How to Unlock the Tranq Sniper Rifle in Death Stranding 2

By Ambar Jimenez | 2025-06-25 07:59:40
Death Stranding 2 offers players a variety of weapons and gear to help Sam Bridges navigate its treacherous world. While many essential items are obtained through main missions, some of the best equipment comes from side quests. One such weapon is the Tranq Sniper Rifle, a powerful long-range tool that can incapacitate enemies silently.
However, unlocking this weapon isn’t straightforward—it requires completing a series of side missions in Australia. If you’re looking to add this high-value rifle to your arsenal, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get it.

Step 1: Accept the "Dismantled Rifle" Side Mission


After connecting the Government Base to the Chiral Network, a Prepper will mention a side quest involving a Dismantled Rifle that needs delivery to the Lone Commander. Though the mission is optional, completing it early is highly recommended, as it leads to unlocking the Tranq Sniper Rifle.

Key Tips for the Delivery:


  • The path to the Lone Commander is steep—avoid vehicles and travel on foot for better control.
  • Leave your DHV Magellan (or any vehicle) behind to prevent damage from Timefall or terrain hazards.
  • Watch your footing—falling can damage cargo and delay progress.

Once you deliver the rifle, the Lone Commander won’t immediately connect to the Chiral Network. Instead, he’ll assign a second mission, which is crucial for unlocking the sniper.

Step 2: Recover the Mementos from the BT Zone



The next objective is "Recover the Mementos from the BT Area," a stealth-heavy mission that requires avoiding BT encounters. Since early-game gear may not be strong enough for direct combat, evasion is the best strategy.

How to Stealthily Navigate the BT Zone:


  • Crouch (R1) to move silently and reduce detection risk.
  • Hold R1 to hold breath, making Sam harder for BTs to sense.
  • Use the Odradek scanner to track BT locations—always move opposite its direction.
  • The Lone Commander provides two ladders and a climbing anchor—use them to traverse safely.


Since you can’t fabricate gear at the Lone Commander’s base (due to no Chiral connection), these tools are essential. Carefully retrieve the mementos and return to complete the mission.

Step 3: Claim Your Reward – The Tranq Sniper Rifle


After delivering the mementos, the Lone Commander finally joins the Chiral Network, unlocking two key items:


  • Tranq Sniper Rifle – A long-range weapon that knocks out human foes (ineffective against BTs).
  • Smoke Grenade – Useful for creating diversions when stealth fails.
  • Pro Tips for Using the Sniper Rifle:


    • Since it lacks a suppressor, fire from hidden positions and relocate after each shot.
    • Pair it with smoke grenades to obscure enemy vision and escape detection.
    • Ideal for taking out enemy camps silently before engaging in close combat.

    Why the Tranq Sniper Rifle is Worth the Effort


    While the rifle doesn’t work against BTs, it’s one of the best long-range weapons in Death Stranding 2 for dealing with human enemies. Its non-lethal approach makes itperfect for stealth playstyles, allowing Sam to neutralize threatswithout unnecessary bloodshed.


    Byfollowing these steps, you’ll secure a powerful addition to your arsenal early in the game, giving you a tactical advantage in hostileencounters.

    Final Thoughts


    Unlocking the Tranq Sniper Rifle requires patience and careful planning, but the payoff is well worthit. Whether you prefer stealth or strategic takedowns, this weapon willbe a game-changer in your journey across Death Stranding 2’s fractured world.

    Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5
    Genre(s): Action-adventure
    Developer(s): Kojima Productions
    Publisher(s): Sony Interactive Entertainment
    Engine: Decima
    Release date: June 26, 2025
    Mode: Single-player
    Video preview



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