Grand Theft Auto V offers one of the most diverse weapon arsenals in the franchise, ranging from pistols and melee items to high-powered sniper rifles and explosives. Whether you’re dominating in GTA V Story Mode or taking on opponents in GTA Online, choosing the right weapon can make the difference between winning and losing. This guide breaks down the strongest guns in GTA V and explains how to use them effectively for every situation.


1. Heavy Sniper Mk II – Long-Range Dominator

  • Why It’s the Best: The Heavy Sniper Mk II is the most powerful long-range weapon in GTA V Online. With explosive and armor-piercing ammo upgrades, it’s perfect for eliminating enemies, vehicles, or even helicopters from a distance.

  • Best Use: Ideal for long-range engagements, PvP sniping, and taking down armored targets.

  • Pro Tip: Use thermal scopes for spotting enemies at night or in cover.


2. Assault Shotgun – Close-Range Power

  • Why It’s the Best: Fully automatic with incredible stopping power, this shotgun dominates at close range. It clears out enemies in tight spaces quickly, making it perfect for heists or close-quarters combat.

  • Best Use: Heist missions, building interiors, and when rushing groups of enemies.

  • Pro Tip: Pair it with heavy armor to make yourself unstoppable in CQC.


3. AP Pistol – Compact but Deadly

  • Why It’s the Best: The AP Pistol is one of the few sidearms that can be used while driving, giving it huge utility. Despite its small size, it has high damage and accuracy.

  • Best Use: Drive-by shootings, chasing enemies, and as a backup weapon when switching from a rifle.

  • Pro Tip: Use it with armor-piercing rounds in Online for maximum effect.


4. Combat MG Mk II – Mid-Range Beast

  • Why It’s the Best: The Combat MG Mk II combines high fire rate, accuracy, and devastating damage output. It can shred through enemies and vehicles quickly.

  • Best Use: Mid-range shootouts, open battles, and suppressing groups of enemies.

  • Pro Tip: Add extended mags to keep firing longer during Online PvP or survival missions.


5. Special Carbine Mk II – Balanced and Reliable

  • Why It’s the Best: A fan-favorite in GTA V Online, the Special Carbine Mk II is versatile, accurate, and effective at almost any range. It’s one of the most balanced rifles in the game.

  • Best Use: Heists, PvP, and missions where you need reliability.

  • Pro Tip: Add a suppressor for stealth missions without sacrificing much firepower.


6. Sticky Bombs – Explosive Versatility

  • Why It’s the Best: Sticky Bombs are one of the most useful explosives in GTA V. You can stick them to cars, walls, or throw them on the road to set up ambushes.

  • Best Use: Destroying vehicles, setting traps in Online, and clearing groups of enemies.

  • Pro Tip: Time your detonation wisely to catch enemies off guard.


7. Up-n-Atomizer – Sci-Fi Utility

  • Why It’s the Best: Unique to GTA V Online, this futuristic gun doesn’t kill instantly but instead blasts enemies and vehicles away with a shockwave. It never runs out of ammo.

  • Best Use: Flipping cars, disrupting enemies, or getting vehicles unstuck.

  • Pro Tip: Use it in tricky missions where mobility is key.


8. Minigun – Pure Destruction

  • Why It’s the Best: With its massive fire rate and unlimited intimidation factor, the Minigun is unmatched in raw destruction. It’s expensive but worth it.

  • Best Use: Against helicopters, armored enemies, and when mowing down large groups.

  • Pro Tip: Use it only when necessary; its bulk and high ammo consumption make it impractical for casual use.


9. Marksman Rifle Mk II – Precision Flexibility

  • Why It’s the Best: Unlike the Heavy Sniper, the Marksman Rifle allows for rapid semi-auto fire. It’s perfect for mid-to-long range combat where accuracy is crucial.

  • Best Use: PvP battles, rooftop defense, and missions requiring precision shots.

  • Pro Tip: Use explosive rounds in Online for maximum effect against vehicles.


10. Combat Shotgun (Cayo Perico Update)

  • Why It’s the Best: A newer addition, this shotgun hits harder than almost any close-range weapon. It’s devastating in Online matches.

  • Best Use: Raids, heists, or ambushes where you surprise enemies up close.

  • Pro Tip: Avoid long-range fights, as its spread makes it useless at distance.


Bonus: Best Melee Weapon – The Katana (GTA Online Mod)

While melee weapons are rarely practical, the Katana (added in mods and roleplay servers) gives players a stylish option for silent takedowns. If you’re sticking to vanilla GTA V, the Machete and Knife are your best stealth tools.


Final Thoughts

Choosing the strongest weapons in GTA V depends on your playstyle. If you prefer stealth, the Special Carbine with a suppressor and a Marksman Rifle are perfect. For chaos and destruction, nothing beats the Minigun and Sticky Bombs. In GTA Online, versatility is key — owning a mix of close, mid, and long-range weapons ensures you’re ready for any fight.

Mastering these weapons will give you the edge in heists, missions, and Online battles, helping you survive Los Santos like a true pro.