Stepping into the chaotic world of GTA Online for the first time? You're about to dive into endless heists, races, and street wars. But without the right arsenal, you'll be shark bait. ๐ฉ The key to early success? Smart buys from Ammu-Nation that pack a punch without draining your fresh cash stack.
In this guide, we'll break down the best weapons to buy first in GTA Online. These picks are affordable, versatile, and meta-proven for new players. Unlock them quick, upgrade smart, and watch noobs scatter. Ready to arm up? Let's load the chamber! ๐ซ
Why Prioritize These GTA Online Starter Weapons?
Early game cash is tight โ missions pay peanuts at first. Skip flashy LMGs or rocket launchers. Focus on pistols, SMGs, and rifles that shine in PvP and PvE. Benefits?
- ๐ High damage-to-price ratio
- โญ Quick unlocks (low level reqs)
- ๐ฅ Versatile for CEO work, contact missions, and freemode chaos
Pro tip: Hit level 1-20 fast with VIP work or Cayo Perico setups later. But first, stock these essentials. ๐
Top 7 Best Weapons to Buy First in GTA Online โ Ranked for Newbies
Here's the hit list. Prices from Ammu-Nation (base, pre-upgrade). We'll detail why each crushes.
1๏ธโฃ #1: Heavy Pistol โ Your First Must-Buy (Level 1 Unlock)
The undisputed king of best weapons to buy first in GTA Online. Costs just $900. Why elite?
- Insane headshot damage โ one-tap most foes
- Fast fire rate, huge mag (9 rounds)
- Perfect for drive-bys and close-quarters
Upgrade to extended mag and flashlight ASAP. It's free research if you're grinding. New player MVP! ๐
2๏ธโฃ #2: Marksman Pistol โ Sniper Lite (Level 1, $6,000)
Don't sleep on this gem. Scoped precision for mid-range picks.
- Explosive rounds option shreds vehicles
- Suppressor compatible โ stealth king
- Beats Combat Pistol hands-down
Grab it post-Heavy Pistol. Ideal for bunker runs or oppressor griefers. ๐ฏ
3๏ธโฃ #3: Pump Shotgun โ Room Clearer (Level 1, Free-ish)
Spawn pistol? Nah. Buy this $1,000 beast.
- OHK in CQC โ shreds apartments, bunkers
- Cheap ammo, no fancy unlocks
- Upgrade for speedloader glory
Swap to Sweeper Shotgun later, but start here. Boom! ๐ฅ
4๏ธโฃ #4: Special Carbine โ Assault GOAT (Level 1, $14,650)
First AR? This. Laser-accurate, mobile shredder.
- High RPM, low recoil
- Drum mag upgrade = 60 rounds of pain
- Meta for all modes โ heists to Adversary
Save for this after pistols. It'll carry you to endgame. ๐ฅ
5๏ธโฃ #5: Sticky Bombs โ Vehicle Destroyer (Level 1, $600 each)
Not a gun, but essential throwable. Spam 5-10 early.
- One-shot cars, helis
- Remote detonate โ troll jets
- Cheaper than homing launcher
Stock up. Griefers hate you now. ๐
6๏ธโฃ #6: Combat MG โ Spray & Pray (Level 20-ish, $14,750)
Hit level 20? LMG time. 100-round mag melts squads.
- Suppressor + extended mag = lobby terror
- Beats MG by miles
- Great for yacht defense
7๏ธโฃ #7: Musket โ Budget Sniper (Level 7, $7,125)
One-shot wonder disguised as antique.
- Insane damage, fast reload
- Perfect pre-Carbine Rifle
- Fun & effective
Quick Comparison: Best Weapons to Buy First in GTA Online
| Weapon |
Price |
Damage |
Range |
Best For |
| Heavy Pistol |
$900 |
High (Headshots) |
Close |
PvP Starter |
| Marksman Pistol |
$6,000 |
Medium-High |
Mid |
Scoped Kills |
| Pump Shotgun |
$1,000 |
Extreme (CQC) |
Close |
Bunkers |
| Special Carbine |
$14,650 |
High |
Long |
All-Purpose |
| Sticky Bombs |
$600 ea. |
Vehicle OHK |
Throw |
Anti-Grief |
Table sourced from latest GTA Wiki & player testing. Numbers approximate โ test in-game!
Pro Tips to Maximize Your GTA Online Weapons
Buying is step one. Dominate with these:
- Upgrade Path: Mk II variants later, but base + attachments first (scopes, grips).
- Ammo Management: Buy in bulk at Ammu-Nation. Passive mode to farm cash.
- Research Unlocks: Bunker/MC for prototypes. Free power!
- Loadouts: Favorites wheel: Pistol > Carbine > Shotty > Stickies.
Grind Tip: Time Trials + Client Jobs for $50k/hour. Buy kosatka submarine? Cayo Perico solo = millions. But weapons first! ๐ฐ
Common Mistakes to Avoid with First Weapons in GTA Online
โ Don't blow cash on RPGs โ useless early.
โ Skip pistol upgrades? You're dead.
โ Ignore suppressors โ cops swarm.
Fix 'em and climb leaderboards. You've got this! ๐
Final Loadout: Ready to Roll?
Armed with Heavy Pistol, Special Carbine, and Stickies? You're a threat. These best weapons to buy first in GTA Online bridge newbie to pro. Next? Agency or arcade for passive income.
Drop your fave starter gun in comments. What's your first big buy? Share & subscribe for more GTA Online meta! Let's crew up. ๐
Stay locked & loaded, criminal. GTA Online awaits your rampage.