Since the release of the Flashpoint Update, ARC Raiders has introduced a range of new content to keep players engaged, and the Canto SMG stands out as one of the most sought-after additions. This rapid-fire submachine gun uses medium ammo, blending solid damage with manageable recoil, making it a versatile choice for both close and medium-range combat. To craft and use this powerful weapon, however, you first need to track down its blueprint-a task that requires strategy, patience, and a bit of luck. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you find the Canto SMG Blueprint in ARC Raiders.
The Core Method: Hurricane Map Condition and First Wave Raider Caches
The most reliable way to obtain the Canto SMG Blueprint is by leveraging the Hurricane map condition, a temporary in-game event introduced with the Flashpoint Update. This map condition is the only setting where First Wave Raider Caches-special loot containers exclusive to Hurricanes-spawn, and these caches are the primary source of the ARC Raiders BluePrints.
First Wave Raider Caches look similar to standard Raider Caches but offer higher-value loot, including rare weapon blueprints, ammunition, and healing items. They emit a distinct electrical hum or ticking sound, which helps you locate them amid the chaos of the Hurricane. However, the strong winds of the Hurricane can muffle this sound, so you’ll need to stay alert and move carefully.
It’s important to note that the Canto SMG Blueprint is not a guaranteed drop from these caches. Like most rare blueprints in ARC Raiders, it has a random drop chance, meaning you may need to open multiple caches across several Hurricane runs to find it. Persistence is key here-don’t get discouraged if you don’t find it on your first try.
High-Loot Locations to Focus On
While First Wave Raider Caches can spawn anywhere during the Hurricane condition, they are more likely to appear in high-loot areas across ARC Raiders’ maps. Targeting these locations will streamline your search and increase your chances of finding the blueprint.
Dam Battlegrounds is one of the best maps to farm for the Canto SMG Blueprint. It features a high concentration of potential cache spawn points, including the Hydroponic Dome Complex, Control Tower, and Blue Gate. Experienced players often favor Blue Gate for its consistent cache spawns, making it a top choice for efficient farming.
Stella Montis is another map worth exploring, particularly its Medical Research and Cultural Archives areas, which are known for high loot density. However, avoid wasting time in Stella Montis’ snowy, remote regions-caches are far less common there, and the harsh environment can drain your resources unnecessarily.
Other high-loot locations to check include the Buried City, Hospital, Spaceport (Arrival and Departure Buildings), Town Hall, and Pilgrim’s Peak. These areas often have additional security lockers and containers that can boost your overall loot yield, even if they don’t directly spawn the Canto Blueprint.
Tips to Boost Your Drop Chance
Beyond targeting the right map condition and locations, there are several strategies to increase your odds of finding the Canto SMG Blueprint. One effective tip is to deploy during the Night Raid map condition, which provides an item discovery boost for all players-especially for loot hidden behind locked doors. Combining Night Raid with the Hurricane condition can significantly improve your chances.
Travel light with a “naked” loadout when farming for the blueprint. This means ditching unnecessary gear to keep your inventory empty, allowing you to instantly secure the blueprint in your safe pocket if you find it. If you don’t locate a cache within a few minutes, surrender and restart the raid to save time and resources.
Additionally, keep an eye on weekly ARC Raiders Trials. While not a guaranteed source, these trials sometimes feature rare blueprints-including the Canto SMG Blueprint-as rewards for completion. Checking the weekly trial rewards can be a helpful secondary method to obtain the blueprint.
What to Do After Finding the Blueprint
Once you’ve found the Canto SMG Blueprint, you’ll need to extract it to Speranza to unlock the ability to craft the weapon. From there, head to your Gunsmith Station-you’ll need a Level 3 Gunsmith Station to craft the Canto SMG, so make sure to upgrade your workbench if you haven’t already.
The crafting requirements are relatively affordable for a rare weapon. You’ll need 2x Advanced Mechanical Components, 5x Magnets, and 3x Medium Gun Parts. These cheap ARC Raiders Materials can be obtained by crafting, recycling unwanted weapons (like the Venator or Renegade), scavenging, or purchasing from Celeste in Speranza.
Once crafted, the Canto SMG becomes a valuable addition to your loadout. It offers a balance of damage and fire rate, filling a gap between the Bobcat and Stitcher SMGs. With four modification slots, you can customize it to suit your playstyle, making it effective in both PvP and PvE scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Finding the Canto SMG Blueprint in ARC Raiders requires a mix of strategy and patience. By focusing on the Hurricane map condition, targeting high-loot locations like Dam Battlegrounds and Blue Gate, and using tips to boost your drop chance, you’ll eventually secure this sought-after blueprint.
Remember that the blueprint is a rare drop, so don’t get discouraged if it takes multiple attempts. The Canto SMG’s affordability and versatility make it well worth the effort-once crafted, it will become a reliable weapon for taking down ARC enemies and dominating raids. Now gear up, monitor the in-game schedule for Hurricane conditions, and start your hunt for the Canto SMG Blueprint.