Season 2 close range meta for Warzone 2 – Best SMG and Shotgun loadouts!

Last updated Mar 24, 2023
Unleash your close-range firepower in Warzone 2! 🔥 Learn about the latest meta, Season 2 weapons, and killer loadouts to dominate the battlefield!

Today’s article will cover the close-range meta and see which guns are now best in Warzone 2. So I will divide the content into three main parts: 

  • Quickly mention the meta before the update.
  • Then focus on the current close-range meta in season 2.
  • And finally, as usual on the channel, I will give you the best loadouts for each gun I mention. 

Season 1 Close range meta Warzone 2

So let’s have a quick look at what the meta was before the season 2 update. I will divide the meta into three main categories you are probably already familiar with if you use the website or the app for your loadouts. We will have the Absolute meta category, then meta, and finally, contenders.

Season 2 Close Range Meta Warzone 2

Let’s look now at what I believe is the current close-range meta. We must consider the nerfs & buffs and the fact that we now have a smaller map that may introduce new elements into the meta. After the slight nerf of the Fennec, it is still excellent. But now the pack is dense, and easier, more consistent smgs are available. That’s why I’m placing it between the meta and absolute meta. 

The Lachmann Sub and the Vaznev are now the best guns to use, and depending on your playstyle, you might prefer one or the other. The Lachmann Sub will be perfect for aggressive players, whereas the Vaznev is more stable and easier to use. Of course, it all depends on how you build these guns, but we’ll discuss that just after. 

In the meta category, the Chimera is now stronger than ever, mainly because we have one-shot snipers. Having an Assault Rifle sniper support usually makes sense to be more versatile. Then let’s talk about the new shotgun. It is fantastic to use, and you can destroy an entire team with a single magazine, especially on Ashika Island. It could get – it will get – very annoying soon if everyone starts using it. 

I will finish the close-range meta overview with a few honorable mentions for weapons that could have potential and are very powerful if you look at them in specific ways. I’m thinking of the MX9, which is easy to use and fast time to kill but with a small magazine capacity. Then the PDSW, or the P90, is very mobile but weak when we look at the damages. Finally, the 2 shots Basilisk is still there but is a very niche weapon to use and requires many skills to be consistent with. 

Best Warzone 2 close-range loadouts

Fennec 45 season 2 loadout

Now let’s dive into the loadouts for each weapon and start with the one you probably already know and used in season 1: the Fennec. I recommend using the Lacerta Compensator muzzle to mitigate the gun’s horizontal bounce. Having a compensator on your SMGs will make them feel easier but also more reliable, so you’ll see that I’m going to use a lot of compensators in the coming loadouts. Then you need the ADS laser, a key element to make the gun extraordinarily mobile and fast. The Agile stock for increased mobility, and finally, the Phase-3 grip underbarrel to fight the Fennec’s recoil caused by the intense fire rate.

Best Fennec 45 loadouts for Warzone

Close Range

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
0.650.26
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.38-25.93
Stock
Agile Assault-7
-3.1-1.47
Underbarrel
Phase-3 Grip
0.57-0.19
Magazine
Fennec Mag 45

Sniper Support

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
0.650.26
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.38-25.93
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-2.29-2.25
Underbarrel
Lockgrip Precision-40
0.47-0.27
Magazine
Fennec Mag 45

Best Fennec 45 loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
0.580.07
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
0.13-30.6
Stock
Agile Assault-7
-2.8-1.0
Underbarrel
Phase-3 Grip
0.21-0.0
Magazine
Fennec Mag 45

Shipment 24/7

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
Stock
Agile Assault-7
Magazine
Fennec Mag 45
Rear Grip
Fennec Stippled Grip

Longshots

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
0.580.07
Barrel
ZLR 16.5" Ignition Barrel
0.24-0.2
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-30.6
Underbarrel
Phase-3 Grip
Magazine
Fennec Mag 45

Lachmann sub season 2 loadout

For the Lachmann sub, the recoil is primarily vertical and has a low horizontal bounce, so you should use the XRK Sandstorm that focuses mainly on the vertical recoil and the gun kick. Then the laser, for extra mobility. Finally, the lockgrip precision and the Lachmann tcg rear grip remove all remaining recoil on this gun. Even though this can feel like a loadout built for recoil control, the mobility is still excellent, and this build will feel incredible. You can directly find a more mobile loadout for the Lachmann sub on the app. 

