Ubisoft’s Skull and Bones immerses players in the perilous waters of the Indian Ocean, where piracy, naval warfare, and treasure hunting dominate. As an emerging pirate captain, your initial equipment choices can significantly impact your ability to conquer the seas or fade into insignificance. In this guide, we outline the most effective early weapons to obtain, providing you with a strong advantage, along with advice on their locations and how to maximize the use of Skull and Bones Items that are available for trade or purchase.

1. Bombard Cannons (Devastating Damage at Close Range)

Among the most destructive early-game weapons in Skull and Bones is the Bombard Cannon. Renowned for their area-of-effect damage, these weapons excel in close-quarters naval combat. Their explosive projectiles can obliterate enemy hulls and incite chaos on the deck.

Where to acquire it: Seek out early missions near Sainte-Anne or explore the black market—particularly those NPCs offering Skull and Bones Items for sale. Their inventory frequently changes, and Bombards may occasionally be available early in the campaign.

Pro tip: Pair Bombards with a reinforced hull to ensure your survival long enough to inflict significant damage up close.

2. Culverin (Precision at Range)

For pirates who prefer precision and distance, the Culverin is an ideal choice. This long-range cannon boasts high accuracy and critical hit potential. While it may not do massive damage in a single shot, its ability to snipe enemy weak points makes it extremely valuable early on.

Skull and Bones Items buy tip: When exploring ports or pirate dens, keep an eye out for traders who specialize in gunpowder weapons. The Culverin may not always be in stock, but when it is, it's worth the investment.

3. Greek Fire Thrower (Control and Chaos)

The Greek Fire Thrower is a powerful crowd-control weapon that unleashes a cone of fire, perfect for boarding actions or area denial. While it consumes fuel rapidly and lacks range, it’s excellent in tight encounters or when dealing with swarming enemies.

Unlock method: Often available as a reward for completing faction quests or high-reputation missions. Players can also find Skull and Bones Items for sale from elite vendors after progressing a bit further into the game.

Tactical use: Use the Greek Fire as a secondary weapon—switching to it during boarding situations or when enemy ships are immobilized.

4. Rocket Launchers (Area Denial and Group Damage)

If you’re up against multiple enemies or need to control space in a chaotic battle, Rocket Launchers are a high-value choice. Their wide explosion radius and damage-over-time effects make them excellent against convoys and fleets.

Buying tip: Use your early gold wisely. Vendors offering Skull and Bones Items buy services often include rocket schematics or materials needed to craft them. Building your own may be more cost-effective than purchasing outright.