Escape from Tarkov Weapons Tier List - Updated

If you just want clear answers, this is the Tarkov weapon tier list you can skim mid-session and trust. Use it and see what wins right now. Our Escape from Tarkov weapon tier list reflects how fights really play out: rankings are based on ammo performance, recoil control, handling, stability, effective range, and value. S-Tier picks are highlighted so you can go straight to “what to take today.” Everything here is refreshed for the current wipe and the broader Tarkov weapon tier list 2025 meta expectations. Jump straight to S-Tier if you’re in a hurry, or browse A-Tier for flexible, cheaper setups that still farm wins. Either way, the goal is simple: fewer tabs, better gunfights.

How we rank – methodology that actually explains the tier list

Damage & TTK

We model time-to-kill (TTK) from thorax hits using the standard formula: TTK = (shots to kill − 1) × (60 / RPM), with the first shot at t = 0. Then we adjust expected shots using armor-class penetration probability (class 3–6) and three “typical” ranges (close/mid/far) to reflect velocity loss and pen drop-off. We treat ammo (bullets/rounds) that fails to pen as flesh damage contributions and do not assume “leg meta” unless the caliber/load (e.g., high-flesh SMG rounds) is specifically intended for it. This keeps rifles, SMGs, and snipers directly comparable across scenarios, including 7.62×39mm vs intermediate calibers.

Practical tip: When calculating realistic TTK, remember only the intervals between shots count–use (shots − 1), not shots–especially for high-RPM options like Vector/MP7.

Recoil & Handling

For every weapon/config we compute a composite from vertical + horizontal recoil and add handling factors: ergonomics, ADS “snap” feel, and tracking stability. In practice, weight meaningfully drives ADS stamina/feel. Ergo still helps, but trimming gun weight often yields bigger “snappiness” gains than chasing a few extra ergo points. Keep budget rifles under ~4.5 kg with ~50+ ergo when possible. SMGs can push higher RPM with less penalty.

Micro-choice example for “meta” tuning: grips like RK-2 can reduce horizontal recoil more than lighter options (SE-5), which can be worth the slight ergo hit on rifles such as M4A1/416A5.

Ammo availability & cost

As ammo drives the meta, tiers account for trader unlocks, flea prices, and cost per expected kill at our range bands. Early wipe we weight affordable, accessible loads higher (AKM/VPO-136/SKS with PS are exceptional value), then scale toward premium penetrators as quests/missions and bosses push armor levels up. This keeps choices “viable” and not just theoretically “best.”

Mag management tip: Stack a small top-load of higher-pen rounds (e.g., 5–10) and fill the rest with budget ammo to balance cost and performance, using presets to automate the pattern.

Modding baseline

To keep comparisons fair, every gun is tested in two states:

• Budget: Trader-available parts only, no rare barter items. So target “manageable recoil + usable ergo” (think AK-74N/AKM/G36/MDR/MK47 with simple stocks/grips/muzzles).
• Meta: Best-in-slot recoil control within sensible weight/ergo. Examples include tuned M4A1/416A5/SA58/SCAR, Vector/MP7A1 for SMGs, and RSASS/M1A/M700 for DMR/sniper roles.

This prevents overvaluing edge builds and lets you pick options that match your value tolerance (cheaper vs overpowered).

Use-case weightings

We publish separate use-case weights so the Tarkov Weapon Tier List reflects where you actually play:

• Raid (early wipe): Heavier emphasis on cost/availability and class-3/4 armor, common on Customs/Reserve.
• Raid (late wipe): Higher weight on class-5/6 pen, stability for eliminations and boss fights.
• Arena: ADS responsiveness, recoil stability, and consistent TTK under constant pressure matter more than economy. Hence the popularity of low-recoil, high-RPM choices like Vector or MP7A1, and compact rifles like AUG/M4A1 tuned for control.

With this framework, you can understand why certain rifles, pistols, SMGs, and snipers rise or fall on the list, and adapt the picks to your playstyle and map without losing the logic behind the ranking.

S-Tier – best weapons from Tarkov

AR & DMR picks

• HK 416A5 (5.56×45): This weapon gets S for stability and RPM with deep modding. Its key ammo is M855A1 (great availability/pen). The budget mod is basic brake + simple foregrip (e.g., RVG). Meta mod is QD suppressor (e.g., NT-4) + heavy recoil grip (RK-2) + HK E1-style stock.
• DT MDR (7.62×51): This weapon gets S for low felt recoil per shot and optics-ready ergonomics. Its key ammo is M61 (late) and M80/M80A1 (budget/early). The budget mod is thread brake + 1× holo. Meta mod is full suppressor + RK-2-class grip + precision optic.
• SIG MCX (.300 BLK): This weapon gets S because .300 AP shreds high armor while recoil stays manageable in CQB. Its key ammo is .300 BLK AP. The budget mod is MOE-style stock + light brake. Meta mod is QD can + sturdy foregrip + tuned buffer/stock.
• MK47 (7.62×39): This weapon gets S for two-tap potential and forgiving TTK. Its key ammo is 7.62×39 BP (PS early). Budget mod is simple brake + SE-5-class foregrip. Meta mod is top-tier brake or suppressor + RK-2 + solid stock.
• SA58 (7.62×51): This weapon gets S for brutal damage floor and flexible ranges. Its key ammo is M61 (late) and M80 (budget). The budget mod is brake + compact optic. Meta mod is suppressor + heavy foregrip + recoil-friendly stock.
• M1A (7.62×51): This weapon gets S as a value DMR with easy magazines and great ballistics. Its key ammo is M80A1 and M61. The budget mod is light brake + simple mount. Meta mod is drop-in EBR-style chassis + suppressor + stable foregrip.
• RFB (7.62×51): This weapon gets S as the cheapest path to .308 lethality in a compact package. Its key ammo is M80 early and M61 late. The budget mod is brake + low-power scope. Meta mod is suppressor + ergo-friendly grip.
• SR-25 / RSASS (7.62×51): This weapon gets S for laser-beam semi-auto precision. Its key ammo is M61. The budget mod is brake + 1–6× optic. Meta mod is suppressor + heavy grip + precision mount.

SMG picks

• MP7A1/A2 (4.6×30): This weapon gets S for Arena/CQB dominance with controllable recoil. Its key ammo is 4.6×30 AP SX. The budget mod is extended mags. Meta mod is suppressor + red dot + recoil pad.
• Vector (.45 ACP / 9×19): This weapon gets S for blistering RPM and CQB melt potential. Its key ammo is .45 AP (or 9×19 7N31). The budget mod is basic brake + 30-rd mag. Meta mod is suppressor + sturdy foregrip.
• P90 (5.7×28): This weapon gets S for low recoil and head-click speed. Its key ammo is SS190. The budget mod is reflex sight. Meta mod is suppressor + improved mount.
• MP5 (9×19): This weapon gets S when fed high-penetration rounds and built for control. Its key ammo is 7N31. Budget mod is rail handguard + muzzle brake. Meta mod is full suppressor + advanced foregrip.
• UMP (.45 ACP): This weapon gets S as a budget armor-capable SMG with forgiving recoil. Its key ammo is .45 AP. The budget mod is simple brake + red dot. Meta mod is suppressor + ergonomic grip.

Sniper/Marksman

• M700 (7.62×51): This weapon gets S for reliability and a cheap optics ecosystem. Its key ammo is M61 (budget: M80A1). The budget mod is thread brake + 4× scope. Meta mod is suppressor + precision mount + high-zoom optic.
• AXMC (.338 LM): This weapon gets S because .338 AP ignores end-game armor and deletes torsos. Its key ammo is .338 AP. The budget mod is FMJ + basic brake. Meta mod is AP + long-range scope (suppress if weight allows).
• DVL-10 (7.62×51): This weapon gets S for integrally suppressed stealth and accuracy. Its key ammo is M61/M80A1. The budget mod is low-zoom optic. Meta mod is high-zoom optic + stability parts.
• SVDS (7.62×54R): This weapon gets S for semi-auto punch and effective penetration. Its key ammo is 7.62×54R SNB/BS. The budget mod is brake. Meta mod is suppressor + solid foregrip.
• Mosin (7.62×54R): This weapon gets S as a budget one-tap headshot machine late-wipe. Its key ammo is SNB/BS. The budget mod is PU scope or simple 4×. Meta mod is higher-zoom optic + brake.

