Fallout 76 Weapons Guide: 14 Must-Haves for Energy Builds
If you're serious about running an energy build in Fallout 76, your weapon choice can make or break your entire playstyle. Energy weapons shine in many PvE situations, offer satisfying role-play potential, and let you lean hard into Science perks. Here’s a curated list of 14 must-have energy weapons for your arsenal, with some practical notes on how and why you might want to get them.
1. Gatling Plasma
A workhorse for many high-level builds. With mods like the Prime Receiver and a faster barrel, the Gatling Plasma becomes a powerhouse against Scorchbeasts and bosses. It’s a bit of a grind to mod fully, but worth every bit.
2. Plasma Caster
This slow-firing but devastating heavy weapon is perfect for crit-heavy VATS builds. A bloodied or junkie’s variant can obliterate tough enemies in one or two shots.
3. Enclave Plasma Rifle
Superior base stats and mod options make this one of the best mid-tier energy rifles. It’s especially handy if you like a semi-auto style with VATS focus.
4. Gauss Rifle (Energy Variant)
With the Gauss Shotgun and Gauss Rifle both offering energy damage components, these weapons allow hybrid ballistic/energy builds that hit ridiculously hard with the right perks.
5. Tesla Rifle
While it’s not your boss-killer, the Tesla Rifle excels at crowd control. Chain-lightning damage can clear groups of scorched or robots in seconds, especially in Daily Ops.
6. Laser Rifle with Automatic Barrel
This classic can be modded for automatic fire, making it viable for Commando builds. Low recoil, decent ammo economy, and easy mod availability make it a staple.
7. Plasma Gun
Similar to the Laser Rifle but with better damage scaling at higher levels, the Plasma Gun can be tailored for semi-auto or automatic. It’s very flexible.
8. Ultracite Laser Gun
If you’re fighting scorch or their queen regularly, the Ultracite Laser Gun has better damage vs. them thanks to its unique receiver mods.
9. Alien Disintegrator
Introduced in recent updates, the Alien Disintegrator offers exotic energy damage with great DPS, making it a fun choice for stylish builds.
10. Pepper Shaker with Plasma Mod
Technically a hybrid gun, but worth including. With the plasma mod, this heavy shotgun deals mixed ballistic and energy damage. It's devastating in close quarters.
11. Hellstorm Missile Launcher (Cryo Mod)
This rocket launcher’s cryo mod gives energy-damage synergy. Not for stealth, but great for nuked zones or bosses when you want splash damage.
12. Gamma Gun
While niche, a well-rolled Gamma Gun with VATS bonuses can be surprisingly effective. It’s lightweight and has unique radiation/energy damage for certain encounters.
13. Flamer with Plasma Mod
A classic flamethrower upgraded to deal plasma damage. Perfect for melee-adjacent energy builds that like getting up close.
14. The Sole Survivor’s Rifle
This quest reward is a solid all-around energy weapon that can bridge early-to-mid-level gaps before you get your prime mods. Not the best for endgame but very serviceable.
Tips for Energy Weapon Users
Ammo Crafting: Stockpiling fusion cells and plasma cartridges is essential. Invest in ammo crafting perks to save on costs.
Prime Mods: Prime receivers increase damage against scorch and make your guns more effective in nuke zones.
Perk Synergy: Science Expert, Demolition Expert (for Tesla), and Commando or Rifleman perks are your best friends.
A Note on Acquiring Weapons
Energy weapons can be found as world drops, bought from vendors, or traded with other players. If you’re looking to fast-track your build, there’s always the player market where you can find Fallout 76 Items for sale. This can save time farming for a specific legendary roll you want.
For those more focused on ammo and currency, many players consider the Best Place to buy Fallout 76 Caps to be trading hubs on Reddit or in-game vendors with competitive rates. It’s all about shopping around, knowing the market, and being cautious of scammers.
Final Thoughts
Energy builds in Fallout 76 are fun, thematic, and extremely versatile with the right gear. Whether you’re vaporizing robots in Daily Ops or melting scorchbeasts in nuke zones, these 14 weapons will help you get the most out of your build. Happy hunting, Vault Dwellers — and remember to keep your weapons modded and your ammo stocked.