Weapon damage in NieR: Automata varies significantly with each swing. Upgrading reduces this damage variance while boosting potential damage per hit.
The Iron Pipe boasts the game's widest damage range but also possesses exceptionally high potential damage output. Its effectiveness is unpredictable, but its unique properties make it worthwhile to acquire. Here's how:
The Iron Pipe is a rare fishing reward found in sewers. Both sewer locations offer the same drop rate; the first is more easily accessible. Fast travel to the Resistance Camp, then head right towards the Amusement Park. After crossing a small gap, you'll find an open manhole beneath a highway.
Descend into the sewer, enter the water, and begin fishing. Other junk items are also possible catches and can be sold. There's no guaranteed method to increase the Iron Pipe's drop rate; it may take several attempts. The sewer's darkness necessitates using your Pod's light to improve visibility during fishing.
A second sewer is located en route to the Flooded City.
The Iron Pipe maintains a wide damage range regardless of upgrade level. However, successful hits can yield some of the game's highest damage values, making it a valuable early-game weapon. Upgrade requirements and resulting stats are detailed below: