In Rust, the M249 is a coveted light machine gun known for its high damage, rapid fire rate, and massive 100-round magazine, making it one of the most powerful weapons for dominating PvP encounters.
Unlike many weapons in Rust, the M249 cannot be crafted or purchased, which adds to its rarity and allure.
This guide explains how to obtain the M249, offering practical steps and strategies to secure this game-changer, based on current game mechanics as of 2025.
Where to Find the M249
The M249 is exclusively available from two sources: Helicopter Crates and Bradley APC Crates. These are high-risk, high-reward locations, requiring preparation and strategy.
1. Helicopter Crates
When an Attack Helicopter is shot down, it drops a crash site with lootable crates.
How to Access:
Challenges:
Tips:
2. Bradley APC Crates
The Bradley APC, a tank patrolling the Launch Site monument, drops crates when destroyed.
How to Access:
Challenges:
Tips:
Step-by-Step Strategy
Prepare Early
After a server wipe, loot monuments like Water Treatment, Sewer Branch, or Trainyard to gather scrap and resources. Aim for radiation protection gear.
Gather Explosives
Use 320 scrap to buy 40–50 F1 grenades at the Bandit Camp. Alternatively, craft rockets if you have a workbench and blueprint.
Target the Bradley
Head to the Launch Site and position on the recycler building. Wait for the Bradley to pass near the red building. Start with a bow shot to aggro it, then use explosives.
Loot Quickly
Once destroyed, loot the crates immediately before other players arrive. The M249 has a chance to spawn alongside other high-tier items.
Alternative Approach
Track Attack Helicopters via server announcements or sound cues. Engage with a group, down it, and loot the crates but be ready for intense competition.
Why the M249 Is Worth It
The M249’s 100-round 5.56 magazine, high damage, and manageable recoil (especially with a holographic sight) make it ideal for mid- to long-range combat.
It can:
Drawbacks:
- Long reload time, so pair it with a secondary weapon like a pistol.
Final Tips
Conclusion
Securing the M249 in Rust demands preparation, resources, and courage. But its raw power in PvP combat makes the effort worthwhile. Get out there, conquer the Bradley or helicopter, and claim your prize!
FAQs
Can you craft the M249 in Rust?
No, the M249 cannot be crafted in Rust. It can only be obtained from loot crates dropped by the Attack Helicopter or the Bradley APC at the Launch Site, making it one of the rarest weapons in the game.
Where does the Bradley APC spawn?
The Bradley APC patrols the Launch Site monument. Destroying it with explosives like F1 grenades or rockets will drop high-tier loot crates, which may contain the M249.
How do you shoot down the Attack Helicopter?
Use high-damage weapons like assault rifles or a rocket launcher. Coordinate with a group for efficiency, track its path, and shoot it until it crashes, creating lootable crates that can drop the M249.
What explosives work best against the Bradley APC?
F1 grenades (40–50 total) or seven high-velocity rockets with a rocket launcher are the most effective methods for destroying the Bradley APC in Rust.
Is the M249 good for PvP?
Yes. The M249’s 100-round magazine, high damage, and fast fire rate make it excellent for PvP, especially at mid- to long-range. Its recoil is manageable, but the reload time is long, so carry a backup weapon.
