MW3 pro’s buffed SMG loadout finally brings Rival-9 alternative to Ranked Play
ActivisionMW3 Ranked Play fans have been begging for more weapon variety since the start of Season 2. Check out this buffed SMG that one Modern Warfare 3 CDL pro thinks is the perfect alternative to the Rival-9.
Modern Warfare 3 Ranked Play debuted in Season 1 Reloaded, and fans of competitive Call of Duty have plenty of free rewards to secure. MW3 Season 2 also brought a rank reset, bringing players a new challenge as they look to climb back up the Skill Divisions.
Despite the mode being well received, two major complaints have continued to surface among players. While we can’t offer any tips to combat cheaters in MW3 Ranked Play, we do have loadout recommendations to freshen up the limited weapon meta that many believe is ruining the fun.
Pro CDL player for OpTic Texas Anthony ‘Shotzzy’ Cuevas-Castro has revealed the buffed Striker-9 SMG as a great alternative to the Rival-9 SMG that has dominated the meta since launch.
If you’re looking for some weapon variety in MW3 Ranked Play, Shotzzy believes the Striker-9 can hold its own with better range and bullet velocity than the Rival-9.
OpTic Shotzzy’s best MW3 Ranked Play Striker-9 loadout
- Muzzle: L4R Flash Hider
- Barrel: Striker Recon Long Barrel
- Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
- Stock: RB Crotalus Assault Stock
- Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip
To maximize the best Striker-9 loadout’s medium-range potential, Shotzzy opted for recoil-boosting attachments like the L4R Flash Hider, Striker Recon Long Barrel, and Sakin ZX Grip.
Ultimately, it remains an SMG, therefore we don’t want to lose too much mobility. The DR-6 Handstop comes in to boost mobility. Meanwhile, the RB Crotalus Assault Stock buffs both recoil control as well as ADS speed, making it a vital attachment you won’t want to skip.
The next time you load up into a Ranked Play match thinking it would be nice to try new weapons, don’t hesitate to give this Striker-9 loadout a shot.
For more, check out how MW3 players want a fan-favorite BOCW party mode to return, or everything you need to know about Modern Warfare 3 Season 3.