Best MCW loadout for Modern Warfare 3 Season 4 Reloaded

Nathan Warby
MCW in Modern Warfare 3

The MCW received a buff in the MW3 Season 4 update that boosted its incredible headshot multiplier damage. The powerful Assault Rifle has been the top pick in Ranked Play since launch and it’ll remain one of the top weapons in standard Season 4 Reloaded lobbies as well.

If you’re looking to use the best MCW loadout, here are the attachments, Perks, and Equipment you need to run.

Best MW3 MCW loadout attachments

MCW attachments MW3
The MCW is the best AR to use in Ranked Play.
  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor
  • Barrel: 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Long Barrel
  • Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
  • Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
  • Stock: RB Regal Heavy Stock

The best MCW loadout is all about increasing the weapon’s damage range and recoil control, letting you beam players with ease.

The Shadowstrike Suppressor hides your shots from the minimap without any negative stats, and the 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Long Barrel vastly increases its bullet velocity and range. The RB Regal Heavy Stock significantly improves aiming stability, and the DR-6 Handstop helps with ADS speed and mobility.

Finally, the Optic comes down entirely to preference, but we suggest using the JAK Glassless Optic. I’ve also found success in matches by removing the Optic attachment in favor of a 40 Round Mag. The MCW still feels like an easy-to-use weapon without an Optic and the extra ammunition can help in a pinch.

Perks & Equipment

  • Vest: Assassin Vest
  • Gloves: Commando Gloves
  • Gear: EOD Padding
  • Boots: Lightweight
  • Lethal: Frag Grenade
  • Tactical: Stun Grenade

You’ll want to start by picking a Vest that fits with the MCW’s playstyle, and the Assassin Vest is perfect for keeping you hidden from UAVs. Then, you’ll want to opt for the Commando Gloves to be able to reload while sprinting.

Next, EOD Padding will increase your resistance to explosives and fire, increasing your survivability. The Covert Sneakers received a nerf in Season 4, so we’re switching to the Lightweight boots as the best alternative.

The Frag Grenade and Stun Grenade is a tried-and-true combination, allowing you to quickly dispatch enemies in buildings and surprise them by stunning them with the Tactical.

How to unlock MCW

Players must reach Level 44 to unlock the MCW Assault Rifle. This means you’ll have to grind the game and earn a fair amount of XP before you can equip the MCW if you’re starting fresh in Season 4.

Best alternatives

We recommend switching to the powerful Holger 556 Assault Rifle if the MCW isn’t cutting it for you. The Holger also boasts an amazing rate of fire and low recoil. Meanwhile, the BAS-B is another great alternative with outstanding damage values.

The MCW has been a mainstay since launch, but you’ll want to use the best audio and controller settings to make the most out of the powerful weapon.