RE9 Tank Build (W870 + Iron Skin)

Author note: Written by Jachin, a 23-year Resident Evil series fan based in Seoul, South Korea. This guide is based on 6 full RE9 playthroughs on PS5 and Steam (Casual → Insanity → NG+ Insanity completions). All strategies, timings, and locations have been personally tested across the v1.02 patch. AI tools were used only for grammar review and note organization; no AI-generated content appears in strategy analysis.

Verified on: v1.02 + DLC patch · Last reviewed: May 30, 2026 · About the author · Editorial policies

PUBLISHED JUNE 2026 · DEEP GUIDE · v1.02 VERIFIED
✓ SPOILER LEVEL: LOW

The Tank Build absorbs damage and refuses to die. Built around W870 Police shotgun (close combat S-tier), Iron Skin charm (-15% damage from all sources), and Survivor’s Will (+50% healing from herbs). Trade DPS for survivability.

Complete Loadout

SlotPick
Primary weaponW870 Police shotgun T3
SecondaryRequiem Revolver T2 (boss kills only)
Charm 1Iron Skin (-15% damage)
Charm 2Survivor’s Will (herbs +50%)
Charm 3Phoenix Down (revive once)
NG+ Charm 4Crafter’s Touch (+25% craft)
Item6+ First Aids (always)
Best chapterChapter 6 RPD (Mr. X)

Why this build works

This build is balanced for its specific playstyle. Each component serves a clear purpose — weapons handle damage output, charms enhance survivability or efficiency, and items provide specialized utility.

Difficulty recommendations

Recommended playthrough order

  1. Complete Standard NG first (12-15 hours)
  2. Start NG+ with this build equipped
  3. Move to Insanity NG+ when comfortable (15-18 hours)
  4. Optional: speedrun for Platinum trophy
Related guides
All charm loadouts All 18 charms ranked All 17 weapons ranked What is the best weapon? Insanity survival guide What carries over to NG+ Which difficulty to play All guides

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