LMG / 7.62× class

• RPK-16 (5.45×39): This weapon gets S for controllable LMG-style spraying in 5.45. Its key ammo is 5.45 BS (late) and BT (early). The budget mod is brake + 45-rd mag. Meta mod is suppressor + heavy vertical grip.
• PKP/PKM (7.62×54R): S for suppression and on-demand armor deletion despite heavy weight. Its key ammo is 7.62×54R BS/SNB. The budget mod is simple optic via dovetail. Meta mod is full suppressor + stability furniture.
• RPD (7.62×39): This weapon gets S for sustained fire with affordable rounds. Its key ammo is 7.62×39 BP (PS early). The budget mod is the default bipod/irons. Meta mod is brake + red dot (rail variant).

Shotguns

• M870 / M590A1 (12×70): S-tier situationally for keys, room clears, and tasking. Its key ammo is AP-20 slugs. The budget mod is bead/ghost ring + recoil pad. Meta mod is red dot + tuned choke/rail.

Pistols

• Glock 19X / 18C (9×19): S for panic-swap DPS, with 18C offering controllable burst. Its key ammo is 7N31. The budget mod is simple dot. Meta mod is compensator + extended mag.
• M9A3 (9×19): This weapon gets S for smooth recoil and clean sights. Its key ammo is 7N31. The budget mod is red dot. Meta mod is threaded compensator + weapon light.
• USP / M1911A1 / M45A1 (.45 ACP): S for .45 AP lethality with forgiving recoil. Its key ammo is .45 AP. The budget mod is threaded compensator. Meta mod is suppressor + red dot.
• APB / APS (9×18 PM): S for stealth tasks with high ROF and usable AP. Its key ammo is 9×18 PBM (AP). The budget mod is stock attached (APS). Meta mod is suppressor + laser.

A-Tier – strong, flexible, cheaper to run

AK family

• AK-74M / 74N / 74U / 74UN (5.45×39): This weapon gets A for controllable recoil, cheap parts, and easy trader access. Its key ammo is BT early and BS late. The budget mod is DTK-1-class brake + simple foregrip (SE-5/RVG). Meta mod is suppressor + RK-2 + upgraded stock/adapter.
• AKM / AKMN / AKMSN (7.62×39): This weapon gets A for forgiving TTK and armor break with BP while PS shines early. Its key ammo is PS early and BP mid/late. The budget mod is slant/DTK-1 brake + SE-5 foregrip. Meta mod is suppressor + RK-2 + Zhukov-S/TA-style stock.
• SKS / OP-SKS (7.62×39): This weapon gets A for dirt-cheap reliability that hits hard with PS and simple optics. Its key ammo is PS (budget) and BP when available. The budget mod is OP-SKS + PSO-1 or basic red dot. Meta mod is suppressor + better stock/rail.
• VPO-136 (7.62×39): This weapon gets A as a budget AK experience that scales with ammo quality. Its key ammo is PS early and BP later. The budget mod is basic brake + simple sight mount. Meta mod is suppressor + sturdier stock/handguard.
• VPO-209 (.366 TKM): This weapon gets A as a situational close-range deleter with the right load. Its key ammo is .366 AP-M. The budget mod is minimal rail + simple sight. Meta mod is muzzle device + improved stock/handguard.

Western ARs & bullpups

• HK G36 (5.56×45): This weapon gets A for outstanding recoil-per-ruble rivaling pricier M4 builds. Its key ammo is M855A1. The budget mod is dot sight + basic brake. Meta mod is suppressor + sturdier foregrip/rail swap.
• FN SCAR-L (5.56×45): This weapon gets A for stable recoil and clean sights. Its key ammo is M855A1. The budget mod is dot or 1.5× optic with stock furniture. Meta mod is QD suppressor + quality vertical grip.
• FN SCAR-H (7.62×51): This weapon gets A for hard-hitting shots limited by 20-round magazines. Its key ammo is M80 (budget) and M61 (late). The budget mod is dot or 1.5× optic. Meta mod is QD suppressor + quality vertical grip.
• Steyr AUG A1/A3 (5.56×45): This weapon gets A for low recoil out of the box with minimal parts. Its key ammo is M855A1. The budget mod is basic suppressor and go. Meta mod is 42-rd mags + suppressor + clear 1.5×/LPVO.

Special cases

• VSS / AS VAL (9×39): This weapon gets A as suppressed CQB lasers with brutal armor damage. Its key ammo is SP-6 (plus BP/SPP when available). The budget mod is default furniture with 20-rd mags. Meta mod is 30-rd mags + preferred optic.
• SVD / SVDS (7.62×54R): This weapon gets A for semi-auto reach with clear budget and late-wipe paths. Its key ammo is LPS (budget) and SNB/7N1 (late). The budget mod is PSO-1 or 1–6× optic. Meta mod is suppressor + sturdier mount.
• Saiga-12 (12×70): This weapon gets A for CQB, quests, and room control with fast follow-ups. Its key ammo is AP-20 slug. The budget mod is bead/ghost ring + recoil pad. Meta mod is red dot + muzzle device/rail.

