Assault Rifles and SMGs have always been powerhouse weapons in the *Call of Duty* series, and with the introduction of fast-paced maps and Omnimovement in *Black Ops 6*, SMGs are soaring to the top of the meta. Here's a rundown of the best SMGs you can wield in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6*.
The Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer
In *Black Ops 6* Multiplayer and Ranked Play, SMGs are not just popular; they're some of the most effective weapons in the game. Their fast fire rates and high mobility make them lethal at close quarters, which is where you'll often find yourself in *Black Ops 6*. Thanks to the Gunsmith's customization options, you can even equip attachments that boost their performance at mid-range, allowing them to compete with Assault Rifles. Here are our top picks for the best SMGs in *Black Ops 6* Multiplayer, based on our testing and data from *Warzone* Meta.
#4. PP-919: The PP-919 stands out among *Black Ops 6* SMGs for its effectiveness at medium range. While it may lag in mobility and handling compared to other SMGs, and its fire rate is on the slower side, its massive 64-round base magazine compensates for these drawbacks. This is particularly advantageous in *Black Ops 6* Ranked Play, where extended magazine attachments are off-limits.
#3. PPSh-41: A beloved relic from World War II, the PPSh-41 made a triumphant return with *Black Ops 6* and *Warzone* Season 2. It embodies the quintessential SMG experience with its high fire rate, excellent mobility, and handling, making it a beast at close range. Its recoil is surprisingly manageable, and with attachments like the Vertical Foregrip, it can be even more precise. In standard Multiplayer, you can equip it with its iconic drum mag for a hefty 55-round capacity.
#2. Jackal PDW: Since its introduction in the *Black Ops 6* Beta in September 2024, the Jackal PDW has been a staple in the meta. It boasts great mobility, a solid fire rate, and manageable recoil. While it doesn't excel in any single area, its versatility and ease of use make it a reliable choice across all *Black Ops 6* maps and modes.
#1. KSV: Reminiscent of the AK74u from previous *Call of Duty* titles, the KSV has quickly become a favorite among Ranked Play enthusiasts and pros. It offers a fast fire rate and even faster movement, coupled with clean iron sights and manageable recoil. The uncluttered base sights allow for an additional attachment, enhancing either its accuracy or mobility, making it perfectly suited for *Black Ops 6*'s Omnimovement.
Related: How To Unlock the Full Auto Mod in Black Ops 6 & Warzone
The Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Zombies
In *Black Ops 6* Zombies, SMGs are arguably the best weapon type, second only to Wonder Weapons. Their fast mobility and high fire rates make them ideal for navigating the map and mowing down hordes of zombies. Here are our top picks for the best SMGs in *Black Ops 6* Zombies.
#4. Kompakt 92: The Kompakt 92 boasts an incredibly fast fire rate with a controllable recoil pattern, making it perfect for dealing significant damage to elite enemies like Abominations and Amalgams.
#3. Saug: The Saug is a highly situational weapon in *Black Ops 6* Zombies. Its unique Akimbo attachments allow for dual-wielding, significantly boosting DPS. It's a powerhouse up close, especially when paired with the Napalm Burst Ammo Mod for added fire damage. Although its accuracy took a hit post-Citadelle des Morts, it remains valuable for players focusing on close-quarters combat.
#2. PPSh-41: While the PP-919 may have a larger magazine, the PPSh-41 outshines it in most other aspects. Its fast fire rate, solid mobility, manageable recoil, and high-capacity magazine with a quick reload time make it a top choice. When combined with Deadshot Daiquiri and its Dead Head Augment, the PPSh excels at headshot damage against unarmored zombies.
#1. KSV: Dominating both Multiplayer and Zombies modes, the KSV's fast fire rate and solid accuracy result in a high DPS. When fully upgraded and paired with Deadshot Daiquiri, it can quickly dispatch normal zombies and Doppelghasts. Its high mobility synergizes well with Stamin-Up, allowing players to outrun and outmaneuver the undead.
And those are the best SMGs in *Black Ops 6*.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
