Death Stranding 2 Sniper Rifle Guide - Get & Upgrade (July 2025)
Let me tell you something - the Tranq Sniper Rifle in Death Stranding 2 is an absolute game-changer when dealing with human enemies. But here's the catch: this powerful long-range weapon isn't handed to you through the main story. I've spent hours tracking down this elusive rifle, and I'm here to save you the trouble with this comprehensive guide that'll have you picking off bandits from a mile away.
Table of Contents
Why You Need the Tranq Sniper Rifle in Death Stranding 2
Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why this weapon deserves a spot in your arsenal. The Tranq Sniper Rifle offers:
- Extreme long-range capability with a two-level zoom scope
- Non-lethal takedowns that won't trigger voidouts
- One-shot knockout potential on unarmored human enemies
- Tactical advantages when paired with Smoke Grenades
The only downside? It's loud as hell. But trust me, that noise can actually work in your favor when you learn to use it strategically.
How to Unlock the Tranq Sniper Rifle?
Step 1: Reach Australia and Connect the Government Base
First things first - you'll need to progress through the main story until you reach Australia. Once you arrive at the Government Base and connect it to the Chiral Network, you'll unlock access to Sub Orders. This is where your sniper journey begins.
Step 2: Accept Sub Order 100
At the Government Base, look for Sub Order 100: "Deliver the Dismantled Rifle to the Lone Commander [Breakable Cargo]". While the game might tell you it's not a priority, trust me - make it one. This delivery sets everything in motion.
Pro Tip: The journey to the Lone Commander is steep and treacherous. I recommend:
- Parking your DHV Magellan at a safe spot
- Making the trek on foot
- Bringing ladders and climbing anchors
- Packing some Blood Grenades just in case
Step 3: Complete the First Delivery
Navigate to the Lone Commander's shelter (located east of the Government Base, up in the hills). The path is challenging but straightforward - just watch your footing and avoid tumbling down the cliffs. Once you deliver the Dismantled Rifle, you might think you're done. You're not.
Step 4: Accept Sub Order 101 - The Real Challenge
Here's where things get spicy. The Lone Commander won't join the Chiral Network just yet. He'll give you Sub Order 101: "Recover the Mementos from the BT Area". This is the mission that separates the porters from the legends.
Step 5: Survive the BT Zone
This mission sends you directly into BT territory. If you're tackling this early (which I recommend), you probably don't have heavy combat gear. Here's my stealth strategy:
- Press R1 to crouch - This silences your movement
- Hold R1 to hold breath when BTs are near
- Watch your Odradek scanner - It points toward the nearest BT
- Monitor Lou's mood - Keep that BB happy
- Use terrain to your advantage - BTs have trouble detecting you behind rocks
The Lone Commander provides two ladders and one climbing anchor for this mission. Use them wisely to create escape routes.
Step 6: Return the Mementos
Once you've retrieved the Mementos (with minimal damage - this is important!), make your way back to the Lone Commander. Upon successful delivery, he'll finally join the Chiral Network, unlocking:
- Tranq Sniper Rifle schematic
- Smoke Grenade schematic
- Access to further upgrades
Crafting Your First Tranq Sniper Rifle
Now that you've unlocked the schematic, head to any facility connected to the Chiral Network. The crafting requirements are:
- 80 Resins
- 100 Metals
- 80 Chemicals
Not too steep, but you'll want to stock up on materials before heading out on sniper missions.
How to Upgrade to the LW Tranq Sniper Rifle?
Want to take your sniping game to the next level? The Lightweight (LW) variant is your answer. Here's how to unlock it:
Requirements for LW Tranq Sniper Rifle
- Reach Connection Level 4 with The Lone Commander
- Complete additional deliveries and missions for him
- Build up that relationship through Standard Orders
What Makes the LW Version Special?
The upgraded version offers:
- S-size cargo storage (much more portable!)
- Same damage and range as the standard version
- Identical scope capabilities
- Still loud (no suppressor, unfortunately)
The main advantage? You can carry it without sacrificing as much cargo space, making it perfect for long expeditions where every slot counts.
