Best Warzone Assault Rifle class loadouts: Attachments, Setup, Perks

James Busby
cod warzone best assault rifles and loadouts

The original Warzone bolsters an impressive arsenal of weapons spanning multiple categories, ARs are no exception. So we have prepared a list of the best meta assault rifle loadouts you can have in Warzone’s Caldera to secure an advantage over other players.

ARs are best known for their great versatility in the Call of Duty’s battle royale mode. Some of them specialize in long-range, while others dominate in close-quarters combat. But not every single one of them is viable if you are serious about the game.

Whether you wish to beam your foes with laser-like precision or simply want a do-it-all gun you can rely on, you’ll want to add an AR to your loadout. However, not all weapons in Warzone are the same. In fact, there are only a few that are truly worth leveling up and using.

So we’ve put together an Assault Rifle tier list that ranks all of the best ARs in Warzone and the attachments you should be using for them.

Remember, if you’re ready to dive into Warzone 2 and want to check out the best ARs in the sequel to dominate Al Mazrah, be sure to check out our list of the best meta ARs to use in Warzone 2. If you’re looking for a more overall rundown of the best WZ2 weapons, consider checking out our tier list.


Contents


What is the best AR in Warzone?

The best AR in Warzone is the Cooper Carbine. With a new meta in place, the Cooper Carbine has taken the place of the KG M40 as the strongest AR in Warzone. Although it was hit with some nerfs, it’s still a dominant weapon that’s extremely easy to use.

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With its incredibly high TTK, low recoil, and great damage range, you’ll be wracking up the kills on Caldera, Rebirth Island, and Fortune’s Keep in no time.

Best AR in Warzone

There are tons of different Assault Rifles to use in Call of Duty: Warzone, what with the game having over 100 weapons this is no surprise. So instead of doing every single AR, with some being considerably weaker than the meta guns, we’ve picked out the top 23 to consider.

23. RAM-7

RAM-7 Warzone
The RAM-7 is one of the most underrated ARs in Warzone.

Best RAM-7 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: FSS Ranger
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 50 Round Mags

This lightning-fast AR famously became popular back in the first year of Warzone when it was introduced as floor loot. Since then, Warzone players have discovered how powerful this AR can truly be. While the RAM-7’s popularity has dwindled in Warzone Pacific, it can still shred through even the tankiest of foes.

The current meta build is all about increasing the gun’s range and accuracy, which makes it a lot more viable in mid-range firefights – an area the RAM-7 has often struggled to excel in.

22. ITRA Burst

ITRA Burst Warzone preview screen
The ITRA Burst is an incredibly versatile AR.

Best ITRA Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: Perfetto 140mm Rapida
  • Optic: G16 2.5x
  • Stock: Botti SMI Adjustable
  • Underbarrel: Carver Foregrip
  • Magazine: 8mm Klauser 24 Round Fast Mags
  • Ammunition: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Stippled Grip
  • Perk: Vital
  • Perk2: Fully Loaded

The ITRA Burst is a 4-round burst semi-automatic rifle that offers great accuracy and moderate damage over long ranges. While its fire rate may be a little on the slower side, the added precision does make it a decent option for mid to long-range firefights.

If you do wish to utilize this Vanguard AR, then we recommend pairing it with the best SMG in Warzone to ensure you have a strong secondary option.

21. AS44

Warzone gameplay
The AS44 can be unlocked just by playing Warzone and leveling up.

Best AS44 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Mercury Silencer
  • Barrel: Kovalevskaya 615mm
  • Optic: G16 2.5x
  • Stock: ZAC 12B Custom
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 50 Round Mags
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Gung-ho
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

While the AS44 in Warzone is classified as an Assault Rifle, its rapid-fire rate and close-range effectiveness make it act quite similarly to an SMG.

Instead of trying to tailor this weapon more to an Assault Rifle role, the goal of this loadout is to further improve its fire rate and speed. Pair this weapon with one of the best sniper rifles in Warzone, and you’ll be deadly at all ranges.

20. FFAR 1

FFAR Warzone preview screen
The FFAR was one of the most popular weapons introduced in Black Ops Cold War.

