Resident Evil 4 Remake Best Weapons [Top 16]

Equip Leon with the best guns in Resident Evil 4 to survive the Ganados plague & save Ashley!

Resident Evil 4 Remake is packed with some of the best weapons from the series. You have the option of selecting the best guns out of 29 firearms in the game, which speaks volumes about how much versatility you can add to combat. While not all guns perform equally, and every weapon comes with a set of pros and cons, learning about the best ones is the key to survival in the Ganados plague.

Resident Evil 4 Remake features 29 Weapons for players to unlock. If you acquire all weapons in RE4 Remake, you will unlock the Gun Fanatic trophy/achievement. Here are all the Best Weapons in RE4 Remake compared to each other in the table below:

WeaponsTypeBest ForPower (Max)Ammo (Max)Reload Speed (Max)Rate of FirePrecision
Red9Semi Auto HandgunThe Best Handgun In Resident Evil 4 Remake2.716.01.251.264.8
PunisherSemi Auto HandgunThe Fastest Reload Speed In Handguns1.924.01.51.914.5
MatildaHandgunThe Highest Fire Rate In Handguns2.070.00.932.53.0
W-870ShotgunThe Best Shotgun For Early Game10.1 x 210.00.950.852.8
Killer7MagnumThe Highest Base Dmg In Magnums28.015.01.41.162.5
Bolt ThrowerSpecialThe Best Stealth Weapon In The Game2.410 x 20.940.853.0
Fighting KnifeMeleeThe Best Knife In Resident Evil 4 Remake1.80.00.00.00.0
Riot GunSemi Auto ShotgunThe Most Precise Shotgun In The Game12.812.00.971.13.5
StrikerSemi Auto ShotgunThe Highest Ammo Capacity In Shotguns16.224 x 20.621.572.0
Chicago SweeperSubmachine GunThe Best Dmg In Submachine Guns2.070.00.932.53.0
LE5Submachine GunThe Most Accurate Submachine Gun In The Game1.260.01.052.54.5
CQBR Assault RifleAuto RifleThe Highest Fire Rate In Rifles3.432.01.252.55.0
StingrayAssault RifleThe Best Weapon For A Sniper Build4.918.01.180.925.4
Infinite Rocket LauncherSpecialThe Best Weapon For One-Shotting EnemiesN/AUnlimitedN/AN/AN/A

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1. Red9

The Best Handgun In Resident Evil 4 Remake.
Red9
StatsDescription
Power2.70
Ammo Capacity16
Reload Speed1.25
Rate of Fire1.26
Precision4.80
  • Why I Chose This: Red9 can deal the highest dmg in handguns, has balanced stats and can be acquired quite early, making it the best Handgun.

Starting off my Resident Evil 4 Remake Best Weapons list, the Red9 handgun has undoubtedly earned its reputation as one of the best weapons. Its unrivaled power, surpassing all other non-magnum handguns, is a testament to its supremacy. Upon acquiring the Red9, you may initially be put off by its unwieldy recoil and lackluster accuracy.

  • However, these shortcomings can be overcome by investing in indispensable stock attachments.
  • This upgrade transforms the Red9 into a formidable weapon, justifying the price and inventory space it requires.
  • Remember, though, that the stock isn’t immediately available from the vendor, so persistence and patience are key to unlocking the full potential of this powerhouse handgun.
  • Has high accuracy, low recoil and the highest dmg in handguns.
  • Possesses an exclusive upgrade that further increases the dmg multiplier. 
  • The stock attachements are necessary which require a lot of space.
  • The stocking is available late and requires high money to buy.

2. Punisher

The Fastest Reload Speed In Handguns.
Punisher
StatsDescription
Power1.90
Ammo Capacity24
Reload Speed1.50
Rate of Fire1.91
Precision4.50
  • Why I Chose This: Punisher is very precise and has a unique passive that allows it to strike through upto five targets, making it an ideal choice for crowd-control.

The Punisher handgun holds its own in the remake, despite some shortcomings. While the SG-09 R may boast slightly better stats and raw damage, the Punisher’s true value lies in its penetration power, allowing you to eliminate multiple enemies with a single shot if they’re properly aligned.

