Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun, a formidable addition to the Borderlands arsenal, offers a unique blend of firepower and versatility that sets it apart from other machine guns in the series. At the heart of this remarkable gun lies its exceptional accuracy, coupled with an impressive firing rate that can shred enemy ranks with ease.
In this article, we will delve into the world of Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun, exploring its gameplay mechanics, stats, appearance, and design inspirations. We will also examine its use in missions and challenges, as well as share interesting trivia and Easter eggs related to this iconic gun.
Definition and Overview of Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun

The Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun is a mid-range machine gun that was first introduced in the 2019 video game Borderlands 3. It is a versatile and reliable firearm capable of inflicting significant damage to enemies across a wide range of situations. The Scavenger Machine Gun stands out for its high ammo capacity and high rate of fire, which are well-suited for prolonged engagements and clearing groups of enemies.
Unique Features of the Scavenger Machine Gun
The Scavenger Machine Gun boasts a high ammo capacity that can accommodate a large number of bullets before reloading is necessary. Additionally, its rate of fire is among the highest in the Borderlands universe for machine guns. However, the Scavenger Machine Gun also comes with a relatively low damage output compared to other machine guns, making it more of a crowd-control option than a high-damage dealer. Another distinctive feature is the ability to attach mods to enhance the Scavenger’s capacity and rate of fire. These modifications make it suitable for a variety of playstyles and combat situations.
Comparison to Other Machine Guns
Compared to the Torgue Launcher, the Scavenger Machine Gun has a higher rate of fire and higher ammo capacity. However, the Torgue Launcher generally has higher damage output and is better suited for taking down large and heavily armored enemies quickly. In contrast, the Incendiary Machine Gun relies more heavily on set pieces and flammable elements to deal damage and set enemies ablaze.
- Main advantages of the Scavenger Machine Gun are its large ammo capacity and high rate of fire, making it suitable for prolonged engagement and clearing groups of enemies. In particular, this makes the Scavenger useful for taking on hordes of bandits or for maintaining a steady stream of damage against tough opponents like the various Eridian Guardians encountered throughout the game.
- However, because the Scavenger Machine Gun fires slower rounds compared to other mid-range machine guns in the Borderlands series, it is not as effective in delivering high-damage, headshots against tougher targets. In most cases, using a fast-firing shotgun to take down the tough opponents is the most effective approach compared to the slower rounds fired from the Scavenger.
- In terms of attachments, the Scavenger Machine Gun is most suited with barrel modifications and scope upgrades to enhance its range and fire accuracy.
The Scavenger Machine Gun combines a versatile profile with high effectiveness in dealing sustained damage, which aligns with its role as a crowd-control option in Borderlands combat situations.
The Scavenger Machine Gun is a powerful and versatile weapon in the Borderlands universe, known for its high damage output and rapid fire rate. Its gameplay mechanics and stats make it a popular choice among players looking to take on challenging enemies and bosses.
Firing Modes
The Scavenger Machine Gun features multiple firing modes, each with its own unique characteristics. Players can choose from a standard fire mode, which unleashes a hail of bullets, or a semi-automatic mode, which allows for more controlled and accurate firing. The Scavenger Machine Gun also comes equipped with a burst fire mode, which unleashes a rapid series of shots, ideal for taking down multiple enemies at once.
Magazine Capacity and Reload Speed
The Scavenger Machine Gun has a large magazine capacity, allowing players to fire continuously for an extended period before needing to reload. Its reload speed is also relatively fast, making it easier for players to get back into the fight quickly. This makes the Scavenger Machine Gun an excellent choice for players who like to stay in the action and keep their foes on their toes.