B/C-Tier – situational or budget picks

This category includes less popular weapons that can sometimes be used in strictly defined situations:

• AKS-74U / AK-74U (5.45×39): Strong early-wipe CQB carbine when you’re limited to PS/BT-tier ammo and light mods. Best on Factory or tight interiors while you rush quests and wait for better 5.45 unlocks.
• Vepr KM / VPO-136 (7.62×39): Hits hard with PS/T45M when armor is scarce, but recoil and ergonomics cap its ceiling. Use it early or when 5.45/5.56 meta rounds are locked or overpriced.
• SKS / OP-SKS (7.62×39): Cheap, reliable semi-auto that works with minimal modding and iron sights. Great for early scav or eliminations quests and mid-range control when budgets are tight.
• ADAR 2-15 (5.56×45): Semi-auto 5.56 that’s easy to control and inexpensive to outfit. Run it when M855A1 is gated and you’re playing for head/limb taps over pen.
• VPO-209 / VPO-215 (.366): .366 shines for limb damage or niche AP access, but ammo is inconsistent. Good for bolt/marksman tasks and close-to-mid fights when higher-tier rifle ammo is scarce.
• Mosin / SV-98 (7.62×54R): Budget bolts for long-range tasks and shooter quests where one clean hit ends fights. Use on open maps when you can dictate distance and avoid armor stand-offs.
• MP-133/153/155, 870, Saiga-12 (12ga): Shotguns are perfect for early tasks and Factory/Dorms brawls. Load buckshot or slugs based on availability and keep fights under ~20 meters.
• PP-91 Kedr / Klin (9×18): Extremely cheap SMGs that melt at handshake distance with a laser and burst control. Great for courier routes or hatch-adjacent CQB when armor is light.
• PP-19-01 Vityaz (9×19): Smooth recoil and easy suppression make it a stealthy budget picker. Run it when high-pen 9×19 is scarce and you can prioritize heads and positioning.

When they make sense

• Early wipe / budget raids: Lean on cheap rifles/SMGs—AKS/AKM variants, SKS/VPO, MP5/MPX/Kedr, using stock ammo and smaller mags until stronger rounds unlock.
• Quest or role constraints: Shotguns/bolts for tasks, pistols for courier-style missions, or suppressed SMG for stealth routes.
• Ammo availability gaps: When high-pen is scarce or overpriced, lean into controlled TTK at close range, positional play, and smarter mag loading.
• Map-specific scenarios: Factory/CQB rewards high handling and hip-fire; longer-range maps push semi-auto DMRs or bolts with budget loads.

Ammo first – the rounds that make or break your build

Armor penetration is probabilistic – “class-5 capable” ≠ guaranteed. Prioritize bullets/rounds you can control: pair pen ammo with manageable recoil/handling. Keep magazine capacity in the 30–50 range. Big drums add sustain but hurt ADS/ergonomics.

Escape from Tarkov weapon tier list by game stage

Early wipe

AKM/AKMN/AKMSN or SKS/VPO-136 on 7.62x39mm PS, AK-74M/74N on 5.45 BT, Kedr/MP5/MPX with budget 9×19/9×18, Mosin with LPS, and Saiga/M870/M590A1 for quests/rooms.

Keep recoil manageable and your magazine sizes sane (30–40) to preserve handling. Save rubles by setting a magazine preset that top-loads 5–10 premium rounds, then mid-tier filler. You’ll feel a huge performance bump without fully funding top-tier bullets every raid. If you must min-max early pen, lean 7.62x39 PS, 5.45 BT, and LPS on longer range maps (Customs/Reserve) while you unlock better rounds and traders.

Mid wipe

• G36, SCAR-L, AUG, or M4A1/416A5 when M855A1 is on tap.
• AKM with BP when unlocked.
• UMP with .45 AP as a forgiving CQB option.
• Budget DMR choices like RFB/M1A on M80.

These builds hit the sweet spot of control, stability, and value while you stack profits. Identical recoil numbers across different platforms don’t feel the same. Compare setups on the same rifle (e.g., your G36 vs your G36), not G36 vs M4, before chasing meta stats.