  • This distinctive feature is further enhanced by the Exclusive upgrade, which increases penetration 5x, making the Punisher an indispensable crowd-clearing weapon.
  • Complemented by a relatively low upgrade cost, swift firing rate, and rapid reload time.
  • The Punisher’s 9mm semi-automatic design offers a unique advantage in the arsenal of handguns, even though it may not pack the most powerful punch.
  • Can pierce through enemies by unlocking the passive.
  • Acquired very early and remains good for most situations.
  • Deals low dmg and thus requires upgrading.
  • Has high recoil and relatively low fire rate.

3. Matilda

The Highest Fire Rate In Handguns.
Matilda
StatsDescription
Power2.00
Ammo Capacity70
Reload Speed0.93
Rate of Fire2.50
Precision3.00
  • Why I Chose This: Matilda has the ability to shoot multiple shots in one go that can deal a ton of dmg overtime, making it a viable option for boss fights.

Next, in my best re4 weapons, I have the Matilda. Paying homage to Resident Evil 2, the Matilda is a three-round burst pistol that bridges the gap between traditional handguns and SMGs. While its firepower ranks in the middle amongst its handgun counterparts, it boasts the quickest rate of fire, reload speed and largest capacity.

  • These attributes are further enhanced when a stock is attached, transforming the Matilda into an even more efficient and deadly weapon.
  • However, it’s important to note that the Matilda has a hefty price tag for full upgrades.
  • Despite this, Matilda’s unique features and versatility make it a valuable asset in the hands of skilled players.
  • Shoots multiple shots, ideal for boss fights.
  • Has high reload speed and large ammo capacity.
  • Uses plenty of ammo, needs to be used carefully.
  • High recoil due to multiple shots and high fire rate.

4. W-870

The Best Shotgun For Early Game.
W-870
StatsDescription
Power10.1 x2
Ammo Capacity10
Reload Speed0.95
Rate of Fire0.85
Precision2.80
  • Why I Chose This: W-870 is the first shotgun that you acquire and remains effective throughout the game with high stagger, good spread and the upgrade to double the dmg.

W-870 is a powerful shotgun that shines when confronting hordes of Ganados, chainsaw-wielding adversaries, or the formidable El Gigante. The weapon is known for its tight spread and remarkable stopping power, enabling you to easily dispatch enemies.

  • While it may have the cheapest upgrades and lowest initial power of all shotguns, the Exclusive upgrade doubles its power, catapulting it to the top as the most potent shotgun in the game.
  • You must adapt to its slower rate of fire and reload speed, but these minor drawbacks are a small price to pay for the unparalleled power the W-870 shotgun delivers.
  • Can be acquired in the first chapter of the game.
  • The passive can double its power and has high stagger dmg.
  • Has slow fire rate and reload speed throughout.
  • Outclassed by other shotguns in some scenarios.

5. Killer7

The Highest Base Dmg In Magnums.
Killer7
StatsDescription
Power28.0
Ammo Capacity15
Reload Speed1.40
Rate of Fire1.16
Precision2.50
  • Why I Chose This: Killer7 is an all-around best magnum due to its exceptional dmg and innate laser sight for accuracy, making it very versatile in many situations.

Killer7 is a powerhouse magnum weapon that delivers devastating blows with each shot, swiftly eliminating adversaries with only a few well-aimed rounds. I must say, the Magnum’s immense firepower truly shines when facing more challenging opponents, such as the armored El Gigante and the daunting Krauser. Additionally, its piercing capabilities make it a prime choice for penetrating the tough exterior of specific enemies.

  • The limited ammo capacity may present a drawback.
  • The Killer7 Magnum’s unrivaled stopping power more than compensates for this minor shortcoming, solidifying its position as a formidable weapon in the game.
  • Deals insane dmg on every hit and has a crit buff.
  • Can stagger even the most toughest of opponents.
  • Very high recoil and low ammo capacity.
  • Acquired very late in the main campaign.

6. Bolt Thrower

The Best Stealth Weapon In The Game.
Bolt Thrower
Power2.40
Ammo Capacity10 x2
Reload Speed0.94
Rate of Fire0.85
Precision3.00
  • Why I Chose This: Bolt Thrower is a unique weapon featuring a crossbow and launches exploding bolts which can deal AoE dmg and is very silent for stealthy appraoches.

Next up on the list I have the Bolt Thrower. It’s explosive bolts pack a powerful punch, inflicting significant damage and knockback to multiple enemies with a single shot. The weapon’s remarkable accuracy allows you to eliminate foes with pinpoint precision, even from a distance.

