When it comes to surviving the wasteland in Fallout 76, having the right weapon mods can make all the difference. Whether you're facing off against Scorched Beasts, hostile players, or just trying to clear out a Super Mutant camp, optimizing your gear is key. To help you get the most out of your arsenal, we’ve compiled a list of 21 weapon mods you should prioritize—covering everything from raw damage to utility.
1. Hardened Receiver (Various Guns)
A staple for ballistic weapons, the Hardened Receiver boosts base damage significantly. If you're running a rifle or pistol build, this should be one of your first unlocks.
2. Stinging Magazine (Handmade Rifle)
The Handmade Rifle is a fan favorite, and the Stinging Magazine increases both damage and armor penetration. It’s a must for Commando or Rifleman builds.
3. Prime Receiver (Gatling Plasma/Laser)
For heavy gun users, the Prime Receiver is a game-changer. It converts your weapon to use Ultracite ammo, drastically increasing damage against Scorched enemies.
4. Aligned Long Barrel (Fixer/Combat Rifle)
Better accuracy and range make the Aligned Long Barrel ideal for VATS users. If you rely on critical hits, this mod is worth the grind.
5. Suppressor (Most Guns)
Stealth builds need a Suppressor to stay undetected. Pair it with a high-agility build for maximum sneak attack damage.
6. Beam Splitter (Laser Pistol/Rifle)
Turning your laser weapon into a shotgun-like spread, the Beam Splitter is perfect for close-quarters combat. Just watch your ammo consumption.
7. Calibrated Shocks (Power Armor Legs)
While not a weapon mod, Calibrated Shocks increase carry weight, letting you hoard more cheap Fallout 76 items without constant trips to stash boxes.
8. Reflex Sight (Automatic Weapons)
For VATS efficiency, the Reflex Sight reduces AP cost, allowing more shots before your meter depletes.
9. Drum Magazine (LMG/10mm SMG)
More bullets mean less reloading—critical for sustained firefights. The LMG already chews through ammo, so stock up on cheap Fallout 76 items to keep it fed.
10. Bayonet (Hunting Rifle/Combat Rifle)
A classic mod for melee backup, the Bayonet adds a quick stab option when enemies get too close.
11. Tweaked Automatic Receiver (10mm Pistol)
Balancing damage and fire rate, this mod turns the 10mm Pistol into a viable endgame sidearm.
12. Recon Scope (Sniper Rifles)
Tagging enemies through walls is invaluable in team play. The Recon Scope gives you a tactical edge.
13. Compensator (Automatic Rifles)
Recoil control is a must for full-auto builds. The Compensator keeps your shots on target.
14. Heating Coil (Plasma Cutter)
Melee users will love the added energy damage from this mod, especially against robots and power-armored foes.
15. Forceful Stock (Shotguns)
Increased bash damage and durability make the Forceful Stock a solid pick for shotgun users who get up close and personal.
16. Beam Focuser (Gauss Rifle)
For energy snipers, the Beam Focuser tightens spread and improves range, making headshots easier.
17. Puncturing (Power Fist)
Armor penetration is crucial in late-game melee fights. The Puncturing mod turns the Power Fist into a brute.
18. Scorched Killer Receiver (Combat Shotgun)
If you’re farming Scorched, this mod provides a significant damage boost without requiring Ultracite ammo.
19. Extended Napalm Tank (Flamer)
More burn duration means more damage over time. Perfect for area denial and crowd control.
20. Stabilized (Heavy Guns)
While technically a perk, Stabilized pairs perfectly with heavy weapon mods, reducing recoil and increasing armor penetration.
21. Automatic Barrel (Plasma Rifle)
Transforming the Plasma Rifle into a rapid-fire beast, this mod excels in close to mid-range combat.
Final Tips for Modding
Always check player vendors for cheap Fallout 76 items—you might find rare mods at a discount.
If you're short on Caps, consider the best site to buy Fallout 76 Caps to speed up your progress.
Experiment with different mod combinations to suit your playstyle.
