In ARC Raiders, the wastelands of the Rust Belt are patrolled by massive mechanical threats known as
ARC Machines. Among them, the
Leaper—formerly referred to as the Bison—is one of the most dangerous enemies players will encounter. This towering machine is infamous for its devastating leap attack, capable of crushing raiders in a single strike.Defeating a Leaper is not only a test of skill but also a requirement for progression. Players must secure the
Leaper Pulse Unit, a rare crafting component tied to the
Into the Fray questline. This guide explains where to find Leapers, the best equipment to bring, and the most effective strategies to dismantle them safely.
Where to Find Leapers in ARC Raiders
Leapers spawn in specific areas of the
Dam Battlegrounds, one of the most familiar maps in the game. Two locations are particularly reliable:
- East of the Hydroponic Dome Complex – A common patrol zone where Leapers appear regularly.
- Near the Water Treatment Control elevator – Another hotspot with a high spawn probability.
Players entering these areas should prepare for combat, as Leapers often roam alongside smaller drones such as Wasps and Hornets. Clearing these lesser enemies first will make the fight more manageable.
Recommended Loadout for Fighting Leapers
To maximize your chances of survival, equip weapons and utilities that exploit the Leaper’s weaknesses:
- Primary Weapons:
- Anvil or Ferro – Both use Heavy Ammo, which is crucial for penetrating ARC armor. Any weapon with high armor penetration can substitute, but these are reliable choices.
- Secondary Weapons:
- Choose a weapon suited for medium to long‑range combat. Options like Arpeggio or Hullcracker are excellent, though personal preference plays a role.
- Utility Items:
- Blaze Grenades – Essential for this fight. Fire damage is highly effective against Leapers, and carrying at least three grenades is recommended.
- Blaze can be looted or crafted at a Level 3 Explosives Station using 1 Explosive Compound and 2 Oil.
Strategy: How to Defeat a Leaper Easily
Leapers are intimidating, but with the right approach, they can be taken down efficiently:
Secure a Safe Position- Use structures like the Domes or Field Depot as cover. Leapers cannot enter confined spaces, giving you a tactical advantage.
Target the Weak Spot- Aim for the eye with Heavy Ammo weapons. This not only deals significant damage but also draws the Leaper closer to your position.
Use Blaze Grenades- Throw grenades directly at the eye to ignite the machine. While burning, continue firing to maximize damage.
- Repeat the process as each grenade’s effect wears off.
Watch for Special Attacks- Leapers may attempt to retreat or unleash EMP surges and crushing jumps. Stay mobile and anticipate these moves.
Finish the Fight- Sustained fire combined with Blaze Grenades will eventually bring the Leaper down.
How to Obtain the Leaper Pulse Unit
Once the Leaper is destroyed, loot its remains immediately:
- Focus on the Eye Component – This is where the Leaper Pulse Unit is located.
- Store in Safe Pocket – Secure the item to ensure it survives extraction, even if your raider is eliminated before returning to Speranza.
- Usage:
- Craft advanced equipment using the Pulse Unit.
- Complete the Into the Fray quest, progressing further in the storyline.
Pro Tips for Success
- Always clear smaller drones before engaging a Leaper.
- Carry extra Blaze Grenades; fire is the most reliable counter.
- Use terrain and structures to block the Leaper’s leap attack.
- Heavy Ammo weapons are non‑negotiable—without them, the fight becomes significantly harder.
Conclusion
The Leaper (Bison) is one of the most formidable ARC Machines in ARC Raiders, but with preparation and smart tactics, players can defeat it and claim the coveted Leaper Pulse Unit. Whether you’re aiming to craft powerful gear or complete the Into the Fray quest, mastering this encounter is a milestone in your journey across the Rust Belt.
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X/S
Genre(s): Third-person shooter
Developer(s): Embark Studios
Publisher(s): Embark Studios
Release date: October 30, 2025
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