  • The bolts can blast, inflicting AoE dmg.
  • Is very silent, great for clearing multiple enemies.
  • Has very low reload speed and fire rate.
  • Has low base dmg and ammo without upgrades.

7. Fighting Knife

The Best Knife In Resident Evil 4 Remake.
Fighting Knife
StatsDescription
Power1.80
Durability1.80
Attack Speed1.00
  • Why I Chose This: Fighting Knife would help you greatly in situations where you run out of ammo and packs a lot of punch against many smaller enemies.

There are more potent weapons than the Fighting Knife. Yet I consider it a fantastic asset for any skilled player to have. Use the Fighting Knife in tandem with your other weapons to save bullets and provide devastating close-range damage to your foes. The Fighting Knife is surely one of the Resident Evil 4 Remake’s Best Melee Weapons, especially for sticky situations.

  • The Plague-infected villagers and Ganados are no match for its lightning-fast assault speed and stunning abilities.
  • The Fighting Knife also has other uses beyond combat, as it can be used to smash boxes and barrels to access valuable objects and ammunition.
  • Has very fast moveset along with high dmg.
  • Can also be utilized to open crates for ammo.
  • Obtained considerably late in the game.
  • Is a boss weapon, thus defeating the boss is necessary to obtain.

8. Riot Gun

The Most Precise Shotgun In The Game.

StatsDescription
Power12.8
Ammo Capacity12
Reload Speed0.97
Rate of Fire1.10
Precision3.50
  • Why I Chose This: Riot Gun is very powerful at close as well as medium range, can wipe out almost everything and the exclusive upgrade boosts its dmg even further.

The Riot Gun Shotgun is one of the most powerful shotguns in my opinion. This weapon boasts an impressive fire rate and a wide spray, making it incredibly effective against groups of enemies. The Riot Gun Shotgun’s raw stopping power is particularly useful against tougher enemies like the chainsaw-wielding maniacs and the heavily armored Ganados.

  • Its ability to deal massive damage even at medium range is also a significant advantage.
  • The weapon is capable of taking out enemies before they can get too close.
  • The Riot Gun Shotgun’s only downside is its reload time, but skilled players can use this brief period to reposition themselves and avoid enemy attacks.
  • Has a wide spread and massive dmg, best for clearing groups.
  • Can be acquired quite early and remains effective throughout the game.
  • Needs to be reloaded carefully due to very high reload time.
  • Ammo gets continuously empty due to high fire rate.

9. Striker

The Highest Ammo Capacity In Shotguns.
Striker
StatsDescription
Power16.2
Ammo Capacity24 x2
Reload Speed0.62
Rate of Fire1.57
Precision2.00
  • Why I Chose This: Striker has the largest ammo capacity out of all shotguns along with decent dmg, spread and fire rate, making it a versatile shotgun.

Striker shotgun boasts a high fire rate, large ammo capacity, and a tight spread, making it incredibly effective against both groups of enemies and tougher foes. The shotgun’s unique upgrade system, which allows you to increase its ammo capacity, makes it even more versatile and effective in combat.

  • Its ability to pierce through multiple enemies with each shot makes it an excellent choice for taking on groups of enemies.
  • The Striker Shotgun’s only downside is its slow reload time.
  • But skilled players can use this brief period to avoid enemy attacks and reposition themselves for their next shot.
  • The shots can pierce enemy shields and hit multiple due to wide spread.
  • Has very high ammo capacity that can be further doubled through upgrades.
  • High ammo capacity gives it an even more lengthier reloading time.
  • Disorients camera due to high recoil and fire rate.

10. Chicago Sweeper

The Best Dmg In Submachine Guns.
Chicago Sweeper
StatsDescription
Power2.00
Ammo Capacity70
Reload Speed0.93
Rate of Fire2.50
Precision3.00
  • Why I Chose This: Chicago Sweeper has a simple design but looks can be deceiving as this gun has the highest DPS in SMGs, high fire rate and unlimited ammo.

Chicago Sweeper machine gun boasts a high fire rate and a large ammo capacity, making it incredibly effective against groups of enemies and tough bosses. Its superior damage output and piercing capabilities are ideal for defeating the game’s more formidable enemies. If sound suppression isn’t your biggest need then I suggest you to opt for the Chicago Sweeper as one of the Best Weapons in RE4.

