The Maximum is a useful unique weapon added in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl with the Cost of Hope expansion. This marksman rifle is hidden inside the CNPP, and getting it requires reaching a building and opening a locked room. The weapon is not tied to a faction choice, so you can collect it regardless of which side you support. That makes it especially convenient for players building a complete collection without sacrificing a preferred story route.
The Maximum is located inside the Module IB building in the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (CNPP) region. Since CNPP is a late-game area, you cannot simply travel there at the beginning of the expansion. You first need to progress through the story until you complete the main quest The Road to the Center of the Storm, which gives you access to the region.
Once CNPP becomes accessible, locate the white Module IB building. It is positioned toward the southeastern part of the region. The building is easy to recognize on the map.
Before entering, make sure you have suitable radiation protection. The interior has dangerous radiation levels, so wear a SEVA-based suit or better protection.
How to Unlock the Locked Room
Enter Module IB through the unlocked door on the side of the building. Move through the corridor, find the staircase on the right, and take it to the second floor.
You will reach the keypad door containing the Maximum. You only need a four-digit code to open it.
Enter:
2014
The keypad will unlock the door immediately. You can then enter the room and claim the weapon. No extra quest objective is required, making this a simple hidden weapon pickup.
You can enter the code directly, so finding a document is unnecessary. The Map of CNPP Monolith Stashes document also reveals the code; it is in a safe on the roof of Turbine Hall.
Pick Up the Maximum
Inside, the Maximum is sitting on a workbench or desk. Interact with it to add the rifle to your inventory.
You can also collect ammunition and bandages. A safe inside contains additional supplies, so search the room before leaving the building. Doing everything in one trip is sensible because returning through a heavily irradiated building is an unnecessary risk.
Maximum Rifle Stats and Features
The Maximum is a unique configuration of the SVU-MK S-3 and uses 7.62×54 ammunition. It suits accurate, long-range engagements while allowing faster follow-up shots than many sniper rifles.
Its main statistics are:
- Damage: 3.3
- Handling: 2.5
- Rate of Fire: 1.3
- Range: 4.3
- Accuracy: 3.8
- Weight: 5.462
- Caliber: 7.62×54
The rifle also comes with modifications, including a suppressor. Its range, damage, and firing speed make it useful against armored enemies and distant targets.
Is the Maximum Worth Getting?
Yes, especially if you prefer a long-range playstyle. The Maximum arrives late, but remains useful. Enemies are more dangerous by CNPP, making a dependable marksman rifle valuable.
Another advantage is that there is no faction requirement. Unlike several Cost of Hope weapons, you do not have to choose between Duty and Freedom to obtain the Maximum. It is one of the safest unique weapons to add to your collection.
The main drawback is its weight. At 5.462, it can consume a meaningful portion of your carrying capacity, especially if you already carry several heavy weapons and supplies. Inventory management matters throughout the Zone, so consider whether its long-range role fits your current loadout before carrying it alongside another heavy firearm.
