Ghost Recon: Breakpoint – Best SMGs

Key Takeaways

• SMGs in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint offer versatility in close to mid-range combat, providing fast firing rates and moderate recoil for effective skirmishing.
• Different SMGs like the Uzi 9mm, P90, and Echelon provide unique advantages in gameplay, from high damage to stealth capabilities.
• Understanding weapon stats and gameplay strategies with SMGs like the MP5, Vector Quantum, and Honey Badger can optimize combat effectiveness.

Combatants in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint who prefer to skirmish up close don’t always have to gamble with the slow-acting Shotgun, primarily if the SMG can provide ample damage with a fast firing rate. Similar to SMGs in other FPS titles, the SMG offerings of Ghost Recon: Breakpoint prove reliable in close to mid-range incursions, giving players much-needed versatility up close when usual Assault Rifles can’t keep up.

However, players who need help with their combat strategies may be hindered by their choice of SMG. Thankfully, the proper considerations and understanding of SMG strategies can make players carry a much deadlier arsenal of weapons into a firefight, especially when one considers the versatility of SMGs that makes them such a popular choice. SMGs usually have an incredibly fast fire rate, moderate recoil, and appropriate damage, which allows them to eradicate the competition at close to mid-ranges that barely any weapon can compete with, in the right hands.

Updated November 24, 2024 by Rhenn Taguiam: While there’s yet to be news about the upcoming Ghost Recon release, fans of the hit franchise might want to dabble into earlier installments to get their fill of tactical shooter fun away from ultra-competitive hits such as Rainbow Six Siege.

In that regard, Ghost Recon: Breakpoint might be the perfect place for players to test their mettle while they wait for the new Ghost Recon title, especially with its larger emphasis on survival on the island of Auroa and enemies having generally the same skillset as players. Players who want to get up close and personal against enemies should consider using SMGs – and depending on the type of SMG they choose, there are certain intricacies towards playing them to maximize their use.

1 Uzi 9mm

Damage: 20

Perhaps one of the most recognizable SMGs in real life and gaming, the Uzi 9mm appears as a nifty close-ranged berserker fit as a beginner weapon in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint gameplay. While boasting more firepower than the Vector Quantum, players stick to close range with the Uzi 9mm as this weapon offers mediocre accuracy and a below-average range.

However, players who love their firefights up close should appreciate the stellar recoil and mobility offered by the Uzi 9mm. Compared to other SMGs that do excel in melee but still need forceful controls will find tearing enemies with the Uzi 9mm smooth like butter in tight spaces. Yet, its lack of range and rapid fire could be seen as a burden to some more tactical players.

How To Use Uzi 9mm

The Uzi 9mm boasts an above-average firing rate and mobility, making it a must-have weapon for aggressive players who favor swooping in for the kill instead of more careful fights. However, it’s also for this reason that the weapon suffers from poor range and stability, making it difficult to use as a stealthy companion. The Uzi is best used for high-speed, fast-paced gameplay where enemies are plenty and players want to clear the area as fast as possible.

2 P90

Damage: 25

Designed as a partner for the FN Five-Seven, the FN P90 is a compact SMG originally commissioned by NATO to fight Russian paratroopers in the Cold War. The P90’s efficiency was not just a popular self-defense weapon but a staple in special forces and counter-terrorist squads, with a player enjoying their Ghost Recon: Breakpoint experience able to access quite a decent 25 Damage with middling stats.

While not especially excelling across all departments in terms of performance, the above-average mobility of the P90 combined with its manageable recoil can make it a reliable firearm in close-ranged incursions. While arguably boasting more firepower than other SMGs, the P90’s generally lower stats make it sub-optimal in prolonged engagements, especially when there are superior firearms out there on the battlefield just waiting to be used.

How To Use P90

The so-so recoil of the P90 and its lack of firepower at range can make it a tricky weapon to use even in mid-range combat, as players need to master its firing pattern to score headshots at a distance. Up close, the P90 rules with quick-fire bursts that are guaranteed to eliminate opponents with scattered body shots. While not shooting as “clean” as other SMGs will permit, the P90 remains a decent short-range companion for players who want to get up close and personal with their missions.

3 Echelon SMG

Damage: 22

Accompanying Sam Fisher’s arrival in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint via Operation Checkmate is a variety of armaments inspired by the clandestine group Fourth Echelon, including the Echelon SMG. Speculated to be based on the SC-400S select-fire SMG in Splinter Cell, the Echelon SMG boasts monstrous handling and mobility perfect for the stealth-oriented Echelon Class.

What the gun lacks in range it more than makes up with accuracy and decent recoil, allowing players to take down enemy squads quickly and disappear into the shadows just as fast. Others may compare its overall performance to the MP7, and while its 22 Damage isn’t far from the MP7’s 23 Damage, the numbers may get significant in prolonged incursions. The weapon’s use of the classic Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell IP makes it an engaging weapon for fans of Sam Fisher, who returns to the fight.

