Call of Duty MW3 needs some significant weapon balancing soon, as these overpowered Assault Rifle loadouts are dominating Multiplayer lobbies.
For the first time ever, we’ve got a new COD game made up entirely of older map remakes, and it’s leading to an interesting meta.
And by interesting, we mean not very diverse. While ARs (and Sniper Rifles) feel great, other weapon types like SMGs, Shotguns, and LMGs can’t compete on the same playing field.
Thanks to both the boost to 150 HP and the fact that these maps weren’t built with MW3’s weapon roster in mind, the meta is heavily skewed to focus on Assault Rifles.
The Most Overpowered Assault Rifles
The most powerful Assault Rifles in MW3 right now are the DG-58, Holger 556, and MCW. Each one is completely dominant and an amazing option at all ranges.
In fact, ARs are even able to outclass SMGs and Shotguns at close range, while simultaneously having the zero recoil necessary to compete with Snipers.
For now, these are the only loadouts that matter in MW3 Multiplayer:
DG-58
- Barrel: DG-56 LS18 Barrel
- Muzzle: Casus Brake
- Optic: MK. 3 Reflector (or your preference)
- Comb: FSS Last Stand Comb
- Underbarrel: FTAC Ripper 56
Why This Gun Is OP:
The DG-58 is currently one of the most dominant guns in the game, due to its ability to kill an enemy in as little as one burst-fire. At most you’ll need two trigger pulls to down your foe, no matter the range!
There’s a reason that you’re seeing so many of these weapons in your lobbies right now, it’s got an incredible Time to Kill and is incredibly easy to use.
Here’s how to unlock each attachment:
| Attachment | How to Unlock |
| DG-56 LS18 Barrel (Barrel) | DG-58 Level 2 |
| Casus Brake (Muzzle) | Longbow Level 20 |
| MK. 3 Reflector (Optic) | MTZ-556 Level 2 |
| FSS Last Stand Comb (Comb) | DG-58 Level 7 |
| FTAC Ripper 56 (Underbarrel) | Lachmann-762 Level 6 |
In addition to the requirements above, many attachments can also unlock via Armory Challenges, for those who fancy less of a grind.
Holger 556
- Barrel: Chrios-6 Match
- Optic: MK. 3 Reflector (or your preference)
- Stock: Holger 26 Factory Stock
- Magazine: Kimura TYN-03 Vertical Grip
- Rear Grip: RB Claw-PSL Grip
Why This Gun Is OP:
The Holger 556 is quite simply the most reliably powerful Assault Rifle in the game right now, thanks to its high damage per hit, and the fact that the beast of a gun can be built to have almost no recoil.
For those who prefer full-auto to burst fire (and we can’t blame you), the Holger 556 is able to match the DG-58’s power level and can even beat it out entirely at long range.
Here’s how to unlock each attachment:
| Attachment | How to Unlock |
| Chrios-6 Match (Barrel) | Holger 556 Level 20 |
| MK. 3 Reflector (Optic) | MTZ-556 Level 2 |
| Holger 26 Factory Stock (Stock) | Holger 556 Level 9 |
| Kimura RYN-03 Vertical Grip (Magazine) | MTZ-556 Level 6 |
| Morn-20 Grip (Rear Grip) | Holger 556 Level 18 |
As mentioned above, many attachments can also unlock via Armory Challenges, to save you time on the grind.
MCW
- Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor
- Barrel: Second Line Mammoth Heavy Barrel
- Optic: MK. 3 Reflector (or your preference)
- Magazine: 40 Round Mag
- Rear Grip: RB Claw-PSL Grip
Why This Gun Is OP:
While the MCW isn’t as overpowered as the other guns on this list, it certainly deserves its place in the roster of overpowered MW3 weapons.
There’s no gun quite as easy to use, due to the fact that the MCW can be built with zero recoil, and it hits hard too. For those who struggle to use MW3’s most dominant guns, this is a reliable weapon to fall back on.
You’ll need to hit at least one headshot per encounter to keep up with the other two ARs – but when you do, say goodbye to the enemy!
Here’s how to unlock each attachment:
| Attachment | How to Unlock |
| Shadowstrike Suppressor (Muzzle) | Longbow Level 11 |
| Second Line Mammoth Heavy Barrel (Barrel) | MCW Level 18 |
| MK. 3 Reflector (Optic) | MTZ-556 Level 2 |
| 40 Round Mag (Magazine) | MCW Level 6 |
| RB Claw-PSL Grip (Rear Grip) | MCW Level 3 |
And don’t forget that you can simply unlock attachments with Armory Challenges should you prefer!