  • The gun’s only real drawback is its hefty price tag, but skilled players will find the investment more than worth it.
  • Its rapid-fire capabilities and overall effectiveness make it a favorite among experienced players, and its iconic design and history make it a must-have for any fan of the series.
  • High dmg and very high fire rate.
  • After unlocking the exclusive upgrade, ammo never runs out.
  • Has bad accuracy and high recoil.
  • Requires completing Professional Mode on A rank to obtain.

11. LE5

The Most Accurate Submachine Gun In The Game.
LE 5
StatsDescription
Power1.20
Ammo Capacity60
Reload Speed1.05
Rate of Fire2.50
Precision4.50
  • Why I Chose This: LE 5 is very suitable for clearing enemies from a distance as it will rarely miss due to its high accuracy and a ton of ammo.

LE 5 is perfect for long-range killing because of its precision and devastating stopping force. It is useful for clearing out large groups of adversaries or removing impediments in your way since it can pierce through numerous foes and items at once.

  • The LE5’s superiority in combat is bolstered by its ability to be upgraded to improve its damage output and magazine size.
  • Despite its sluggish firing rate, the LE5 rifle is a great option for gamers that want a more tactical approach to fighting.
  • Can be used to kill distant enemies due to pinpoint accuracy.
  • The exclusive upgrade allows the shots to pass through upto five targets.
  • Has low ammo capacity and dmg without upgrades.
  • Acquired towards the late-game chapters.

12. CQBR Assault Rifle

The Highest Fire Rate In Rifles.
CQBR Assault Rifle
StatsDescription
Power3.40
Ammo Capacity32
Reload Speed1.25
Rate of Fire2.50
Precision5.00
  • Why I Chose This: CQBR Assault Rifle is the only rifle in the game that can shoot rapidly and does the job pretty well with high accuracy and power.

The CQBR Assault Rifle is a strong and flexible weapon in Resident Evil 4, excelling at both close and medium range. I will always say that this assault weapon is perfect for clearing out big groups of foes and doing heavy damage to bosses thanks to its rapid rate of fire, good accuracy, and enormous ammunition capacity.

  • The CQBR Assault Rifle is a fan favorite among seasoned players due to its power and adaptability.
  • Despite the fact that its sluggish reload time might be a detriment in some scenarios.
  • Boasts high dmg, accuracy and fire rate.
  • Has an innate sight which is also changeable.
  • The reload speed is relatively slower.
  • Acquired in a hidden place towards the late game.

13. Stingray

The Best Weapon For A Sniper Build.
Stingray
StatsDescription
Power4.90
Ammo Capacity18
Reload Speed1.18
Rate of Fire0.92
Precision5.40
  • Why I Chose This: Stingray should be your choice if you like to take out enemies from a distance by inflicting headshots as it possesses the best accuracy in the game.

Stingray sniper rifle is one of the best weapons in the game, and that shouldn’t be overlooked. While it may not be the most powerful sniper rifle in the game – the SR M1903 boasts twice the power with its exclusive upgrade – the Stingray more than makes up for it with its excellent rate of fire and precision.

  • Its fast firing speed allows you to take out enemies quickly without losing sight of their target, while its pinpoint accuracy ensures that every shot counts.
  • The Stingray’s 3x power against weak points bonus also makes it a highly effective tool for taking out tougher enemies with precision shots.
  • In short, if you’re looking for a high-quality sniper rifle in Resident Evil 4, the Stingray is an excellent choice that delivers both power and precision.
  • Has the highest precision out of all rifles.
  • Each shot is deadly and the exclusive upgrades doubles the fire rate.
  • The innate sight is not good for ranged situations.
  • Has comparatively low ammo throughout the upgrades.

14. Infinite Rocket Launcher

The Best Weapon For One-Shotting Enemies.
Rocket Launcher
  • Why I Chose This: Infinite Rocket Launcher is the best weapon for cheesing the whole game as it can even one-shot bosses and has unlimited ammo.

If you really want the best weapon in Resident Evil 4 Remake that can potentially one-shot most enemies and beat bosses easily, then I offer you the Infinite Rocket Launcher. This is an overkill version of the base rocket launcher that you unlock much earlier and easily in RE4 Remake. Still, if you just want to point and shoot enemies, this is the way to go. 

