Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

As a seasoned gamer with years of combat under my belt, I must say that the assault rifles in Black Ops 6 are truly a sight to behold! The variety and balance they offer is simply remarkable. But if you’re looking for the cream of the crop, let me guide you through the jungle of firepower.


In every edition of Call of Duty, assault rifles have proven their worth, and this remains true for Black Ops 6. Here, these weapons stand out as some of the most adaptable and potent options available within the gameplay.

While all Augmented Reality (AR) systems share the same basic function, there’s a significant difference in performance between them. Some excel in multiplayer scenarios, while others may not meet your expectations and should be given a pass. Determining the superior ones can be challenging due to frequent updates like buffs and nerfs. Furthermore, we’re still in the early stages of development, so not everyone has found their ideal weapon yet because the overall strategy or ‘meta’ hasn’t been fully established.

“We’ve categorized the top loadout options for assault rifles in Black Ops 6, detailing the best attachments to use and ranking each one so you can choose the right build and gun.

Best Black Ops 6 Assault Rifle loadouts

1. XM4

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

Best XM4 loadout

  • Optic: Kepler Microflex
  • Muzzle: Compensator
  • Barrel: Long Barrel
  • Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
  • Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

The XM4 stands out as a versatile assault rifle, suitable for all skill levels and capable of ruling on the battlefield. It boasts minimal recoil, exceptional precision, and an impressive damage range, earning it a spot among the elite at both medium and long distances. Yet, it doesn’t shy away from close combat situations due to its rapid-fire rate of 800 RPM, which sets it apart as the fastest firing AR in Black Ops 6.

This setup emphasizes the mentioned precision by focusing on improving recoil management. With this specific configuration, the XM4 becomes incredibly user-friendly, enabling you to effortlessly eliminate enemies from afar with minimal hassle. The Compensator plays a crucial role here, as it significantly reduces gun kick by 31% according to the current meta.

2. AK-74

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

Best AK-74 loadout

  • Optic: Merlin Reflex
  • Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
  • Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
  • Magazine: Extended Mag I
  • Rear Grip: Quickdraw Grip

If you’re really into assault rifles that deliver heavy damage with moderate firing speeds, then Black Ops 6 has an ideal choice for you – the AK-74. This latest rendition in Call of Duty is a testament to the timeless Kalashnikov design, boasting impressive power. It features a swift Time to Kill (TTK), but this comes with higher recoil. However, if you can manage its kick effectively, few weapons can match its firepower.

Of course, you’re aiming for an AK-74 build that enhances recoil management, and we’ve got a setup tailored for that purpose. Particularly, the Vertical Foregrip plays a significant role, reducing horizontal recoil by about 40%. This allows you to effortlessly adjust your aim downwards using the control stick or mouse, keeping the gun on target. Historically, vertical recoil has been simpler to anticipate than its horizontal counterpart, and this weapon follows suit.

3. AS VAL

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

Best AS VAL loadout

  • Barrel: Suppressed Reinforced Barrel
  • Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
  • Magazine: Extended Mag II
  • Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
  • Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

From a fan’s perspective, I find an intriguing resemblance between the AS VAL and the AK-74, as they both pack quite a punch but come with a hefty kickback compared to their counterparts. Yet, the AS VAL takes this trait to another level, boasting the quickest Time-to-Kill (TTK) among its peers in the category, yet it also has an exceptionally high recoil. But for those who can master its recoil, they will rule lobbies and even outmatch Submachine Guns in certain situations.

As an enthusiast, I’ve found that the AS VAL performs exceptionally well in medium-range engagements. However, if you’re aiming for longer distances, controlling its recoil is crucial. Unfortunately, it lacks a muzzle attachment slot, making this quite challenging. But fear not! My loadout tackles this issue by incorporating the Vertical Foregrip and Recoil Springs. When used together, these accessories significantly improve the AS VAL’s accuracy, allowing it to hold its own in any range battle.

