Best MW2 weapons: Ultimate tier list with the best loadouts (Season 6)

Alec Mullins
M4 loadout in Modern Warfare 2

The Call of Duty MW2 meta shifts regularly, with weapons frequently adjusted for balance. Our comprehensive Modern Warfare 2 tier list is here to guide you through the latest changes, ensuring you remain competitive.

Throughout its history, Modern Warfare 2 has witnessed diverse metas in Warzone and multiplayer modes, with different weapon classes like assault rifles and SMGs at times dominating the 6v6 landscape.

The release of new guns and older weapons being rebalanced makes it difficult to keep track of what guns are top-tier. Failing to do so can leave your loadouts outdated and put you at a serious disadvantage on the battlefield.

To help you out and make sure you’re using strong loadouts we’ve put together this list of the best MW2 weapons to use in Season 6.

Contents

Best meta Modern Warfare 2 weapons, ranked

5. Kastov 762

The best Kastov 762 loadout to use in MW2 multiplayer.

Attachments

  • Muzzle: Tempus GH50
  • Barrel: KAS-10 584mm Barrel
  • Laser: Schlager PEQ BOX IV
  • Optic: Cronen Mini Pro
  • Stock: Kastov-Rama

Perks

  • Base Perk 1:  Scavenger
  • Base Perk 2: Bomb Squad
  • Bonus Perk: Fast Hands
  • Ultimate Perk: Ghost

Although it’s not quite the best assault rifle these days the Kastov 762 is still an excellent choice to use in multiplayer. It offers a highly competitive TTK and impressive range while its handling remains fast enough to get work done up close.

After a couple of nerfs the Kastov 762 is harder to use than before requiring you to mix an upper torso shot for a three-shot kill. Those that have the required mechanical skill though will dominate using this iconic AR.

4. Fennec 45

Best Fennec 45 loadout to use in MW2 season 5 reloaded.

Attachments

  • Laser: VLK LZR 7mW
  • Stock: Agile Assault-7 Stock
  • Underbarrel: Phase-3 Grip
  • Magazine: 45 Round Mag
  • Rear Grip: Fennec Stippled Grip

Perks

  • Base Perk 1: Bomb Squad
  • Base Perk 2: Battle Hardened
  • Bonus Perk: Resupply
  • Ultimate Perk: Ghost

Season 6 sees the Fennec 45 continue its strong form after returning to the meta last season. The fast-firing SMG previously dominated Warzone’s and MW2’s meta, but substantial nerfs knocked it out of contention. However, an increase in the weapon’s maximum damage has made it relevant once again.

We recommend using a build that compensates for its fast firing rate with a larger magazine while also maximizing mobility and ADS speed. Be aware that this isn’t the easiest gun to use and will require some practice, but the payoff is more than worth it.

3. Vaznev 9-K

Attachments

  • Muzzle: Bruen Pendulum
  • Underbarrel: FSS Sharkfin 90
  • Stock: Otrezat Stock
  • Rear Grip: True-Tac Grip
  • Laser: Schlager PEQ BOX IV

Perks

  • Base Perk 1: Double Time
  • Base Perk 2: Battle Hardened
  • Bonus Perk: Fast Hands
  • Ultimate Perk: High Alert

Multiple nerfs to its maximum damage range have hurt the Vaznev-9K a little, but it’s still the best overall SMG in MW2. Its low recoil, ability to challenge at mid-range, and impressive mobility make it a wonderfully well-rounded gun that can adapt to most situations.

Truthfully, the SMG class is pretty stacked so if you don’t like using the Vaznev the Lachmann Sub, VEL 46, and even the BAS-P are all great alternatives that some players may prefer the feel of. Even so, this just about remains the king of submachine guns thanks to its superior versatility.

2. M4

best m4 loadout to use in mw2 season 5 reloaded.

Attachments

  • Muzzle: RF Crown 50 
  • Barrel: 11.5″ T-H4 Barrel
  • Optic: Cronen Mini Pro
  • Stock: Tempus P80 Strike Stock
  • Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip

Perks

  • Base Perk 1: Scavenger
  • Base Perk 2: Tracker
  • Bonus Perk: Fast Hands
  • Ultimate Perk: Ghost

A jack of all trades but a master of none, the M4 provides a perfect mix of everything but doesn’t necessarily jump off the page. The easy-to-use AR will come in clutch for multiple types of engagements but still falls a little short of the TAQ-56 regarding firepower.

It’s clear to see why the M4 was one of the first guns banned in Ranked Play. It’s unmatched consistency makes it hard to compete with. Even if it doesn’t quite have the TAQ’s raw firepower it is a very strong competitor that some MW2 players will prefer.

