Best Fallout 4 melee build: Perks, stats, itemization, and more

Best melee build in Fallout 4.
Best melee build in Fallout 4 (Image via Bethesda Softworks)

With the best Fallout 4 melee build, you can potentially dominate the close-quarters combat in the wastelands. Charging into battle with fists, swords, or even super sledgehammers offers a unique and thrilling playstyle. Maximizing the effectiveness of such a build can yield brutal damage outputs that will shake the Commonwealth and the wastelands.

This guide dives into crafting the ultimate melee character, from essential stats and perks to the best weapons and armor.

Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.


Fallout 4 melee build starting stats: SPECIAL point distribution

Distribute stats properly for the best Fallout 4 melee build (Image via Bethesda Softworks)
Distribute stats properly for the best Fallout 4 melee build (Image via Bethesda Softworks)

In Fallout 4, your S.P.E.C.I.A.L. points (Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility, and Luck) become the foundation for your character. For a melee build, focusing on Strength is a no-brainer. It increases your melee damage and carrying weight, letting you haul around heavier weapons and armor.

Endurance is another key stat, boosting your health and stamina, crucial for surviving enemy blows and powering through attacks. You'll also want to consider a bit of Agility for better movement and Action Points (AP) for VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) combat.


Juggernaut vs Ninja: Fallout 4 melee playstyles explained

Juggernaut build in Fallout 4 (Image via Bethesda Softworks)
Juggernaut build in Fallout 4 (Image via Bethesda Softworks)

For the best Fallout 4 melee builds, two main play styles stand out: the Juggernaut and the Ninja, both of which are highly powerful builds. The Juggernaut charges headfirst, a walking tank in heavy armor that shrugs off enemy attacks while landing powerful blows.

In contrast, Ninjas are masters of assassination who prefer a more stealthy approach. They use light armor for agility and sneak in close before unleashing devastating surprise attacks.


Best perks to take for a Melee build in Fallout 4

When it comes to perks for the best Fallout 4 melee build, you'll be unlocking special abilities that enhance and focus on your melee prowess.

  • Big Leagues from the Strength category are essential, boosting your raw damage output.
  • Iron Fist helps you ignore enemy armor, making every deal considerable damage.
  • Blitz focuses on Agility, a powerful VATS perk that lets you close the distance and strike instantly.

We recommend using these perks for both Juggernaut and Ninja builds, ensuring you have the best combination to take down any foe.

Read more: How to get Power Armor in Fallout 4


Best weapons to use for a melee build in Fallout 4

Many weapons pair with the best Fallout 4 melee build (Image via Bethesda Softworks)
Many weapons pair with the best Fallout 4 melee build (Image via Bethesda Softworks)

A treasure trove of brutal weapon options can pair with the best Fallout 4 melee build. Early on, a trusty baseball bat or Grognak's Axe can get the job done. As you progress, consider unique weapons like the flaming Shishkebab or the super sledge for devastating two-handed swings.

Legendary effects like Instigating for bonus damage on the first hit or Vampire for health drain on enemies can turn these weapons into wasteland dominators.


With the right approach, the best melee build in Fallout 4 can turn you into a wasteland powerhouse. By following this guide, you'll have the foundation to create a brutal combat specialist.


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