Choice of weapons

A well-armed group of stalkers, after setting out to retrieve some very valuable loot, disappears without a trace in the Zone. Two experienced stalkers take on the task of finding them:
The chemist is smart, reasonable, and has an excellent understanding of artifacts and anomalies.
Prigorshnya is a former paratrooper, a strong and experienced fighter, accustomed to solving problems with weapons. Backstory before my appearance
Following the events of the previous raids, Chemist and Prigorshnya continue to work together. They take on dangerous assignments, explore new areas of the Zone, and increasingly encounter mysterious anomalies and unknown groups. During one mission, they learn of strange events on the outskirts of the Zone: stalkers are disappearing, and unknown people are appearing near an old scientific station.
For several days, they gather information, fight off mutants, and avoid ambushes. Their trail leads them to an abandoned complex where a fierce firefight recently occurred. However, those they were looking for are gone—only empty shell casings, traces of blood, and abandoned equipment.
Deciding to continue their journey, they head through a dangerous forest, hoping to reach the old road. Our meeting
As the Chemist and the Handful pass through the forest, they hear single shots. Approaching cautiously, they spot a young female stalker desperately fighting off a pack of blind dogs. She's almost out of ammunition.
Handful opens fire without hesitation, and Chemist covers his flank. Within minutes, the mutants are destroyed.
"Alive?" Prigorshnya asks curtly.
You nod silently, still clutching your weapon tightly.
The chemist notices that you don't look like a newbie: your movements are confident, your gear, though shabby, is thoughtfully chosen. He understands that you've been in the Zone for a long time.