Best guns in Warzone – Meta weapon loadouts

With the launch of Season 1 and the integration of Black Ops 6 into Warzone, the meta has undergone yet another shake-up. To stay competitive, it’s essential to refresh and optimize your loadouts.

The addition of a new arsenal of BO6 weapons, along with significant buffs, nerfs, and the introduction of a new map means players must rethink their strategies and weapon choices to stay ahead in Call of Duty’s ever-evolving battle royale.

The top-performing weapons boast fast time-to-kill (TTK), excellent range, and low recoil, making them stand out from the competition. To help you adapt to the new meta, we’ve compiled a list of the best Warzone loadouts. These setups are designed to give you a distinct advantage, ensuring you’re ready to dominate in every match.

Warzone Season 1 absolute meta loadouts

If you want to stay ahead of the competition and dominate your matches, these weapons are the absolute best in the game right now. They outperform the rest and set the standard for the current meta:

Long-range weapons (ARs, LMGs, Battle Rifles & Snipers)

GPR 91

Optic: Kepler Red Dot
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II

The GPR 91 has quickly established itself as the standout weapon in Black Ops 6 and Warzone Season 1, earning its place as the best overall gun in the current meta. Combining exceptional accuracy with impressive damage, this assault rifle strikes the perfect balance for players looking to dominate across multiple modes.

In multiplayer, the GPR 91 is a precise weapon with a slower TTK, but its performance truly shines in Warzone. Here, it boasts one of the fastest TTKs in the game while maintaining remarkably low recoil, making it ideal for long-range engagements in battle royale scenarios.

Currently, the GPR 91 is the ultimate long-range option, filling the role previously held by meta favorites like the DTIR, STG, and SVA 545 in past seasons. While these weapons remain viable, they lack the mobility and handling that the GPR 91 offers. Surprisingly agile for a weapon with such significant power and range, the GPR 91 sets itself apart as a versatile and dominant choice in the evolving Warzone meta.

Model L

Optic: Kepler Red Dot
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II

The Model L is a versatile assault rifle that excels as a reliable primary weapon without relying on flashy features. It’s highly accurate, user-friendly, and comes with a sizable magazine, making it a strong contender in both medium and long-range engagements. This all-around performance makes it a true jack-of-all-trades weapon with very few drawbacks.

In many ways, the Model L feels reminiscent of the once-iconic Grau 5.56, though it doesn’t quite match the Grau’s peak dominance. Like the Grau, the Model L boasts an almost entirely vertical recoil pattern, making it exceptionally easy to control and capable of lasering opponents from significant distances. Given how effective and popular such weapons tend to be, it’s only a matter of time before the Model L starts dominating lobbies.

DTIR 30-06

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: EXTND-10 Long Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Ammunition: .30-06 High Grain Rounds
Magazine: 40 Round Mag

The DTIR 30-06 was the reigning champion in Warzone before the integration of Black Ops 6. While it no longer holds the top spot, thanks to the introduction of more well-rounded weapons, this modern take on the BAR from Vanguard remains a formidable choice. Its incredible accuracy at long range ensures it retains a solid position in the evolving meta.

What sets the DTIR apart is its combination of a fast time-to-kill and highly controllable recoil, making it an accessible and effective weapon for players of all skill levels. Additionally, its exceptional damage range allows it to laser enemies from well over 100 meters, giving it a distinct edge in long-range engagements.

The DTIR’s only significant drawback is its slower rate of fire, which may take some time to master. However, this minor flaw is far from a dealbreaker and does little to diminish its standing as a top-tier option in Warzone.

Kar98k

Muzzle: Sonic Suppressor L
Barrel: Prazisionsgewehr 762 Long Barrel
Optic: Range Caller v3.4 Optic
Ammunition: 7.92 High Grain Rounds
Sling: Recon Sling

The Kar98k made an explosive return to Warzone, quickly solidifying itself as the best weapon in the game. Although it faced inevitable nerfs aimed at balancing its dominance, particularly for controller players, the Kar98k remains a top-tier weapon even after the introduction of Black Ops 6 guns. Despite the Season 1 adjustments, its unmatched handling and mobility remain intact.