Late wipe

SA58/SR-25/RSASS/M700 with M61, MCX with .300 BLK AP, MP7A1/A2 with AP SX, VSS/VAL with SP-6/BP/SPP, and tuned M4A1/416A5 stacks.

Expect heavier, “overpowered” setups with superior range, handling, and armor break–but budget for bullets/rounds first, then accessories.

Tarkov Arena weapon tier list

S-Tier

• MP7A1/A2 (4.6×30 AP SX): Laser-like control, fast TTK, 40-rd magazine sustain; exceptional in tight lanes.
• Vector .45 ACP (AP): Overpowered CQB melt when fed .45 AP; easy handling and stability.
• AUG A3 / M4A1 (5.56 M855A1): Low recoil rifles with clean sights that scale from jiggle-peeks to mid-range tracks.
• RSASS / SR-25 (7.62×51 M80/M61): Snappy semi-auto picks for head-height lines and “first to click” duels.
• AS VAL (9×39 SP-6): Suppressed burst deletion at <25 m; perfect for fast flanks.

Signal from Arena communities consistently backs MP7/Vector/VAL/RSASS as standout Arena options.

A-Tier

• UMP (.45 AP): Cheaper to run than Vector, still armor-viable; great entry pick.
• SCAR-L / G36 (5.56 M855A1): Stable recoil and easy optics; strong for anchor roles.
• AK-74 family (5.45 BT→BS): Controllable spray with budget-to-meta ammo paths.
• MK47 (7.62×39 PS→BP): Crisp two-taps when recoil is managed; excellent on short sightlines.
• P90 (5.7 SS190): Low muzzle climb, great for head-level strafes.

B-Tier

• MP5 (9×19 7N31): Controllable and cheap; pen depends on ammo access.
• Kedr (9×18): Hip-fire friendly on tiny maps; strictly budget.
• Saiga-12 / M870: Niche point-clear and “door control”; map-dependent.
• M700 (M80): Lane-lock duty on long angles; loses pace on brawl maps.

Arena-specific tips you can use right now

• Tune loadouts under the mode’s gear/score cap by mixing mags and avoiding overpriced attachments; if needed, down-tier ammo in backup mags to pass checks.
• Practice your builds in the Shooting Range (you can test beyond the live gear score there) to feel recoil/handling before queuing.
• In tight lanes, a laser plus disciplined hip-fire can win time-to-shot; toggle it consciously (don’t broadcast it 24/7).
• Prioritize AP-class rounds over exotic mods; Arena players who focus pen + armor consistently outperform “leg-meta” experiments.

Map considerations – Customs, Reserve and others

Customs (mixed lanes, tight interiors)

Outside crossings (Road to Construction, RUAF, riverside) reward a low-recoil “beam” rifle–M4A1/416A5/AUG/G36 on M855A1 or AKM on 7.62x39 PS/BP–for fast heads at 40–100 m.

Dorms and Crack House favor shotgun/SMG (M870/Saiga, Vector/MP7/UMP) with laser for point-fire; red-dot > irons for quick snaps. Tip: pick what you have consistent ammo for and always run an optic on Customs.

Reserve (vertical, long sightlines + underground)

Dome, towers, and courtyard lanes push DMR/sniper (SR-25/RSASS/M1A/M700, SVDS) with solid pen (M80/M61, 7.62×54R SNB).

Avoid obvious perches; work tucked angles/windows and change elevation after every shot.

Underground or inside Black/White Knight: suppressed SMG/AS VAL shines; lasers help for short hall fights.

Interchange (mall = CQB/mid, parking lanes)

Inside ULTRA, favor controllable SMG/AR (P90/MP7, AUG/G36) and a flashlight/laser for fast clears.

Parking and long main aisles benefit from “beam” builds (AUG/M4A1) that hold recoil through strafes. Hip-fire with a laser can outpace ADS in tight corners.

Shoreline (open approaches, Resort vertical)

Approaches and fields: DMR/sniper (M1A/RFB/M700) with M80/M61; pick clean range lines.

Inside Resort: swap to SMG/shotgun (Vector/UMP/M870) and prioritize handling over range.

Woods (long lanes, flanks)

Core gameplay is mid-/long-range; bring low-recoil rifle/DMR (MK47 on BP, SR-25 on M80/M61).

Use off-angle hills and avoid skyline silhouettes; relocate after every shot.