Mastering the Tranq Sniper Rifle
Understanding Bullet Drop
Unlike hitscan weapons, the Tranq Sniper has realistic bullet physics. At longer ranges, you'll need to:
- Aim slightly above your target
- Account for distance when lining up shots
- Practice on stationary targets first
The Shoot-and-Move Strategy
Since the rifle lacks a suppressor, enemies will converge on your position after each shot. Here's my go-to strategy:
- Take your shot from an elevated position
- Drop a Smoke Grenade immediately
- Relocate while enemies search your last position
- Set up for your next shot from a new angle
- Repeat until the camp is clear
Best Companion Equipment
The Tranq Sniper pairs beautifully with:
- Smoke Grenades (unlocked alongside the rifle)
- Binoculars for initial scouting
- Dollman for tactical planning
- A backup close-range weapon for emergencies
Advanced Tips and Strategies
When to Use the Tranq Sniper
The rifle excels in these situations:
- Clearing bandit camps before cargo runs
- Taking out sentries at enemy installations
- Creating distractions to lure enemies away
- Completing stealth-focused Sub Orders
When NOT to Use It
Save your ammo and skip the sniper against:
- BTs (completely ineffective)
- Mechs (won't even scratch them)
- Close-quarters combat (too unwieldy)
- Heavily armored enemies (limited effectiveness)
The Noise Advantage
That loud report isn't always a disadvantage. Use it to:
- Draw enemies out of defensive positions
- Create diversions for your team in online mode
- Funnel enemies into killzones
- Pull guards away from objectives
Unlocking Even More Sniper Variants
Your sniper journey doesn't end with the LW variant. As you progress, you can unlock:
SL-LW Tranq Sniper Rifle (Connection Level 5)
The ultimate stealth sniper featuring:
- Built-in suppressor (finally!)
- S-size cargo storage
- Silent operation for true stealth gameplay
This variant requires maxing out your relationship with The Lone Commander, but it's worth every delivery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the BT mission - Take your time and play it safe
- Forgetting to craft ammo - Always carry extra rounds
- Shooting from the same position - Keep moving!
- Wasting shots on armored heads - Aim for exposed areas
- Ignoring Lou during stealth - A crying BB will get you caught
Testing Your New Rifle
Once you've unlocked the Tranq Sniper, The Lone Commander offers a perfect test mission: "Recover All Brigands' Reconnaissance Equipment". This Sub Order lets you practice your newfound sniping skills in a real combat scenario.
Is It Worth the Effort?
Absolutely. While the Tranq Sniper Rifle in Death Stranding 2 is ideal for silent human eliminations, the initial lack of a suppressor means you'll need to adapt your tactics. The ability to neutralize threats from extreme range fundamentally changes how you approach human encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the Tranq Sniper Rifle before reaching Australia?
No, the rifle is exclusive to the Australia portion of the game. You'll need to progress through Mexico first.
Does the Tranq Sniper work on all enemy types?
The Tranq Sniper Rifle in DS2 is good against human enemies, while useless against BTs or Mechs. Stick to human targets for best results.
How much does the LW variant improve portability?
The LW version stores as S-size cargo instead of M-size, freeing up significant backpack space for other equipment.
Can I add a suppressor to the standard Tranq Sniper?
Unfortunately, no. You'll need to unlock the SL-LW variant at Connection Level 5 for silent sniping.
What's the maximum effective range?
While the game doesn't specify exact distances, I've successfully landed shots from several hundred meters away. Just remember to account for bullet drop!
Should I prioritize this over other weapons?
If you prefer stealth and long-range engagement, absolutely. For close-quarters combat enthusiasts, focus on other Death Stranding 2 weapons first.
Final Thoughts
The Tranq Sniper Rifle represents one of Death Stranding 2's most rewarding optional unlocks. While it requires a detour from the main story and a nerve-wracking BT encounter, the tactical advantages it provides are game-changing. Whether you're clearing the path for a crucial delivery or just enjoy the satisfaction of long-range takedowns, this rifle deserves a spot in every porter's arsenal.
Remember, patience and positioning are key. The rifle's loud report means every shot counts, but with practice, you'll be neutralizing threats before they even know you're there. Now get out there and show those bandits why messing with a legendary porter is a terrible idea!
Ready to dive deeper into Death Stranding 2? Check out our guides on how long it takes to beat Death Stranding 2 or discover if you should play Death Stranding 1 first. Happy delivering, fellow porters!