Borderlands 4: How to Get More Weapon Slots

As in previous games in the series, Borderlands 4 features several weapon slots. These allow you to switch between guns with a single keypress, without having to open your inventory. In this guide, you’ll learn how to unlock additional gun slots.

First of all, it’s worth noting that these slots are for light firearms — pistols, assault rifles, SMGs, sniper rifles, and shotguns. Grenades have a separate slot. Heavy artillery is also equipped independently of your other weapons; it doesn’t consume ammo but has a long reload time. There’s also an energy shield, and some versions can even deal damage to enemies. This gadget has its own dedicated slot.

The choice of which weapons you place in quick access can significantly boost your combat effectiveness. Ideally, you should equip guns that use different types of ammo; otherwise, you may run into ammo shortages. We recommend equipping guns with varying effective ranges in your slots.

For example, a shotgun performs well at close range, while a sniper rifle is excellent for hitting distant targets. In the later stages of the game, it’s important to consider elemental damage. Some enemies have increased resistance to certain elements (fire, electricity, corrosion) and vulnerability to others.

And if you want to collect unique weapons, check out our guide.

Initially, only two slots are available. At the very beginning of the game, there aren’t many guns, so you won’t need more. Over time, you’ll start finding shotguns, SMGs, and other types of weapons that you’ll need to juggle to maximize your damage against enemies.

The third slot unlocks at level 5. By then, you’ll likely have completed the linear tutorial segment and reached the open world. To gain experience, don’t limit yourself to story quests—complete side quests, fight local bandits and monsters, and search for vaults. Borderlands 4 is packed with optional activities, each of which will earn you additional skill points.

The fourth and final slot unlocks at level 8. This means you can unlock all weapon slots right at the start of your playthrough.