You can save anywhere (PC VERSION ONLY), you do not need to be at a safe house or gun shop, as I assumed for about 30% of the game.Sniper rifles will make your life really easy, even though you are terrified of going in without a nice AK-47.Do the Gun shop missions first to unlock a greater assortment of guns, and the cell tower missions in between to be able to afford the new weapons.There are infinite health kits at gun shops, so when you reoutfit, replenish your health kits (syringes).most guard posts have water bottles so you won't even have to use up a health kit. You should be able to mop up everyone with minimal damage. Avoid guard posts as much as possible, but if you have to assault one, just come in close with an attack jeep and hit C to switch to your mounted gun as you roll in.