1. TAQ-56

Attachments

  • Muzzle: Komodo Heavy
  • Barrel: 17.5″ Tundra Pro Barrel
  • Optic: Cronen Mini Pro
  • Underbarrel: FTAC Ripper 56
  • Rear Grip: Demo Cleanshot Grip

Perks

  • Base Perk 1: Battle Hardened
  • Base Perk 2: Scavenger
  • Bonus Perk: Fast Hands
  • Ultimate Perk: Ghost

Ever since Ranked Play was released the TAQ-56 has remained the by far the most popular gun in Modern Warfare 2. It’s easy to see why as MW2’s rendition of the SCAR-L offers the perfect combination of low recoil and incredible damage across all ranges.

Using stats provided by sym.gg, the TAQ 56 beats out the M4, Kastov 762, and Kastov 74-U in TTK speed from most ranges relevant in multiplayer matches. Combine that with its ease of use and this is the standout weapon in both 6v6 and 4v4.

What is the best gun in Modern Warfare 2?

As showcased above, we believe the TAQ-56 is the best weapon in Modern Warfare 2. It’s a bit of a boring pick as the AR has been relevant and a part of the competitive season since Season 1, but no other gun really comes close when it comes to sheer ability.

Be aware that every playstyle, map, and game mode naturally favors certain types of weapons, so the TAQ-56 might not be the best gun for you. Even so, it’s the best all-around weapon that offers a bit of everything.

All guns in Modern Warfare 2

Modern Warfare 2 Assault Rifles

Kastov 762 Modern Warfare 2
There is a wide range of Assault Rifles to choose from in Modern Warfare 2.
Weapon Description Guide
M4 Automatic assault rifle that is well balanced at any range. Loadout/Class
TAQ-56 Automatic assault rifle with powerful damage output and low recoil. Loadout/Class
Kastov 762 Automatic assault rifle that offers the most impressive damage output in the category. Loadout/Class
Lachmann-556 Automatic assault rifle that trades speed and mobility for damage in long range engagements.  Loadout/Class
STB 556 Automatic assault rifle that is most effective at medium range with fantastic mobility. Loadout/Class
M16 Three-round burst assault rifle that’s most effective in medium-range gunfights. Loadout/Class
Kastov-74U Automatic assault rifle, excelling in short-range combat. Loadout/Class
Kastov 545 Automatic assault rifle with a decent fire rate and spectacular mobility for an AR. Loadout/Class
M13B Automatic assault rifle with fantastic recoil control and impressive long-range capabilities. Loadout/Class
Chimera Automatic assault rifle with a built-in silencer that rewards headshots. Loadout/Class
ISO Hemlock Automatic assault rifle with rounded stats and low recoil, effective at most ranges. Loadout/Class
Tempus Razorback Automatic assault rifle with a high fire rate and above-average handling. Loadout/Class
FR Avancer Automatic assault rifle with an extremely high fire rate and relatively low recoil. Loadout/Class
M13C Automatic assault rifle that offers a more compact, high mobility alternative to the M13B. N/A
TR-76 Geist Automatic assault rifle that hits hard yet is also extremely accurate. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 SMGs

Modern Warfare 2 players aiming
There are currently 8 SMGs in MW2.
Weapon Description Guide
Vel 46 Automatic SMG with a simple recoil pattern and a fast fire rate. Loadout/Class
MX9 Automatic SMG, sacrificing damage range for manageable recoil control. Loadout/Class
Lachmann Sub Automatic SMG that is well-rounded and works in a wide range of situations. Loadout/Class
Vaznev-9K Automatic SMG powerhouse that performs well at both close and mid-range. Loadout/Class
FSS Hurricane  Automatic SMG with a large magazine that has very little recoil. Loadout/Class
Minibak Automatic SMG that boasts a huge default magazine and decent mobility. Loadout/Class

PDSW 528

Automatic SMG with a large magazine that offers fantastic mobility. Loadout/Class

Fennec 45

Automatic SMG that has a spectacular TTK up close at the cost of a lack of damage range. Loadout/Class

BAS-P

Automatic SMG that has great mobility and impressive damage up close. Loadout/Class

ISO 45

Automatic SMG that dominates at close range being able to outgun everything else in its sweet spot. Loadout/Class

Lachmann Shroud

Burst SMG that offers a unique twist on the classic Lachmann Sub. Loadout/Class

ISO 9mm

Automatic SMG that serves as a more compact, high-mobility alternative to the ISO 45. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 Sniper Rifles

