Fallout 3 crafting

Schematics allow you to create homemade weapons, provided you have the proper components.

Basics
Acquiring multiple copies of the same Schematic will allow you to make better versions of the self-created weapons. Each copy you find past the first one allows you to make a better version (e.g., Rock-It Launcher v2).

It's a good idea to hunt down additional copies if you plan on using the weapons often. Obtaining more than one copy of the schematics will upgrade the plans. Two plans makes the initial condition of the weapon at construction equal to your repair skill (75% of your repair skill with just one blueprint). Three plans will net a condition of 125% of your repair skill at construction.


 * 1 Schematic ---> 75% condition of your Repair skill
 * 2 Schematics -> 100% condition of your Repair skill
 * 3 Schematics -> 125% condition of your Repair skill

Additional Schematics for the Bottlecap Mine and Nuka Grenade allow you to make more instead of giving more damage. With one schematic - you make one. With two - you make two. With three - you make three.

Note: Additional Schematics cease to yield benefits after three of each kind have been located. Any supernumerary ones will simply appear as items in your inventory.

Higher repair lets you to make homemade weapons that have higher starting condition and damage. As you make multiple copies of the same weapon you can combine them with the repair skill for higher condition and damage. Alternatively you can have an NPC repair them. Note - the Bottlecap Mine and Nuka Grenade are always max condition and rely on the explosives skill for more damage.

Contrary to the in-game text, additional Schematics do not increase damage. (For example, every version of the Shishkebab Schematic creates item 434e). As the base item is the same, the base statistics are as well. The only change is in its condition (or number, for the Bottlecap Mine and Nuka-Grenade).

One of the best places to find materials required by schematics is at Lucky's. Even better is Pinkerton's behind Rivet City, as he has at least one of everything needed for the schematics (with the exception of animal parts).

Appearances
Schematics appear only in Fallout 3.

Also see: Price-To-Weight Ratios for Schematics Weapons