In Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, players encounter a diverse array of weapon types that facilitate various combat styles and tactical approaches. The core weapon types available to players include:

1. Assault Rifles: Versatile firearms that balance rate of fire and damage, ideal for mid to long-range combat.
2. Sniper Rifles: Designed for precision shooting at extended distances, perfect for players who prefer a stealthy approach from afar.
3. Submachine Guns: Compact and high-rate-of-fire weapons suited for close-quarters engagements.
4. Handguns: Including pistols and revolvers, these are essential for players needing a reliable sidearm.
5. Shotguns: Devastating at close range, shotguns excel in situations that require overwhelming firepower.
6. Rocket and Grenade Launchers: Heavy weaponry for engaging armored targets and clearing out groups of enemies.
7. Tranquilizer Guns: Non-lethal options for incapacitating enemies silently.

Each weapon type comes in multiple variations with distinct statistical characteristics—such as damage, accuracy, fire rate, and magazine size—allowing players to choose the right fit for their missions.

An integral feature of MGS V is the extensive customization offered once players rescue the Legendary Gunsmith. Customization options allow players to tailor their weapons to suit specific needs and play styles. Players can utilize the following attachments and upgrades:

– Barrels: Options like suppressors to maintain stealth or longer barrels for improved range.
– Scopes: Various sight options, including red dot sights for quick aiming, magnifiers for increased zoom levels, and sniper scopes for high precision.
– Stocks: Different stocks can modify weapon handling, recoil management, and stability, with choices ranging from modern tactical stocks to classic wooden designs.
– Underbarrel Attachments: Accessories such as grenade launchers to increase offensive capabilities, bipods for stabilizing fire, and foregrips for better control.
– Lasers and Flashlights: Useful for improving aiming precision and temporarily disorienting foes in dark environments.
– Camos: A range of camouflage patterns designed to help players blend in with various terrains.
– Ammunition Types: Ammunition can be tailored to mission objectives, featuring lethal rounds, non-lethal tranquilizer rounds, and specialized rounds like armor-piercing variants.

Players have crafted numerous effective builds, such as suppressed sniper rifles equipped with high-magnification scopes for silent takedowns, or assault rifles with grenade launchers and advanced optics tailored for both suppressive fire and explosive engagement. This depth of customization enables players to leverage unique strategies, whether leaning towards stealth tactics or direct confrontations.

In summary, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain provides a rich selection of weaponry and intricate customization options that empower players to create their preferred loadouts. Players can adapt their armament to effectively meet the demands of varying tactical situations, making for a highly personalized and immersive gameplay experience.