4. Goblin Mk2

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

Best Goblin Mk2 loadout

  • Optic: Kepler Microflex
  • Muzzle: Ported Compensator
  • Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
  • Rear Grip: Commando Grip
  • Fire Mods: Rapid Fire

Call of Duty games typically include semi-automatic assault rifles (AR) in their meta, and past hits like the FAL, G3, and SKS have been top picks. However, Modern Warfare 3 didn’t feature one directly. In Black Ops 6, it’s the Goblin Mk2 that shines as the game’s most powerful semi-automatic weapon. When equipped with the Rapid Fire attachment, it boasts an impressive Time to Kill (TTK) of only 233 milliseconds.

This weapon outperforms nearly every other assault rifle and many submachine guns significantly, but keep in mind that it operates as a semi-automatic gun, making it less suitable for some users. It does have a fair amount of recoil, which this setup helps manage, although complete control isn’t achievable. This is a high-skills, high-rewards choice for those who trust their aiming abilities.

5. Model L

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

Best Model L loadout

  • Optic: Kepler Microflex
  • Muzzle: Suppressor
  • Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
  • Rear Grip: Quickdraw Grip
  • Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

As a gun enthusiast, if precision is your top priority, you might find the Model L a fitting choice. Compared to the XM4, it’s a tough call, but its user-friendly nature definitely has an allure. In many aspects, it reminds me of the MCW from last year’s game, which was incredibly popular among players. The Model L may not be quite as impressive, but its familiar feel could make it a favorite for some shooters out there.

As a gamer wielding the Model L, I’ve found an optimal setup that nearly transforms its recoil into a vertical climb, making it a breeze to manage. Even from afar, my shots rarely miss their mark, thanks to the Vertical Foregrip and Recoil Springs turning it into a laser-precise weapon. The added advantage of this assault rifle is its pinpoint accuracy, eliminating the need for a muzzle brake to further minimize recoil. This means I can outfit it with a Suppressor and catch the enemy off guard from unexpected angles.

All Black Ops 6 Assault Rifles ranked

At the game’s debut, Black Ops 6 initially provides seven distinct assault rifles. Each one offers a unique advantage, ranging from exceptional accuracy to high damage output. However, a select few truly excel and are undeniably top-tier choices.

Here’s a breakdown of the game’s weapons ranked from best to worst performance, along with their time-to-kill (TTK) and maximum damage range for your selection convenience.

RANKGUNTTK (MS)MAX DAMAGE RANGE
1XM430046 meters
2AK-7427642 meters
3AS VAL26849 meters
4Goblin Mk226039 meters
5Model L30051 meters
6AMES 8532056 meters
7GPR 9133646 meters

Meta analysis

Best Assault Rifle loadouts in Black Ops 6

From its debut, the XM4 appears to have an edge in multiplayer games of Black Ops 6, making it the top versatile assault rifle. Its combination of precision, damage potential, effective range, and user-friendly design makes it accessible for any player to excel in their gaming sessions.

For those seeking a powerful firearm, the AK-74 or AS VAL might be suitable options, as they deliver strong blows but can be challenging to manage. The Goblin Mk2 is another choice with an impressive time-to-kill of 260 milliseconds, though its semi-automatic nature may not appeal to all users due to its limitations. Currently, these four weapons stand out in the AR category, shaping the current meta.

In a balanced assessment, it’s worth noting that while Model L and AMES 85 may not deliver the highest damage, they more than compensate with exceptional accuracy. They might not be the absolute best choices, but they certainly hold their ground in the top half of Black Ops 6’s gameplay meta, as the assault rifles in this game tend to perform strongly overall.

An exception to this rule is the GPR 91, which stands out as the poorest performing AR in the game. It’s best to steer clear of this low-damage weapon when you can, and we suggest using it only for leveling your weapons or grinding for camo mastery.

To expand your loadout choices, explore the top Submachine Guns currently ruling the gameplay, along with our comprehensive weapon tier list. This will help you understand each gun’s ranking. Additionally, ensure that you optimize your audio settings, PC settings, and controller settings for an enhanced gaming experience.

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2024-10-25 19:49