How To Use Echelon SMG (Higher)

The superb accuracy of the Echelon SMG is only held back by its predictably low (but still decent) range. Thankfully, its impressive mobility, handling, and recoil means the weapon is built to be more of an on-the-go companion for players who want to be fast and elaborate with their encounters. The Echelon SMG is a decent go-to weapon for players who want to clear stealth missions as fast as possible with little chance of retaliation from opponents, or for players who want to go guns blazing on the battlefield and “disappear” without a trace after a burst-fire kill.

4 Scorpion EVO3

Damage: 23

Based on the CZUB’s family of select-fire SMGs, the Scorpion EVO3 offers much-needed controllable firepower to better navigate a situation that will help them level up fast in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint. Despite the averaging fire rate, the Scorpion EVO3 has slightly above-average accuracy, handling, and mobility, giving players much room for smooth and maneuverable plays in any combat situation.

However, the Scorpion EVO3 shines in its gameplay versatility, especially since equipping this with sights that can reach 8x Zoom can still potentially one-tap foes with low recoil compensating for weak range. While the Scorpion EVO3 has nothing too exceptional to offer, its accessibility is something players shouldn’t skip.

How To Use Scorpion EVO3

Spraying with the Scorpion EVO3 is a delight, especially when engaging enemies up close. A quick spray in their presence won’t give them any chance to react and shoot in response, although it will still take a few shots to take most enemies down. While weak in range, players who don’t want to switch to a long-ranged AR could rely on the EVO3’s decent scope to take down targets from afar from a few shots. Make the shots quick, though, as missing them (which will happen) can get the enemy’s immediate attention.

5 MPX Tactical

Damage: 17

Another recognizable SMG from most modern gaming shooters would be the SIG Sauer MPX, a gas-operated SMG with features designed for user safety and reliability. However, players may notice its variant in the Ghost Recon: Breakpoint experience is a multi-faceted beast capable of accommodating players as a primary weapon in most stealth missions, meaning players can feel like a true ghost when infiltrating, and bringing fear to enemies that have no idea what kind of gun the player is wielding.

Compared to the base MPX variant, a fully-kitted MPX Tactical can enjoy incredible accuracy on top of high handling and mobility. Despite its rather middling range stat, the smooth recoil of the MPX Tactical can pave the way for clean mid-ranged shots in single-fire mode and precise target-switching mayhem on full-auto.

How To Use MPX Tactical

Despite its relatively average damage, its firing rate should make the MPX Tactical capable of taking down enemies just by going for a quick-fire burst. When equipped with a decent scope, the MPX Tactical should let players take down enemies at a slightly long range with the right recoil control. Its handling and accuracy are fairly decent, allowing players to take down enemies before they react while still giving them room to maneuver away from potential reinforcements.

6 Bullpup PDR

Damage: 25

Inspired by the real-life Magpul PDR, the Bullpup PDR in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint can become one of the best-performing SMGs a player could use, especially if they don’t have access to higher-damage armaments. Its longer reload time is compensated with a more recognizable thump when shooting, making it a more reliable companion for players who want to rush in close range for the thrills without sacrificing combat efficiency.

Performance-wise, the Bullpup PDR feels more like an Assault Rifle with its handling profile, making it a decent secondary weapon to back up an AR without the risk of having to adjust to completely different gun controls upon the switch-up. Due to the Bullpup’s decent “feel,” it handles well compared to other weapons in terms of precision control, making it an ideal companion for completing challenges.

How To Use Bullpup PDR

Despite its recoil, aiming the Bullpup PDR properly can result in some pretty clean headshots – making this weapon a decent addition to a player’s repertoire of weapons for stealth builds. The Bullpup PDR performs predictably well up close, giving players room for a quick kill before having to transition into taking cover.

7 UMP45

Damage: 25

Originally designed as a cheaper successor to the MP5, it makes sense why the UMP45 packs a familiar punch with some sacrifice towards its overall damage. Its slightly improved reload time is negligible compared to its predecessor, but its performance in-game could make it a decent substitute to the MP5 should players have yet to acquire the weapon.

Its lower damage numbers do pose a potential risk to players, as encounters of attrition against multiple foes could use the more significant punching power of the MP5. However, players who can use the environment to their advantage could secure vantage points and eliminate foes from the safety of relatively decent mid-range performance.

How To Use UMP45

The UMP45 surprisingly handles itself pretty well in open areas, although its averaging damage means players need to be precise and intentional when shooting. Using the UMP45 is ideal with a stealthier build, wherein players distract opponents and take them down unawares with the SMG before retaking cover.

