The LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle is one of the most distinctive and experimental weapons introduced in Helldivers 2. Designed for players who favor aggressive, close-to-mid-range combat, the Sickle offers a mix of precision, sustained damage, and high-risk, high-reward gameplay. This Helldivers 2 – LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle Guide breaks down how to maximize its potential, where it shines, and what tactics can help you dominate the battlefield with this laser powerhouse.
Understanding the LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle
The LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle is a directed-energy rifle that fires a continuous laser beam, capable of slicing through medium armor and tearing through enemy hordes with pinpoint accuracy. Unlike ballistic rifles, it doesn’t rely on ammo reserves but instead builds up heat over time. This makes it excellent for sustained engagements, as long as you manage its temperature carefully.
Its key strength lies in its ability to maintain pressure without reload interruptions. However, overcharging the Sickle will trigger an automatic cooldown, leaving you vulnerable for a few seconds. Skilled players can “feather” the trigger—short bursts instead of full beams—to keep the weapon in its optimal heat range.
Best Situations to Use the Sickle
The Sickle performs best in missions with dense enemy spawns or defensive objectives. Its laser can cut down waves of Automatons and Terminids efficiently when fired in controlled bursts.
Ideal Range: Mid-range combat (10–30 meters).
Enemy Types: Medium-armored units, flying drones, and light vehicles.
Mission Types: Defend, Retrieve, and Eradicate objectives where sustained firepower is crucial.
The weapon struggles in long-range encounters due to damage drop-off and overheating under sustained pressure, so pairing it with a secondary weapon like the LAS-5 Scythe or the AR-23 Liberator helps cover its weaknesses.
Tips for Managing Heat and Accuracy
Managing heat is the Sickle’s main challenge. The weapon’s overheating mechanic can turn it from a deadly precision tool into a liability. Follow these tips to stay efficient:
Use Short Controlled Bursts: Tap the trigger to maintain accuracy and prevent overheating.
Take Advantage of Cooldown Windows: Move between cover or reposition while the weapon cools.
Aim for Weak Spots: The Sickle’s laser excels at precision—target joints or headplates for maximum damage.
Avoid Overcharge Deathtraps: Continuous firing without pause will force a long cooldown and leave you open to enemy attacks.
Recommended Loadouts and Stratagem Synergy
To get the most out of the LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle, consider pairing it with equipment that complements its continuous fire and range limitations:
Support Stratagems: The Shield Generator Pack provides protection during cooldowns.
Secondary Weapon: Choose a shotgun or high-damage pistol for close-range emergencies.
Grenades: EMP or Incendiary grenades help control enemy swarms when the Sickle overheats.
A well-balanced loadout ensures that you’re never left defenseless when the weapon reaches critical heat levels.
The LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle is not for the faint-hearted. It rewards precision, patience, and technical mastery—traits that separate novice Helldivers from veterans. Once you’ve learned to manage its heat system and maximize its range, it becomes one of the most efficient and satisfying tools for clearing out waves of enemies in Helldivers 2.
Whether you’re defending extraction zones or pushing through enemy territory, mastering this weapon will elevate your squad’s effectiveness and prove why the Helldivers 2 – LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle Guide is essential reading for any serious player.