Best FFAR 1 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
  • Barrel: Tiger Team Spotlight
  • Stock: Raider Stock
  • Rear Grip: Serpent Wrap
  • Ammunition: Salvo 50 Rnd Fast Mag

The FFAR has been countless nerfs and buffs since the inception of Warzone. While it may no longer be the best Assault Rifle in the game, it can still dish out decent damage, provided you kit it out with the right attachments.

With this loadout, it’s all about the close-quarter gunfights and pushing enemies aggressively at speed. The FFAR thrives in these engagements and with the Steady Aim Laser, your hip-fire accuracy will be pretty potent at close range.

19. EX1

EX1 Assault Rifle loadout Warzone
The EX1 requires a cooling-off period after depleting its charge.

Attachments

  • Muzzle: Coil Amp
  • Barrel: SD Instant Grat
  • Optic: Mk. 3 Mod. 2 Sunfilter
  • Stock: AC-Titanium Anchor
  • Underbarrel: Ion Hand Stop
  • Magazine: Quantum High Voltage Battery
  • Rear Grip: Hatched Grip
  • Perk: Sleight of Hand
  • Perk2: On-Hand

Season 5’s EX1 is without a doubt the most unique and futuristic AR in Warzone, but it doesn’t quite have the power to reach the top spots on our list.

Although Raven did buff the gun in Season 5 Reloaded, the small damage increase isn’t enough to make it top-tier.

While the recoil on the gun is easy to control, it just doesn’t have the damage to compete at the top.

18. Krig 6

Krig 6 Warzone
The Krig 6 dominated in Warzone for consecutive seasons.

Best Krig 6 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
  • Barrel: 15″ CMV Mil-Spec
  • Optic: Axial Arms 3x
  • Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
  • Magazine: STANAG 60 Rnd

This Black Ops Cold War Assault Rifle delivers excellent precision and deals great damage across all ranges, making it a viable weapon in Warzone. Raven Software previously nerfed the Krig’s maximum/minimum damage, which has seen it drop from the top 10 spot.

Despite this nerf, the Krig’s is still a great pick thanks to its great accuracy and minimal recoil. Expect to see this loadout pop up from time to time as players continue to wreak havoc with it.

17. FARA 83

FARA 83 Warzone loadout
The FARA 83 is deadly at medium ranges on Caldera.

Best FARA 83 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
  • Barrel: 18.7″ Spetsnaz RPK Barrel
  • Optic: Axial Arms 3x
  • Underbarrel: Spetsnaz Grip
  • Ammunition: Spetsnaz 60 Rnd

Despite having its maximum damage decreased from 31 to 29 and featuring increased recoil, the FARA continues to remain firmly within the best AR category.

The FARA 83 comes kitted out with a blisteringly quick rate of fire, high damage profile, and low recoil pattern, which make it absolutely devastating in close to mid-range engagements. Consider pairing the FARA 83 with one of Warzone’s best snipers to help with those long-range kills.

16. BP50

BP50 AR Warzone loadout
The BP50 is a fully automatic bullpup assault rifle.

Best BP50 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Recoil Booster
  • Barrel: Maes 538mm Kort
  • Laser: Charlier CR Laser
  • Optic: Slate Reflector
  • Stock: Maes Skeletal
  • Magazine: .30 Russian Short 50 Round Drums
  • Ammunition: Subsonic
  • Rear Grip: Taped Grip
  • Perk1: Tight Grip
  • Perk2: Fully Loaded

Arriving in the Season 5 Reloaded update, the BP50 bullpup AR thrives at medium-range and in close-quarter skirmishes.

Our build above focuses on maximizing the gun’s already potent fire rate and providing plenty of mobility so you’re always one step ahead of your foe.

Don’t be afraid to play aggressively with the BP50, the weapon is brilliant when you’re putting pressure on your opponents and taking the high-risk gunfights.

15. BAR

BAR preview screen in Vanguard
The BAR is one of the strongest Vanguard AR picks in Warzone.

Best BAR Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: CGC 30″ XL
  • Optic: SVT-40 PU Scope 3-6x
  • Stock: Chariot WR
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 8mm Klauser 40 Round Mags
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Hardscope
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

The BAR assault rifle arrived in Warzone as a result of the Vanguard integration. While many pros and streamers now use the STG44, the BAR’s high damage output and accuracy still make it a great pick.

