Escape from Tarkov is a tough game where your choices can greatly impact your character. One of the first decisions you’ll face, even before getting to the main menu, is picking between Bear or USEC.
At first glance, new players might think this is just about appearance, but there’s more to it. The game doesn’t provide much info about this choice. If you’re curious about the things the game doesn’t explain when starting out in Tarkov, you’re in the right place.
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Based on 4 128 reviews Bear and USEC are two private military groups, often referred to as PMCs. When you pick Bear, you’re playing as a Russian soldier, while choosing USEC means you’re playing as an American. Bear was formed by the Russian government to oppose USEC’s actions in Russia. These PMCs are rivals, which influences your starting gear, appearance, the way your character speaks, and who you face in the game.
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In Tarkov, your clothing doesn’t give you any special abilities, but it helps you blend in and look cool. You can choose from different outfits that work better in green, urban, or foggy environments. Most clothing options are shades of gray, green, or tan, with a lot of green.
Bear and USEC each have 26 upper-body and 22 lower-body clothing options, but most of these outfits aren’t available right away. You’ll need to reach certain levels and spend in-game currency to unlock them. Bear’s outfits have a distinct Russian style, while USEC’s gear has a more American look. The clothing design reflects the origins of each faction, with Bear leaning towards Russian themes and USEC towards American ones.
The faction you choose also impacts the gear you start with. Both Bear and USEC receive basic gear, but USEC gets slightly better items. Bear characters get equipment typically used by Russian forces, while USEC characters get gear commonly found in American military use.
As a fun touch, you’ll also start with either Russian vodka or American whiskey, depending on your faction. On the official Tarkov website, you’ll notice that higher-priced editions of the game provide more and better gear, regardless of which faction you choose. You can upgrade your game version anytime, and the additional gear will be added when you do.
You get extra items based on your faction if you’ve bought the standard edition of the game. If you choose USEC, your starting equipment includes an ER Fulcrum Bayonet, while Bear characters start with a 6h5 Bayonet.
USEC players are equipped with the Blackhawk! Commando Chest Harness (3 pieces), whereas Bear players get the Triton M43-A chest harness (3 pieces).
When it comes to backpacks:
For headgear:
In terms of headsets:
For these submachine guns:
USEC characters get 20-round 9×19 MP5 magazines (8 pieces), while Bear characters get 30-round 9×19 PP-19-01 magazines (6 pieces). Additionally, USEC players have an M9A3 9×19 pistol (2 pieces), while Bear characters get the MP-443 “Grach” 9×19 pistol (2 pieces), along with 9 magazines for each pistol type.
In terms of rifles:
When it comes to grenades:
For ammunition:
Food and drinks are also provided:
Additionally, for a bit of flair, USEC players get a bottle of Dan Jackiel Whiskey, and Bear players start with a bottle of Tarkovskaya vodka.
If you own “The Unheard Edition” of Escape from Tarkov, you’ll receive additional items depending on whether you’ve chosen the USEC or BEAR faction.
Both factions get similar starting equipment, including the Gamma container (3×3 cells), a Weapon Case, Lucky Scav Junk Box, and an Ammunition Case. However, the weapons and gear they receive are specific to each faction.
USEC players will start with an HK MP7A1 4.6×30 submachine gun, while BEAR players get the SR-2M “Veresk” 9×21. In terms of rifles, USEC is equipped with an FN SCAR-L 5.56×45 (FDE) and a Knight’s Armament SR-25 7.62×51 marksman rifle. BEAR players, on the other hand, receive a Kalashnikov AK-105 5.45×39 and an SVDS 7.62x54R sniper rifle.
Both factions also come with specific magazines for their weapons: USEC players get HK MP7 4.6×30 30-round magazines (3 pieces) and FN SCAR-L 5.56×45 30-round magazines (3 pieces). Meanwhile, BEAR players are given SR-2M 9×21 30-round magazines (3 pieces) and AK-74 5.45×39 6L23 “Plum” 30-round magazines (3 pieces). For their marksman rifles, USEC receives AR-10 7.62×51 Magpul PMAG 20 SR-LR GEN M3 magazines (3 pieces), and BEAR gets SVD 7.62x54R 20-round magazines (3 pieces).
In terms of protective gear, USEC characters are equipped with the ECLiPSE RBAV-AF (Ranger Green) and Eagle Allied Industries MBSS (Coyote Brown). BEAR players receive the NPP KlASS Bagariy (Digital Flora) and WARTECH TV-115 (Olive Drab) plate carriers.
Both factions also start with a healthy amount of currency: 1,000,000 RUB, 1000 USD, and 500 EUR.
Finally, in terms of ammo, USEC characters start with 60 rounds of 7.62x51mm M80, 90 rounds of 5.56x45mm M856A1, and 90 rounds of 4.6x30mm JSP SX. BEAR players get 60 rounds of 7.62x54mm R PS gzh, 90 rounds of 5.45x39mm BT gs, and 90 rounds of 9x21mm BT gzh.
This special edition offers different starting gear depending on your faction, giving you a tailored experience.
Both Bear and USEC share a common enemy in Tarkov: scavs. These scavs, controlled by players or AI, are less dangerous but very common throughout the game. Another group you’ll encounter is the Rogues, former USECs now controlled by AI. Rogues are hostile to Bears but neutral towards USECs, unless you attack them or enter their area.
Rogues are only found at the Water Treatment Plant on the Lighthouse map. They are heavily armed and dangerous. As a USEC, you can choose to attack them, but they’ll stay hostile to you for a while after. If you have a Bear in your group, Rogues will target you, even if you’re a USEC.
The community around Escape from Tarkov is very active and helpful. There are numerous forums, YouTube channels, and Twitch streams dedicated to the game. If you’re unsure about your choice, you can always seek advice from the community. They can provide insights into the pros and cons of each faction and help you make an informed decision.
Additionally, the professionals at Leprestore can help with EFT Raid Coaching and guiding you to improve your decision-making in the game.
Picking between Bear and USEC in *Escape from Tarkov* isn’t just about how your character looks. Your decision impacts the gear you start with, the outfits you can wear, and even how you experience the game itself. Understanding the differences between these factions helps you choose the one that fits your style of play. If you lean toward a rough, survival-focused playstyle, Bear might be the better fit, offering gear commonly used by Russian forces.
On the other hand, USEC provides a more modern, tactical experience, with equipment that reflects Western military technology. Both sides bring their own flavor to the game, giving players unique ways to approach each raid. Whichever you choose, Bear or USEC, your gameplay will feel tailored to your preferences, making the whole experience in Tarkov even more thrilling and rewarding.
What is the main difference between USEC and BEAR?
USEC specializes in Western weapons and gear, while BEAR focuses on Russian-made equipment.
Does faction choice affect gameplay?
It mainly affects the type of equipment and voice lines your character uses, but gameplay mechanics are largely the same.
Which faction is better for beginners?
Both factions are balanced, so it’s a matter of personal preference based on gear and aesthetic.
Can I change my faction later?
No, once you choose your faction, it’s locked to that character for the wipe.
Do faction choices impact quest availability?
No, both factions have access to the same quests and tasks.
Does faction influence how other players treat you?
Not significantly, but some players may have preferences for grouping with one faction over the other.
Which faction has better weapons?
It depends on your playstyle—USEC prefers Western guns like the M4, while BEAR uses Russian weapons like the AK series.
Are there cosmetic differences between USEC and BEAR?
Yes, they have distinct uniforms and voices, which add to the immersion.
Can I play with friends if they are in a different faction?
Yes, USEC and BEAR players can team up in raids, regardless of faction.
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