Introduction
Are you facing down hordes of feral ghouls? Perhaps you’re taking on packs of vicious coyotes, or even braving the Cazador-infested canyons? Surviving the Mojave Wasteland in Fallout: New Vegas is no easy feat. While a trusty weapon is crucial, proper protection can mean the difference between life and a gruesome death. Enter Combat Armor: a reliable, versatile, and often essential piece of equipment for any Courier hoping to make their mark on the desert. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Combat Armor, exploring its many variations, detailing where to find it, and illustrating how it can be used to its fullest potential. Consider this your one-stop resource for all things Combat Armor in Fallout: New Vegas.
What is Combat Armor Anyway?
Combat Armor, in its essence, is a durable and protective suit designed to offer substantial defense against the myriad dangers of the wasteland. Visually, it typically consists of a layered design, featuring hardened metal plates over a fabric or padded underlayer. The overall aesthetic is utilitarian and rugged, clearly built for function over form. Its presence throughout the Fallout universe speaks to its widespread adoption and reliability, being a preferred choice for military personnel, law enforcement, and wasteland adventurers alike.
This armor offers a Damage Threshold, which is the key metric of its protective capability. This value directly reduces the amount of damage you take from incoming attacks. The higher the threshold, the more damage is absorbed. Beyond protection, the armor also has weight and value, which directly affects how much you can carry and the cost of the item. A perfect piece of equipment will have a high Damage Threshold, low weight, and a high enough value that you could sell it when it’s no longer needed.
Maintaining your Combat Armor is critical to maintaining your safety. You can repair it yourself if you have the skills and materials. It is repaired with other pieces of armor, which can be costly if you are using a unique piece of equipment, but it might be worth it. If you lack the skills or materials to do the job yourself, there are vendors that will repair equipment for a fee.
Different Types of Combat Armor
Not all Combat Armor is created equal. The wasteland is full of subtle, and not-so-subtle, variations on the base design, each offering unique advantages.
Standard Combat Armor
First is the standard, workhorse Combat Armor. While not the flashiest option, it provides a solid foundation of protection. This is your entry-level option, often found on raiders or in abandoned military outposts. If you’re just starting, this is the armor you want.
Reinforced Combat Armor
Next, you’ll find Reinforced Combat Armor. As the name suggests, this variant features improved protection compared to the standard version. This often involves additional plating or strengthening of existing components, resulting in a noticeable boost in survivability. Keep your eyes peeled as you travel through dangerous locations, as this version can be found in hidden stashes or sold by select merchants.
Gannon Family Tesla Armor
The Gannon Family Tesla Armor stands apart as a unique and powerful variant of Combat Armor. It may require a specific quest or interaction to obtain, often tied to the Gannon family lore within the game. Besides providing excellent protection, it may offer additional bonuses, such as energy weapon resistance. This armor also makes you look like a powerhouse of electricity.
Other Unique or Named Versions of Combat Armor
The wasteland also holds other unique or named versions of Combat Armor. These may be associated with specific factions, characters, or locations. They might have unique color schemes, modifications, or even special effects. Hunting down these rare pieces can be a rewarding endeavor for any collector or player seeking the ultimate edge in combat. Don’t forget to explore every nook and cranny, talk to every vendor, and complete every quest. You never know when a legendary piece of armor might surface.
T-51b Power Armor
A common mistake is to compare this armor to the T-51b Power Armor. While both offer protection, they are very different. Power Armor is on a different level of protection, but it is much heavier and requires power. Combat armor is a better overall choice for someone just starting to explore.
Where to Find Combat Armor Throughout the Mojave
The Mojave Wasteland is vast and dangerous, but with a keen eye and a little luck, you can find Combat Armor in numerous locations.
Specific Locations
Check abandoned military installations, vaults, and raider camps. These locations often contain valuable loot, including Combat Armor. Explore every corner of these areas, search every container, and be prepared for resistance. The best gear is never easily acquired.
Vendors
You can also purchase armor from vendors throughout the Mojave. Gun Runners, located outside of Freeside, and Quartermaster Bardon at Camp McCarran are good places to start. Check their inventory regularly as stock may vary. Keep an eye out for traveling merchants, as they often carry unique or rare items.
Enemy Drops
Enemies are another great source of equipment. Raiders and other hostile factions will often use Combat Armor, so always loot the bodies of fallen enemies. Be aware that the armor may be damaged, requiring repairs before it can be used effectively. High-level enemies are more likely to be wearing the better variants.
Quests
Some quests will reward you with pieces of equipment, or lead you to locations where you can acquire them. Check with the various factions for questlines. Keep in mind some decisions may limit your access to different quests.
How to Properly Use Combat Armor
Combat Armor provides protection for a variety of characters. The build that relies on melee combat is one that benefits from Combat Armor. It will allow them to close the distance and take damage without dying. Mid-range characters will also benefit from the armor, allowing them to fire their weapons from cover while protected.
Pros and Cons
Combat Armor is strong, but not invincible. The advantage is the solid protection and availability. The disadvantage is that there are pieces of equipment with better protection. It can be difficult and expensive to repair.
Modifications
You will be able to modify certain pieces of armor, so keep an eye out for schematics. These modifications can be used to improve the armor’s threshold, weight, or other values. This is especially useful if you plan on crafting and using mods.
Skill Synergies
Certain skills will help you maximize the armor’s capabilities. Repair and Science can make your armor stronger.
Companion Use
Consider using Combat Armor for your companions, as it offers excellent protection. This will help keep them alive during combat, making them more effective in battle. Make sure to adjust their equipment to their combat style.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Wasteland
Combat Armor is more than just a set of metal plates; it is an investment in your survival. Understanding its different types, knowing where to find it, and utilizing it strategically can significantly increase your chances of success in the harsh and unforgiving Mojave Wasteland. From its humble origins as standard-issue gear to its unique and powerful variants, Combat Armor remains a constant presence, offering a vital layer of protection against the dangers that lurk around every corner.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran, or a fresh-faced Courier just venturing out into the desert, Combat Armor is a valuable asset for surviving the dangers of the Mojave Wasteland. Equip yourself wisely, repair your gear often, and adapt your strategy to the challenges you face. The wasteland is a dangerous place, but with the right preparation and a bit of luck, you can thrive in Fallout: New Vegas. Remember, proper gear is your first line of defense. Invest in Combat Armor, master its intricacies, and become a force to be reckoned with in the Mojave. Good luck, Courier, and may your travels be safe (or at least well-armored!). The wasteland awaits.