To take this AR to the next level, we’ve listed attachments that improve accuracy, ammo count, and damage output. If you’re in search of a new AR to add to your list of favorites, then look no further than the BAR.

14. CR-56 AMAX 

The CR-56 AMAX  may not be as deadly as it once was, but it still packs a punch.

Best CR-56 AMAX Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: Tempus 26.4″ Archangel
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 45 Round Mags 

The CR-56 AMAX (AKA the Galil) has remained a fan-favorite pick since its introduction into Warzone. While its pick rate dwindled slightly in the last few months, a set of buffs to its damage range in Season 5 Reloaded has given the gun a new lease of life.

The most lethal AMAX loadout is all about pushing the gun to its ranged limits, while also keeping its ADS speed to a minimum. Don’t be put off by the AMAX’s 45 Round clip, as this AR is capable of pumping out some truly dizzying damage numbers. 

This is especially true when you manage to capitalize on the gun’s headshot multiplier.

13. AK-47 (CW)

AK-47 Black Ops Cold War
The AK-47 is a staple in Call of Duty games.

Best AK-47 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Gru Suppressor
  • Barrel: 20″ Spetsnaz RPK Barrel
  • Optic: Axial Arms 3x
  • Underbarrel: Spetsnaz Grip
  • Magazine: 45 Rnd

The Cold War AK-47 is one of the most instantly recognizable guns in the Call of Duty series and boy does it pack a lethal punch when kitted out with the right attachments.

This Russian-made AR continues to be a decent pick in the Season 5 Reloaded, with players picking it up and using its high TTK. While its recoil is a little punchy, the high damage offered from this loadout is fantastic.

12. M13

M13 Warzone
The M13 is still a reliable rifle in Warzone.

Best M13 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: Tempus Marksman
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 60 Round Mags

The M13 is often overlooked in Warzone when it comes to picking the best Assault Rifles. It may not deal as much damage as the current top pick, but this gun makes up for this with its blisteringly fast rate of fire. Despite having manageable recoil, it’s often best to focus on close to mid-range engagements.

After all, the high rate of fire can quickly leave you in the dirt if you miss those first initial shots. If you’re after an AR that offers both speed and precision, then you’ll want to give the M13 a whirl.

11. M4A1

M4A1 Warzone
It’s not hard to see why the M4A1 has remained a staple pick.

Best M4A1 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: Stock M16 Grenadier
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 60 Round Mags

The M4A1 has been a dominant Assault Rifle in Modern Warfare since the game was released. While its moderate recoil keeps it from being the single best pick, its high damage and great range make it one of the most versatile ARs in Warzone.

The M4A1 can be kitted out in a multitude of different ways, but this build is all about bolstering the M4’s range, while still allowing you to play aggressively. The added 60 rounds also enable you to punish multiple players, giving you the potential to claim those all-important squad wipes. 

10. Kilo 141

Kilo 141 Warzone
The Kilo 141 has been one of the strongest guns in Warzone for several seasons now.

Best Kilo 141 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: Singuard Arms 19.8” Prowler
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 50 Round Mags

While the Kilo 141 didn’t receive any changes in Warzone Season 5 Reloaded, this highly versatile AR has long been a dominant pick in Warzone thanks to its incredible accuracy, minimal recoil, and fantastic damage range. In fact, this AR has proved so devastating that the majority of the player base utilized it in past seasons.

With this loadout, you’ll be able to effortlessly beam players from all distances without much recoil. Simply click on your target and let the bullets fly. On top of this, opting for the 50 Round Mags will allow you to rotate quickly and push an enemy once they’re weakened.

9. NZ-41

cod warzone nz-41 assault rifle

Best NZ-41 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: Orbweaver 360MM BC
  • Optic: SVT-40 PU Scope 3-6x
  • Stock: Orbweaver E Pack
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 6.5mm Sakura 50 Round Mags
  • Ammunition: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Brace
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

The NZ-41 may not be the best AR in the game anymore, but it still packs a punch. Not only does it have next to no recoil, but its TTK is absolutely through the roof. This is especially true when you kit it out with the best meta attachments.

8. KG M40

Warzone KG M40 with Caldera background
The KG M40 Assault Rifle was introduced in Season 2.

