If you’re trying to make sense of the Sparks Fly quest in Arc Raiders, this guide covers how it works in practice, based on what most players experience. I’ll go over the key objectives, what gear and tactics usually work, and common pitfalls.

What is the Sparks Fly Quest?

Sparks Fly is a follow-up quest you get from Apollo after completing What Goes Around. In general, the quest is straightforward: you need to destroy a Hornet using certain explosive items. Most players treat it as a small tactical challenge rather than a grind.

The Hornet is a flying enemy that can deal a lot of damage if you’re not careful. It’s fast, can dodge a lot of attacks, and its stings can disrupt your movement. Even if you destroy one Hornet quickly, you’re still spending ammo, so efficiency matters.

What Do You Need to Complete It?

The quest requires specific items:

6x Trigger ‘Nade

2x Snap Blast Grenade

4x Crude Explosives

2x Processor

Trigger ‘Nade Blueprint

In practice, most players find Trigger ‘Nades the easiest and most reliable way to complete the quest. Snap Blast Grenades also work but are less common in player inventories. Crude Explosives are usually used as a last resort because they are harder to craft and take more resources.

A common question is whether Light Impact Grenades count. In general, yes—they do give quest credit, but they often require more hits, so you might end up using more ammo.

How Do You Find the Hornets?

Hornets don’t stay in one spot. Most players see them spawn in small patrol routes around the mission areas. Usually, they hover near objectives or around supply points.

If you’re trying to be efficient, it’s best to wait until a Hornet comes close rather than chasing them across the map. Moving too much usually increases the chance of getting hit by other enemies, which wastes resources and can make the fight longer.

What’s the Best Strategy for Taking Down Hornets?

In general, players have settled on a few approaches:

Use Trigger ‘Nades for accuracy
Most players rely on Trigger ‘Nades because they’re precise and don’t require you to track the Hornet constantly. Place them where the Hornet will likely pass. Timing is key—throw too early and the Hornet may dodge; too late and it can move out of range.

Snap Blast Grenades for group situations
Snap Blast Grenades work well if multiple enemies are near the Hornet. They are less precise than Trigger ‘Nades but can clear small mobs while also hitting the Hornet. Most players only use them if they already have extras in inventory.

Avoid overusing Crude Explosives
Crude Explosives deal a lot of damage, but crafting them takes extra resources. Usually, players save them for when the Hornet is near other hazards, so you can get maximum effect without wasting ammo.

Keep mobile and use cover
Hornets can be surprisingly hard to hit if you’re stationary because their movement patterns are erratic. Most players move between cover points and fire in short bursts rather than standing still. This minimizes the risk of getting hit by stings.

Are There Common Mistakes Players Make?

Yes. Based on what I’ve seen, these are the usual pitfalls:

Using only one type of explosive: Some players try to rely solely on Trigger ‘Nades, thinking it will be enough. If the Hornet is fast or there’s lag, this can waste time. A mix usually works better.

Chasing Hornets too aggressively: This often leads to wasted ammo or accidental death. Staying near cover and waiting for them to fly close is usually more effective.

Ignoring other enemies: Hornets rarely appear alone. Most players recommend clearing nearby threats first so you can focus your explosives on the Hornet without interruptions.

How Do Crafting and Blueprints Affect the Quest?

The Trigger ‘Nade Blueprint is required if you don’t already have enough grenades. In general, crafting these items is simple once you have the components, but it’s important to plan ahead. Most players stockpile the materials before starting the quest to avoid running out mid-fight.

Processors are often a limiting factor. They can be hard to get in large quantities, so players usually save them for key explosive crafting rather than using them on low-impact items.

If you don’t have the time to farm components, some players choose to buy arc raiders gear from reliable in-game sources to speed things up. This can include crafted grenades or other consumables that make the quest more manageable without affecting your playstyle.

How Long Does the Quest Usually Take?

For most players, the quest can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes depending on Hornet spawns and your efficiency with explosives. If you’re using only one type of grenade, expect the higher end. Mixing Trigger ‘Nades with Snap Blast Grenades usually reduces completion time.

Tips From Experienced Players

Here are some practical insights from players who regularly complete Sparks Fly:

Keep an eye on your ammo: Even if you’re skilled at hitting Hornets, running out of grenades mid-fight is common. Check your inventory before engaging.

Time your throws: Hornets move in unpredictable patterns. Watch their flight path for a few seconds before throwing.

Use terrain to your advantage: Elevated platforms or narrow corridors can limit the Hornet’s movement, making it easier to hit.

Combine grenades with weapons: If a Hornet is near the ground or slows down, a few shots from your primary weapon can help finish it off without wasting explosives.

Check quest credit: Occasionally, the game may not register a hit immediately. Most players suggest double-checking the quest log after every Hornet kill to avoid repeat runs.


Sparks Fly is a manageable quest if you understand the Hornet mechanics and plan your explosives wisely. In general:

Trigger ‘Nades are your primary tool.

Snap Blast Grenades are situational.

Crude Explosives are a last resort.

Light Impact Grenades work but aren’t efficient.

Most players recommend patience over aggressive chasing.

Crafting or acquiring grenades in advance prevents mid-quest shortages.

Following these strategies usually makes the quest less frustrating and allows you to complete it in one or two tries. Experienced players treat this as a practice in timing and resource management rather than a grind.

System Guide: Arc Raiders Compensator 2 Blueprint How to get & Crafing Recipe