When it comes to precision and versatility in Helldivers 2, few weapons stand out like the AR-2 Coyote. Known for its balance between accuracy, stopping power, and control, this rifle has quickly become a favorite among seasoned Helldivers who prefer a reliable tool for both mid- and long-range engagements. In this
Helldivers 2 AR-2 Coyote Guide – How to Use It Effectively, we’ll break down what makes this weapon shine and how to get the most out of it in the chaos of the battlefield.
Understanding the AR-2 Coyote
The AR-2 Coyote is a precision assault rifle designed for operators who value accuracy over sheer volume of fire. Compared to the standard Liberator, it features a tighter spread, slower rate of fire, and a higher damage output per shot. This makes it ideal for targeting weak points on Automatons, Illuminate, and even Terminids at range.
However, the Coyote is not a spray-and-pray weapon. Its deliberate pace rewards patience and precision—players who treat it more like a designated marksman rifle than a traditional AR will find it performs exceptionally well.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
High accuracy at medium to long ranges.
Low recoil, allowing for consistent follow-up shots.
Effective against armored enemies when aiming for weak spots.
Excellent ammo efficiency compared to rapid-fire rifles.
Weaknesses:
Slower rate of fire makes it weaker in close quarters.
Requires strong aim discipline to maximize performance.
Struggles against swarming enemies without proper positioning or support.
The key takeaway: The AR-2 Coyote isn’t meant for crowd control—it’s meant for surgical strikes.
How to Use the AR-2 Coyote Effectively
1. Aim for Weak Points
The Coyote’s high precision makes it perfect for headshots and armor breaks. Use it to snipe enemy sensors, exposed joints, or weak armor gaps. Against Automatons, aim for optics or power cores; for Terminids, target the abdomen or weak underbelly.
2. Control Your Engagements
Avoid letting enemies swarm you. The Coyote excels when you can maintain distance and clear lines of sight. Position yourself on elevated ground or behind cover, and coordinate with your squad to ensure you’re not overrun while focusing on precision shots.
3. Pair It with a Close-Range Stratagem
Because of its slower fire rate, it’s smart to complement the AR-2 with a close-range tool. Shotguns like the SG-8 Punisher or explosive Stratagems such as the EAT-17 can fill that gap when you’re caught in tight spots.
4. Use Controlled Bursts
Even though the rifle can fire rapidly in semi-auto, firing in short, rhythmic bursts will help maintain accuracy over distance. The Coyote’s recoil pattern is forgiving, but precision still matters most when fighting illuminated snipers or Automaton turrets.
5. Don’t Waste Ammo
While efficient, the Coyote’s ammo pool is limited compared to heavier rifles. Make every shot count—reload during lulls in combat and avoid unnecessary suppressive fire.
Best Loadouts for the AR-2 Coyote
Primary: AR-2 Coyote
Secondary: P-4 Senator (for armor penetration)
Support Stratagems: Eagle 500kg Bomb or Orbital Laser for crowd control
Armor Recommendation: Scout or Light Armor for improved mobility and accuracy bonuses
This loadout lets you stay agile while maximizing your ranged killing potential, making the most of the Coyote’s precision-based playstyle.
The AR-2 Coyote is a weapon for players who thrive under control and accuracy rather than chaos. In the hands of a disciplined marksman, it can outperform heavier weapons thanks to its pinpoint precision and adaptability. Whether you’re hunting Automatons across open fields or covering teammates from a distance, the Coyote proves that smart shooting beats wild spraying every time.
For those who prefer finesse over firepower, mastering the Coyote is a rewarding challenge. Use this Helldivers 2 AR-2 Coyote Guide – How to Use It Effectively as your blueprint, and you’ll soon find yourself delivering freedom with surgical precision.