Far Cry 3 doesn’t just let you pick up any old gun from a rack and start shooting—this game is loaded with uniquely modified, high-performance weapons called Signature Weapons. These deadly tools of destruction aren’t just about firepower—they’re a badge of honor earned through exploration, challenge, and a little bit of grinding. In this guide, we break down each Signature Weapon, how to unlock it, what it costs, and whether it’s worth your time and rupees.
1. Japanese Tanto (Free Melee Weapon)
Unlock Requirement: Collect any 6 Letters of the Lost (out of 20 total)
Cost: Free
This isn’t just a cosmetic reskin of your default knife—it’s a serious melee upgrade. Where the standard blade takes two slashes to bring down an unarmored enemy, the Japanese Tanto does it in one. Fast, brutal, and stylish. It won’t replace your guns, but for stealth kills and up-close encounters, it’s the sharpest tool in the shed.
2. Shadow (Silenced Pistol)
Unlock Requirement: Liberate 17 outposts
Cost: $2,600
The Shadow is a modified 1911 pistol with a larger magazine, suppressor, and a slick paint job. It’s tailored for stealth—accurate and quiet. However, it lacks effective range. Great for close-quarters sneaking, but don’t expect long-distance reliability. It’s fun to earn, but in the long run, other Signature Weapons outshine it. Think of it as a stepping stone to bigger things.
3. The Cannon (Magnum Pistol)
Unlock Requirement: Earn 40 Ubisoft Points via Uplay
Cost: $2,790
A custom .44 Magnum with an optical sight and extended barrel. This beast deals serious damage—it’s a one-shot kill to most body parts. While it only holds six rounds and reloads slow, the raw power more than makes up for it. Not the most convenient to unlock, since it involves side challenges and Uplay points, but if you like seeing enemies fly, it’s worth it.
4. The Shredder (SMG)
Unlock Requirement: Collect 10 memory cards
Cost: $3,275
This customized Vector .45 ACP comes with a reflex sight, suppressor, extended mag, and sleek aesthetics. It excels in accuracy and damage. Despite being an SMG, it handles longer ranges remarkably well—even when fired from the hip. It’s one of the most versatile weapons in the game and arguably the best all-around Signature Weapon. Always room for the Shredder.
5. Bull (Shotgun)
Unlock Requirement: Collect 10 relics (out of 120 total)
Cost: $3,110
The Bull is a powerful 133 shotgun with enhanced damage and an added reflex sight (oddly omitted from the in-game description). It’s a good gun and fun to use, especially if you love close-combat carnage. But it’s not essential—other weapons offer more utility across more situations. Pick it up if you’re a completionist or love the pump-action aesthetic.
6. Bushman (Assault Rifle)
Unlock Requirement: Activate all radio towers (requires South Island access)
Cost: $3,800
This P416 rifle is fitted with a suppressor, extended mag, optical scope, and custom finish. It’s a precision shooter enhanced for both accuracy and damage. While not quite as accurate as the Shredder, it makes up for it with solid range and balanced handling. It won’t disappoint—and paired with your favorite scope, it’s a powerhouse across most combat scenarios.
7. The Ripper (Light Machine Gun)
Unlock Requirement: Complete 6 of the 12 Rakyat Trials
Cost: $4,200
The Ripper is a heavy-hitting MKG with optical scope, custom paint, and enhanced stats across the board—accuracy, damage, and low recoil. It sprays lead like a storm, making it excellent for both suppression and aggressive pushes. Surprisingly accurate at long distances, it’s one of the most fun weapons to use. The cost is steep, but you’re paying for quality.
8. AMR (Sniper Rifle)
Unlock Requirement: Collect 20 relics
Cost: $4,800
The AMR (Anti-Material Rifle) is the king of long-range lethality. This Z93 comes with a high-powered scope, explosive armor-piercing rounds, and enough damage to annihilate vehicles in two shots. It turns trucks into shrapnel and makes enemies disappear in a puff of gore. It’s pricey and requires relic hunting, but for pure stopping power, it’s the undisputed champion.
Final Thoughts
Far Cry 3’s Signature Weapons are more than cosmetic upgrades—they’re uniquely tailored tools for various playstyles, from sneaky shadows to demolition juggernauts. Some are easier to unlock than others, and some are definitely more practical. If you’re only going to aim for a few, The Shredder, The AMR, and The Ripper are top-tier. For melee enthusiasts, Japanese Tanto is a no-brainer.
Collect, craft, and conquer. These guns aren’t just firepower—they’re proof that you’ve mastered the island.




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