Helldivers 2 Flag Weapon Guide: CQC-1 One True Flag
Image Credits: Arrowhead Game Studios, Helldivers 2
The CQC-1 One True Flag is a melee support weapon in Helldivers 2. While it might initially seem more meme than useful, this guide will break down what exactly this weapon does, if it's worth using, and how to effectively wield it on your missions.
How to Unlock the CQC-1 One True Flag
To unlock this patriotic weapon, head to page three of the Masters of Ceremony Premium Warbond. It'll cost you 110 Medals, so make sure you've got enough saved up.
Flag Weapon Stats and Details
Here's what you're getting when you choose to bring the flag along:
Weapon Type: Melee (One-handed)
Penetration Level: Medium (AP3)
Capacity: Infinite (No ammo needed)
Recoil: 8 (Very manageable)
Traits: Melee, Support Weapon, Hellpod
This weapon is infinite-use and primarily functions similar to the CQC-19 Stun Lance, without the stun effect.
How Does the Flag Actually Work?
When you use the CQC-1 One True Flag, you'll perform quick thrust attacks directly in front of your character. Here's how the attack works:
Drains stamina with each thrust (about 11 hits before full stamina drain).
Even when stamina is empty, you can still attack—though you'll notice reduced effectiveness.
Good for targeting weak points on enemies like heads or unarmored spots.
Has a narrow attack area, making precise targeting important.
Best Ways to Use the Flag
Pair with the Ballistic Shield
Because the flag has a limited frontal attack range, the SH-20 Ballistic Shield is a great partner. It helps protect your sides, letting you focus attacks right in front.
Wear Peak Physique Armor
Pairing the Flag with Peak Physique armor will double your melee damage, making the flag a viable damage dealer against enemies with medium armor or less.
Situational Use Against Chargers
The flag bypasses heavily armored parts, directly hitting vulnerable spots. This makes it surprisingly effective against enemies like Chargers, especially during acid storms when armor gets downgraded.
Is the Flag Actually Good?
Let's address the elephant in the room. Is this weapon practical? In short, it's mostly a novelty. However, there are some niche situations where it shines:
Great for targeted critical hits.
Works well as a lightweight melee alternative, especially paired with armor that boosts melee damage.
Effective for solo runs or missions where ammo management matters.
But if you're hoping for a game-changing, ultra-effective melee weapon, you might (aka WILL) feel let down.
Improvements the Community Wants
Players have suggested some cool improvements Arrowhead might consider, including:
Allowing the Flag to provide buffs like increased morale, stamina regeneration, or minor damage reduction when planted.
Making enemies prioritize attacking the planted Flag, drawing enemy attention away from Helldivers.
Adding a precision-strike style effect when the flag is planted, delivering area damage or stun.
These suggestions could make the weapon more than just a patriotic meme, and we’d be all for it.
Final Blurb on the CQC-1 One True Flag
The CQC-1 One True Flag isn't your top-tier, mission-critical stratagem. It's more a symbolic weapon that occasionally shows its value. Use it wisely, pair it smartly, and don't expect miracles. Or just plant it to boost your team's patriotic morale… Because freedom isn't always practical.
FAQ
Q: Is the One True Flag one-handed or two-handed?
It's officially one-handed, though it visually uses both hands unless paired with something like a Ballistic Shield.
Q: Does it stun enemies like the Stun Lance?
No, it deals similar damage but lacks the stun effect.
Q: Can you still attack without stamina using the Flag?
Yes, but your attacks become less effective once stamina runs out.
Q: What's the best armor to pair with the Flag?
Any Peak Physique armor doubles your melee damage, greatly increasing the Flag’s lethality.
Q: Is the Flag actually useful or just for memes?
It's mostly a novelty weapon. However, skilled use with certain armor can make it viable, especially in niche situations.