Worn-Out Pistol

The Worn-Out Pistol is the first ranged weapon most sailors will get their hands on when they wash ashore in Windrose. Dealing 300 Pierce damage with a C-rank Precision scaling, it is humble in every sense, yet still capable of dispatching low-level threats at a safe distance. Because Gunpowder and bullets are scarce early on, new survivors should treat each shot as an investment rather than a reflex. Pair it with Stone Bullets to conserve rarer ammunition, and remember that even a weak pistol can finish off a wounded enemy before it closes the gap.

In terms of talent synergy, the Marksman branch offers several nodes that improve pistol handling, including reduced reload time and bonus headshot multipliers. Even with its low base stats, the Worn-Out Pistol benefits from these passives, making it a serviceable sidearm well into the mid-game if better options have not yet appeared. Equipping the Marksman's Rig armor set adds another 15% ranged damage on top of a helpful 30% reduction in sprint stamina cost, letting you kite enemies while peppering them with shots.

For a practical gameplay tip, consider opening combat with a Cutlass melee strike to trigger the Take Aim! buff before switching to the Worn-Out Pistol. The ranged damage bonus from Take Aim! helps offset the pistol's low base damage considerably. Once you find an Uncommon Pistol or better, you can retire this starter weapon, but keep it in storage as a backup. In Windrose, losing your only ranged option to a death at sea can leave you defenseless against ranged enemies and wildlife alike.