  • The infinite ammo version of Rocket Launcher can be used to clear NG+ very easily.
  • Rockets can one-shot most enemies.
  • Has infinite ammo, allowing you to breeze through the game.
  • Requires a huge amount of money to buy (2 million).
  • Makes the game very easy and less fun and challenging.

15. SR M1903

The Best Rifle For Early-Game.
SR M1903 Resident Evil 4 Remake
SR M1903 Resident Evil 4 Remake
Power 2.50
Ammo Capacity  5
Reload Speed 0.46
Rate of fire  0.42
Precision  5.20
  • Why I Chose This: SR M1903 is the first rifle that you come across and shines in ranged scenarios for early stages with its high dmg that can be doubled with upgrades.

The SR M1903 is a bolt-action rifle with a reputation for accuracy when used with a scope. It provides you with a way to shoot from a distance and comes with various scopes to choose from. Additionally, it has 3x power against weak points and good penetration power.

  • The SR M1903 is slow but powerful and can be upgraded to become stronger.
  • It has an exclusive upgrade that can be obtained through a ticket or by fully upgrading the weapon.
  • It has an optional scope attachment makes it great for sniping, but the bolt-action reloads animation can slow down lining up shots.
  • Has high accuracy and exclusive upgrade doubles its dmg.
  • Possesses an innate sight which can be modified.
  • Slow reload speed and has bolt-action reload animation after each shot.
  • Is outclassed by other rifles once you obtain them.

16. Handcannon

The Best Magnum For Infinite Ammo.
Handcanon Resident Evil 4 Remake
Handcanon Resident Evil 4 Remake
Power 12.0
Ammo Capacity  5
Reload Speed 0.46
Rate of fire  0.52
Precision  1.80
  • Why I Chose This: Handcannon has the highest dmg stat in magnums along with infinte ammo which provides it the potential to one-shot elites and trivialize bosses.

Last but not least here is The Handcannon as one of the Best Weapons in Resident Evil 4 Remake. It is a powerful magnum revolver that uses its own type of ammunition, Ultimate Mighty Z bullets. Its extra-large X-Frame is designed to handle the high muzzle velocity of the strong cartridge and deliver some serious firepower.

  • The Handcannon is a magnum revolver that fires four tightly bunched bullets, making it unique compared to other magnums.
  • It is highly effective against tough enemies and can blast through tightly bunched Ganados.
  • I consider it a valuable weapon to have as it is the only Magnum with infinite ammo, despite its base stat being lower compared to Killer7.
  • Has the highest dmg stat out of all magnums.
  • Possesses infinite ammo after unlocking the exclusive upgrade.
  • Reload time is considerably high and recovers slowly after shooting.
  • Specific conditions must be fulfilled to acquire this weapon.

What I Think Is The Best Weapon

My RE4 Remake hours STEAM ID: Future_bIrd

After having more than 50 hours in Resident Evil 4 Remake, my personal favorite handgun for the early game is Red9, due to the fact that aside from having devastating damage, you can quite literally obtain this weapon for free and sell their current handgun to upgrade the Red9 further. 

Both the Riot Gun Shotgun and the Striker Shotgun are fantastic weapons for damaging groups of enemies close to each other and are the weapons I frequently used in Resident Evil 4 whenever I was in a bind.

On the other hand, the Infinite ammo Chicago Sweeper and the Rocket Launcher are basically cheat codes that can make your playthrough a breeze.

This brings me to the end of my Resident Evil 4 Remake Best Weapons guide, where I have listed the best handguns, shotguns, SMGs, Rifles, knives, and more. What is your go-to weapon for crowd control and 1vs1 fights? Let me know more about it in the comments section below. Also, before you leave, consider reading my Resident Evil 4 Remake Review.

Update Log

This article was last updated on 12th July 2023

Information added: Added missing entries for SR M1903 and the Handcannon from RE4 Remake.

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Haris Umer is a Guides Writer on eXputer who can be seen torturing himself by playing FromSoftware’s offering of Souls games. He speaks about games with overwhelming passion, which readers can spot in his guides. Haris has been avidly playing video games for 15+ years now. You can learn more about his gaming experience through his PSN and Steam profiles.

Experience: 3+ Years || Education: Bachelors In Medicine And Surgery.

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