Best KG M40 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: Reisdorf 720mm Shrouded
  • Optic: SVT-40 PU Scope 3-6x
  • Stock: Krausnick 12V
  • Underbarrel: M1930 Strife Angled
  • Magazine: 8mm Klauser 60 Round Drums
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Tight Grip
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

The KG M40 made its debut in Warzone Season 2 and since then, players have been using this “workhorse” AR to eliminate their foes. This rifle deals big damage and boasts a solid fire rate, which makes it particularly versatile on Caldera.

While the KG M40 held the top spot in Season 4 Reloaded, a set of nerfs pushed it down a few places but it remains strong in Season 5 Reloaded.

7. Nikita AVT

Nikita AVT Warzone loadout
The Nikita AVT AR arrived in the Warzone Season 3 update.

Best Nikita AVT in Warzone

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: Empress 613mm BFA
  • Optic: G16 2.5x
  • Stock: ZAC Padded
  • Underbarrel: M1930 Strife Angled
  • Magazine: 7.62x54mmR 45 Round Mags
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk1: Brace
  • Perk2: Fully Loaded

The Nikita AVT has the best-in-class fire rate for Assault Rifles in Warzone. While this AR can be kitted out for long-range, its lightning-fast fire rate makes it difficult to control unless you equip the correct attachments.

Fortunately, our Nikita loadout minimizes the gun’s recoil, ensuring your shots remain accurate. If you’re after a close to mid-range AR, then the Nikita is a decent choice.

6. Volkssturmgewehr

Volk Vanguard weapon preview
The Volk has climbed a few places in Season 4 Reloaded.

Best Volkssturmgewehr Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Recoil Booster
  • Barrel: Hockenson 142mm Rapid
  • Optic: Slate Reflector
  • Stock: Removed Stock
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 8mm Kurz 60 Round Drum
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Fabric Grip
  • Perk 1: Acrobatic
  • Perk 2: Quick

The Volk saw a spike in play in Season 3, with loadouts like the one above replicating the FFAR meta. Having an AR that enables you to rush down your foes and outmaneuver them is incredibly advantageous, particularly on Fortune’s Keep.

Now, in Season 5 Reloaded, the Volk has made a resurgence thanks to its overwhelming power in mid-range gunfights.

So, if you’re after an AR you can rely on during close-quarter firefights, then you can’t go wrong with the Volk.

5. STG44

STG44 in Warzone
The STG44 is currently the best AR in Warzone.

Best STG44 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: VDD 760mm 05B
  • Optic: SVT-40 PU Scope 3-6x
  • Stock: VDD 34S Weighted
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 50 Round Mags
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Vital
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

When the STG44 was originally released as a Vanguard weapon in Warzone, no one could imagine it would eventually claim a top 10 spot. However, this quickly changed with the Vanguard integration.

The STG44 has become one of the most popular ARs in Warzone thanks to its balanced, yet effective nature. And to make full use of this weapon, be sure to use our STG44 loadout.

4. Grau 5.56 

Grau Warzone
The Grau is a solid choice in Season 5 Reloaded.

Best Grau 5.56 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
  • Barrel: Tempus 26.4” Archangel
  • Optic: VLK 3.0x Optic
  • Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
  • Ammunition: 60 Round Mags

The Grau has the cleanest iron sight in the entire game, but the VLK 3.0x does make it easier to remain accurate at a distance, giving you an advantage in mid-range firefights.

While this Modern Warfare rifle was overlooked in Season 4 Reloaded, a set of buffs placed it in the spotlight once again back in Season 5.

Although its popularity with the community is fueled by a lot of nostalgia, it’s undeniably a powerful weapon that shreds foes at medium range.

3. Vargo 52

Vargo Warzone assault rifle
The Vargo has a relatively stable recoil pattern.

Best Vargo Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
  • Barrel: 18.6″ Task Force
  • Optic: Axial Arms 3x
  • Underbarrel: Spetsnaz Grip
  • Ammunition: Spetsnaz 60 Rnd

The Vargo continues to be a strong contender, especially now that Raven has decreased its recoil.

With its fantastic damage range and high precision, players looking for an Assault Rifle with great accuracy will want to utilize this lethal loadout.

