With the 0.13 patch in Escape from Tarkov came another full progression wipe—sending all players back to square one. That means it’s time to grind early tasks again, including The Extortionist, one of the first quests offered by Skier.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to complete The Extortionist quest efficiently: how to unlock it, where to find the key, how to get the hidden item, and—most importantly—how to extract with it alive.
Extortionist Quest Requirements
Before you can begin this task, you’ll need to meet two conditions:
- Reach Level 7
- Complete Skier’s first quest, Supplier
- To complete Supplier, find these in-raid:
- Module-3M armor
- TOZ-106 shotgun
Both are common scav loot. Run scav raids on Factory or farm scavs on Woods, especially near the top-left bunkers or the scav house area on the lower left.
To reach level 7 quickly:
- Focus on PMC runs
- Prioritize killing scavs and looting high-traffic areas
- Try larger maps like Woods, Reserve, or even Streets of Tarkov for faster XP
Step 1: How to Get the Unknown Key
To start The Extortionist, you’ll need the Unknown Key, which unlocks the cabin with the quest item. Good news—this key has a 100% spawn rate.
Key Location:
- Found on a dead scav near the RUAF Roadblock extract
- Specifically, next to the fence hole behind Crackhouse
- 🔑 Important: The key now has only one use. If you die after using it without extracting, you’ll need to go back and find it again.
Once looted, place the key in your Secure Container to keep it safe if you die before using it.
Step 2: Where to Use the Unknown Key
After you have the key, head to the trainyard area near the New Gas Station on the boiler side of the map.
You’re looking for a portable cabin in the middle of the trainyard. Use the Unknown Key to unlock it.
Inside the cabin:
- Crouch and look on the floor under the desk or cloth pile
- Hover your cursor until you see the quest item prompt
- Pick it up to complete the main objective
⚠️ This area is open and dangerous. Players and scavs often roam nearby, so check your surroundings before entering.
Step 3: How to Extract with the Quest Item
This is where most players fail. If you die after picking up the item, you’ll need to do it all over again—key included.
Tips to Extract Safely:
- Know your extract points in advance (e.g. ZB-012, RUAF, etc.)
- Avoid hot areas like Dorms or Construction unless necessary
- Consider doing a night raid for more stealth
- Play slowly—don’t rush, especially after getting the item
If possible, bring a teammate to cover you during extraction. A second gun makes a huge difference when escaping Customs.
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Wrapping Up
The Extortionist is one of the most iconic early-game quests in Escape from Tarkov. Although simple on paper, it’s easy to fail if you’re not cautious, especially when trying to extract with the quest item. By following the steps above and staying aware of your surroundings, you’ll get it done in no time.
Completing this quest gets you one step closer to unlocking better gear, building trader reputation, and progressing through Tarkov’s intense early game.
How many attempts did it take you to extract with the item? Drop your experience in the comments below!
