How to Master the SMG-32 Reprimand in Helldivers 2

The SMG-32 Reprimand stands out in the Helldivers 2 arsenal as a submachine gun designed to hit harder than most of its peers. Unlike lighter SMGs that focus on sheer fire rate, the Reprimand opts for high per-shot damage and medium armor penetration, positioning itself as a hybrid between a traditional SMG and a lightweight assault rifle.

Weapon Overview

• Category: Primary Weapon – Submachine Gun
• Damage: 125 ballistic
• Armor Penetration: AP3 (Medium)
• Magazine Size: 25 rounds
• Fire Rate: 490 RPM
• DPS: 1020
• Reload Time: 3.5s (2.1s tactical)
• Spare Magazines: 9
• Unlock Source: Truth Enforcers Premium Warbond (Page 2) – 40 Medals

From the numbers alone, it's clear that the Reprimand trades raw speed for stopping power. Each bullet has enough punch to stagger and punish medium-armored targets, but the low magazine size and slower reload time create a demanding rhythm for players.

Performance in Combat

Strengths

1. Medium Armor Penetration – Unlike most SMGs, the Reprimand isn't relegated to trash mobs only. AP3 rounds make it capable of reliably piercing through medium-armored enemies, widening its tactical role.
2. High Per-Shot Damage – At 125 ballistic damage per round, enemies feel the impact immediately. It rewards accuracy and careful trigger discipline.
3. Versatile Firing Modes – Auto, burst, and semi-auto options allow for flexible engagement ranges, especially when paired with optics.
4. Attachment Options – While ergonomics start weak, access to foregrips, optics, and muzzle devices helps tailor the weapon to your preferred handling style.

Weaknesses

1. Low Rate of Fire – At only 490 RPM, the Reprimand struggles in situations where overwhelming volume of fire is needed.
2. Limited Magazine Capacity – With only 25 rounds per mag, reloads come quickly and often.
3. Slow Reload Speed – A full empty reload takes 3.5 seconds, punishing players who get caught mid-fight.
4. No One-Handed Use – Unlike other SMGs, the Reprimand cannot be used while carrying mission-critical items or coordinating with stratagems like the Directional Shield.

For players who enjoy weapons that emphasize precision over raw spray, the SMG-32 Reprimand is a strong choice, but it demands discipline and planning around its reload cycle. If you’re looking to unlock it faster and experiment with its unique role on the battlefield, there are always Buy helldivers 2 medals for sale options that can help you reach the required Warbond tier without the grind.

Attachments and Handling

The Reprimand benefits heavily from recoil-reducing attachments.

• Vertical Foregrip or Flashlight Foregrip helps tame vertical kick.
• Reflex or Holographic sights smooth out target acquisition, while the 1.5x Tube Red Dot provides a small edge at mid-range.
• Flash Hider or Muzzle Brake mitigate recoil at the cost of ergonomics, which already feels clunky compared to other SMGs.

Traits like Engineering Kit or Fortified make a big difference, cutting recoil by up to 30%. Meanwhile, Siege-Ready shines with this gun, reducing reload time and adding two spare mags—perfect for offsetting its main weaknesses.

Tactical Role

The SMG-32 Reprimand thrives in close-to-mid range firefights where armored enemies are present. It's not a crowd control weapon like the StA-11, nor is it as versatile as an assault rifle, but it carves out a niche as a precision tool for disciplined players. Think of it as a scalpel compared to the usual SMG buzzsaw.

When piloted by someone who can pace their shots, manage reloads, and pick engagements carefully, the Reprimand feels like a rewarding alternative to standard SMGs. However, its unforgiving magazine and ergonomics mean casual spray-and-pray players may find it frustrating.

Summary

The SMG-32 Reprimand is a submachine gun that challenges players to slow down and value each shot. Its blend of medium armor penetration and strong per-shot damage makes it one of the more unique primaries in Helldivers 2, but only in the hands of someone willing to adapt to its reload demands and lack of one-handed utility. If you're tired of the usual SMG spray and want a weapon with punch and personality, the Reprimand is worth the medals.

• Strengths: Medium armor penetration, high per-shot damage, flexible firing modes, strong attachments.
• Weaknesses: Small mags, slow reloads, poor ergonomics, cannot be one-handed.
• Best For: Players who prefer accuracy and tactical pacing over raw DPS spam.