Mafia The Old Country: Best Early Game Weapons Guide - 2025

Sammy Schnor

• 3 min read
Mafia The Old Country: Best Early Game Weapons Guide - 2025

Just started your journey in 1900s Sicily? This comprehensive guide reveals the best early game weapons in Mafia: The Old Country that will give you the edge in combat. From knives to firearms, we'll show you exactly which weapons to prioritize and how to dominate the streets of the old country.

Quick Answer (TLDR)

The best early game weapons in Mafia: The Old Country are:

  • Best Knife: Forzuni (Stiletto) - Available early with Light-Fingered perk
  • Best Pistol: Vendetti - Highest damage and range
  • Best Shotgun: Barker Model 11 - Unlocks after Chapter 6
  • Best Rifle: Barker Model 8 - Most versatile weapon

Requirements & Prerequisites

Before diving into the best weapons, here's what you need to know:

  • Game Version: This guide applies to the launch version (August 2025)
  • Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Time Investment: Most weapons unlock within first 6-8 hours

Best Early Game Knives

Knives are crucial in Mafia: The Old Country, serving multiple purposes beyond combat. They're essential for stealth takedowns, lockpicking, and resource management.

1. Forzuni (Best Overall)

  • Type: Stiletto
  • Durability: 6/6
  • Special Perk: Light-Fingered - Automatically loot enemies during combat takedowns
  • Why it's the best: Maximum durability means more lockpicks and stealth kills before needing replacement

2. Guerreri (Best for Combat)

  • Type: Rasolu
  • Durability: 4/6
  • Special Perk: Vital - Heals you after combat takedowns
  • Why it's great: Perfect for aggressive playstyles, one-hit combat takedowns

3. Tigri (Best for Stealth)

  • Type: Scannaturi
  • Durability: 4/6
  • Special Perk: Honed - Increased melee damage
  • Why it's great: Can be thrown for silent ranged kills

Best Early Game Firearms

Firearms become essential as the game progresses. Here are the top picks for each category:

Best Pistol: Vendetti

  • Damage: 5/5
  • Range: 3/5
  • Rate of Fire: 2/5
  • Magazine: 4 rounds

Despite the small magazine, the Vendetti's massive damage output makes it the best pistol choice. One well-placed shot can drop most enemies.

Best Shotgun: Barker Model 11

  • Damage: 5/5
  • Rate of Fire: 4/5
  • Unlock: After Chapter 6

This powerhouse dominates close-quarters combat. Perfect for clearing rooms and dealing with multiple enemies.

Best Rifle: Barker Model 8

  • Damage: 4/5
  • Rate of Fire: 4/5
  • Range: 4/5

The most versatile weapon in the game. Excellent for medium to long-range encounters.

Pro Tips & Advanced Combat Strategies

  • Knife Management: Always carry two knives - one for combat, one for lockpicking
  • Ammo Conservation: Use knives for isolated enemies, save bullets for group encounters
  • Stealth Priority: Silent takedowns preserve resources and avoid reinforcements
  • Weapon Switching: Quick-switch between weapons based on distance to target
  • Cover Usage: Always fight from cover when using firearms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Wasting knife durability on unnecessary lockpicks - Not all locked boxes contain valuable loot
  • Going loud too early - Many missions become significantly harder without stealth
  • Ignoring weapon perks - Perks like Light-Fingered save significant time
  • Not exploring for weapon upgrades - Better weapons are often hidden in optional areas
  • Forgetting to loot enemies - Enemies drop ammo and money essential for progression

Alternative Weapon Options

For players with special editions or DLC:

  • Stiletto Speciale - Deluxe Edition exclusive with two perks
  • Rasolu Speciale - Free with 2K account link
  • Vendetti Speciale - 6-round magazine version

FAQ Section

Q: When do I get access to firearms?

A: Pistols become available around Chapter 3-4, with rifles and shotguns unlocking after Chapter 6.

Q: Should I save money for specific weapons?

A: Yes, save for the Forzuni knife early and the Vendetti pistol when it becomes available.

Q: Can I replay missions to get better weapons?

A: No, there's no mission replay or New Game Plus mode at launch.

Q: Do weapon stats change on different difficulty levels?

A: No, weapon stats remain consistent across all difficulty settings.

Related Content & Next Steps

Now that you're equipped with the best weapons, consider exploring:

  • Collectibles Guide for Mystery Foxes and Saints' Cards
  • Best Cars and Vehicles Guide
  • Achievement/Trophy Hunting Guide
  • Complete Walkthrough for All Chapters

Remember, in Mafia: The Old Country, choosing the right weapon for each situation is crucial. Master these early game weapons, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a true mafioso in 1900s Sicily.