Going without any starting items into your next run can be really tiresome in Dead Rails. Buying items that last you only for one life is arguably as bad. However, there is a way to start each journey loaded up, and that is by getting and equipping classes. So, without further ado, let’s dive into a complete guide to classes in Dead Rails.
Table of contents
What are Classes in Dead Rails
Classes in Dead Rails let you carry preset items into each run without having to buy those items for bonds. Also, some classes give you unique passive bonuses, like being able to revive other players without bandages. All in all, save up all the bonds that you find and invest them into unlocking classes so that you👍 always spawn with some starting items.
Class Tier List
There aren’t many classes in Dead Rails. Subsequently, there is a big strength gap between them that makes the following Dead Rails class tier list quite linear. However, even though Ironclad might be the best class overall, other classes c⛄an prove quite useful, es🌟pecially in party play.
- Ironclad: The Ironclad gives you a full set of armor, which can save you a lot of money at the start of your run. However, the 20% reduced movement speed can hinder you later on.
- The Alamo: The Alamo is an excellent class overall that lets you fortify your train right from the start, which is especially important when defending against Bandits early on.
- Doctor: The Doctor is probably the best class when playing with friends because it allows you to save your teammates even when you run out of bandages.
- Arsonist: Arsonist is an excellent class if you are a Molotov enjoyer. However, Molotovs don’t spawn in each fort, so don’t throw them in vain.
- None: There is really nothing to be said about the None class, as the bonuses it provides are also non-existent.
Class List
Below, you can find all the classes in Dead Rails, along with their cost, the starting items they give you, and the unique passive bonuses they🌄 provide you with.
Class | Details | Starting Items | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Ironclad | • Your movement speed is reduced by 20%. | • Helmet • Chestplate • Left Shoulder Armor • Right Shoulder Armor • Shovel | 100 Bonds |
The Alamo | • None | • Helmet • Metal Sheet x3 • Barbed Wire x3 • Shovel | 50 Bonds |
Arsonist | • Your fire damage is doubled. | • Shovel • Molotov x4 | 20 Bonds |
Doctor | • You can revive your teammates by sacrificing half of your HP. | • Shovel • Bandage x2 • Snake Oil x2 | 15 Bonds |
None | • None | • None | None |
How to Get and Change Classes in Dead Rails
You can get and change your class in Dead Rails at the Tailor NPC in the main lobby. Each class costs some amount of bonds to unlock, and changing your class is possible only before you start a run. You can see your currently equipped class above your character’s head in the main lobby and in the Tailor menu.
Farming Bonds in Dead Rails

If you want to unlock any of the Dead Rails classes, you first have to grind out quite a bit of bonds. Bonds can be hard to come by if you don’t know where to look for them. In general, the best locations to find Bonds in Dead Rails are the castle at the 40km mark and Bank vaults in burning towns on the side of the rail. For more information on how to approach entering these places, check out our guide on how to farm bonds in Dead Rails.
That concludes our Dead Rails classes guide. If you are still indecisive about picking your go-to weapon, check out our Dead Rails weapons tier list and find your new main.
Published: Mar 3, 2025 09:39 am