What is Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) and How Does It Work?

The Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) is an Epic combat augment with a focus on maneuverability. Unlike other combat augments that may increase shield strength or absorb damage, this one improves how quickly you can handle weapons, specifically pistols and hand cannons.

Key Features in Practice:

• Stowed or unequipped pistols and hand cannons are 33% faster to equip.

• Works best with light shields, as it is not meant to carry heavy defensive gear.

• The augment’s weight is 3.0, with a weight limit of 60, so it fits easily into most flanking or scout builds.

In practical gameplay, this means you can switch between weapons faster during firefights, which is especially useful when flanking enemies or engaging in hit-and-run tactics. Experienced players often pair this augment with weapons that benefit from rapid switching rather than sustained fire.

How Do I Get the Blueprint?

There are two main ways to obtain the Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) blueprint:

1. Scavenging: Random loot drops can include the blueprint. Expect some variability depending on the zone or mission difficulty.

2. Crafting: Certain materials, combined with the blueprint, allow you to create the augment at a Gear Bench.

Once you have the blueprint, you can also sell ARC Raiders blueprints securely on U4N if you decide not to craft it yourself. This is a convenient way to earn coins while helping other players acquire rare augments safely.

What Materials Do I Need to Craft It?

Crafting Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) requires a Gear Bench 3 and the blueprint. The materials needed are:

• 2× Advanced Electrical Components

• 3× Processors

The process is straightforward:

1. Collect the required components.

2. Access a Gear Bench 3.

3. Use the blueprint to craft one Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) augment.

In practice, these materials are fairly accessible if you focus on scavenging and recycling old components from other gear. Experienced players often stockpile components to avoid repeated trips.

How Do I Repair Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking)?

Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) can be repaired when its durability drops. The materials and results are:

• Repair Cost: 1× Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking)

• Required Materials: 1× Advanced Electrical Component + 2× Processors

• Durability Restored: +50

A key tip: repair only when necessary to conserve resources. In group play, you can often rotate augments between missions to reduce the frequency of repairs.

Can I Recycle or Salvage It?

Yes. Both recycling and salvaging provide different returns:

• Recycling Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking): 1× Advanced Electrical Component + 1× Processor

• Salvaging: 2× Electrical Components

In practice, recycling is better if you want higher-tier components for crafting, while salvaging is useful if you need more basic components. Many players keep a balance between salvaging low-value items and recycling higher-value gear for efficiency.

When Should I Use Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking)?

This augment is best in situations where mobility and weapon switching are critical:

• Flanking and scouting: Move quickly, switch weapons, and avoid being a stationary target.

• Hit-and-run attacks: Engage multiple enemies without committing to prolonged fights.

• Quick-response combat: Switch between pistol and hand cannon to adapt to enemy types.

It is less effective in heavy shield or tank builds. If you spend most fights absorbing damage, a defensive augment may serve you better.

Tips from Experienced Players

1. Pair with light shields: Heavy shields slow your movement, which undermines the augment’s passive effect.

2. Keep multiple weapon types: You get the most out of the faster equip speed when switching frequently.

3. Stockpile components: Both for crafting and repairing, keeping a reserve of Advanced Electrical Components and Processors saves time.

4. Know when to sell: If you already have your preferred augment, you can sell ARC Raiders blueprints securely on U4N. Many players do this to fund other builds safely.

5. Use in group tactics: Flankers can coordinate with team tanks to create openings and maximize damage.

The Combat Mk. 3 (Flanking) is an Epic augment that rewards mobility and fast weapon handling. It’s not for absorbing damage but shines in flanking and tactical engagements. Knowing how to acquire, craft, repair, and recycle it can save time and resources. Experienced players prioritize light shields, quick weapon swaps, and component management to get the most value from this augment.

In short, this augment works best when you embrace speed over staying power, and when paired with the right team strategy, it can significantly improve your effectiveness in ARC Raiders missions.

Updated Strategy: Secure Your ARC Raiders Coins at U4N