8 MP5

Damage: 29

Perhaps the most recognizable SMG in the gaming community thanks to numerous appearances throughout the years, the Heckler & Koch MP5 retains its mainstream popularity in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint as one of the best pieces of gear by providing an all-rounder armament for close-to-mid-range plays. Its above-average range and mobility allow players to take out enemies at further ranges compared to other SMGs, with its light recoil compensating for its lower accuracy stat.

Sprays remain the way to go with the MP5, with its range giving the weapon much room to take out enemies before they can even react to the player’s presence. Its decent damage can motivate players to train on scoring headshots up close, although the gun still gives quite a punch even when hitting center mass.

How To Use MP5

Aside from performing decently well at range, the MP5’s burst-fire and auto-fire options make it a beast to behold in most setups. Players who need to deal with enemies quickly but quietly could use the burst-fire to take down enemies and stop before enemies react, while auto-fire is a more favorable option in more open environments where players are more aggressive.

9 Vector Quantum

Damage: 18

When players defeat the Skell Quantum Computer in Golem Island, they can acquire the Vector Quantum. While there’s no direct reference to the real-life basis of its futuristic design, the weapon’s appearance may be based on the KRISS USA’s Vector. Stats-wise, the Vector Quantum is the fastest-firing gun throughout Ghost Recon: Breakpoint abilities which, when combined with its high mobility and handling, can make it a force to reckon with in close quarters.

The high firing rate of the Vector Quantum can help players excel with their headshots, mainly when compensated with its low recoil. However, the weapon’s remarkably lackluster range and low DPS make it more effective at melee.

How To Use Vector Quantum

The extremely fast firing rate of the Vector Quantum could pose some accuracy problems for most players, something that could be remedied by more aggressive pursuits in closed spaces. The Vector Quantum is the ideal companion in open areas where players need to take down multiple opponents on the move.

10 MP7

Damage: 23

The more compact size of the Heckler & Koch MP7 directly competes with the equally small FN P90, with both guns adhering to NATO requirements of anti-Kevlar SMGs. Players can notice this design difference in its Ghost Recon: Breakpoint firearms gameplay, where the MP7 gets below-average range in exchange for stellar handling and mobility on top of impressive recoil.

These stats translate to the MP7 fitting more compact Breakpoint encounters, with the MP7’s 23 damage being the perfect fit for engaging opponents up close and repositioning just fast enough to finish them off before they get a chance to strike back. While it’s possible to use the MP7 for mid-ranged shots, the weapon performs exceptionally well in close quarters.

How To Use MP7

Not only is the MP7 the fastest weapon in the game in terms of firing rate but its decent handling and accuracy can make walking and shooting the weapon in close quarters a breeze. It’s best to take the MP7 when engaging enemies in confined spaces like rooms and buildings, as its fast-firing nature allows players to take cover just as fast as they can take down targets.

11 SN-9mm

Damage: 28

Also known as the Vityaz-SN, the SN-9mm may as well replace “sub” in “submachine gun” with “sniper” due to its incredible range in its Ghost Recon: Breakpoint performance. Combined with its impressive recoil, a properly scoped SN-9mm should be capable of taking out opponents beyond 200 meters, making this armament perfect for stealth encounters.

The rest of its stats don’t slouch either, its average accuracy is paired with decent handling and mobility. These numbers make the SN-9mm the SMG of choice for the Panther’s Cloak and Run (Technique) which can facilitate surprise attacks, take enemies out, and disappear into thin air before enemies even retaliate.

How To Use SN-9mm

The decent firing rate of the SN-9mm and its heavy-hitting nature can make it a must-have companion for both aggressive and stealth encounters. Its fast-enough fire rate means players can miss their headshots and still have room for a double-tap, allowing them to perform quick room sweeps, take cover, and secure objectives without much worry.

12 Honey Badger

Damage: 31

Named after the rather cutesy honey badger, the AAC Honey Badger PDW is by no means a pushover in a player’s Ghost Recon: Breakpoint playthrough. Although its primary purpose is a personal defense weapon, its design based on the AR-15 translates in the game to have quite a punch with its 31 Damage. Its above-average handling, accuracy, and range make it an all-rounder for close-to-mid-range incursions.

Despite its mobility and recoil being portrayed as so-so in terms of numbers, the Honey Badger handles well across any combat situation. At 31 Damage, the Honey Badger boasts some of the highest DPS in the game especially with its firing rate, making it a must-have for players looking for a reliable armament in their loadout.

How To Use Honey Badger

Not only does the Honey Badger boast high damage, but its incredible accuracy, recoil control, and handling allow the SMG to be among the easiest to use. Being able to switch targets seamlessly with its ease of use can make the Honey Badger a dependable SMG to use inside buildings and open fields. Use the Honey Badger for heavy engagements, especially when players are forced to go through opponents to reach an objective.