This pistol tier list in Starfield is a comprehensive ranking from the common yet reliable models to the rare and powerful legendary items. The rankings are based on damage, range, accuracy, fire rate, ammo capacity, and the weapon's overall effectiveness in different combat scenarios. This ensures that each weapon is evaluated on its performance and suitability for various playstyles and in-game situations, providing a well-rounded perspective for players.
Tier | Handgun | Description |
---|---|---|
D | Kraken | Common, low damage per shot, machine gun type. |
D | Rattler | Revolver type, decent damage per shot and per second. |
C | Eon | Standard handgun, common, moddable, good in early game. |
C | Solstice | Only laser pistol, unique caliber, decent damage. |
C | Sidestar | Faster firing than Rattler, more controllable. |
B | Novalight | Particle pistol, decent damage, fast reload and firing. |
B | Regulator | Space revolver, high damage, good mods, strong early game. |
A | Old Earth Pistol | Similar to 1911, good damage, fairly common ammo. |
A | Razerback | High damage, accurate, unique caliber, good mods. |
A | Urban Eagle | Semi-automatic, less recoil, good damage, Desert Eagle type. |
S | XM-2311 | Advanced 1911, high damage, rare. |
S | Magshot | High damage revolver, accurate, unique caliber. |
S | Va'ruun Starshard | Rare, high damage, accurate, best overall handgun. |
Kraken (Tier-D)

Kraken | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 3 |
Ammo | 6.5mm CT |
Clip Size | 25 |
Fire Rate | 150 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 69.6% |
Mass | 1.00 |
Value | Credits: 748 |
Mods | 6 |
The Kraken stands out for its commonality and low damage per shot, resembling a machine gun type in Starfield. Its unique feature is the rapid-fire capability, making it suitable for players who prefer a spray-and-pray approach in combat scenarios. Despite its lower damage output, its high rate of fire can compensate, especially in close-range encounters.
Rattler (Tier-D)

Rattler | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 10 |
Ammo | .27 Caliber |
Clip Size | 12 |
Fire Rate | 50 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 68.1% |
Mass | 0.85 |
Value | Credits: 942 |
Mods | 7 |
The Rattler, a revolver-type weapon in Starfield, offers decent damage per shot and per second. It's known for a balance between power and control, with some recoil that players need to manage. This handgun is a solid choice for those who appreciate the classic revolver feel in a futuristic setting, blending traditional gunplay with sci-fi elements.
Eon (Tier-C)

Eon | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 17 |
Ammo | 7.77mm Caseless |
Clip Size | 12 |
Fire Rate | 50 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 67.5% |
Mass | 0.55 |
Value | Credits: 750 |
Mods | 6 |
The Eon is a standard, versatile handgun in Starfield, widely available and moddable. It's a reliable choice in the early game, offering a balanced mix of firepower and ease of use. Its commonality means players won't struggle to find or maintain it, making it a practical choice for varied combat situations.
Solstice (Tier-C)

Solstice | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Energy: 10 |
Ammo | 1.5kV LZR Cartridge |
Clip Size | 16 |
Fire Rate | 25 |
Range | 30 |
Accuracy | 69.3% |
Mass | 1.30 |
Value | Credits: 1960 |
Mods | 7 |
The Solstice is unique as the only laser pistol in Starfield, firing a distinct caliber and offering decent damage output. It's an ideal weapon for players building an energy weapon-focused character. The Solstice stands out with its energy-based attacks, offering a different combat experience compared to traditional ballistic weapons.
Sidestar (Tier-C)

Sidestar | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 12 |
Ammo | .27 Caliber |
Clip Size | 17 |
Fire Rate | 40 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 67.9% |
Mass | 0.65 |
Value | Credits: 825 |
Mods | 7 |
The Sidestar is a notable handgun in Starfield, positioned in the C tier. It offers a faster firing rate compared to the Rattler, making it more controllable and user-friendly. This weapon is a solid choice for players who seek a reliable and efficient handgun that balances speed and power, suitable for various in-game scenarios.
Novalight (Tier-B)

Novalight | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 8, Energy: 25 |
Ammo | Light Particle Fuse |
Clip Size | 12 |
Fire Rate | 22 |
Range | 30 |
Accuracy | 68.6% |
Mass | 1.35 |
Value | Credits: 4620 |
Mods | 7 |
The Novalight, a B-tier particle pistol in Starfield, stands out with its decent damage output and rapid reload and firing capabilities. Its unique ammunition type and the ability to mod it for different combat styles make it a versatile choice. The Novalight is particularly effective for players who prefer a quick, responsive weapon in fast-paced combat situations.
Regulator (Tier-B)