Post-nerf, the Kar98k boasts a one-shot effective range of 67 meters, slightly reduced from its previous capability. However, it continues to excel as the top choice for aggressive sniping, effectively taking over the role previously held by the XRK Stalker. While the XRK Stalker is still a solid option, the Kar98k’s exceptional performance makes it difficult to justify using anything else. Its combination of speed, precision, and versatility ensures it remains a favorite among Warzone players.

Close-range weapons (SMGs, Shotguns, Pistols)

Jackal PDW

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Stock: No Stock

The Jackal PDW is an outstanding SMG and currently dominates the close-range meta. With a blistering TTK of just 616 ms (the fastest among all Black Ops 6 weapons), it’s easily the most effective choice for players who can consistently land their shots. Coupled with its exceptional mobility and handling, the Jackal PDW is a dream weapon for those who thrive on aggressive, rush-heavy gameplay.

However, this high damage output comes at the expense of versatility. The Jackal PDW operates as a traditional SMG, excelling in close-quarters combat but losing effectiveness at longer ranges. To maximize its potential, it’s best to keep engagements within 16 meters, where it truly shines. This makes it an ideal weapon for Resurgence modes, where close-range skirmishes and fast-paced action are the keys to success.

PP-919

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
Laser: Steady Aim Laser
Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

After more than 20 years, Call of Duty finally delivers a PP Bizon variant that stands out as a top-tier option. The PP-919 is an impressively accurate SMG, capable of excelling in both close-quarters and medium-range combat. Despite its precision, it doesn’t compromise on power, ranking as the sixth-fastest-killing Black Ops 6 weapon in Warzone.

What truly sets the PP-919 apart is its default 64-round magazine, essentially granting players a free attachment slot to further customize their loadout. This makes it one of the most versatile SMGs in the current meta, offering a perfect balance of firepower and adaptability. For players who value flexibility and consistency, the PP-919 is a stellar alternative to hyper-specialized options like the Jackal PDW, which thrives only in close-range engagements.

Static-HV

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Garrote-8 Long Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: Spry 24 Light Stock
Underbarrel: XTEN Phantom-5 Handstop

The STG44 wasn’t the only weapon to dominate the meta when it debuted in Modern Warfare 3 Season 5 – the Static-HV quickly rose to prominence as well. However, in the Black Ops 6 era, the Static-HV has seen a decline in popularity due to significant nerfs to its bullet velocity and damage range, limiting its versatility. While it still packs a punch, it’s no longer the all-purpose weapon it once was.

That said, the Static-HV remains a solid choice for players who favor an aggressive playstyle. Its exceptional mobility and handling have remained intact, making it a go-to option for fast-paced gameplay. As long as these attributes are preserved and its damage output stays competitive, the Static-HV is likely to retain a spot in the meta for the foreseeable future.

Superi 46

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Lux 30 Heavy Barrel
Stock: Rescue-9 Stock
Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
Magazine: 40 Round Mag

The Superi 46 took Warzone by storm back in Modern Warfare 3 Season 4, and it remains a standout option in Season 1. Its exceptional mobility, which is among the best of any SMG in the game, is enough to keep it in the meta. Pair that with a fast time-to-kill and impressive recoil control, and you have a weapon that excels in nearly every aspect. While recent nerfs to its damage range have made it slightly less versatile than before, the Superi 46 is still a force to be reckoned with.

Even with the nerfs, it’s rare to find an SMG this well-rounded. The Superi 46 is reminiscent of iconic Warzone SMGs like the MP5 and MAC-10 which dominated past metas. Although it hasn’t yet achieved the legendary status of those weapons, the Superi 46 remains an outstanding choice. Despite the arrival of seven new SMGs from Black Ops 6, it continues to hold its place as a top-tier weapon in Warzone’s evolving arsenal.

