how do you unlock higher tiers of weapons?

[nsaine]

I dont understand this mechanic... do they unlock based on your level?

[[AM] Leopolis]

If you mean weapon tiers i think they're bound to either technology or main quest progress.
Either way higher tier weapons have level requirements that would push you into further progress anyway.

If you meant weapon rarity (green/blue/purple/yellow) that's random drops.

[PVA Hrondir]

Tier 1 and 2 are unlocked from the start, you need to get materials from Broken Delta to upgrade to tier 2. Tier 3 is currently the highest craftable. You need to unlock the technology to make the next level gear bench, and get the materials for the weapon in Iron River.

If you mean different qualities, IE blue, purple, gold. The game tells you where to find the blueprints when you mouse over the blueprint in the unlock. Most gold items come from something called the Wish Machine. The wish machine iis either an unlock from your memetics, or you can follow a quest line to find one in the main cities.

[Roman]

yeah they are unlocked as you level, it looks like every 10 levels you unlock next Tier, same with materials to make each Tier

[Qrasss]

You can craft much higher than tier 3 so ignore old info above.
Check here for proof of higher tiers:
https://youtu.be/6fbpavQy30w?si=nZYYt7oonIMHy8F1&t=38

Your ability to craft higher tier weapons and gear is tied to the tier of your weapon/gear bench. So upgrade your bench to craft higher than tier 2.
Proof and guide:
https://youtu.be/a-wBScNxVc8?si=dZCzoH7NSjJxKt6k