2. XM4

XM4 in Cold War Gunsmith with WZ Pacific logo
The XM4 absolutely shreds in close-range firefights.

Best XM4 Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
  • Barrel: 13.5″ Task Force
  • Optic: Axial Arms 3x
  • Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
  • Magazine: STANAG 60 Rnd

Previously known as the Commando, this reliable Black Ops rifle shares a lot of similarities to that of the M4A1. While the XM4 may have been previously nerfed, it still absolutely melts opponents in close to mid-range firefights.

This particular XM4 loadout is all about boosting the gun’s effective damage range and accuracy, while also greatly improving its handling when going full-auto.

1. Cooper Carbine

Cooper Carbine Warzone
The Cooper Carbine is one of the most popular ARs in Warzone.

Best Cooper Carbine Warzone loadout

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: 22″ Cooper Custom
  • Optic: SVT-40 PU Scope 3-6x
  • Stock: Cooper 45RS
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 9mm 60 Rnd Drums
  • Ammunition: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Tight Grip
  • Perk 2: Fully Loaded

The Cooper Carbine specifically excels in close-range engagements thanks to its incredible fire rate and mobility. For those players who enjoy playing aggressively, then this AR is definitely a solid choice.

When kitted out with the right attachments, this weapon’s effectiveness can be boosted even further, easily making it one of the best ARs in Warzone Season 5 Reloaded.

Best Warzone AR support weapons

Once you’ve decided on the best Warzone AR loadout for your individual playstyle, it’s then important you pick a solid secondary or support weapon.

Seeing as Assault Rifles are ideal for mid-range engagements, your best bet will be to find a weapon that is good at close-range engagements, leaning toward whichever suits you best.

We’ve listed three separate weapon loadouts that are perfect when paired with any of the AR loadouts above.

1. Best Marco 5 loadout

Marco 5 Warzone weapon preview
The new Marco-5 SMG dominates close-quarter fights.
  • Muzzle: F8 Stabilizer
  • Barrel: Imerito 342mm 04P
  • Optic: Slate Reflector
  • Stock: Perfetto Esatta
  • Underbarrel: Mark VI Skeletal
  • Magazine: 8mm Nambu 64 Round Drums
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Taped grip
  • Perk 1: Frenzy
  • Perk 2: Quick

2. Best MP40 loadout

MP40 Warzone preview screen
The MP40 is currently the best SMG in Warzone.
  • Muzzle: Recoil Booster
  • Barrel: VDD 189mm Short
  • Optic: Slate Reflector
  • Stock: Krausnick 33M Folding
  • Underbarrel:M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 45 Round Mags
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Perk 1: Brace
  • Perk 2: Quick

3. Best H4 Blixen loadout

H4 Blixen weapon preview screen
The H4 Blixen is a great SMG pick in Warzone Season 5 Reloaded.
  • Muzzle: Recoil Booster
  • Barrel: Bergstrom 17″ F3
  • Optic: Slate Reflector
  • Stock: Removed stock
  • Underbarrel:SG98 Compact
  • Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 54 Round Mags
  • Rear Grip: Taped Grip
  • Ammunition: Lengthened
  • Perk 1: Fleet
  • Perk 2: Quick

So, there you have it, our top picks of the best ARs in Warzone and attachments to use.


Looking for more of the best Warzone loadouts and tips? Check out our list of guides below:

C58 | Grau 5.56 | Kilo 141 | Krig 6 | CR-56 AMAX FFAR 1 | Mac 10 | MP5 | Kar98k | HDR | Best controller settings | Top 10 best class setups and loadouts | Best streamer loadouts | Most popular Warzone weaponsBest Sniper Rifles | All Warzone bunker codes | Mac-10 loadout | FFAR Warzone class | Top 20 highest-earning players | Best Warzone Weapons | Bren Loadout | Cooper Carbine Loadout

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About The Author

James is Dexerto's Associate Games Editor who joined the website in 2020. He graduated from university with a degree in Journalism, before spending four years freelancing for GamesRadar+, PCGamesN, RPS, LoL Esports, Red Bull Gaming, and many more. You can find him covering everything from CoD, Apex Legends, Genshin Impact, and Monster Hunter. Need to get in touch? Email James at james.busby@dexerto.com.