If you're deep into Appalachia in Fallout 76, you've likely realized just how important junk items are to your survival and progress. Crafting weapons, armor, and camp structures depends heavily on having the right materials, and that means collecting and scrapping the right junk. But not all junk is created equal.
In this guide, we’ll share the top 8 junk items to scrap for crafting materials in Fallout 76, based on hundreds of hours of gameplay experience and community-tested results. These are the items that consistently offer high-value materials, save space, and enhance your crafting efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned vault dweller or just starting out, this list will help you understand what to keep and what to sell or ignore.
Desk fans are one of the most underrated junk items in Fallout 76. They yield screws, gears, and steel—three essential materials used in modding weapons and power armor. Screws, in particular, are always in short supply, making desk fans a reliable source.
Standard and broken typewriters are great for getting screws, gears, and springs. These materials are constantly needed when modifying weapons and building camp items. Because they’re relatively light and easy to find in offices or abandoned buildings, always grab them when you can.
Aluminum is a vital component for repairing and modifying many items, especially armor. Empty aluminum cans are small and stackable, making them one of the best items to buy in Fallout 76 if you spot them in a vendor’s junk tab. They’re lightweight and efficient.
These provide springs and wood, useful for creating traps and mechanical objects at your camp. Springs are always in demand for everything from gun mods to armor. Grab clipboards found in offices, schools, and government buildings.
Both broken and working cameras are gold mines for crafting. They break down into screws, gears, and circuitry—components you’ll often need for turrets and generators. If you're low on these materials, cameras can help replenish your stock quickly.
Alarm clocks contain screws, nuclear material, and sometimes silver or plastic, depending on the model. Nuclear material is essential for energy weapons and certain camp defenses. These clocks are compact and easy to carry in bulk.
Hot plates yield copper and circuitry, which are crucial for building power systems in your camp. Copper, especially, can run out quickly when you’re connecting lights, terminals, or water purifiers. Hot plates can usually be found in kitchens or scientific labs.
Globes are an excellent source of screws and gears. They’re often overlooked because they seem decorative, but scrapping them provides essential mechanical components. Look for them in schools, offices, and residential areas.
If you’re struggling to find specific materials, it’s worth noting that some of the best items to buy in Fallout 76 are actually junk items. Vendors at train stations or player camps often sell junk bundles that can include the items listed above. Keep an eye out for bargain bundles with desk fans, typewriters, and aluminum cans.
Managing your inventory and scrapping junk wisely can significantly boost your crafting and repairing capabilities. These top 8 junk items are not only common but incredibly useful for obtaining high-demand crafting components. Keeping a sharp eye out for them—and buying them when the opportunity arises—will ensure you stay ahead in the Appalachian Wasteland.
Have you discovered other valuable Fallout 76 items worth scrapping? Share your favorites with fellow vault dwellers, and happy scavenging!
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