Explosive Bolt
A hunter's answer to heavy armor, delivering raw concussive force in a single throw.
The Explosive Bolt is a staple piece of hunter gear within the post-apocalyptic world, serving as a versatile throwable device designed to deliver concentrated blast damage. Crafted by survivors using scavenged materials and synthetic resin, these projectiles are essential for taking down the mechanized fauna that roam the wilds. While elemental variants exist, the pure explosive version is prized for its ability to stagger heavy machines without applying status effects.
- Type
- Throwable Consumable
- Damage Type
- Blast / Area of Effect
- Crafting Material
- Resin and Metal Components
- Usage
- Single-use Projectile
- Primary Function
- Staggering Machines and Group Control
Lore & Background
These devices are particularly valued by Nora hunters who rely on precision rather than heavy weaponry. Unlike firearms that require scarce ammunition, Bolts can be crafted in the field whenever resin is available. The Explosive Bolt specifically fills a tactical niche: it lacks the lingering burn of fire or the stun of shock, but its immediate concussive force makes it ideal for breaking shields and exposing weak points on armored beasts.
In Their Own Story
Aloy crouched behind the moss-covered rock, her eyes fixed on the Grazers grazing near the riverbank. They were too close to the settlement, their heavy hides impenetrable to standard arrows. She reached into her pouch, fingers brushing against the smooth glass casing of a freshly crafted Explosive Bolt. With a flick of her wrist, she launched it through the air. The device arced silently before striking the lead machine's flank. A deafening boom shattered the quiet afternoon, sending shards of metal and earth flying as the beast stumbled, its armor cracked open for the killing blow.
Reader's Guide
The Explosive Bolt is a consumable item crafted using Resin and basic scrap materials found throughout the wilds. It does not have an upgrade path in the traditional sense, but its effectiveness relies on the player's crafting skill level which may increase damage potency. Strategically, these bolts excel at area denial and stagger mechanics. They are most effective when used against groups of smaller machines or to interrupt the attack patterns of larger units like Chargers. Because they deal pure blast damage, they bypass elemental resistances that might mitigate Fire or Shock effects. For maximum efficiency, aim for weak points exposed by other attacks. The explosion radius is moderate, so positioning is key to avoid self-damage when fighting in tight spaces or near allies.
Did You Know?
- Bolt crafting requires Resin, a material harvested from specific plants and machine parts found in the environment.
- Explosive Bolts are effective at breaking through the shielded armor of Chargers without needing elemental counters.
- The technology behind Bolts is derived from Old World chemical propulsion systems adapted by modern hunters.