Meta loadouts

While these weapons may not dominate at the very top of the meta, they still deliver impressive performance and are highly competitive. The meta loadouts listed below are excellent choices in their own right and are definitely worth considering:

Long-range weapons (ARs, LMGs, Battle Rifles, Snipers)

XMG

Optic: Kepler Red Dot
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

LMGs in Warzone have always been unpredictable, ranging from underwhelming to game-changing. The XMG falls closer to the latter category, emerging as the best machine gun in Warzone by a significant margin.

The XMG is set apart by exceptional mobility for an LMG, paired with a default 100-round magazine that ensures you’re always ready for fights that last a while. If that isn’t enough, equipping the Extended Mag I boosts the capacity to an astounding 150 rounds without negatively impacting handling stats – a feat that would have severely hindered the performance of previous MW3 LMGs. All of this makes the XMG a standout choice, clearly surpassing the weapons it has replaced in the meta.

STG44

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Bruen Acrux Heavy Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
Magazine: 50 Round Drum

Unsurprisingly, the STG44 was a powerhouse when it was first introduced, quickly becoming the best all-around weapon in the game. With its low recoil and absurdly fast TTK, it dominated Warzone for a significant period. However, its overwhelming strength led to several nerfs, including major changes in Modern Warfare 3 Season 6 that reduced its damage – a trend Raven has continued with further adjustments in Season 1.

Post-nerf, the STG44 is no longer so overwhelmingly dominant that it renders other weapons obsolete, but it remains a solid choice for an assault rifle. Its signature low recoil is untouched, and even with a slower TTK, it can still hold its own in most scenarios. That said, a significant reduction in its bullet velocity has made long-range engagements more challenging, limiting the weapon’s overall versatility. Despite these changes, the STG44 is still a reliable pick for players looking to rack up kills.

SVA 545

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: STV Precision Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Magazine: 60 Round Mag
Rear Grip: Citadel Grip

Since Modern Warfare 3’s integration, the SVA 545 has consistently been a viable option, maintaining its relevance even in the Black Ops 6 era. Its exceptional long-range performance keeps it competitive, and with minimal nerfs in Season 1, the weapon remains just as effective as it was in previous seasons.

What sets the SVA 545 apart is its unique hyperburst mechanic. The assault rifle’s first two shots fire in a burst, and when tap-fired, it effectively becomes a two-round burst weapon. This feature significantly enhances its accuracy, especially at extreme distances, making the SVA 545 incredibly user-friendly for players who prioritize precision and control. Its consistency and ease of use continue to make it a standout choice in the current meta.

KATT-AMR

Muzzle: Sonic Suppressor XL
Barrel: Zang-34 Barrel
Laser: SL Razorhawk Laser Light
Ammunition: .50 Cal High Velocity
Bolt: Ephemeral Quickbolt

Given how dominant sniping is in Warzone, it’s no surprise that players are constantly searching for the best one-shot build. While the Kar98k excels in fast-paced sniping scenarios, the KATT-AMR stands out as the superior choice on larger maps like Urzikstan.

Though it has a slower fire rate and handling, the KATT-AMR’s ability to secure one-shot eliminations at any range firmly establishes it as a meta weapon. The MORS and LW3A1 Frostline are strong alternatives, but the KATT-AMR edges them out with its exceptional bullet velocity, making it feel almost hitscan at any distance.

MCW 6.8

Muzzle: Sonic Suppressor L
Barrel: MCW Crown-30 Barrel
Optic: Corio Eagleseye 2.5x
Stock: RB Crotalus Assault Stock
Magazine: 60 Round Drum

The MCW 6.8 has been quietly holding its place in the meta but remains largely overlooked because it’s a semi-automatic DMR, and many players tend to shy away from this weapon category. However, there are plenty of reasons to give it a try, particularly its high damage output and impressive range.

While it may not suit everyone’s playstyle, for those who enjoy this type of weapon, the MCW 6.8 is an exceptional choice capable of outgunning most opponents. That said, it’s crucial to avoid close-range engagements, as this marksman rifle is not built for CQB scenarios. It also received nerfs in Season 1, with a reduction to its bullet velocity, making it more effective in medium-range encounters.

