How to Master the MG-43 Machine Gun in Helldivers 2

The MG-43 is one of the most iconic support weapons in Helldivers 2. It’s the kind of gun that can completely turn the tide of a mission when used correctly, but it also comes with some heavy drawbacks that demand patience and practice. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by hordes of enemies and wished you had a reliable way to mow them down, the MG-43 might just be your new best friend.

Understanding the MG-43’s Role

The MG-43 is not meant to be a run-and-gun weapon. It’s a suppression tool, designed to control large groups of enemies and provide covering fire for your squad. Think of it as your defensive anchor in chaotic firefights. Its high rate of fire and large magazine can chew through waves of bugs or bots, but only if you’re set up properly.

Positioning and Setup

The biggest mistake new players make with the MG-43 is firing from the open. This weapon shines when you dig in. Find elevated ground, choke points, or areas where your teammates can funnel enemies toward you. Setting up behind cover allows you to unleash sustained fire while minimizing your exposure.

Because you can’t move quickly with it deployed, always think a step ahead. Anticipate where the fight will happen and establish your firing lane early. If you’re late to set up, you risk being swarmed before the MG-43 can reach its full potential.

Ammo Management

While the MG-43 offers massive firepower, its reloading process is slow and punishing in the middle of a fight. Never wait until your magazine is completely empty before reloading. Instead, top off whenever you have downtime between waves. Also, coordinate with your squad so someone can cover you when you’re locked into that long reload animation.

Team Coordination

The MG-43 is not a solo weapon. You’ll get the most out of it when teammates are working with you. Use voice or quick commands to let others know where you’re setting up. They can drop stratagems to support your position, throw grenades to buy you time, or protect your flanks while you concentrate fire downrange.

In many ways, your role with the MG-43 is to be a squad’s backbone. You’re not racking up flashy solo plays, but you’re creating the space your team needs to succeed.

Progression and Unlocking

If you’re still early in the game, investing in your loadout is essential. Many players look to buy helldivers 2 items to speed up their progression and make their arsenal more flexible. Unlocking the MG-43 and other support gear earlier can give you more options in squad composition. Similarly, when you buy helldivers 2 medals, you can prioritize upgrades that directly complement heavy support weapons like the MG-43.

Tips for Mastery

Always reload proactively, not reactively.

Choose defensive positions that limit your blind spots.

Communicate with your squad about where you’ll be locking down lanes.

Don’t waste ammo on scattered targets; save bursts for clusters.

Practice disengaging quickly—sometimes it’s smarter to pack up and move before you’re surrounded.



The MG-43 machine gun isn’t for everyone, but for those who enjoy a more tactical, anchor-like role, it’s one of the most satisfying tools in Helldivers 2. Mastering it requires patience, good positioning, and coordination with your team, but the payoff is incredible. Once you get comfortable, you’ll find yourself turning what could have been a squad wipe into a heroic last stand.