In Rust, the SMG (or Submachine Gun) is a game-changer for close-quarters combat, boasting high fire rates and mobility. But to craft one, you need the elusive SMG Body, a key component that can feel like a treasure hunt amid constant threats from players and the environment.
This guide breaks down the best methods to acquire SMG Bodies, optimal locations to farm them, and tips to maximize your success, all while minimizing risks. Whether you’re a solo survivor or part of a group, understanding these strategies will arm you with an edge.
Table of Contents
What Is an SMG Body?
The SMG Body is a crafted component essential for assembling the SMG weapon. It requires:
While crafting is straightforward once you have the resources, farming HQM and Scrap can be grindy. Alternatively, you can loot pre-made SMG Bodies from high-tier crates or enemy stashes, saving time and materials.
In Rust’s 2025 meta, with balanced loot tables, SMG Bodies remain a mid-game staple for base defense and raids.
Best Ways to Get SMG Bodies
The “best” method depends on your playstyle, but a hybrid approach, combining looting, crafting, and recycling, yields the fastest results.
Looting from High-Tier Crates (Fastest for Mid-Game Players)
Looting is the quickest way to snag an SMG Body without heavy investment. Elite Crates, Military Crates, and Component Crates have a solid drop rate (around 5–10% for weapon bodies like the SMG Body).
Patrol these during low-pop server times to avoid PvP. Pair this with a boat or minicopter for quick escapes. Pro tip: use a fuse to blow open locked crates if needed, but watch for radiation in some areas.
Crafting at Your Base (Reliable for Groups)
If you control a resource-rich area, crafting is king. Farm HQM from stone nodes (use a jackhammer for efficiency) and Scrap from recyclers at Outposts or Bandit Camp. Semi Automatic Bodies are easier to craft or loot from lower-tier crates.
Set up a dedicated Workbench in your base for on-demand production. This method shines in duo or clan play, where you can divide labor. One farms, another defends.
Recycling Junk (Budget Option for Early Game)
Recycle items like Semi Automatic Bodies, Metal Pipes, or Sheet Metal at a Recycler to get HQM and Scrap. It’s slower but low-risk, ideal for solos.
Visit safe zones like the Outpost (no building damage, but watch for player scams) to recycle without fear. Expect to process 200–300 items for enough materials for one SMG Body.
Player Raids and Barrels (High-Risk, High-Reward)
Raid inactive bases or loot roadsign barrels for Scrap and occasional components. Underwater labs can drop SMG Bodies from locked crates, but require diving gear and fuse charges. Avoid this if you’re new, PvP deaths mean losing your haul.
Overall Strategy: The optimal approach is looting + crafting. Spend 1–2 hours farming crates for quick wins, then craft extras with recycled loot. This balances speed and sustainability, especially on official servers where loot respawns every 5–10 minutes.
Where to Find SMG Bodies
Focus on high-loot zones to boost your chances.
Monuments (Top Tier for Looting)
Safe Zones and Outposts
World Spawns (For Passive Farming)
Avoid low-yield areas like supermarkets or harbors unless you’re desperate—they’re better for basic Scrap.
Tips for Success and Safety
Conclusion
By prioritizing looting at monuments and backing it with crafting, you’ll stockpile SMG Bodies efficiently. In Rust, persistence pays off. Gear up, stay vigilant, and turn those components into firepower.
FAQs
How do you craft an SMG Body in Rust?
You can’t directly craft an SMG Body. It must be looted, recycled, or found in crates. However, once obtained, it’s used at a Workbench Level 2 to craft SMGs with High Quality Metal and other parts.
What’s the fastest way to get SMG Bodies?
The fastest method is farming high-tier monuments like Launch Site, Oil Rig, or Train Yard. Elite and Military Crates there have the best drop chances.
Can solo players get SMG Bodies easily?
Yes, solos can farm roadside barrels, underwater crates, or safe zones like Outpost recyclers. While slower than monuments, these methods carry less PvP risk.
Do SMG Bodies appear in airdrops?
Yes, airdrops can contain weapon components, including SMG Bodies. However, they attract lots of players, making them very high-risk.
Are SMG Bodies tradable with other players?
No, Rust does not allow direct trading of items like SMG Bodies. You’ll need to loot or craft them yourself within the server you’re playing on.
