The Railgun is one of the most exciting weapons you can own in GTA 5. It’s not just another big gun – it fires a glowing energy shot that can blow up a car or send enemies flying with a single pull of the trigger. If you’ve seen it in videos or during missions and wondered, “How do I get that?” this guide is for you.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know: what the Railgun does, every way to unlock it in Story Mode and GTA Online, how much money you’ll need, and a few extra tips so you don’t waste time (or cash).
Why the Railgun Is So Special
Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand why players chase this weapon:
- Insane Power – One shot can destroy most vehicles, even armored ones, if you aim right.
- Cool Factor – It’s a sci-fi style gun with a loud zap sound and bright light. It feels different from regular rifles or explosives.
- No Ammo Worries – Instead of bullets, it uses energy rounds that recharge quickly.
Because of all this, Rockstar made it a bit harder to get than other weapons. That’s why you won’t see it sitting in every Ammu-Nation shop right away.
Getting the Railgun in Story Mode
Story Mode is the offline single-player part of GTA 5 where you play as Franklin, Michael, and Trevor. Here’s the full process:
Play the Mission Where You First See It
The Railgun first appears in the “Minor Turbulence” mission. During the mission, Trevor uses it for a short time. Sadly, you can’t keep it afterward – but it’s a fun preview.
Make Sure You Have the Right Version of the Game
You’ll only be able to buy the Railgun if you’re playing the Enhanced Edition of GTA 5 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One/Series X|S, or PC). The older Xbox 360 and PS3 versions don’t have it in the stores.
Find the Right Ammu-Nation Store
Not every shop sells the Railgun. You need to visit an Ammu-Nation with a shooting range icon on the map. These are the “special” stores. Drive there, walk in, and go to the weapon counter.
Check the Price and Buy
The Railgun costs around $250,000 in Story Mode. Make sure you have enough cash.
Money tips:
- Replay big heists like the Pacific Standard Job.
- Complete side missions and random events for quick cash.
- Sell expensive cars to Los Santos Customs if you need extra.
Customize and Test
Once bought, you can add tints and take it straight to a shooting range to get used to its charge-up fire. Remember: it takes a second to charge before shooting, so aim carefully.
Getting the Railgun in GTA Online
GTA Online works a little differently because Rockstar wants players to keep hunting for special weapons. Here’s how to grab it:
Look for the Gun Van
The Railgun is sold only through a roaming Gun Van, not regular stores.
- The van moves to a new location every real-world day.
- You can check fan sites, the official Rockstar Newswire, or GTA Online community updates to see where it is today.
- Locations are marked by a small gun-van icon once you get close.
Visit the Van and Buy the Railgun
Walk up to the NPC inside the van and open his menu. The Railgun usually costs around $730,000 in Online mode. Yes, it’s pricey, but worth it.
Stock Up on Rounds
Even though the gun uses energy, you still need to buy ammo for it in Online. Pick up plenty while you’re there so you’re ready for PvP or missions.
Also Read: GTA 5 Stunt Jumps Map and Tips: Find Every Location Fast
Earning Money Fast for the Railgun
The high price tag can be scary, but here are quick ways to grind cash:
- Heists and Cayo Perico Runs – Big payouts if you have a good crew or play smart solo.
- VIP/CEO Work – Register as a CEO or VIP and do Sightseer or Headhunter missions.
- Nightclub or Bunker – Great for passive income if you’ve already invested.
- Double-Money Events – Check the weekly Rockstar bonuses; sometimes missions pay double.
Play a few nights of solid grinding and you’ll have the money.
Pro Tips for Using the Railgun
- Aim Before Charging – Hold the trigger to charge, then release to fire. Don’t charge too early or you’ll waste time.
- Perfect for Vehicles – It’s excellent against cars, choppers, or boats because of the instant damage.
- Stay Mobile – The charge sound warns enemies. Keep moving so they can’t line up a shot on you.
Final Thoughts
The moment you fire the Railgun, Los Santos changes. The electric hum, the blinding flash, the instant wreckage – it’s like holding a piece of the future, and everyone around you knows it.
To recap:
- Story Mode – Visit a special Ammu-Nation store in the Enhanced Edition and pay about $250K.
- GTA Online – Track down the daily Gun Van and buy it for roughly $730K.
Save your cash, follow the steps above, and soon you’ll be lighting up the night with that famous zap. Have fun, and don’t forget to screenshot your first explosion – it’s worth it!
FAQs
Where is the Railgun located in GTA 5 story mode?
You can buy the Railgun only in the Enhanced Edition of GTA 5 (PS4, PS5, Xbox One/Series X|S, or PC). Visit an Ammu-Nation store with a shooting-range icon on the map. These special shops sell the weapon once you’ve progressed far enough in the story and have the cash.
How to buy the Railgun in GTA Online?
In GTA Online, the Railgun isn’t in regular stores. It’s sold through a roaming Gun Van that changes location every real-world day. Check the daily community updates or explore the map until you spot the small gun-van icon. Approach the van, talk to the vendor, and purchase the Railgun for around $730,000.
What’s the best way to use the Railgun effectively?
Hold the trigger to charge the shot before firing – this delivers maximum damage in one blast. It’s perfect for destroying vehicles, helicopters, or groups of enemies from a safe distance. Stay on the move while charging so opponents can’t target you easily.
What are the unlock requirements for the Railgun?
For Story Mode, you need the Enhanced Edition of the game and enough money (about $250,000). For GTA Online, there are no special missions to unlock it – just locate the Gun Van and have enough in-game cash to buy it.