Regulator | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 35 |
Ammo | .43 Ultramag |
Clip Size | 8 |
Fire Rate | 18 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 71.3% |
Mass | 0.70 |
Value | Credits: 4450 |
Mods | 7 |
The Regulator, a space revolver in the B tier, is known for its high damage and good modding potential. It's a powerful early-game option for players in Starfield, offering a blend of traditional revolver aesthetics with futuristic functionality. The weapon's high damage output makes it a formidable choice for players looking to pack a punch in their arsenal.
Old Earth Pistol (Tier-A)

Old Earth Pistol | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 28 |
Ammo | .45 Caliber ACP |
Clip Size | 9 |
Fire Rate | 67 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 66.9% |
Mass | 1.10 |
Value | Credits: 4350 |
Mods | 4 |
The Old Earth Pistol, an A-tier weapon in Starfield, is reminiscent of the classic 1911 handgun. It offers good damage with fairly common ammunition, making it a reliable and powerful choice. This weapon appeals to players who appreciate a blend of traditional design and effective performance in a futuristic setting, ensuring a familiar yet potent combat experience.
Razerback (Tier-A)

Razorback | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 51 |
Ammo | 7.5mm Whitehot |
Clip Size | 6 |
Fire Rate | 12 |
Range | 40 |
Accuracy | 67.1% |
Mass | 2.30 |
Value | Credits: 5300 |
Mods | 8 |
The Razerback, positioned in the A tier, is known for its high damage output and accuracy. It uses a unique caliber, setting it apart from other handguns in Starfield. The Razerback's modding capabilities enhance its versatility, making it suitable for various combat situations. This weapon is considered the best pistol in Starfield by many players, and it is ideal for players seeking a powerful and precise handgun with a distinctive edge.
Related: How To Get Razorback Revolver (Best Pistol In Starfield)
Urban Eagle (Tier-A)
Urban Eagle | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 39 |
Ammo | .43 Ultramag |
Clip Size | 7 |
Fire Rate | 25 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 67.7% |
Mass | 1.75 |
Value | Credits: 4800 |
Mods | 7 |
The Urban Eagle, another A-tier weapon in Starfield, is akin to a space version of the Desert Eagle. It combines semi-automatic firing with less recoil and good damage, making it a robust and user-friendly option. The Urban Eagle is perfect for players who want a handgun that delivers strong performance with a stylish, modern design, ensuring both efficiency and aesthetic appeal in combat.
XM-2311 (Tier-S)

XM-2311 | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 28 |
Ammo | .45 Caliber ACP |
Fire Rate | 67 |
Range | 20 |
Mass | 1.10 |
Value | Credits: 8200 |
Mods | 5 |
The XM-2311, an S-tier handgun in Starfield, is an advanced version of the classic 1911. It boasts superior damage per shot and per second, making it a highly effective weapon. Its rarity adds to its appeal, offering a sense of exclusivity. This handgun is ideal for players who seek a powerful, all-purpose weapon that excels in various combat scenarios, combining traditional design with enhanced firepower.
Magshot (Tier-S)

Magshot | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 53 |
Ammo | .43 MI Array |
Clip Size | 6 |
Fire Rate | 25 |
Range | 20 |
Accuracy | 62.8% |
Mass | 2.00 |
Value | Credits: 11380 |
Mods | 6 |
The Magshot, also in the S tier, is a high-damage revolver with a unique caliber. It's known for its accuracy and power, making it one of the best handguns in Starfield. The Magshot is perfect for players who prefer a weapon that delivers strong impact with each shot, suitable for taking down tougher opponents. Its blend of precision and power makes it a top choice for handgun enthusiasts.
Va'ruun Starshard (Tier-S)

Va'ruun Starshard | Specification |
---|---|
Damage | Physical: 26, Energy: 80 |
Ammo | Light Particle Fuse |
Clip Size | 12 |
Fire Rate | 12 |
Range | 30 |
Accuracy | 70.1% |
Mass | 1.00 |
Value | Credits: 18250 |
Mods | 7 |
The Va'ruun Starshard, another S-tier weapon, is the rarest handgun in Starfield. It offers extremely high damage per shot and exceptional accuracy. Despite its slower rate of fire, its power more than compensates, making it arguably the best overall handgun in the game. This weapon is a must-have for players who prioritize high damage output and precision in their arsenal, ensuring dominance in combat situations.
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