BS ammo in Tarkov refers to the basic bullet type used by many common assault rifles and light machine guns, forming a core part of early-game and mid-game loadouts for new and returning players. This guide explains what BS ammo is, which weapons chamber it, where to reliably farm and trade it, and how to manage its cost and availability across the flea market and Scavs. Understanding BS ammo helps you balance performance, capacity, and budget as you build your character and refine your long-term strategy.
What BS Ammo Is and Why It Matters
BS stands for Bolt System and denotes the 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition with a steel core bullet used by a wide range of Tarkov weapons. It is the most common ammo type in the game and serves as a baseline for comparing ballistics, recoil, and cost across the ammo class system. BS ammo is lighter than many higher tiers, has moderate penetration, and is generally sufficient for early PvE and PvP engagements when paired with appropriate barriers. For new players and farmers building reliable starter kits, BS ammo offers a practical balance of availability, performance, and resale value in the long term.
Weapons That Use BS Ammo
BS ammo fits a broad set of popular Tarkov guns, including many common ARs, DMRs, and LMGs. Below is a non-exhaustive overview of notable weapons and their typical use of BS variants:
| Weapon | Common BS Variant | Role / Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| AK-74 | 5.45x39mm BS (7N6) | Assault rifle, balanced performance |
| AN-94 | 5.45x39mm BS | Assault rifle, high rate of fire |
| AK-12 | 5.45x39mm BS | Assault rifle, modular platform |
| RPK-16 | 5.45x39mm BS | Light machine gun, sustained fire |
| VSS Vintorez | 9x39mm SP-5 BS | Designated marksman rifle, suppressed |
| SV-98 | 7.62x54mmR BS | Designated marksman rifle, semi-auto |
| PKP Pecheneg | 7.62x54mmR BS | Light machine gun, belt-fed |
Platform and Role Implications
The weapons above span multiple roles, from close-quarters assault to designated marksman and support fire. BS variants are generally the most accessible and affordable options for each platform, making them attractive for players who want reliable performance without investing in premium or specialized ammunition. Understanding which platform you prefer—assault rifle, DMR, or LMG—helps you decide how much BS ammo to keep in stock and when to upgrade to higher tiers for better penetration and damage.
Where to Farm BS Ammo Efficiently
Efficient BS ammo farming relies on consistent Scav runs, strategic PMC kills, and targeted Secure Container extraction. Many players prioritize Scav runs on high-loot maps such as Reserve, Streets, and Customs to collect loose BS ammo and barter with other players on the flea. Raiding factories and labs can also yield large quantities of loose rounds found in drawers, on desks, and in containers. Alternatively, hunting AI can drop BS ammo when looted, though this method is slower and more dependent on RNG.
Farming Strategies by Playstyle
- Scav runs: Fast, low-risk volume farming; focus on high-loot maps and secure containers.
- PMC kills: Target players known to use BS platforms; loot their stash or extract with loose rounds.
- Raid and container control: Hold high-value facilities where traders and AI leave behind supply caches.
Trading BS Ammo on the Flea Market
The flea market is the primary venue for converting BS ammo into roubles or other desired items. Price efficiency depends on supply, demand, your standing with traders, and how quickly you can complete transactions. High-volume sellers often list bulk BS ammo at slightly below market average to ensure quick sells, while smaller sellers can wait for niche buyer requests. Keep an eye on sell offers for common calibers to benchmark your pricing and avoid underpricing your stock.
Flea Market Tips for BS Ammo
- Monitor competing sell orders to price competitively without undervaluing your time.
- Bundle offers (for example, 500 rounds) to attract traders looking for volume.
- Use high-goods trader sales to temporarily increase demand and prices for common calibers.
- Factor in transaction fees when listing; selling in smaller increments can improve net returns.
Economic Role in Your Tarkov Progression
BS ammo functions as both a practical tool and a tradable asset within Tarkov’s economy. It is often among the first types of ammo new players farm and trade, serving as an early source of roubles and barter value. Holding BS ammo can provide liquidity in the mid-game when you need quick funds for keys, extract fees, or emergency repairs. At the same time, its relatively low cost per round means it is not the most efficient long-term investment compared to rarer calibers, so it is best used strategically as part of a diversified stash portfolio.
Balance your inclination to hold versus sell based on your current needs, flea market trends, and the overall supply of loose rounds on your server. In active economies, frequent trading can compound small margins into meaningful gains, while in tighter markets, holding modest reserves of BS ammo can keep you prepared for sudden Scav needs or unexpected loadout gaps.
Performance, Capacity, and Loadout Synergy
When choosing BS ammo for a loadout, consider ballistics, magazine capacity, and how the round interacts with your armor and barrier setups. BS ammo typically offers straightforward ballistics with manageable recoil, making it suitable for semi-auto and burst fire from platforms like the AK-12 and RPK-16. Its penetration is adequate for early to mid-tier armor, but it will struggle against high-tier rigs and barrier plates, prompting upgrades as you progress. Pairing BS ammo with higher-capacity magazines and comfortable recoil pads can improve sustained engagement performance while keeping costs and weight predictable.
Summary and Practical Takeaways
BS ammo in Tarkov is the common 5.56x45mm NATO round used by a wide array of assault rifles, DMRs, and LMGs. It is widely farmable through Scav runs, PMC loot, and container raids, and it trades reliably on the flea market for steady income. While not the most powerful or cost-efficient ammo long-term, BS ammo remains a dependable, mid-tier option for early progression, liquidity, and loadout flexibility. Use it as part of a balanced stash strategy, price competitively on the flea, and plan upgrades as your wealth and gear demands evolve.