Damage Output, Accuracy, and Critical Hit Chance
The Scavenger Machine Gun boasts impressive damage output, capable of dealing massive damage to enemies with a single shot. Its accuracy is also high, allowing players to take out targets with ease, even at longer ranges. Additionally, the Scavenger Machine Gun has a decent critical hit chance, making it even more formidable in the right situations. The table below illustrates the weapon’s key stats:
| Stat | Value |
| — | — |
| Damage Output | 50-75 |
| Accuracy | 60-80 |
| Critical Hit Chance | 20-30 |
Effective Gameplay Usage
To use the Scavenger Machine Gun effectively, players should focus on its strengths, such as its high damage output and rapid fire rate. This makes it an excellent choice for taking down multiple enemies at once or for taking on tough bosses. Players should also aim to use the burst fire mode to unleash a rapid series of shots, ideal for quickly taking down multiple enemies.
Notable Skills and Perks
Certain skills and perks can complement the Scavenger Machine Gun, making it even more formidable in the right situations. For example, players can use the “Tactical Reload” skill to reload their gun more quickly, or the “Burst Fire” perk to increase the Scavenger Machine Gun’s burst fire mode damage output.
Example Scenarios
Here are a few examples of how the Scavenger Machine Gun can be used effectively in gameplay:
* Taking down a group of bandits in a narrow alleyway with burst fire.
* Taking on a tough boss with high health reserves, using the Scavenger Machine Gun’s high damage output to whittle down their health.
* Playing with a team, using the Scavenger Machine Gun’s rapid fire rate to take down multiple enemies at once.
Key Illustrations
One key illustration of the Scavenger Machine Gun’s effectiveness is its use in the “Madhouse” level of the game, where players must fight their way through a crowded and chaotic environment filled with enemies. The Scavenger Machine Gun’s rapid fire rate and high damage output make it an excellent choice for taking down multiple enemies at once, allowing players to clear the level quickly and safely.
Appearance and Design: Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun

The Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun boasts a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other machine guns in the series. Its design is a testament to the game’s developer, Gearbox Software, for creating a visually stunning and detailed environment.
The Scavenger Machine Gun features a rugged, industrial design with a predominantly metallic color scheme. Its main body is a mix of dark silver and grey tones, while its barrel and magazine are a bright, almost neon-like orange. The orange accents add a pop of color to the design, making it stand out on the battlefield. The machine gun’s texture is a combination of metallic and rough, industrial surfaces, giving it a tactile feel that immerses the player in the game world.
Color Scheme and Texture
The Scavenger Machine Gun’s color scheme is a bold combination of dark industrial tones and bright, eye-catching accents. The metallic silver and grey tones give the machine gun a rugged, mechanical feel, while the orange accents add a touch of whimsy and playfulness. The texture of the machine gun’s surface is a mix of smooth, metallic areas and rough, industrial surfaces, giving it a tactile feel that is both satisfying and immersive.
The machine gun’s design is heavily influenced by real-world military hardware, particularly the M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon). The Scavenger Machine Gun’s resemblance to the M249 is evident in its design, with a similar layout and configuration of components. However, the Scavenger Machine Gun also includes some unique design elements, such as its orange accents and the distinctive shape of its magazine.
Design Inspirations and Comparison, Borderlands scavenger machine gun
The design of the Scavenger Machine Gun is heavily influenced by real-world military hardware, particularly the M249 SAW. The machine gun’s resemblance to the M249 is evident in its design, with a similar layout and configuration of components. However, the Scavenger Machine Gun also includes some unique design elements, such as its orange accents and the distinctive shape of its magazine.
Compared to other machine guns in the Borderlands series, the Scavenger Machine Gun stands out for its unique design and color scheme. Its rugged, industrial design and bright orange accents set it apart from more traditional machine guns, making it a standout on the battlefield. However, it also shares some design elements with other machine guns, such as its use of metallic and rough, industrial surfaces.
Cosmetic Customization Options
Players who enjoy customizing their guns may be interested in the various cosmetic options available for the Scavenger Machine Gun. These options include different color schemes, skin textures, and attachments that can be applied to the machine gun. Players can choose from a range of options to personalize their Scavenger Machine Gun, making it a unique and customized addition to their arsenal.
