Best guns in Black Ops 6 – Beta weapon tier list

Nathan Warby
Best guns in Black Ops 6 written over cover art

The Black Ops 6 beta is officially live and the meta is already starting to take shape, but which are the best guns to use?

Treyarch have given players access to a variety of powerful weapons, from all-round Assault Rifles to deadly SMGs. But figuring out which one is the ideal on the new set of maps and modes is no easy task, and making the wrong choice could see you wallowing at the bottom of the leaderboard.

So, here are the best guns in Black Ops 6 in a ranked tier list so you know which you should be leveling up.

Black Ops 6 weapon tier list

TierWeapon
SJackal PDW, AMES 85, XM4
AC9, LR 7.62, AK-74
BXMG, SVD
CMarine SP, Swat 5.56

Rankings

  • S: Absolute meta guns that are viable on virtually every map or mode.
  • A: Very strong options that won’t let you down, but may lack some of the strength of S-tier weapons.
  • B: Average guns that shine in certain situations but aren’t quite as competitive overall.
  • C: Weapons that are best to steer clear of unless they suit your playstyle or you need them for a very specific situation.

Best guns explained

5. LR 7.62 – Best Sniper Rifle

LR 7.62 in Black Ops 6
Sniping is more than viable in Black Ops 6.

If you’re looking to snipe in the BO6 beta, there is no better option than the LR 7.62. This lethal Sniper Rifle is an absolute monster at long range, eliminating players with just one shot as long you’re hitting key areas like the body or head.

Naturally, there are certain maps and scenarios where you’ll need something a little more close-range, which is why it finds itself in A-tier rather than S. But if you’re playing to its strengths and careful about where you snipe from, there aren’t many easier guns to rack up kills with in the entire game.

4. C9 – Best starter weapon

black ops 6 player inspecting c9 smg

The C9 might be the first SMG you unlock in Black Ops 6, but it’s also one of the strongest options. As it closely resembles the classic MP5, CoD players will be immediately at home with its rapid fire rate and impressive range.

On top of all that, it’s also extremely easy to use thanks to its low recoil. So, while you’re getting to grips with the overhauled movement and learning the maps, you can still rest assured that your aim and accuracy won’t be an issue if you’re running our best C9 loadout.

3. XM4 – Best all-rounder

XM4 in Black Ops 6
The XM4 was one of the best weapons in Black Ops Cold War.

Fans were excited to hear that XM4 would be returning in Black Ops 6 after taking over BOCW and the iconic Assault Rifle doesn’t disappoint. While it doesn’t necessarily excel in any one area, its strength lies in its versatility.

If you prefer to pick off enemies from afar, the XM4 can more than hold its own, but with the Rapid Fire mod, it can also duke it out with the SMGs. If you’re unsure of the best gun for the job at hand, this rifle is always a reliable backup that won’t let you down.

If you’re wondering how to set it up, be sure to check out our best XM4 build.

2. AMES 85 – Best Assault Rifle

AMES 85 in Black Ops 6

Although BO6 encourages you to move around the map and get up close and personal, there’s still plenty of room for a top-tier long-range rifle. The AMES 85 is exactly that, and it acts as the perfect counter to the more aggressive players.

Whereas the XM4 is a great all-rounder, this KRIG 6 throwback thrives when dealing with enemies at a distance thanks to its laser accuracy and forgiving recoil. By positioning yourself smartly on the map and using the best loadout, you can gun down the sliders and jumpers with ease before they get close enough to lay a glove on you.

Best weapon in Black Ops 6

jackal pdw smg in black ops 6
The Jackal PDW has taken over the BO6 beta.

The best gun in the Black Ops 6 beta is the Jackal PDW and it’s not even close. This fast-firing SMG absolutely dominated weekend one, as it can melt through players in an instant with its utterly insane TTK.

Since BO6 puts plenty of emphasis on movement and is limited to close-quarters maps, the Jackal is right at home in virtually every situation and perfectly embodies what Treyarch are going for in multiplayer this year.

Throw in the fact that it’s also incredibly easy to use and can complete at mid-range too, and you’re left with a weapon that stands head and shoulders above the rest. Take a look at our best Jackal PDW class to shred the competition.

You can also check out the best audio settings for hearing enemy footsteps and the ideal PC settings to give you the edge over the competition.