Arc Raiders Padded Stock Blueprint: How to Get and Craft It

[LavenderBrook]

If you’re playing Arc Raiders, you may have come across the Padded Stock Blueprint and wondered how it works, how to get it, and how best to use it. In this guide, we’ll break it down from the perspective of someone who has spent time in the game, focusing on practical details that most players care about.

What is the Padded Stock Blueprint?

The Padded Stock Blueprint is an item in Arc Raiders that allows you to craft a Padded Stock. This is a weapon modification that can help reduce recoil and improve handling, making your weapons more stable during combat.

In general, blueprints in Arc Raiders are essential for crafting gear or modifications. Without the blueprint, even if you have the required materials, you cannot create the item. For most players, collecting and managing blueprints is a key part of progression.

How Do You Get the Padded Stock Blueprint?

Most players find the Padded Stock Blueprint by looting in the topside areas of the map. In practice, this usually means searching high-traffic zones or enemy camps, as loot tends to spawn in predictable patterns.

In general, top-level loot areas are contested, so expect other players to be present. If you’re playing solo, it’s usually safer to approach slowly and clear enemies before attempting to collect the blueprint. For group players, coordinating with teammates helps secure the blueprint faster.

What Materials Do You Need to Craft a Padded Stock?

Once you have the blueprint, crafting the Padded Stock requires a few materials and a specific skill level:

Gunsmith 3 (your character needs to reach this skill tier)

2x Mod Components

5x Duct Tape

Most players usually stock up on Duct Tape and Mod Components by scavenging crates, completing missions, or dismantling unused items. In practice, it’s common to check your inventory before heading into topside areas, so you don’t collect a blueprint you can’t craft yet.

The skill requirement of Gunsmith 3 is important. Some players make the mistake of picking up blueprints before their character meets the skill level, which can lead to frustration if the blueprint sits unused in your inventory for a long time.

How Does the Padded Stock Work in Practice?

The Padded Stock is generally used to improve weapon handling, especially for rapid-fire weapons. Players usually notice:

Reduced recoil: Makes it easier to control automatic or burst-fire weapons.

Slightly faster aim recovery: After firing, your aim returns to center more quickly.

Better stability in sustained fights: Particularly useful in open areas where you’re facing multiple enemies.

In general, most players equip a Padded Stock on weapons they intend to use for sustained engagements rather than short bursts. It’s less noticeable on single-shot or sniper-type weapons.

Where Should You Use the Padded Stock?

In practice, players usually put Padded Stocks on weapons that require handling control. Some common choices:

Assault rifles used in open combat zones.

SMGs for close- to mid-range fights where spray control matters.

Occasionally on shotguns, though the benefit is smaller.

Most players don’t bother crafting multiple Padded Stocks unless they have spare materials. It’s usually more efficient to craft one for a favorite weapon or for team use.

Crafting Tips and Common Player Behavior

Here are some practical tips that experienced players tend to follow:

Check your inventory first: Make sure you have the required materials and Gunsmith level before collecting blueprints.

Farm during downtime: Duct Tape and Mod Components are used in multiple blueprints, so keep a stockpile.

Plan your loadout: Craft Padded Stocks for weapons that you actually use in combat. Most players won’t craft one just to store it.

Blueprint management: Since your inventory is limited, consider selling or trading excess blueprints you won’t use. This is where the topic of how to sell ARC Raiders items often comes up. Some players use in-game markets or other safe trade systems to offload items and free up space.


The Padded Stock Blueprint is a straightforward but useful part of Arc Raiders crafting. While the item itself isn’t game-breaking, it offers noticeable improvements for weapon handling that most players will appreciate in mid- to late-game scenarios. The key takeaway is to collect blueprints strategically, manage materials efficiently, and craft items that fit your combat style.

In general, success with crafting in Arc Raiders comes from planning your inventory, keeping an eye on skill requirements, and using modifications like Padded Stock where they have the most impact.

Game Breakdown: Arc Raiders Osprey Blueprint Location & Craft Recipe Guide