Best Lachmann Sub loadouts for Warzone

Close Range

Barrel
L38 Falcon 226MM
0.29-0.3
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.31-21.3
Stock
FT Mobile Stock
-3.56-1.25
Magazine
40 Round Mag
Ammunition
9MM Hollow Point
0.56.95

Sniper Support

Muzzle
XRK Sandstorm
0.470.24
Barrel
FTAC M-Sub 12"
0.240.28
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-1.74-2.25
Magazine
50 Round Drum
Rear Grip
Lachmann TCG-10
-0.69-0.27

Best Lachmann Sub loadouts for Ranked

Close Range

Barrel
L38 Falcon 226MM
0.29-0.3
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.31-21.3
Stock
FT Mobile Stock
-3.56-1.25
Magazine
40 Round Mag
Ammunition
9MM Hollow Point
0.56.95

Best Lachmann Sub loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile

Muzzle
Bruen Cubic Comp
0.450.21
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
0.16-51
Stock
FT Mobile Stock
-3.0-1.3
Underbarrel
Phase-3 Grip
-0.0-0.3
Magazine
40 Round Mag

Shipment 24/7

Muzzle
XRK Sandstorm
Barrel
L38 Falcon 226MM
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
Magazine
50 Round Drum
Rear Grip
Lachmann TCG-10

Longshots

Muzzle
Bruen Cubic Comp
0.450.21
Barrel
FTAC M-Sub 12"
0.23-0.2
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-30.6
Underbarrel
Phase-3 Grip
Magazine
50 Round Drum

VAZNEV-9K season 2 loadout

Let’s move to the Vaznev, which is currently my favorite SMG to use in Warzone. It is easy to use, has low recoil, has great time to kill, and has good mobility. For the loadout, start with the Bruen cubic comp, which is doing an excellent job of removing horizontal and vertical recoil. Then the usual laser, the Markeev stock, and the True-Tac grip for extra mobility. 

Best Vaznev-9k loadouts for Warzone

Sniper Support

Muzzle
Singuard MKV
0.960.7
Barrel
KAS-1 381MM
0.310.21
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-2.39-2.25
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Demo-X2 Grip
-0.34-0.22

Close Range

Muzzle
Spiral V3.5 Flash Hider
-0.480.28
Laser
FSS OLE-V laser
-0.37-37.76
Stock
Markeev R7
-2.79-1.97
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
True-TAC Grip
-0.54-0.18

Best Vaznev-9k loadouts for Ranked

Sniper Support

Muzzle
Spiral V3.5 Flash Hider
-0.480.28
Barrel
Kas-1 254mm
0.42-0.28
Stock
Otrezat Stock
-2.97-1.73
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
True-TAC Grip
-0.54-0.18

Best Vaznev-9k loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile

Muzzle
Bruen Pendulum
0.11
Laser
Corio LAZ-44 V3
-0.15-18.36
Stock
Otrezat Stock
-1.1
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Demo-X2 Grip
-0.2-0.0

Shipment 24/7

Laser
Corio LAZ-44 V3
Stock
Otrezat Stock
Underbarrel
Commando Foregrip
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Demo-X2 Grip

Hipfire

Muzzle
XTEN RR-40
1.41
Laser
FTAC Grimline L
0.4851
Stock
VLK Stockless
Underbarrel
Merc Foregrip
0.80.4
Magazine
45 Round Mag

Longshots

Muzzle
Bruen Pendulum
0.11
Barrel
SA Response III
-0.2
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-30.6
Underbarrel
FTAC Ripper 56
Magazine
45 Round Mag

CHIMERA season 2 loadout

The Chimera is the only Assault Rifle in today’s video, but trust me, you will not see the difference with an SMG for close-range fights. The mobility is great and the time to kill is among the best. Use the recoil control rear grip and the VX pineapple underbarrel to handle the gun’s recoil. Then the VLK laser and the Ravage 8 stock were to maximize the movement speed and the ADS time. 

