Helldivers 2: AC-8 Autocannon Guide - Versatility, Best Builds, Faction Tactics

【Helldivers 2 Guide】
This article is based on information as of patch 6.3.0.
While Helldivers 2 does not have a distinct seasonal system, content called "Warbonds" are regularly added. As of June 2026, the latest Warbond is "Machinery of Oppression". Current information

Helldivers of Super Earth, is the battle stagnant? Are you struggling with medium-armored foes, unable to push the frontline? For such troubled soldiers, the support weapon "AC-8 Autocannon" is what you need. Its overwhelming versatility, capable of crushing medium-armored threats from afar and silencing enemy strongholds, is the key to leading Helldivers to victory on any battlefield. This article will thoroughly explain everything from the Autocannon's basic performance to specific operational tactics against the two major factions, "Terminids" and "Automatons", and recommended loadouts. Master this weapon and let the glory of Managed Democracy echo throughout the galaxy!

AC-8 Autocannon: Basic Performance and Features

The AC-8 Autocannon is a support weapon called in via Stratagem request, consisting of the weapon itself and a backpack that supplies ammunition. It has earned immense trust from many Helldivers as a standalone anti-medium armor weapon. Let's first look at its basic performance.

Autocannon Strengths: Overwhelming Versatility and Sustained Combat Capability

The Autocannon's greatest strength lies in its high versatility. It can handle a wide range of targets, including infantry, objects, and medium-armored enemies. Especially in Automaton battles, it can safely eliminate major threats like Devastators, Hulk weak points, and turrets from long range. Its large carried ammunition capacity, allowing for prolonged combat without resupply, is also a significant advantage. While other anti-tank weapons specialize in specific large enemies, the Autocannon can deal with most enemies encountered on the battlefield, making it an excellent "take it just in case" option.

Autocannon Weaknesses: Heavy Armor Limitations and Reload Vulnerability

While the Autocannon may seem universal, it does have weaknesses. Against heavily armored enemies like Chargers, Bile Titans, and Factory Striders, frontal attacks deal almost no damage. Precisely aiming for weak points or coordinating with teammates is essential. Furthermore, during the reload animation, you are completely defenseless, meaning reloading while surrounded by enemies can be fatal. Fast-approaching swarms of Terminids are particularly dangerous. Since the ammunition has an explosive effect, firing at close range also carries the risk of self-inflicted damage.

【Against Terminids】Effective Autocannon Usage

In Terminid battles, where countless bugs swarm, maintaining distance from the enemy can be challenging, requiring thoughtful application of the Autocannon. However, against specific enemies and objectives, it proves incredibly effective, unmatched by other weapons.

Key Targets and Tactics

• Bile Spewer / Nursing Spewer: These are very troublesome medium-armored enemies that spit acid, but the Autocannon can quickly eliminate them in 2-3 shots by sniping their head from the front. Eliminating these threats preemptively dramatically improves team survival.
• Hive Guard: Despite their tough frontal armor, Autocannon attacks penetrate without issue, allowing for quick elimination.
• Brood Commander: A commanding type that leads swarms. While teammates distract smaller enemies, safely snipe them from medium range to disrupt their command structure.
• Charger: Frontal armor is impenetrable. Dealing with them solo is difficult, but after teammates strip armor from their legs with weapons like the "EAT-17" or "Recoilless Rifle", shooting the exposed weak point (flesh) can efficiently deal damage. Flanking and targeting the legs is also effective.
• Nest Destruction: A hidden strength of the Autocannon is its ability to destroy nests from long range. This not only conserves grenades but also allows you to complete objectives without risking entry into dangerous, dense nest areas, making it extremely valuable in high-difficulty missions.

Recommended Loadouts and Playstyle

In Terminid battles, how to survive close-quarters combat is key. A combination with weapons that can handle the small swarms that the Autocannon struggles with is ideal.

• Primary Weapon: Weapons with high close-range clear capabilities, such as the SG-225 Breaker or SMG-37 Defender.
• Grenade: G-16 Impact Grenade. It explodes instantly when thrown at your feet, useful for emergency escapes when ambushed by Hunters, etc.
• Stratagem: "Eagle Airstrike" to clear reinforcements or large swarms. It's prudent to carry "Orbital Railcannon Strike" or "Eagle 500kg Bomb" as backup to deal with heavily armored targets like Bile Titans.

【Against Automatons】Tactics to Unleash the Autocannon's True Potential

Automaton battles, primarily focused on long-range engagements, are practically the Autocannon's domain. It is a battlefield where its range, accuracy, and destructive power can be utilized to their fullest.

Key Targets and Tactics

• Devastator (various types): One of the greatest threats to Helldivers. Rocket Devastators, in particular, should be the highest priority target for elimination upon sight. The Autocannon can silence them from a safe distance in just a few shots.
• Hulk: Its front is impenetrable, but its weak points are clear. Aim for the glowing exhaust vent on its back for 3 shots, or accurately shoot the red camera eye on its front twice for elimination. Flank it to target its weak points while teammates distract it.
• Turrets (Cannon Turret / Mortar Emplacement): Troublesome fixed emplacements that hinder mission progress. With the Autocannon, you can unilaterally destroy them from outside their range. When assaulting an enemy stronghold, neutralizing turrets first is standard practice.
• Fabricator: Facilities that spawn enemy reinforcements. You can destroy them in one shot by firing inside the door the moment it opens, or by targeting the exhaust vent on the roof. Cutting off reinforcements at the source will give you an advantage in combat.
• Scout Strider: Its frontal armor is tough, but it can be dealt with by sniping the exposed pilot from the side or rear, or by destroying its legs.

Recommended Loadouts and Playstyle

In Automaton battles, it is crucial to maintain a stable firing position while protecting yourself from enemy fire.

• Primary Weapon: Weapons with good ammunition efficiency that can fight at medium to long range, such as the LAS-16 Sickle or R-63 Diligence, pair well without overlapping roles with the Autocannon.
• Grenade: G-12 High Explosive. Effective against Fabricators and dense enemy formations.
• Stratagem: Equipping the "SH-32 Shield Generator Pack" can protect you from enemy laser attacks, giving you time to calmly aim for weak points. However, note that it cannot be used simultaneously with the Autocannon's backpack. You'll need a teammate to carry it or choose one over the other. "Eagle 500kg Bomb" and "Orbital Laser" are also effective for large targets.

Summary

The AC-8 Autocannon is, as its name suggests, an outstanding support weapon with high versatility capable of adapting to all situations on the battlefield. Its ability to eliminate medium-armored enemies from long range is unmatched, and it demonstrates unparalleled reliability, especially in battles against Automatons. However, in Terminid encounters, it has weaknesses such as its limited effectiveness against heavily armored enemies like Chargers and its vulnerability in close-quarters combat. Therefore, constructing appropriate playstyles and loadouts according to the battle situation and enemy faction will be key to maximizing this weapon's performance. By discerning the right reload timings and emphasizing teamwork, the Autocannon will prove to be your best companion in leading you to victory. Now, take up your Autocannon and bring the hammer of liberty and democracy down upon the galaxy!