarkov raids. We’ll focus on affordable options, realistic expectations, and the mindset needed to overcome early setbacks.

Part 1: The Foundation – Essential Gear & Budgeting

Before diving into specific gear recommendations, it’s crucial to establish some core principles that should guide your early-game purchasing decisions. Tarkov can be a money pit, and blowing all your rubles on a single, poorly-chosen item is a recipe for disaster.

First, prioritize cost-effectiveness over top-tier performance. That shiny, fully-modded assault rifle might look tempting, but a skilled player with a basic weapon and good tactics will almost always have the upper hand over a novice with expensive gear they don’t know how to use. Focus on weapons and armor that offer a solid balance of performance and price.

Second, prioritize survivability and functionality. In the early game, staying alive long enough to extract with some loot is far more important than racking up kills. A good helmet and body armor can be the difference between a successful raid and a quick trip back to your stash. Prioritize gear that increases your chances of surviving encounters.

Third, understand the “meta” for beginner-friendly options. Certain weapons and armor types are simply more forgiving and easier to use for new players. These are the tools you should master before experimenting with more advanced or niche options.

Recommended Weapons

Let’s start with the tools of the trade: your weapons. While personal preference certainly plays a role, there are a few weapons that consistently stand out as excellent choices for new players.

The Mosin and SKS rifles are the kings of budget-friendly firepower. Both fire powerful 7.62x54R or 7.62×39 rounds, respectively, which can often penetrate lower-tier armor and deliver devastating damage. They are single-shot weapons that require patience and accuracy. Be prepared to take cover and reload frequently. The advantages are that they are cheap, widely available, and effective at medium to long range. Be aware that ammo choice is crucial with these rifles. LPS GZH is the minimum acceptable ammo you should use with a Mosin, and PS ammo is a good choice with the SKS.

Shotguns, particularly the MP-133, are deadly in close quarters. While they lack the range of rifles, shotguns are incredibly effective in tight spaces and against unarmored targets. They’re also relatively cheap and easy to find. Aim for the legs or head to maximize your damage output. Always be aware of your surroundings and try to engage enemies at close range where your shotgun will excel. Shotgun choice is key here, as well. Flechette rounds can shred armor, and Magnum Buckshot can quickly take down even heavily armored opponents at close range.

Submachine guns, such as the PP-91 Kedr, offer a high rate of fire and relatively manageable recoil. They are best suited for close-quarters combat and can be effective against lightly armored targets. However, their limited range and dependence on high-capacity magazines make them less versatile than rifles or shotguns. These are extremely cheap and very common as Scav weapons. While there are better weapons in Tarkov, these will get the job done in the early game.

Ammo is arguably even more important than the weapon itself. Using the wrong ammo can render even the most powerful gun ineffective. Focus on using the best ammo your budget can afford. Prioritize rounds with high flesh damage or penetration, depending on your weapon of choice and the types of enemies you expect to encounter. Online charts and databases are invaluable resources for comparing ammo stats.

Armor and Rig Choices

Protection is paramount in Tarkov. A good set of armor can significantly increase your survivability, allowing you to withstand more shots and stay in the fight longer.

In the early game, aim for Class 3 or Class 4 armor to strike a balance between protection and movement. Heavier armor offers more protection but can significantly hinder your mobility and stamina, making you an easy target for more agile opponents.

One recommended armor set for beginners is the PACA soft armor. It’s cheap, readily available, and offers decent protection against low-caliber rounds. The 6B3TM armor is a slightly more expensive, but it offers better protection against a wider range of ammunition types.

Rigs serve a dual purpose: they provide additional inventory slots and can sometimes offer armor protection. When starting out, focus on rigs with a decent number of magazine slots and some form of armor plating. A rig with at least four magazine slots and some basic armor can be a lifesaver in a prolonged firefight.

Backpacks

Your backpack is your lifeline in Tarkov, providing the space you need to haul valuable loot back to your stash.

Early quest completion and Scav runs are a great way to acquire good starter backpacks. The Scav BP or the Berkut are great starter options. They offer a decent amount of space without significantly impacting your movement.

Focus on maximizing space without hindering your movement too much. A large, unwieldy backpack can make you an easy target, while a smaller backpack might not provide enough room for all the loot you find.

Healing & Medical Supplies

Even with the best armor, you’re bound to take damage in Tarkov. Having a good supply of medical items is essential for staying alive and returning to the fight.

Prioritize having basic medical items like the AI-2, Car, IFAK, and Salewa. These items can heal minor wounds, stop bleeding, and repair fractures.

Understanding the healing system in Tarkov is crucial. Different medical items have different effects and healing speeds. Learn how to use each item effectively and when to use it. Carry stims that will boost speed and health to help you in a pinch.

Budgeting Strategies

Managing your rubles effectively is essential for long-term survival in Tarkov. Here are a few tips for making the most of your limited funds:

• Allocate limited funds wisely: Prioritize armor and ammo. These two factors have the biggest impact on your survivability. Don’t waste money on expensive attachments or unnecessary gear upgrades until you have a solid foundation.
• Maximize profit through looting and selling on the flea market: Learn which items are valuable and prioritize looting them during your raids. Use the Flea Market to sell your unwanted gear and make some extra rubles.
• Avoid unnecessary risks to preserve gear: Don’t engage in unnecessary firefights or take risks that could result in the loss of your gear. Extracting with your loot is always better than dying and losing everything.

Conclusion of Part 1

Mastering Escape From Tarkov is a long and arduous process, but by implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you will be well on your way. These recommendations provide a solid foundation for success.

This first installment of our “Tarkov Lend Lease” series focuses on the basic gear you need to get started. By prioritizing cost-effectiveness, survivability, and functionality, you can equip yourself with the tools you need to survive and thrive in Tarkov.

But equipment is only half the battle. Next, we’ll delve into the crucial aspects of map knowledge, movement, and tactical decision-making. Part two will cover map knowledge, as well as the ideal place to hide in specific locations.

Stay tuned for Part Two, where we’ll explore the art of map navigation and tactical positioning. Learning the maps is crucial for survival. Together, these elements will form the next piece of your “Lend Lease,” empowering you to navigate the dangers of Tarkov with confidence and efficiency.