Best Chimera loadouts for Warzone

Sniper Support

Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.35-11.67
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-2.15-2.25
Stock
TRX-56 Stock
-2.35-0.88
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
D37 grip
-0.58-0.32

Close Range

Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.39-37.44
Stock
Ravage-10
-3.61-1.94
Underbarrel
Merc Foregrip
-0.59-0.28
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Bruen Flash Grip
-0.84-0.38

Best Chimera loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile

Muzzle
TY-LR8
0.320.25
Barrel
10" SA Phoenix
0.5-0.1
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
0.05-23.46
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-3-2.2
Underbarrel
FTAC Ripper 56
0.4-0.1

Shipment 24/7

Barrel
5.5" EXF OP-40
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
Stock
TRX-56 Stock
Magazine
45 Round Mag
Rear Grip
D37 grip

Longshots

Muzzle
TY-LR8
0.320.25
Barrel
10" SA Phoenix
0.50.22
Optic
Angel-40 4.8X
-31.5
Stock
TRX-56 Stock
-40.72
Underbarrel
FTAC Ripper 56
0.48

KV BROADSIDE season 2 loadout

The new shotgun is strong, and I’m not putting it in absolute meta yet because I don’t want the lobbies to be infested with it. But we know it’s coming, as many creators have already mentioned it as broken multiple times. You should focus on the range, mobility, and fire rate for the loadout. I recommend the Gunner D20 barrel, the VLK Stockless, and the Dashbolt 60. Finally, put on the Dragon’s breath and the 25-round magazine; your enemies won’t understand what is happening. 

Best KV Broadside loadouts for Warzone

Close Range

Barrel
Gunner D20
-0.50.4
Laser
Point-G3P 04
0.4851
Magazine
12 Shell Mag
Ammunition
12 Gauge Dragon's Breath
0.79
Bolt
Dashbolt 60

Best KV Broadside loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile (Hipf

Muzzle
Bryson Choke
0.070.12
Barrel
ZLR Sport-8
0.330.14
Laser
Point-G3P 04
-0.2428.56
Magazine
12 Shell Mag
Bolt
Dashbolt 60

Shipment 24/7

Muzzle
Bryson Choke
Barrel
ZLR Sport-8
Laser
Point-G3P 04
Magazine
12 Shell Mag
Bolt
Dashbolt 60

Longshots

Muzzle
Bryson Choke
0.13-0.1
Barrel
ZLR Sport-8
0.270.12
Laser
1mw Artemis Las
0.2235.7
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-3-1.5
Ammunition
12 Gauge Slug
0.9

MX9 season 2 loadout

The MX9 is a great gun, especially for solos and duos, but it’s hard to use in trios or quads due to its small capacity. It will be a real meta weapon once Ashika Island is playable solo. Use the Lacerta compensator for horizontal recoil. And then the VLK laser, the Bruen Q900 grip, and FTAC Riser comb for the best mobility and movement speed. 

