The best weapons in Rust depend on the situation. For long-range combat, the Bolt Action Rifle and L96 are top picks. The AK-47 (Assault Rifle) is the most versatile and dominant weapon for mid-range PvP. For early game, the Revolver and Double Barrel Shotgun are highly effective. The MP5A4 and Thompson are strong SMG choices for close-to-mid range fights.
To research items in Rust, you need a Research Table (which costs 200 Metal Fragments and 75 Scrap to craft). Place the item you want to learn in the Research Table along with the required Scrap cost. Tier 1 items cost 75 Scrap, Tier 2 items cost 250 Scrap, and Tier 3 items cost 500 Scrap. You can also learn items through the Tech Tree at Workbenches.
Rust has three workbench tiers that gate different item categories. Workbench Level 1 (50 Scrap) unlocks basic items like the Revolver, Waterpipe Shotgun, and basic armor. Workbench Level 2 (500 Scrap) unlocks mid-tier items like the Thompson, SAR, and Satchel Charges. Workbench Level 3 (1,250 Scrap) unlocks endgame items like the AK-47, Bolt Action Rifle, C4, and Rockets. Higher workbenches can craft all lower-tier items.
Crafting in Rust requires the right materials, a workbench of the correct tier, and having the blueprint learned. You learn blueprints by either researching items at a Research Table (costs Scrap) or progressing through the Tech Tree at a Workbench. Each item has a crafting time -- some take seconds while advanced items like C4 take 30+ seconds. You must stay near your workbench while crafting tier-locked items.
