In *Atomfall*, upgrading weapons not only boosts their stats but also gives them a sleek new skin and can unlock the prestigious 'Make do and mend' trophy. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to upgrade your weapons in *Atomfall*.
How to Unlock the Gunsmithing Skill in Atomfall

Speak to Morris at his Village Shop
To unlock the crafting recipes for upgraded weapons in *Atomfall*, you first need to acquire the Gunsmithing skill. This survival skill is learned by reading the Crafting Manual, which can be a bit tricky to find. However, there’s a straightforward way to obtain it.
Morris Wick, located at the Village Shop in Wyndham, possesses a copy of the Crafting Manual. Acquiring it from him isn't as simple as bartering; you'll need to engage in some strategic blackmail. Upon entering St. Katherine’s Church, you'll uncover a recent murder of Maisie, which the Vicar is desperate to keep under wraps. Further investigation will lead you to evidence implicating Morris in the crime.
To find this evidence, head to the Brewery Cellar at coordinates 30.5 E, 80.5 N in the west of Wyndham Village. Enter the cellar through a door near a ruined building and search for a note titled "Kill the One They Call Maisie". After obtaining this note, return to Morris' Village Shop at 33.3 E, 79.9 N. Engage in dialogue that pressures Morris without outright threats until you reach the "Bargaining" option. Choosing this will result in Morris handing over the Crafting Manual in exchange for your silence.
Alternatively, the Crafting Manual can be found in the D Section of The Interchange, though this method is more challenging and time-consuming.
Once you have the Crafting Manual, read it and spend 7 Training Stimulants to unlock the Gunsmith skill. This skill will grant you the recipes needed to craft upgraded weapons. Training Stimulants can be found in B.A.R.D. structures such as Bunkers and The Interchange.
How to Craft Weapon Upgrades in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
With the Crafting Manual and Gunsmith skill in hand, you can now craft weapon upgrades. Each weapon you acquire will unlock the recipe for its next highest tier, progressing from Rusty to Stock, and finally to Pristine. To upgrade a weapon, you'll need two copies of it from the previous tier, along with a specific amount of Gun Oil and Scrap, which varies by weapon.
For instance, upgrading the Falkirk Battle Rifle to Pristine requires 2 Falkirk Battle Rifle (Stock) items, 3 Gun Oil, and 6 Scrap. These materials are commonly found at military installations, particularly at Protocol Camps. If you're planning to upgrade weapons frequently, consider investing in the Deep Pockets survival skill to increase your carrying capacity for crafting supplies.
Upgrading a weapon to Pristine for the first time will earn you the 'Make do and mend' Achievement or Trophy, adding a satisfying reward to your crafting efforts.
*Atomfall* is currently available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Game Pass, allowing players across various platforms to enjoy and master the art of weapon upgrading.