Best MX9 loadouts for Warzone

Close Range

Muzzle
Spiral V3.5 Flash Hider
-0.610.26
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.45-41.13
Magazine
32 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Bruen Q900 Grip
-0.81-0.33
Comb
FTAC C11 Riser
0.18-0.05

Sniper Support

Muzzle
Lacerta Compensator
-0.540.23
Barrel
16.5" Bruen S901
0.220.21
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-1.3-2.25
Magazine
32 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Stip-40 Grip
0.34-0.34

Best MX9 loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Versatile

Muzzle
FTAC Castle Comp
-0.30.1
Barrel
16.5" Bruen S901
0.10.15
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
-30.6
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-3-2.2
Magazine
32 Round Mag

Shipment 24/7

Barrel
16.5" Bruen S901
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
Magazine
32 Round Mag
Rear Grip
Stip-40 Grip

Longshots

Muzzle
FTAC Castle Comp
0.610.1
Barrel
508MM Rear Guard
-0.4
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-30.6
Stock
Bruen HCR 56 Stock
-0.7
Magazine
32 Round Mag

PDSW 528 season 2 loadout

The last gun is the PDSW, and I’m only putting it here because I’ve seen multiple trustworthy creators mention it as very strong in season 2. This gun is relatively weak and could use a slight damage buff to be meta. Use the same loadout template as before with the XRK Sandstorm for vertical recoil and all the other attachments for mobility. 

Best PDSW 528 loadouts for Warzone

Close Range

Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.35-32.9
Stock
Hollow Extended Stock
-3.1-1.63
Rear Grip
Bruen Q900 Grip
-0.71-0.32
Comb
TV Taccomb
-0.28-0.14
Rail
Integrated Reflex Rail

Sniper Support

Muzzle
Bruen Cubic Comp
-0.490.23
Barrel
17" Corvus Prorange
0.37-0.33
Laser
VLK LZR 7MW
-0.38-39.06
Stock
Guard Duty Stock
-3.1-1.7
Rail
Integrated Reflex Rail

Best PDSW 528 loadout for MWII Multiplayer

Shipment 24/7

Barrel
FTAC Series IX 14.5"
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
Stock
Hollow Extended Stock
Magazine
GR33 Light Rail
Rear Grip
Stip-40 Grip

Versatile

Muzzle
Bruen Pendulum
0.450.13
Barrel
FTAC Series IX 14.5"
-0.0-0.1
Laser
Accu-Shot 5MW L
0.25-33.66
Optic
Cronen Mini Pro
-3-2.2
Stock
Hollow Extended Stock
-2.4-0.3

Longshots

Muzzle
Bruen Pendulum
0.450.13
Barrel
17" Corvus Prorange
0.21-0.4
Optic
Schlager 3.4X
-30.6
Underbarrel
FTAC Ripper 56
Rear Grip
Stip-40 Grip
0.260.19

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Best Loadouts for the Striker in MW3 and Warzone: UMP45 is back!?

The Striker, a weapon with a legacy akin to the UMP45 from earlier titles, stands out for its ease of use and consistent performance. As players look forward to the integration of MW3 into Warzone on December 6th, the Striker is gearing up to be a top contender in both multiplayer and the new Warzone arena. Here are the top loadouts for the Striker across different playstyles.

MW3 Multiplayer: Versatile Striker Build

  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor S
  • Barrel: Striker Recon Long
  • Underbarrel: XRK Edge BW-4 Handstop
  • Stock: RB Crotalus Assault
  • Magazine: 48 Round Mag

This versatile setup ensures that players can adapt quickly to varying combat situations, providing a balance between stealth, control, and firepower.

MW3 Multiplayer: Striker Mobility Build

  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor S
  • Laser: Pro Sapphire Cylindrical Laser
  • Stock: No Stock
  • Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip
  • Magazine: 48 Round Mag

For those who favor speed and agility, this mobility build enhances the Striker’s handling and movement, allowing for quick positioning and repositioning in tight encounters.

Striker Zombies Build: Endurance and Control

  • Muzzle: FTAC Castle Comp
  • Underbarrel: Bruen Heavy Support Grip
  • Optic: MK.3 Reflector
  • Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip
  • Magazine: 60 Round Drum

This loadout is tailored for Zombie mode, where sustained control and larger magazine capacity are key to surviving relentless waves.

