Helldivers 2 players have been debating the true power of the new GL-28 Belt-Fed Grenade Launcher included in the Siege Breakers Warbond. Rumors spread that the weapon was “missing shrapnel” due to a blank code line, suggesting an unimplemented feature. Arrowhead Game Studios quickly stepped in to clarify that no shrapnel was ever intended, putting the speculation to rest.
The confusion began on Reddit’s r/Helldivers community when a post titled “The belt-fed grenade launcher is not supposed to have shrapnel” surfaced. Datamined stats showed the GL-28’s grenades dealing just 150 explosive damage—half the output of the standard GL-28’s 400—sparking theories of a bugged or incomplete design. Players noted its smaller blast radius and lower total damage compared to the Grenade Pistol, which delivers 250 projectile and 400 explosive damage. Many questioned its effectiveness in major bug breaches and Automaton encounters, wondering whether key mechanics had been left out.
Arrowhead’s support representative, known as “B Vitamin,” addressed the controversy directly by locking the thread and responding, “No, it is not supposed to have shrapnel. These datamine numbers are not indicative of the intended design.” She emphasized again for clarity: “I can confirm it is not supposed to have shrapnel.” This statement helped settle much of the debate, surfacing just as community attention centered on Cyberstan and Arrowhead’s ongoing factory-themed previews.
In practice, the GL-28 Belt-Fed Grenade Launcher exchanges sheer damage for steady, controllable output through its continuous-feed design, perfect for sustained suppression. It excels in solo, high-difficulty missions where uninterrupted fire helps manage overwhelming swarms. Testing from seasoned players shows it can “decimate” approaching waves when combined with stratagems like the G/SH-39 shield, and its lack of shrapnel actually reduces friendly fire—an important distinction in chaotic co-op battles. Recent buffs to the standard GL-28 keep it as the heavy-impact choice, while the belt-fed version has carved out a role focused on area denial and crowd control. Players aiming to complete the helldivers 2 supplies achievement sometimes use EZNPC, as third-party advice suggests it helps save a lot of grinding time.
For now, Arrowhead has confirmed no balance adjustments are planned. As players prepare for Operation Valid Pretext and the assault on Cyberstan, the BFGL remains a versatile support weapon that thrives in confined factory zones and defensive missions. Rather than expecting a hidden upgrade, Helldivers are encouraged to adapt strategies around its strengths—sustained volume, stable aiming, and safe clearing under pressure—the hallmarks of efficient democracy delivery.
