The post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 4 is a dangerous place, filled with threats lurking around every corner. While the base game offers a solid selection of weapons, the modding community has taken it upon themselves to expand and enhance the Commonwealth's arsenal. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the 9 best Fallout 4 weapons mods available in 2021, providing you with an array of new options to tackle the wasteland's many dangers.
Why Mod Fallout 4's Weapons?
Before we dive into our top picks, it's worth considering the reasons behind modding Fallout 4's weapons. The modding community has long been a cornerstone of the Bethesda game experience, and Fallout 4 is no exception. Weapon mods can dramatically alter your gameplay experience by introducing new mechanics, visual upgrades, and tactical options that breathe fresh life into the game years after its initial release.
Modding allows players to tailor their experience to their preferences, whether that's increasing the game's difficulty with more realistic ballistics, expanding their arsenal with lore-friendly additions, or going all-out with over-the-top sci-fi weaponry. It's this flexibility and creativity that keeps players coming back to Fallout 4 long after they've exhausted the vanilla content.
1. Classic Holstered Weapons System (CHW)
Our journey into the world of Fallout 4 weapon mods begins with the Classic Holstered Weapons System (CHW) by modder shavkacagarikia. While not a weapon mod in the traditional sense, CHW addresses one of the most immersion-breaking aspects of Fallout 4's original design: the invisible holstered weapons.
In the base game, your character's weapons magically disappear when not in use, only to reappear when drawn. CHW fixes this by rendering your equipped weapons on your character model at all times. This seemingly small change has a profound impact on immersion, making your character feel like a true wasteland survivor always ready for action.
The mod's compatibility with a wide range of custom weapons makes it an essential foundation for any weapons-focused modding setup. Its in-game tool for adjusting weapon positioning ensures that even the most uniquely shaped modded weapons can be displayed correctly on your character.
2. Cazador Missile Launcher
For those seeking heavy firepower with a modern twist, the Cazador Missile Launcher by TheBigLidowski is an exceptional choice. This mod introduces a weapon based on the real-world MATADOR (Man-portable Anti-Tank, Anti-DOoR) recoilless rifle, seamlessly blending contemporary military technology with Fallout's retro-futuristic aesthetic.
The Cazador stands out for its versatility, offering 13 unique ammunition types that allow players to adapt to various combat scenarios. From standard high-explosive rounds to specialized EMP missiles for taking down robotic enemies, the Cazador provides options for every situation.
The mod's attention to detail extends to its visual and audio design, with four functional scopes and eight cosmetic skins to choose from. Custom animations and sounds complete the package, making the Cazador feel like a natural extension of Fallout 4's world rather than a tacked-on addition.
3. Glock 19x
Ardent's Glock 19x mod brings one of the world's most popular modern pistols to the Commonwealth. This beautifully crafted weapon is a testament to the modder's attention to detail and understanding of firearm mechanics.
The Glock 19x in Fallout 4 is more than just a pretty model. It features a highly customizable parts system that goes beyond mere cosmetics. Each modification has a meaningful impact on the weapon's performance, allowing players to fine-tune their sidearm to their preferred playstyle.
From extended magazines for increased capacity to compensators for reduced recoil, the Glock 19x mod offers a depth of customization that rivals or even surpasses that of the base game's weapons. The mod's authentic sounds and animations further enhance the feeling of wielding a real-world firearm in the wasteland.
4. Quick Modification Weapon (QMW)
Tooun's Quick Modification Weapon (QMW) mod revolutionizes how players interact with their arsenal. Drawing inspiration from games like Crysis 3 and Metro Exodus, QMW introduces a system for on-the-fly weapon modifications.
This mod allows players to quickly swap out weapon parts mid-combat, adapting to changing battlefield conditions without needing to access a workbench. While this may stretch the boundaries of lore-friendliness, the added tactical depth more than makes up for it.
QMW's compatibility with many high-quality modded weapons makes it an excellent complement to other mods on this list. It adds a new layer of strategy to firefights, allowing players to switch between close-quarters and long-range configurations at a moment's notice.
5. Cowboy Repeater (Winchester Model 1892)
Lucasncolombo's Cowboy Repeater brings a touch of Old West charm to the Commonwealth. This lovingly crafted lever-action rifle, based on the Winchester Model 1892, stands out in a sea of automatic weapons and energy guns that dominate Fallout 4's landscape.
The Cowboy Repeater isn't just about nostalgia; it's a fully-realized weapon with its own niche in the game's combat ecosystem. Its high damage per shot and decent rate of fire make it an excellent choice for mid-range engagements, especially for players who prefer a more deliberate, aimed approach to combat.
