The Gauss Shotgun in Fallout 76: A Comprehensive Guide

The Gauss Shotgun is one of the most formidable close-quarters combat weapons in Fallout 76, renowned for its explosive area damage and high stopping power. This article will delve into the specifics of the Gauss Shotgun, including how to acquire it, its specifications, and whether it remains a viable choice in the current game meta.

Acquiring the Gauss Shotgun

To craft the Gauss Shotgun, you first need to obtain the Gauss Shotgun Plan. This plan can be purchased from two vendors: Minerva, a traveling vendor who appears in Appalachia at irregular intervals throughout the month, and Samuel, who is located near the elevator in the heart of Foundation. Minerva's inventory changes frequently, but her prices are often lower, making her a worthwhile option if you can catch her.

Crafting the Gauss Shotgun

Once you have the plan, you'll need to head to your C.A.M.P. and ensure you have a Weapons Workbench set up. You'll also need to have selected the Science 1 Perk Card, which allows you to craft energy weapons. The materials required for crafting the Gauss Shotgun include:

• Aluminum: 14

• Circuitry: 6

• Legendary Module: 2

• Screw: 15

• Silver: 4

• Spring: 4

• Steel: 7

• Wood: 8.

In the vast and dynamic world of Fallout 76, acquiring the Gauss Shotgun can be both a thrilling adventure and a costly venture. For players seeking this powerful weapon, securing Fallout 76 caps is crucial. These caps can be used to purchase the necessary Gauss Shotgun Plan from vendors like Minerva or Samuel. For those on a tight budget, finding Minerva’s optimal prices might be worth the wait. The strategic management of caps is key to equipping your character with the best weapons the game has to offer, ensuring you're well-prepared for the challenges of Appalachia's unforgiving landscape.

Specifications of the Gauss Shotgun

The Gauss Shotgun is classified as a ranged shotgun with the following specifications:

• Type: Ranged

• Class: Shotgun

• Effects: Charge shots by holding.

• Bullets create explosive area damage.

• Area Damage: 15%

• Ammo: Electrom Cartridge

• Magazine Capacity: 8

• Fire Rate: 67

• Range: 84

• Accuracy: 26

• Action Point Cost: 35

• Weight: 7.0.

Is the Gauss Shotgun Worth It?

Despite its impressive capabilities, the Gauss Shotgun has faced criticism and perceived nerfs, leading some players to question its viability. However, it remains a powerful tool in close combat, especially when paired with perks like Enforcer for crippling enemies or Grenadier for enhancing explosive effects.

The Gauss Shotgun excels in public events and against tough foes due to its explosive area damage, making it a valuable asset in any arsenal. While some players have moved away from it due to perceived nerfs or the rise of other weapons, it still offers unique benefits that can be leveraged effectively in shotgun-focused builds.

The Gauss Shotgun is a formidable weapon in Fallout 76, offering explosive power and versatility in close combat. While it may not be considered "meta" by some players, its unique abilities make it a valuable choice for those who enjoy shotgun builds. With the right perks and strategy, the Gauss Shotgun can be a game-changer in Appalachia's challenging environments.