Warzone: Striker Close Range Loadout

  • Muzzle: Spiral V3.5 Flash Hider
  • Underbarrel: XRK Edge BW-4 Handstop
  • Stock: RB Crotalus Assault
  • Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip
  • Magazine: 48 Round Mag

In the close-quarters combat of Warzone, this loadout maximizes the Striker’s effectiveness, allowing players to clear spaces with precision and rapid power.

Warzone: Striker Future Sniper Support Loadout

  • Muzzle: Sonic Suppressor S
  • Barrel: Striker Elite Long
  • Optic: MK.3 Reflector
  • Ammunition: .45 Auto High Grain
  • Magazine: 48 Round Mag

As a sniper support, the Striker can be an invaluable asset, providing quick follow-up shots and reliable damage at a distance to complement a sniper’s reach.

These Striker loadouts are designed to capitalize on its strengths in various combat scenarios, preparing players for success in both MW3 and the upcoming Warzone experience. With its anticipated dominance, the Striker is a weapon that can’t be overlooked as players develop their strategies for the new meta.

For the optimal Striker builds and real-time meta updates, don’t forget to utilize the Warzone Loadout CODMunity app, a resource with over a million downloads that keeps competitive players at the top of their game.

Mastering the MTZ 556: Optimal Loadouts for MW3 Multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone

The MTZ 556 might not be the absolute meta in MW3, but its high fire rate and enjoyable handling make it a popular choice for players looking for fun gameplay with effective results. It’s also showing potential as an excellent sniper support in Warzone. Let’s take a closer look at the best MTZ 556 loadouts tailored for MW3 Multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone.

Mastering the MTZ 556 - Optimal Loadouts for MW3 Multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone
Mastering the MTZ 556 – Optimal Loadouts for MW3 Multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone

MW3 Multiplayer: Versatile and High Potential AR

In the fast-paced environment of MW3 Multiplayer, the MTZ 556 shines with a versatile build:

  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor
  • Barrel: MTZ Drifter Heavy Long
  • Underbarrel: Bruen Heavy Support Grip
  • Optic: Not specified
  • Rear Grip: Bruen TR-24 Assault Grip
  • Magazine: 50 Round Drum

This setup is perfect for players who want a balance between range, stealth, and sustained fire, allowing for adaptability in various combat scenarios.

Zombies: MTZ 556 Loadout for Endless Fun

When fighting hordes of zombies, you need a reliable and fun-to-play-with weapon. The MTZ 556 is up for the task:

  • Muzzle: RF Crown 50
  • Underbarrel: Bruen Heavy Support Grip
  • Optic: MK.3 Reflector
  • Rear Grip: Bruen TR-24 Assault Grip
  • Magazine: 50 Round Drum

This loadout is designed for extended engagements, ensuring you can keep the zombies at bay with style and efficiency.

Warzone: MTZ 556 as Sniper Support

As players gear up for Warzone, the MTZ 556 is a strong candidate for sniper support:

  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor
  • Barrel: MTZ Clinch Pro
  • Optic: MK.3 Reflector
  • Stock: MTZ Litestrike Telescopic
  • Magazine: 50 Round Drum

Coupled with a long-range sniper, this AR can be incredibly effective in providing cover and finishing off engagements at mid-range.

Warzone: MTZ 556 for Long Range Combat

The MTZ 556 can also be kitted out for those who prefer to engage at a distance:

  • Muzzle: VT-7 Spiritfire Suppressor
  • Barrel: MTZ Drifter Heavy Long
  • Optic: Corio EaglesEye 2.5X
  • Stock: MTZ Marauder
  • Magazine: 50 Round Drum

With this build, the MTZ 556 becomes a formidable weapon for long-range encounters, providing a high rate of fire and substantial damage output.

The MTZ 556’s versatility and fun factor make it a noteworthy choice for any player in MW3, whether it’s Multiplayer, Zombies, or Warzone. While it may not be the meta, it provides a unique and effective playstyle that can be tailored to suit any combat need.

For the latest in loadout strategies and to stay ahead of the game, make sure to use the Warzone Loadout CODMunity app, a resource trusted by over a million players.