Hairpin
Weapon Information
Combat Statistics
Mobility & Stealth
Description
The Hairpin is a lightweight automatic weapon in ARC Raiders that uses light ammo and focuses on speed, mobility, and fast handling instead of raw power.
It shoots quickly, reloads fast, and feels smooth when you are always moving.
Hairpin is not made to break heavy ARC enemies, but it is amazing in fast-paced fights against other Raiders where movement and reaction time matter more than armor damage.
Hairpin Crafting and Where to Get It
You can unlock the Hairpin fairly early compared to most powerful guns.
It becomes available to craft once you unlock it at the Gunsmith, and it also drops from weapon crates and enemy loot during raids.
Crafting Hairpin only needs basic materials like metal parts, plastic pieces, and light gun components, so mid-game players can build it easily.
Because it does not need rare end-game items, it is seen as a low-risk, everyday weapon that many players use regularly.
Upgrading Hairpin (Level I to Level IV)
You can upgrade the Hairpin from Level I to Level IV at the Gunsmith. Each upgrade improves its fire rate, reload speed, recoil control, and durability.
Hairpin I already feels fast, but the higher versions make it even smoother to spray with and more stable in longer fights.
By Hairpin IV, the gun reloads extremely quickly and shakes far less when firing, which helps a lot when fighting moving enemies. Upgrades are affordable, making Hairpin a safe long-term weapon choice.
Best Attachments and Mods for Hairpin
Because Hairpin fires so fast, the strongest attachments are ones that improve recoil control and accuracy.
A compensator or muzzle brake helps control kick during long bursts. An angled grip or vertical grip stops sideways recoil and keeps your aim steady when tracking targets.
An extended light magazine is also great, since Hairpin burns ammo fast. With these mods, Hairpin becomes a smooth, reliable weapon for close and mid-range fights.
Hairpin in PvP
The Hairpin performs very well in PvP, especially for players who like aggressive play. Its fast fire rate and quick reload allow you to pressure enemies nonstop and punish mistakes instantly.
While it does not hit as hard as heavier guns, it makes up for that with mobility and consistency. Hairpin works best when you stay moving, dodge shots, and keep fights close.
It may struggle against armored players, but in most normal PvP battles, Hairpin performs excellent.
Hairpin Tier and Meta
Community discussions usually place the Hairpin in A-tier or high B-tier, depending on the current meta. Many players love it because it is cheap, easy to control, and reliable in most fights.
Some think it lacks punch compared to bigger guns, but most agree Hairpin is one of the best light-ammo weapons for quick action and PvP.
With recent updates favoring movement-based gameplay, Hairpin continues to stay popular and relevant.
Common Problems and Tips
The main issue with Hairpin is its low armor penetration, which makes it weak against heavy ARC enemies or thick armor.
It also uses up ammo quickly, so spraying wildly can leave you empty at the wrong moment. The best way to use Hairpin is to aim for headshots, stick to fast fights, and avoid tanky targets.
Hairpin shines when used on players or lighter enemies, while switching to another weapon for armor-heavy threats.
Recommended Loadouts and Playstyle
Hairpin works best as a close-range mobility weapon. A popular loadout is pairing it with a heavier secondary that handles long range or armored targets.
Play aggressively, keep moving, and apply pressure instead of camping in one spot. The current meta rewards speed and flexibility, and Hairpin fits that perfectly.
If you enjoy fast fights, quick reloads, and staying on the move, the Hairpin is an excellent weapon choice.