Among the many tools available to Helldivers, few stand out like the Helldivers 2 SMG-72 Pummeler: Best SMG for One-Handed Play and Stun Power. This compact weapon redefines what it means to balance mobility, control, and utility. Whether you’re dual-wielding while carrying objectives or locking down waves of Terminids, the Pummeler offers exceptional versatility and reliability.
Weapon Overview
The SMG-72 Pummeler is a close-quarters weapon that excels in crowd control. Unlike most submachine guns, it’s designed around stun mechanics rather than raw damage. Each shot releases a concussive round capable of staggering light to medium enemies, giving you crucial breathing room during chaotic encounters.
Because it’s a one-handed weapon, you can use it in combination with other tools like a shield generator or grenade. This makes it especially useful for solo players or support roles in high-difficulty missions where survivability and adaptability matter most.
Strengths of the SMG-72 Pummeler

1. Exceptional Stun Potential – The Pummeler’s impact rounds are its main selling point. They can interrupt melee attacks, giving your squad an opening to counterattack or retreat.
2. Great for Objective Play – Being one-handed means you can carry mission-critical items—like black boxes or samples—while still defending yourself effectively.
3. High Rate of Fire with Manageable Recoil – While not as powerful as the SG-8 or the Liberator, its fire rate ensures enemies stay locked down.
4. Team Utility – It’s a perfect weapon for players who prefer to play support, creating openings for allies to land killing blows on stunned targets.

Weaknesses to Consider
No weapon is flawless, and the Helldivers 2 SMG-72 Pummeler is no exception. Its biggest drawback is its limited killing power—its stun effect doesn’t scale well against heavy armored foes. Additionally, its effective range is short, forcing players into risky proximity engagements.To compensate, pairing it with a powerful secondary like the Railgun or EAT-17 can balance out its low damage output.
Best Loadouts and Strategies
To get the most out of the SMG-72 Pummeler, focus on synergy:

• Primary Loadout: Pair the Pummeler with a long-range or armor-piercing weapon, such as the Breaker or Railgun, for balanced combat coverage.
• Support Stratagems: The Shield Generator Pack complements the Pummeler perfectly, letting you withstand more hits while using the SMG aggressively.
• Tactical Use: Aim for crowd control—use the Pummeler to keep smaller enemies stunned while teammates handle larger threats. Its rapid stun output can also protect objectives from swarm attacks.

The Helldivers 2 SMG-72 Pummeler: Best SMG for One-Handed Play and Stun Power isn’t about raw firepower—it’s about tactical control. Players who master its stun timing and mobility will find it invaluable in clutch moments, especially during chaotic extraction phases or objective defenses.