Call of Duty: Black Ops 6's Top SMGs for Multiplayer and Zombies

Submachine guns (SMGs) consistently reign supreme in the Call of Duty franchise. Black Ops 6, with its fast-paced maps and Omnimovement, elevates SMGs to a prominent position in the meta. This guide highlights the best SMGs in Black Ops 6, based on testing and data from sources like Warzone Meta.

Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer

In Black Ops 6's multiplayer and ranked play, several SMGs stand out. Their rapid fire rates and high mobility make them incredibly effective at close range, where most engagements occur. Gunsmith customization allows for mid-range effectiveness, rivaling even assault rifles.

4. PP-919: This SMG excels at medium range, unlike most others. While it features slower mobility and handling, and a slower fire rate, its massive 64-round base magazine compensates. This advantage is particularly significant in ranked play, where extended magazines are restricted.

5. PPSh-41: This WWII classic returns in Black Ops 6 and Warzone Season 2. It boasts a high fire rate, excellent mobility, and surprisingly manageable recoil. Attachments like the Vertical Foregrip further enhance recoil control. In standard multiplayer, the iconic drum magazine provides a substantial 55-round capacity.

6. Jackal PDW: A mainstay since the September 2024 Beta, the Jackal PDW offers a balanced combination of mobility, fire rate, and recoil. Its all-around performance makes it suitable for any map or mode.

7. KSV: This SMG, reminiscent of the AK74u, is a favorite among ranked play enthusiasts and professionals. Its rapid fire rate, exceptional mobility, clean iron sights, and manageable recoil contribute to its dominance. The clear sights allow for an additional attachment to further enhance accuracy or mobility.

Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Zombies

SMGs, excluding Wonder Weapons, are arguably the best weapon class in Black Ops 6 Zombies. Their speed and fire rate are crucial for navigating hordes of the undead.

4. Kompakt 92: This SMG's rapid fire rate and controllable recoil make it ideal for eliminating elite enemies like Abominations and Amalgams.

5. Saug: A highly situational weapon, the Saug's unique Akimbo attachment allows dual-wielding, significantly boosting damage per second (DPS). Combined with the Napalm Burst Ammo Mod, it becomes a devastating close-quarters weapon, although its accuracy nerf since the Citadelle des Morts launch has lessened its overall impact.

6. PPSh-41: While the PP-919's higher magazine capacity remains advantageous (especially after Pack-a-Punch's fourfold capacity increase), the PPSh-41 surpasses it in other aspects. Its fast fire rate, mobility, manageable recoil, and decent reload time make it excellent. The Deadshot Daiquiri and Dead Head Augment further enhance its head-shot DPS against unarmored zombies.

7. KSV: As in multiplayer, the KSV dominates in Zombies. Its high DPS, accuracy, and mobility, combined with Deadshot Daiquiri and Stamin-Up, allow for efficient zombie elimination and maneuverability.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.