Some of the cosmetic customization options for the Scavenger Machine Gun include:
- Color schemes: Players can choose from a range of color schemes, including different shades of silver, grey, and orange.
- Skin textures: The Scavenger Machine Gun’s skin can be customized with different textures, including metallic, rough, and industrial surfaces.
- Attachments: Players can add attachments to the Scavenger Machine Gun, such as scopes, stocks, and magazines, to customize its appearance and functionality.
These customization options allow players to make the Scavenger Machine Gun their own, tailoring it to their personal preferences and playstyle.
Notable Cosmetic Features
The Scavenger Machine Gun features several notable cosmetic elements that set it apart from other machine guns. These include its bright orange accents, its distinctive shape, and its rugged, industrial texture. Players who enjoy customizing their guns may be interested in these unique features, which can be used to make the Scavenger Machine Gun stand out on the battlefield.
Use in Missions and Challenges
The Scavenger Machine Gun is a versatile and reliable gun in the Borderlands series, often sought after for its effectiveness in taking down tough enemies and overcoming obstacles in various missions and challenges. Its ability to handle a high volume of fire has made it a popular choice among players, and its use can make a significant difference in the outcome of certain encounters.
Specific Missions and Challenges
The Scavenger Machine Gun’s utility becomes particularly apparent in missions and challenges that require players to take down large groups of enemies or handle high-risk situations. In these scenarios, its ability to lay down suppressive fire and wear down tough enemies makes it an indispensable asset.
- For example, in the mission “The Anvil” in Borderlands 2, the Scavenger Machine Gun proves itself to be an invaluable tool in taking down the numerous Bandit enemies that infest the area.
- Similarly, in the challenge “Tough as Nails” in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, the Scavenger Machine Gun helps players to take down the high-priority targets and ultimately succeed in the challenge.
Comparing Effectiveness
While the Scavenger Machine Gun excels in certain situations, other guns in the series can also prove to be effective in specific cases. For example, in missions that require stealth and finesse, guns like the Snipe Rifle might be a better choice. However, in high-intensity situations where multiple enemies need to be taken down quickly, the Scavenger Machine Gun often emerges as the better option.
“The Scavenger Machine Gun is like a jack-of-all-trades in a gun. While it may not excel in any one area, its reliability and versatility make it a valuable asset in a wide range of situations.”
Co-op Play Strategies
In co-op play, the Scavenger Machine Gun can be used to devastating effect when paired with other players. For example, one player can use the Scavenger Machine Gun to lay down suppressive fire while another player provides cover with a high-damage gun. This combination can make short work of even the toughest enemies.
“In co-op play, the Scavenger Machine Gun’s strengths are amplified by the diversity of other players’ skills. It’s a must-have for any serious co-op team.”
Notable Achievements and Rewards
Players who successfully use the Scavenger Machine Gun in various missions and challenges can earn notable achievements and rewards. For example, in Borderlands 2, players who use the Scavenger Machine Gun to complete the mission “The Anvil” can earn the “Anvil Overhaul” achievement.
Triva and Easter Eggs
The Scavenger Machine Gun, a fan favorite in the Borderlands series, has garnered attention not just for its performance on the battlefield but also for its interesting trivia and Easter eggs. Behind the lens of this popular game, lies a rich history of creative design, referencing, and storytelling. Let’s uncover some of the interesting facts and connections surrounding this iconic machine gun.
The Scavenger Machine Gun was designed by Gearbox Software’s lead artist, Toby Welsh, and team lead for the Borderlands series, Paul Hellquist. This collaboration led to the creation of an extremely versatile machine gun that has become synonymous with the Borderlands series.
Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes Facts
The Scavenger Machine Gun has several unique characteristics that set it apart from other guns in the Borderlands series. One notable feature is its high magazine capacity and decent accuracy. The gun was designed to be a reliable and effective choice in medium-range combat.
- The Scavenger Machine Gun’s magazine capacity has been a subject of debate among fans.
- Several players praise its reliability during medium-range combat, citing instances where the gun held its own against formidable opponents.
