Weapons and armor tier order — pre-Level 20
You do not need Rocket Launchers to reach Sakurajima. This tier order lets you clear every early tower with two schematics.
Updated 2026-07-26
Key takeaways
- ✓Crossbow > Bow at Level 8
- ✓Assault Rifle at Level 34, not Level 24
- ✓Cloth → Metal armor jump
Crossbow > Bow at Level 8
The Crossbow's stagger lets solo players catch first-tier Alphas without a party wipe.
Assault Rifle at Level 34, not Level 24
Skip the SMG entirely; the ammo cost isn't worth it before Improved Assault Rifle.
Cloth → Metal armor jump
Metal Armor at Level 14 is the biggest single defensive spike in the game.