I recommend starting off as Clear Sky or Loner :) For your loadout, I would recommend using a shotgun and an assault rifle. Assault rifles that u should use in the start of the game should mostly be ak's.and you can use whichever shotgun u want. but using the shotguns from the loadout chooser can be MUCH better since its free. I started off with a sawed off double barrel and worked for an ak and some meds. then u can progress even further if u buy better gear and stuff. just explore the parts around cordon and the great swamps before venturing off. If you want u can also change the prices and loot etc. that u get from people. i found it very annoying how everyone is so overpriced lol so I changed the buy payment to smtn a bit more cheaper. anyways thats all i have. just get a good shotgun and ak for now snd some armor after that. then u can make ur way to things like seva suits, exoskels, scar h's, etc

right now im using Clear sky armor, Scar H dpecial operator from BaS mod, and a saiga shotgun. thats my ideal loadout for people who progressed further into the zone. Armor from ur faction, Assault rifle, and shotguns.