Close-range weapons (SMGs, Shotguns, Pistols)

Saug

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Stock: Light Stock

High fire-rate SMGs have consistently found a place in Warzone’s meta and in Season 1, that weapon is the Saug. Introduced with the BO6 integration, this submachine gun excels in close-range combat and makes racking up kills effortless.

The Saug is practically built for Resurgence, with exceptional mobility that lets you zip around the map and take on numerous gunfights. However, this comes at the cost of higher recoil, which limits its effectiveness beyond 13 meters. While it may not be at the very top of the meta, there’s no doubt that the Saug is a highly competitive choice capable of dominating in the right hands.

WSP-9

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: WSP Reckless-90 Long Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
Magazine: 50 Round Mag

The WSP-9 stands out with impressive time-to-kill. This modern take on the iconic Uzi delivers hard-hitting performance, excellent mobility, and the rare ability to compete at medium range, setting it apart from most other submachine guns. Its slower fire rate enhances control and accuracy, making it highly effective at longer distances.

However, the slower fire rate is a double-edged sword, as it also makes the WSP-9 less forgiving. Missing just a few shots can significantly impact its TTK, making it a weapon that heavily rewards precision and skill. While it may not suit everyone, players who can master the WSP-9’s quirks are sure to dominate their matches.

Striker

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Striker Recon Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Paracord Grip
Ammunition: .45 Auto High Grain Rounds
Magazine: 48 Round Mag

The Striker has hovered around the meta for a while but often fell short of being a top choice among SMGs. That changed after Raven buffed its damage range, allowing the weapon to capitalize on its greatest asset – its impressive versatility. Although it was nerfed in Season 1 like many other SMGs, the changes have had little impact on its overall performance, keeping it a strong contender.

With low recoil and excellent range, the Striker can compete at distances where most other SMGs fall short. At the same time, it remains effective in close-quarters combat, boasting a TTK comparable to the Static-HV while maintaining solid mobility and handling stats. As a true jack-of-all-trades SMG, the Striker excels in any role, making it a reliable and adaptable choice.

FJX Horus

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Syn9 Long Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: Ripper Light Stock
Magazine: 60 Round Drum

The FJX Horus was already a strong contender when it featured a smaller 48-round magazine and higher recoil. Significant buffs and the addition of a 60 Round Drum magazine propelled it into meta status, a position it still holds today. Remarkably, the base version of the FJX Horus remained untouched by Season 1 nerfs, preserving its effectiveness.

In close-quarters combat, this underrated SMG can go toe-to-toe with the best guns in the game. With excellent mobility and a classic submachine gun feel, the FJX Horus excels at melting opponents up close. However, its one significant drawback is the existence of the Jackal PDW, which is a superior alternative. Even so, the FJX Horus remains a strong option and a worthy contender in the current meta.

Reclaimer 18

Muzzle: Bryson Choke
Barrel: Ironbrand Long Barrel
Stock: No Stock
Underbarrel: Bruen Bastion Angled Grip
Rear Grip: Haste XV Grip Tape

The Reclaimer 18 Shotgun, better known as the SPAS-12, can down enemies in just two shots, delivering an almost unreal TTK that seems too good to be true. Initially thought to be a bug due to its overwhelming damage, it remains effective even in Season 1. However, Raven has addressed its power with nerfs to its range and overall consistency, making it less lethal than in the previous season.

Even with these adjustments, using this shotgun is bound to frustrate your opponents. Expect angry messages as you dominate lobbies and rack up the wins. If that appeals to you, now is the perfect time to pick up this version of the SPAS-12 and relive its former glory. Just remember to rely on Tac-Stance, as the folded stock makes the iron sights far from ideal.

Best off-meta loadouts

These weapons may not be at the forefront of the current meta, but they’re still capable of holding their own. If you’re looking for a competitive yet underrated option in Warzone, consider giving these loadouts a try:

Goblin Mk2

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Precision Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II

Semi-automatic assault rifles are rarely the top choice in Warzone unless they’re exceptionally powerful. That said, the Goblin Mk2 is at least worth considering. As the second-fastest-killing weapon introduced with Black Ops 6, its fast fire rate and solid handling make it a surprisingly strong option in close-range engagements.