What sets this mod apart is its attention to the weapon's place in the world. Rather than simply adding the gun to leveled lists, the modder has created a unique acquisition method. Players must find the Cowboy Repeater in ruins and repair it before use, adding a sense of discovery and accomplishment to obtaining this classic firearm.
6. FACTOR – Modular Rifle
VigVam33's FACTOR Modular Rifle takes weapon customization to the extreme. This incredibly versatile platform can be modified to suit almost any combat role, from close-quarters battle to long-range sniping.
The FACTOR rifle's most impressive feature is its ability to switch between ballistic and energy weapon configurations. This dual-nature design allows players to adapt to different enemy types and ammo availability without needing to carry multiple weapons.
With over 200 weapon modifications available, the FACTOR rifle is a tinkerer's dream. Players can spend hours experimenting with different combinations of barrels, stocks, magazines, and more. The mod's variable zoom sights and multiple barrel lengths further enhance its adaptability.
This level of customization makes the FACTOR an excellent choice for players who prefer to carry a single, multi-purpose firearm rather than switching between specialized weapons for different situations.
7. DefenseGun
Yona's DefenseGun mod adds a unique submachine gun platform inspired by the British Sten gun. This side-loading weapon provides a refreshing alternative to Fallout 4's standard automatic weapons, offering players a distinct visual and functional option for close-quarters combat.
The DefenseGun's key feature is its side-loaded magazine design, which sets it apart from other submachine guns in the game. This isn't just a cosmetic choice; it affects how the weapon handles and reloads, adding a new dimension to combat encounters.
One of the mod's strengths is its availability from lower levels, providing players with a more sophisticated option early in the game. This makes the DefenseGun an excellent choice for those looking to break away from pipe weapons without waiting for high-level gear to appear.
8. Misriah Armory
For fans of science fiction weaponry, NovaFinch's Misriah Armory mod is a dream come true. This extensive weapon pack brings high-quality, futuristic firearms to the Commonwealth, expanding the game's energy weapon selection with style and creativity.
Misriah Armory stands out for its exceptional texture quality and attention to detail. Each weapon in the pack feels like it could have been part of the base game, seamlessly blending with Fallout's retro-futuristic aesthetic while offering a fresh take on energy weapons and advanced firearms.
The mod's extensive customization options allow players to fine-tune each weapon to their liking, from cosmetic changes to functional modifications that alter weapon performance. This level of personalization ensures that players can find a unique setup that matches their playstyle and aesthetic preferences.
9. M1928A1 Thompson – Day of Infamy
The M1928A1 Thompson mod, a collaborative effort by NWI, Noniac, Wardaddy, and Ricoginger, brings a true classic to Fallout 4. This iconic submachine gun, often associated with 1920s gangsters and World War II soldiers, is recreated with stunning detail, offering a superior alternative to the game's standard submachine gun.
What sets this mod apart is its use of high-quality textures from the game Day of Infamy, ensuring a level of visual fidelity that matches or exceeds Fallout 4's base assets. The modders have paid careful attention to the weapon's feel and handling, creating an authentic experience that respects the Thompson's historical significance.
The mod's lore-friendly distribution, placing the weapon in the hands of Triggermen and certain bosses, ensures that it fits naturally into the Commonwealth's ecosystem. This attention to integration makes the Thompson feel like a genuine part of Fallout's world rather than an out-of-place addition.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Fallout 4 Experience
These nine weapon mods represent the cream of the crop when it comes to expanding and enhancing Fallout 4's arsenal. From the practical improvements of the Classic Holstered Weapons System to the sci-fi allure of Misriah Armory, there's something here for every type of player and playstyle.
By incorporating these mods into your game, you're not just adding new weapons; you're opening up new tactical possibilities, enhancing the visual fidelity of combat encounters, and in many cases, deepening the game's immersion and lore. Whether you prefer the precision of the Cowboy Repeater, the adaptability of the FACTOR Modular Rifle, or the raw power of the Cazador Missile Launcher, these mods will breathe new life into your Fallout 4 adventures.
It's important to note that while these mods can dramatically enhance your gameplay experience, they should be installed with care. Always read the installation instructions carefully, check for compatibility with other mods you're using, and consider using a mod manager to keep your setup organized.
As we look to the future of Fallout modding, it's clear that the community's creativity and technical skill continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the game. These weapon mods are just the tip of the iceberg, with new and exciting content being created all the time.
So, whether you're a seasoned wasteland wanderer or a newcomer to the Commonwealth, these weapon mods offer an excellent way to refresh and enhance your Fallout 4 experience. With these fantastic weapons at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to face whatever challenges the post-apocalyptic world throws your way. Happy modding, and stay safe out there in the wasteland!