Modern Warfare 2 sniper gameplay
Sniper Rifles make for the perfect weapon selection on Ground War or for holding angles in MW2.
Weapon Description Guide
MCPR-300 Bolt Action sniper rifle, sacrificing mobility for a large magazine. Loadout/Class
Signal 50 Anti-material sniper rifle, offering the best fire rate in its category. Loadout/Class
LA-B 330 Bolt Action sniper rifle, packing a unique lightweight build. Loadout/Class
SP-X 80 Magnum sniper rifle, best used for quick scoping and aggressive playstyles. Loadout/Class
Victus XMR Anti-material sniper rifle that handles slowly but kills just about anything it shoots. Loadout/Class
FJX Imperium Anti-material sniper rifle with great damage that is suited for aggression. Loadout/Class
Carrack .300 Semi-Auto sniper rifle with best in slot handling, fire rate, & stability. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 Marksman Rifles

player holding the sp-r208 rifle in cod warzone
MW2 features a wide array of deadly Marksman Rifles.
Weapon Description Guide
LM-S Semi-automatic marksman rifle, providing unmatched accuracy in long-range engagements.  Loadout/Class
SP-R 208 Bolt-action rifle designed for quick scoping and aggressive playstyles. Loadout/Class
EBR-14 Devastating semi-automatic rifle that shreds through enemies at mid or long-range. Loadout/Class
SA-B 50 Speedy bolt-action rifle optimized for lightweight builds and increased maneuverability  Loadout/Class
Lockwood MK2 High power lever-action rife, emulating the feel of an old-west cowboy. Loadout/Class
TAQ-M Sluggish automatic rifle that more than makes up for its deficiencies in raw power. Loadout/Class
Tempus Torrent Semi-automatic rifle that offers fantastic range and a large magazine. Loadout/Class
Crossbow Silent weapon that trades bullets for bolts, dropping enemies before they know what hit them. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 Shotguns

Modern Warfare 2 shotgun
Weapon Description Guide
Lockwood 300 Break-action shotgun sacrifices ammo capacity for extended range and tighter pellet spread. Loadout/Class
Expedite 12 Hard to control semi-automatic shotgun, but absolutely lethal in the right hands.  Loadout/Class
Bryson 800 Reliable pump action shotgun, customizable for either close or medium-range engagements. Loadout/Class
Bryson 890 Pump Action-Shotgun that trades damage range for a convenient box magazine. Loadout/Class
KV Broadside Semi-auto shotgun that is perfect for hip-firing and spamming shots down range. Loadout/Class
MX Guardian Versatile 12-gauge shotgun that can switch between full-auto, semi-auto, and burst-fire. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 LMGS

Weapon Description Guide
556 Icarus Lightweight automatic LMG, offering a great ammo capacity without the annoying tradeoffs. Loadout/Class
HCR 56 Automatic LMG that can be built for mobility or long range damage. Loadout/Class
RAAL MG Heavy automatic LMG that is slow, but capable of dealing great damage at any range. Loadout/Class
RAAP H Automatic LMG with an extremely high fire rate making it quite forgiving. Loadout/Class
RPK Automatic LMG with great handing but considerable recoil. Loadout/Class
Sakin MG38 Automatic LMG that is laser accurate at long range. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 Battle Rifles

Weapon Description Guide
Lachmann-762 Semi-automatic with full-auto toggle that packs a punch if you can control the recoil. Loadout/Class
SO-14 Semi-automatic with full-auto toggle that dominates mid-range engagements. Loadout/Class
TAQ-V Automatic rifle that boasts a moderate fire rate, but suffers from a lot of vertical kick. Loadout/Class
FTAC Recon Semi-auto only but devastating at close at medium range if you land shots. Loadout/Class
Cronen Squall Automatic rifle with semi-auto toggle that offers one of the best TTKs in MW2. Loadout/Class

Modern Warfare 2 Handguns

P890 handgun being inspected in MW2 multiplayer on Taraq map.

Weapon Description Guide
X12 Semi-automatic pistol with fast fire rate and a large magazine. N/A
X13 Auto Automatic pistol with extremely fast fire rate and forgiving recoil. N/A
P890 Semi-automatic pistol that deals incredible damage capable of consistent two shot kills. N/A
.50 GS Semi-automatic pistol that chambers a powerful round capable of one shot kills to the head. N/A
Basilisk Revolver that can kill in one shot with either Magnum rounds or Snakeshot rounds. N/A
FTAC Siege Automatic pistol with a fast fire rate and a huge magazine. Loadout/Class
GS Magna Automatic pistol, an alternative version of the .50 GS that rapidly fires hard-hitting rounds. Loadout/Class
9mm Daemon A classic semi-auto handgun that offers some of the best range in class and a competitive TTK. Loadout/Class

This tier list will change a lot as balance updates for Modern Warfare 2 are rolled out and new weapons are added.

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About The Author

Alec Mullins is an FPS writer focusing on Call of Duty and Apex Legends and their respective esports scenes. He worked at TheGamer before joining Dexerto. On the weekends, you'll find him watching the CDL and jamming to The Mountain Goats. You can find Alec on Twitter @LifeAsAlec