Is it possible to have collateral in Escape from Tarkov. How much PMC can you kill with a single shot

TL;DR

  • High-penetration ammunition can pass through multiple targets while retaining lethal damage
  • Headshots maximize collateral potential due to PMCs’ 35 HP head health pool
  • Verified testing confirms single bullets can eliminate up to three operators
  • Penetration values directly correlate with post-penetration damage retention
  • Strategic positioning and ammunition selection are crucial for successful collaterals

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Many newcomers to Escape from Tarkov question whether eliminating multiple PMC operators with one well-placed round is mechanically feasible. This comprehensive guide explores the technical underpinnings that enable such impressive multi-kill scenarios and provides actionable strategies to replicate them consistently.

The core question breaks down into two critical components: whether projectiles maintain trajectory after initial impact and if residual damage remains sufficient for subsequent eliminations. Ammunition in Tarkov features numerous attributes, with penetration capability and base damage being the most significant factors for achieving collateral damage. Understanding this distinction separates novice shooters from tactical masters.

Fundamentally, rounds with exceptional penetration ratings can completely traverse body segments and strike additional targets or anatomical regions. This principle extends beyond organic targets to environmental elements including reinforced doors, ballistic glass, and various structural components. Higher penetration values directly influence how much destructive potential the projectile retains after overcoming initial obstacles.

Is collateral possible in Tarkov?

Absolutely – the ballistic engine supports projectiles penetrating initial targets while maintaining enough force to eliminate subsequent operators. Given that PMC heads contain merely 35 health points, numerous high-performance cartridges possess the necessary characteristics to achieve this effect. The key lies in selecting ammunition that balances penetration capability with sufficient residual damage.

For optimal results, prioritize 7.62x54R SNB, 7.62×51 M61, or 5.56×45 M995 rounds. These cartridges consistently demonstrate the penetration depth and damage retention required for reliable collateral engagements. Position yourself where enemy operators naturally line up, such as narrow corridors or extraction chokepoints.

Avoid common mistakes like using subsonic ammunition or targeting armored regions first. Instead, aim for unarmored areas or heads to maximize penetration potential. Remember that each penetrated surface reduces the bullet’s damage by approximately 30-50%, depending on the material composition and ammunition type.

Remarkably, eliminating multiple combatants with one projectile extends beyond theoretical possibility. Extensive testing by renowned community analyst Veritas demonstrates that properly selected ammunition can neutralize three operators before energy depletion. His rigorous methodology provides empirical evidence of Tarkov’s sophisticated ballistic modeling.

In practical scenarios, focus on maps with natural funnel points like Customs’ dorms hallway or Interchange’s main concourse. Time your shots when multiple targets are aligned vertically rather than horizontally, as the game’s hitbox calculations favor straight-line penetration. For those seeking to master this technique, dedicate 15-20 raids specifically to practicing collateral opportunities.

The comprehensive mythbusting analysis available in Veritas’ video library includes detailed collateral testing segments, with the multi-kill demonstration specifically timestamped at the 18:00 mark. This resource provides visual confirmation of the mechanics discussed and demonstrates proper implementation in controlled testing environments.

Action Checklist

  • Acquire high-penetration ammunition (M61, SNB, or M995)
  • Identify natural choke points on your preferred maps
  • Practice target alignment in offline mode
  • Position for straight-line shots through multiple targets
  • Review Veritas testing footage for visual confirmation

No reproduction without permission:Game Guides » Is it possible to have collateral in Escape from Tarkov. How much PMC can you kill with a single shot Master bullet penetration mechanics to achieve multi-kill collaterals in intense Tarkov firefights