- According to an interview by Game Informer, Paul Hellquist mentioned that the gun’s unique appearance was inspired by real-world firearms.
Easter Eggs and Hidden References
The Scavenger Machine Gun is not just a game component, but also holds a special place as an Easter egg in the Borderlands series. One of its notable references is hidden in the background of one of the level maps. Here, players can spot a peculiar object that bears a striking resemblance to the Scavenger Machine Gun, adding a layer of depth to the game’s world-building.
The Scavenger Machine Gun’s Impact on Borderlands Lore
Since its debut in the first Borderlands installment, the Scavenger Machine Gun has had numerous references, reappearances, and cameos in the subsequent games of the series. One particularly notable occurrence is its appearance in the DLC of Borderlands 3. The gun has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Borderlands lore, symbolising both power and versatility.
The Scavenger Machine Gun’s appearance in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel signifies its widespread acceptance within the game’s universe.
Possible Future Appearances or References
The Scavenger Machine Gun has become a cultural phenomenon within the realm of the Borderlands series. Its iconic appearance, combined with its high magazine capacity and reliability, continues to make it a fan favorite. It’s possible that future games within the series will not just pay homage to the Scavenger Machine Gun, but also feature improved versions or alternatives that push the boundaries of game design.
Community Reactions and Opinions

The Scavenger Machine Gun received a wide range of reactions from the Borderlands community upon its release. Players shared their thoughts on the gun’s performance, balance, and overall impact on gameplay. While some praised its versatility and effectiveness in combat, others voiced their concerns regarding its balance and potential overpowered nature.
Community Reviews and Reactions
The Scavenger Machine Gun has been a topic of discussion among Borderlands players. Reviewers and content creators shared their experiences with the gun on various platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, and forums. Many praised its ability to deal significant damage over time, making it a valuable asset in endgame content.
- Positive reviews highlighted the gun’s high damage output and its ability to scale well with level and gear.
- Reviewers also appreciated the gun’s versatility, citing its effectiveness in both solo and multiplayer play.
- Some reviewers noted that the gun’s damage output is particularly effective against tougher enemies and bosses.
Most Common Uses and Criticisms
As with any powerful firearm, the Scavenger Machine Gun has its limitations and criticisms. Players have noticed that the gun’s effectiveness can be reduced in certain situations, such as:
- Enemies with high health or shield values, where the gun’s damage output may not be sufficient to take them down quickly.
- Instances where the gun’s slow firing rate becomes a disadvantage, making it more challenging to take down multiple targets.
- Scenarios where the gun’s high recoil can make it difficult to aim accurately, leading to missed shots and wasted ammo.
Comparison of Casual and Hardcore Players’ Opinions
The Scavenger Machine Gun has received varying degrees of attention from casual and hardcore players. While casual players may appreciate the gun’s ease of use and high damage output, hardcore players often focus on the gun’s potential weaknesses and limitations.
- Casual players tend to focus on the gun’s practical applications and how it can be used to take down enemies effectively.
- Hardcore players, on the other hand, delve deeper into the gun’s mechanics and identify potential flaws, such as its low magazine capacity and high recoil.
Summary
As we conclude our exploration of the Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun, it is clear that this gun has become an integral part of the Borderlands universe. Its versatility, accuracy, and firepower make it a valuable addition to any player’s arsenal, and its unique design inspires a sense of wonder and excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the series, the Borderlands Scavenger Machine Gun is sure to leave a lasting impression.
FAQ Resource
Is the Scavenger Machine Gun available in all Borderlands games?
No, the Scavenger Machine Gun is exclusive to Borderlands 3 and is not available in previous games in the series.
What is the maximum damage output of the Scavenger Machine Gun?
The maximum damage output of the Scavenger Machine Gun is 1500, making it one of the most powerful machine guns in the series.
Is the Scavenger Machine Gun a good choice for long-range combat?
No, the Scavenger Machine Gun is designed for close-range combat and is not effective at long range due to its short barrel.