Of course, using a semi-auto rifle requires accuracy, which can be more challenging compared to fully automatic weapons. However, for skilled players who can consistently land their shots, the Goblin Mk2 is a genuinely competitive option capable of performing well in any lobby. While it’s not part of the meta due to its steep learning curve, it remains a powerful choice for those willing to master its unique playstyle.

BP50

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Lore-9 Heavy Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: Moat-40 Stock
Magazine: 45 Round Mag

The BP50 faced significant nerfs back in MW3 Season 4, but its sheer dominance before those changes ensured it remained one of Warzone’s best assault rifles. Despite its reduced power, the weapon retains many of its strengths, and with no major adjustments in Season 1, it continues to be a solid choice. If you enjoyed using the BP50 before Black Ops 6 integration, it’s just as satisfying to use now.

With excellent iron sights, low recoil, and versatility across nearly all ranges, the BP50 has plenty of qualities that make it a strong contender. While it may not sit squarely in the meta anymore, it’s not far behind. A couple of small buffs could easily bring it back to the top tier. Perhaps a resurgence for the BP50 is just around the corner.

Holger 556

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Chrios-6 Match
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: RB Addle Assault Stock
Magazine: 40 Round Mag

The Holger 556 has long been a solid weapon, but its smaller 40-round magazine has always been a drawback. While this limitation still exists, recent buffs have made the gun more viable than ever. Though its damage range was slightly reduced in Season 1, the Holger 556 still outperforms most other weapons at range – as long you can control its recoil.

In Solos and Duos, the Holger 556 is one of the best options in Warzone. However, in Trios and Quads, the smaller magazine becomes a significant disadvantage, potentially costing you matches if you run out of ammo during critical moments. This isn’t an issue for direct competitors like the GPR 91 or Model L, which makes the Holger 556 better suited for playlists with smaller squads where its weaknesses are less pronounced.

RAM-9

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: HVS 3.4 Pad
Magazine: 50 Round Mag
Comb: Recon Comb

The RAM-9 has always been a solid choice, but buffs to its damage range over several seasons have significantly improved its standing. While it hasn’t quite broken into the meta and Season 1 nerfs have slowed its momentum, this SMG remains a reliable pick for players seeking a versatile weapon with excellent mobility.

What sets the RAM-9 apart is its distinct feel, which offers something unique compared to other submachine guns. It’s hard to put into words, but once you try it out, you’ll quickly understand its appeal. This one-of-a-kind weapon has strong potential to become meta in the near future, especially if Raven continues to prioritize the relevance of MW33 weapons in Warzone’s ever-growing arsenal.

TAQ Eradicator

Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
Barrel: Conquer-70 Long Barrel
Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
Stock: Tactique Brute Stock
Underbarrel: Bruen Heavy Support Grip

The TAQ Eradicator received a significant buff a few seasons ago, increasing both its damage and effective range. This improvement directly buffed its time-to-kill, making it a strong contender among Warzone’s top long-range weapons. However, Season 1 introduced some notable nerfs, reducing its minimum damage and bullet velocity.

Even with these changes, the TAQ Eradicator remains a favorite among Warzone players for its forgiving nature and ease of use. It hits hard, is simple to control, and features a large magazine, making it a dependable choice regardless of the current meta. That said, its effectiveness at extreme distances has diminished, so it’s no longer the best option for ultra-long-range engagements.

All Warzone guns

Here’s a comprehensive list of all the guns currently available in Warzone from Modern Warfare 2, Modern Warfare 3, and Black Ops 6:

Assault Rifles

SMGs

Battle Rifles

LMGs

Sniper Rifles

Shotguns

Marksman Rifles

Pistols

That’s all for the best meta loadouts in Warzone, however, no matter which guns you choose, make sure to optimize your controller and PC settings to fully maximize their potential.

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