Lighthouse (coast and ridge lines)

Long exposures favor .308 beams/DMR (SA58/M1A/SR-25). Inside Water Treatment or houses, flip to SMG for clears.

Streets of Tarkov (multi-level, mixed distances)

Expect sudden 10–70 m duels: compact AR/SMG (AUG/416A5/Vector) with laser/flashlight wins indoor fights; keep a magnified optic or DMR only if you plan to hold long boulevards.

Factory (pure CQB, vertical catwalks)

Shotgun/SMG dominates; run a laser and practice hip-fire tracking–offline Factory is ideal for drills.

Laser/IR cone reduces hip-fire spread; one device is enough as stacking doesn’t double the bonus.

For every map you can use a beam (low-recoil rifle like M4A1/416A5/AUG/G36, or DMR on M80/M61) for open, layered sightlines. Then switch to shotgun/SMG (M870/Saiga, Vector/MP7/UMP) for tight interiors and heavy verticality. Keep magazine sizes practical (30–50) and pick ammo that matches expected armor.

Budget vs Meta – sample builds you can copy

HK 416A5 (5.56×45, M855A1 focus)

DT MDR (.308 / 7.62×51, M80→M61)

MK47 (7.62×39, PS→BP)

MP7A1/A2 (4.6×30, AP SX focus)

Quick list – copy these if you just want to win

• MP7A1/A2 – 4.6×30 AP SX → “point-and-delete” CQB with 40-rd mags; low recoil and elite TTK when AP SX is available. Build: dot + suppressor + compact grip. Any laser/flashlight toggled on gives the same hip-fire accuracy bonus. Use it for snap duels.

• Vector .45 – .45 AP → absurd RPM with armor-viable rounds. Build: suppressor + sturdy foregrip + 30/50-rd mags. Craft .45 AP on a schedule and top-load AP, fill mid-mag with FMJ to save rubles.

• HK 416A5 / M4A1 – 5.56 M855A1 → the classic “beam” rifle for 30–60 m fights; clean optics, strong control, flexible magazine options. Build: QD can + heavy vertical grip + stability stock.

• SR-25 – 7.62×51 M80→M61 → semi-auto marksman that two-taps reliably and doubles as a mid-range “anchor.” Build: suppressor or BMD + LPVO + stability foregrip. The SR-25 buys you ergonomics at the cost of a bit more recoil than the RSASS. Pick the one that suits your tap-tempo.

Smart Tarkov Strategies

Ammunition truly decides the outcome of fights in Escape from Tarkov. Start by prioritizing your round selection based on penetration power, damage, and availability, then craft a weapon build around it that you can actually control. Use this Tarkov weapon tier list and the budget vs. meta paths here to match your money, maps, and tasks for steadier wins. Revisit after patches and price shifts, but the rule holds: ammo first, handling second, everything else last.

FAQ

What’s the meta weapon in EFT right now?

A few rise to the top across our Tarkov weapon tier list: a low-recoil 5.56 “beam” (M4A1/416A5/G36/AUG) fed M855A1 for raids, or compact CQB options (MP7 AP SX, Vector .45 AP) when fights are short. If you’re unsure, start with an M4A1/416A5 + M855A1–stable control, reliable pen, and easy optics on most maps.

Which gun has the fastest time-to-kill?

At <20 m, RPM + pen wins: Vector .45 with .45 AP and MP7 with AP SX routinely deliver the quickest TTK–provided your rounds beat armor. For budget runs, top-load a handful of premium rounds and fill the rest with mid-tier to keep costs sane.

What’s the best assault rifle for raids?

For a single pick you can scale from early to late wipe, choose a controllable 5.56 rifle: M4A1 or HK 416A5 on M855A1 (AUG/G36 are strong value alternates). Keep weight down, use a clean 1–4× optic, and aim for 30–40-round magazine setups for handling and stability.

Which SMG is strongest for close-quarters?

MP7A1/A2 (AP SX) for laser-like control and Vector .45 (AP) for absurd RPM with armor-viable rounds. P90 (SS190) is a solid alternative. Small but real edge: toggling a laser/IR/flashlight tightens point-fire for faster first hits in CQB.

What’s the best long-range pick for headshots and armor?

Go with a semi-auto .308 DMR – SR-25, RSASS, or M1A – or a Remington 700. Also prioritize M61 and fall back to M80 or M62 when needed. These pair high accuracy with armor-relevant pen and predictable recoil control for 80–150 m lines on Reserve/Shoreline.