The Last of Us Part II: How to Get the Bolt-Action Rifle and Recommended Upgrades

How to Get the Bolt-Action Rifle

Received Automatically during Waking Up in Jackson

The Bolt-Action Rifle is given to Ellie during Waking Up in Jackson. As you progress through the story, you will receive it from Jesse in a cutscene after examining the horses.

How to Use the Bolt-Action Rifle

Snipe from a distance

The Bolt-Action Rifle requires reloading after each shot, making rapid-fire impossible. However, it is a powerful long-range weapon. It is recommended to hide in cover and snipe enemies from a distance. A headshot can take down most enemies with a single shot, except for Shamblers and Bloaters.

Recommended against tough enemies

Because it does a lot of damage, the Bolt-Action Rifle is also recommended against tough enemies like Shamblers. Be mindful of the reload time between shots even when engaging these enemies from a safe distance.

Recommended Upgrades

Stability Upgrade

The Bolt-Action Rifle has significant recoil, and missing a shot can be risky so upgrade stability to increase your accuracy.

Damage Upgrade

Upgrade the damage of the Bolt-Action Rifle to make it easier to take down tanky enemies, like Bloaters and Shamblers. You'll even be able to one-shot low-health enemies, like Runners, with a body shot.

Scope Upgrade for Long-Range Shots

If you want to accurately aim at enemies from a long distance, a scope is necessary. Attach the 6x scope if you primarily use the rifle for sniping. However, keep in mind that opportunities for long-range combat are limited, so it may be better to prioritize other upgrades.

Parts Needed for Bolt-Action Rifle Upgrades

List of Recommended Weapon Upgrades and How to Get Them