The Venator is a rare semi-automatic pistol in Arc Raiders that uses Medium Ammo. Most players recognize it as a sidearm that behaves differently from standard pistols because it fires two projectiles with every trigger pull. Even though it shoots twice, it only consumes one unit of ammo per shot, which is an important detail in real gameplay.
In general, the Venator sits between a backup weapon and a primary close-range option. It is not a panic-only pistol, but it also does not replace rifles or SMGs for most players. You usually bring it when you want something reliable, controllable, and ammo-efficient.
How Does the Twin Shot Mechanic Work in Practice?
A common question from new players is whether the Venator wastes ammo because it fires two bullets. In practice, it does not. Every trigger pull fires two projectiles, but the magazine only loses one round.
This means:

• You get double hit potential per shot
• Ammo efficiency is better than it looks
• Missed shots are more punishing if both bullets miss

Most players treat the Venator like a precision weapon rather than a spam pistol. You usually want to aim center mass at close range or carefully line up headshots, since both projectiles can land if your aim is steady.
Is the Venator Good for PvE or PvP?
PvE Use
In PvE, the Venator performs best against lightly armored enemies at close to mid range. Its moderate ARC armor penetration is enough for most common ARC units, especially early to mid-game threats.
Most players use it:

• While scavenging buildings
• As a backup when primary ammo runs low
• Against fast, aggressive enemies where reload speed matters

Because reload times improve significantly with upgrades, upgraded Venators feel much smoother during longer PvE runs.
PvP Use
In PvP, the Venator is more situational. It can be deadly up close, especially if both projectiles land on a headshot thanks to the 2.5x multiplier. However, it requires controlled aim.
In general:

• It rewards accuracy more than spraying
• It struggles at longer ranges
• It punishes missed shots more than single-shot pistols

Most players do not main the Venator for PvP, but many respect it as a strong secondary.
What Are the Venator’s Key Stats That Actually Matter?
On paper, the Venator has many stats, but in practice only a few really affect gameplay.
Damage and Headshots
Base damage is 18 per projectile. If both shots hit, damage stacks quickly. Headshots are especially strong due to the 2.5x multiplier. Most players aim slightly higher than center mass to maximize value.
Fire Rate
The base fire rate feels fast for a semi-automatic pistol. After upgrades, it becomes noticeably smoother, though patch 1.3.0 reduced the bonus gained from upgrades. Even after the nerf, upgraded versions still feel responsive.
Stability and Agility
Stability is decent, meaning recoil is manageable. Agility is high, which helps with movement and weapon handling. This is one reason players like it for close encounters.
Stealth
Stealth is low. In general, this pistol is not used for quiet play. If stealth matters, most players choose other options.
How Does Crafting the Venator Work?
To craft a Venator, you need to learn its blueprint first. This is a hard requirement. Once learned, crafting requires Gunsmith level 2 and specific materials.
Base Crafting Requirements
To craft Venator I:

• Advanced Mechanical Components
• Medium Gun Parts
• Magnets

Most players craft it only after they have a steady supply of Medium Ammo, since running out of ammo makes the pistol useless.
Are Venator Upgrades Worth It?
Upgrading the Venator is usually worth it if you plan to keep using it across multiple raids.
Upgrade Path Overview

• Venator I → II: Faster fire rate, reduced reload, durability boost
• Venator II → III: Further improvements
• Venator III → IV: Best performance, highest durability

After patch 1.3.0, the fire rate bonuses were reduced, but reload speed and durability still make upgrades valuable. Most players stop at Venator III unless they really like the weapon.
How Expensive Is Repairing the Venator?
Repair costs increase with each tier. In general:

• Lower-tier Venators are cheap to repair
• High-tier versions require more advanced components

Most players repair Venator I or II freely, but think carefully before repairing a heavily damaged Venator IV. Sometimes recycling makes more sense.
Should You Recycle or Salvage the Venator?
This is a common question among players managing inventory space.
Recycling
Recycling gives back Advanced Mechanical Components and Medium Gun Parts. This is useful if you need crafting materials.
Salvaging
Salvaging usually gives Medium Gun Parts only. It is simpler but less flexible.
In general, most players recycle higher-tier Venators and salvage lower-tier ones, depending on current material needs.
Is the Venator Worth Using Compared to Other Pistols?
Compared to most pistols, the Venator stands out due to its Twin Shot mechanic and ammo efficiency. However, it is heavier than it used to be, and its stealth is poor.
Most players choose the Venator when:

• They want consistent close-range damage
• They value reload speed and durability
• They already have Medium Ammo stocked

It is usually skipped by players who prefer long-range play or stealth-focused builds.
How Do Players Usually Obtain the Venator?
Most players get the Venator through crafting rather than finding it repeatedly in the field. Some players also look for ways to buy arc raiders items online when they are missing specific components, though in-game crafting remains the primary method.
Who Should Use the Venator?
In general, the Venator is a solid, reliable pistol for players who like controlled, accurate shooting. It is not flashy, and it does not dominate every situation, but it performs consistently when used correctly.