How to unlock the Boltgun in Warhammer 40K: Darktide

The Boltgun is a secondary weapon in Warhammer 40K: Darktide used by both Zealot Preachers and Veteran Sharpshooters once they have each reached their prerequisite levels. This ranged armament offers solid damage output but is most effective at staggering enemies. In particular, one of the main appeals of the Boltgun is its high Stopping Power stat in Warhammer 40K: Darktide, determining the extent to which an enemy flinches or is staggered by the gun’s projectiles. Accordingly, this weapon is highly effective at crowd-controlling groups of enemies or Elite mobs. For instance, if players find themselves or other teammates overwhelmed by enemies that cannot be killed with a single basic attack, then using the Boltgun can create distance from targets. 

(Updated on August 22, 2024 – Fact-checked).

Unlocking the Boltgun in Warhammer 40K: Darktide

To unlock the Boltgun in Warhammer 40K: Darktide, Zealot Preachers must reach Level 12, while Veteran Sharpshooters must attain Level 15. Once these two classes achieve this prerequisite level, the weapon should become available in the Armory Exchange. However, keep in mind that the weapon offerings are dependent on RNG.

While the Boltgun packs a formidable punch, it suffers heavy recoil when firing its large rounds in Warhammer 40K: Darktide. Accordingly, the range of the weapon might be decent, but players will find much more utility when using the Boltgun on medium to close-range targets. Otherwise, the recoil will cause too much instability, resulting in much ammunition being wasted. Lower difficulties offer plenty of ammo nodes for players to use, but ammunition is scarce in higher-difficulty missions. Therefore, those looking to play on Malice or higher are encouraged only to use the Boltgun when absolutely necessary. Attempting to snipe a Heretic sharpshooter or using the weapon on normal Poxwalker hordes is not optimal for ammo preservation. 

The Boltgun in Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is highly effective against single-target entities that are not easily staggered by basic attacks. For example, Bulwarks and Crushers have lots of HP and are challenging to take down, but the Boltgun’s heavy rounds can consistently cause these opponents to flinch while other teammates land their attacks. Using the Boltgun to stop Plague Hounds at a distance before they can pounce on an ally is also a practical strategy for this weapon.