Keelhauler
The Keelhauler is a unique automatic .43 MI ballistic pistol consistently cited as one of the best guns across the entire game, especially for Gunslinger builds. It fires automatically with a bonus on its fourth shot and carries Staggering, Frenzy and Berserker effects, and its base damage, accuracy and legendary perks synergise with Pistol Certification and high mobility. It stays relevant from acquisition through Shattered Space and Terran Armada content.
Role
Best-in-slot Gunslinger sidearm that outlasts the endgame.
Core Mechanic
Automatic .43 MI physical fire with an increased-damage/stagger 4th shot, plus Staggering + Frenzy + Berserker effects.
Rarity
Exceptional (unique)
Weapon
Ballistic Pistol
Overall Tier
OverallAPlaystyle
Automatic .43 MI pistol; 4th-shot bonus with Staggering/Frenzy/Berserker.
Recommended Builds
Gunslinger primary
Full guide →Center a Pistol Certification + mobility build on it; it can carry a whole run as a de-facto primary.
High-mobility sidearm
Full guide →Keep it as the burst/finisher slot next to a rifle; Superior rolls with crit/status stay relevant all game.
Best Attachments
- 4th-shot bonus + Staggering/Frenzy/Berserker (innate) — Its stacked native effect suite — the reason it out-punches its class.
- Kismet / crit (Tier 4 X-Tech) — Amplifies the stagger/status high-rolls that define its feel.
- Pistol grip/barrel mods — Standard pistol mods tune accuracy and handling for close mobility play.
Strengths
- +Punches far above the pistol class — viable as a primary.
- +Rich native effect suite (4th-shot bonus, Staggering, Frenzy, Berserker).
- +Low slot cost frees your primary for any meta rifle.
- +Stays relevant through the DLC/late-game.
Weaknesses
- −Pistol range and falloff cap it beyond mid-range.
- −Best realised inside a dedicated Gunslinger skill investment.
- −A clean Exceptional roll is a late-game chase.
Why This Tier
A on the Overall axis — the game's benchmark sidearm and a Gunslinger cornerstone, held under S only by pistol range.