Big Circle

The Big Circle is a caravan route in northern California that loops through several settlements including Broken Hills, New Reno, Redding, the Den, Modoc and Vault City. Gecko is also included, particularly when caravans from Broken Hills (before its collapse) or other uranium producing settlements are involved.

Background
Before 2242 the route was very dangerous, but by 2281, the NCR's expansion northwards made it considerably safer.

2241
Existing for several decades before 2241, the Big Circle is one of the most profitable trade routes in New California. Before the trade route was considered a safe route, it became a predictable route to be hit by raiders and other violent actors because of its growing renown of overuse by many caravan merchants. However, the rewards outweighed the risks, and many caravans and brahmin drivers braved the route despite the dangers that stalk the paths.

There are many caravans on the trail, differing vastly in equipment, weapons and carried goods. By far the poorest are traders from the Den, usually traveling only with two bodyguards armed with knives and submachine guns, on top of personal slaves. Vault City, despite its wealth, typically dispatches merchant with a guard detail armed with hunting rifles, 10mm weapons, and Desert Eagles, clad in metal. New Reno does not skimp on protection and typically outfits its caravaneers with assault rifles and automatic shotguns, although sledgehammers are also a choice. But by far the best-equipped parties travel under the flag of Redding trading companies: automatic weapons, such as miniguns and assault rifles, are commonplace, as is rare high-caliber 14mm pistols and the vintage grease guns.

Caravans operating out of Broken Hills are well-armed as well: the merchant is typically accompanied by guards carrying miniguns. By comparison, their trade partner, Gecko, sends out ghoul caravans with relatively light weapons: hunting rifles, assault rifles, and shotguns.

2281
Several towns have gone with the passage of time, such as Broken Hills and Gecko, but the Big Circle is still a viable route. Most merchants run the Big Circle frequently for its consistent work and pay. Brahmin drives are also a common sight and many caravan families have say on the running of the route.

Appearances
The Big Circle appears only in Fallout 2. However, while not appearing in-game, the Big Circle is mentioned by Rose of Sharon Cassidy & Ghost in Fallout: New Vegas and by Ulysses in Lonesome Road.