Black Ops 6: 21 BEST Close Range Weapons - April 2025 (Tier List)

The close-quarters meta in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer is defined by fast-paced engagements and rapid takedowns. Submachine guns (SMGs) and shotguns dominate this space, offering high mobility and devastating damage potential. Understanding which weapons excel in these scenarios is crucial for maximizing your effectiveness on the battlefield.

Close-range weapons are vital in objective-based modes and tight map layouts, enabling players to quickly eliminate threats and control key areas. This tier list ranks the top 21 close-range weapons based on their performance, versatility, and overall impact on gameplay.

The ranking criteria focuses on each weapon's Tier, evaluating factors such as time-to-kill (TTK), handling, and ease of use. Data is compiled from in-game statistics, community feedback, and expert analysis to provide an objective assessment of each weapon's strengths and weaknesses.

#1: KSV

The KSV SMG is a Meta-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, demonstrating exceptional performance in close-quarters combat. This submachine gun is highly regarded for its rapid fire rate and manageable recoil, making it a favorite among aggressive players. Its strengths lie in its ability to quickly eliminate opponents in close to medium-range engagements.

While the KSV excels in many areas, it is not without its drawbacks. Its damage per bullet is moderate compared to some other SMGs, requiring players to maintain accuracy to secure kills. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these limitations, the KSV’s overall versatility and effectiveness make it a top-tier choice for players seeking to dominate close-range encounters.

#2: JACKAL PDW

The JACKAL PDW SMG stands out as a Meta-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a unique blend of firepower and maneuverability. This submachine gun is known for its high damage output and rapid time-to-kill, making it a formidable choice in close-quarters combat. Its strengths lie in its ability to quickly dispatch enemies, even at slightly extended ranges compared to other SMGs.

However, the JACKAL PDW is not without its weaknesses. The weapon's recoil can be challenging to control, especially during sustained fire. This requires players to master recoil management to maintain accuracy. Despite this drawback, the JACKAL PDW's raw power and effectiveness make it a top contender for players who prioritize aggressive, high-impact plays.

#3: C9

The C9 SMG is a Meta-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, renowned for its exceptional close-quarters dominance. This submachine gun is a top pick for aggressive players due to its rapid fire rate and impressive damage output. The C9 SMG's strengths are particularly pronounced when equipped with the 10mm Auto 30-Round Mags, making it the CQB meta.

Despite its strengths, the C9 SMG has some drawbacks. The high fire rate leads to rapid ammunition consumption, requiring players to manage their reloads effectively. Additionally, the weapon's recoil can be difficult to control without proper attachments and practice. However, its sheer effectiveness in close-range engagements solidifies its place as a meta-defining weapon.

#4: PPSh-41

The PPSh-41 SMG is a Meta-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, celebrated for its high fire rate and impressive damage output. This full-auto submachine gun excels in close-quarters combat, making it a favorite among aggressive players who prioritize fast takedowns. Its strengths lie in its ability to quickly eliminate opponents, especially in tight spaces and objective-based modes.

However, the PPSh-41 is not without its drawbacks. The weapon's high recoil can be challenging to manage, requiring players to compensate with careful aiming and recoil control techniques. Additionally, its moderate handling can make it less versatile in certain situations. Despite these limitations, the PPSh-41's raw firepower and effectiveness make it a top-tier choice for dominating close-range encounters.

#5: PP-919

The PP-919 SMG is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a balance of firepower and control. This submachine gun is a solid choice for players who prefer a versatile weapon that performs well in various combat scenarios. Its strengths lie in its reliable damage output and manageable recoil, making it effective in both close and mid-range engagements.

While the PP-919 is a dependable weapon, it does have some limitations. Its fire rate is not as high as some of the top-tier SMGs, which can put players at a disadvantage in extremely close-quarters battles. Additionally, its overall damage output is slightly lower compared to meta weapons. Despite these drawbacks, the PP-919 remains a viable option for players seeking a well-rounded SMG.

#6: TANTO .22

The TANTO .22 SMG is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, providing a unique combination of stealth and agility. This submachine gun is designed for players who prioritize mobility and flanking maneuvers. Its strengths lie in its lightweight design and suppressed firing, allowing for stealthy approaches and quick repositioning.

However, the TANTO .22 is not without its limitations. Its damage output is lower compared to other SMGs, requiring players to be precise with their shots to secure kills. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the TANTO .22 remains a solid choice for players who excel in stealth and close-quarters combat.

#7: SAUG

The SAUG SMG is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, known for its excellent mobility and high rate of fire. This fully automatic submachine gun is ideal for aggressive players who thrive in fast-paced, close-quarters engagements. Its strengths include its exceptional handling and rapid time-to-kill, making it a formidable choice in tight spaces.

Despite its advantages, the SAUG SMG has some drawbacks. The weapon's high recoil can be challenging to control, especially during sustained fire. This requires players to master recoil management to maintain accuracy. Additionally, its damage per bullet is moderate, necessitating precise aiming to secure kills. Despite these limitations, the SAUG's agility and fire rate make it a strong contender in close-range combat.

#8: ASG-89

The ASG-89 Shotgun is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering substantial firepower in close-quarters combat. This shotgun is designed for players who excel in aggressive, in-your-face engagements. Its strengths lie in its high damage output and ability to eliminate opponents with a single well-placed shot.

However, the ASG-89 is not without its drawbacks. Its effective range is extremely limited, making it less viable in open areas. Additionally, its slow fire rate and reload time can leave players vulnerable in certain situations. Despite these limitations, the ASG-89 remains a potent choice for players who specialize in close-range domination.

#9: KOMPAKT 92

The KOMPAKT 92 SMG is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a balance of control and firepower. This submachine gun is a solid choice for players who prefer a versatile weapon that performs well in various combat scenarios. Its strengths lie in its reliable damage output and manageable recoil, making it effective in both close and mid-range engagements.

While the KOMPAKT 92 is a dependable weapon, it does have some limitations. Its fire rate is not as high as some of the top-tier SMGs, which can put players at a disadvantage in extremely close-quarters battles. Additionally, its overall damage output is slightly lower compared to meta weapons. Despite these drawbacks, the KOMPAKT 92 remains a viable option for players seeking a well-rounded SMG.

#10: MAELSTROM

The MAELSTROM Shotgun is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, known for its fully automatic firing mode and good range. This shotgun is designed for players who want to maintain mobility while delivering sustained damage in close to mid-range engagements. Its strengths lie in its ability to quickly eliminate multiple opponents and maintain pressure in confined spaces.

However, the MAELSTROM has some notable drawbacks. Its high recoil and large hip spread can make it difficult to control, especially during sustained fire. Additionally, its damage output per pellet is lower compared to pump-action shotguns. Despite these limitations, the MAELSTROM remains a strong choice for players who prioritize sustained firepower and mobility.

#11: Marine SP

The Marine SP Shotgun is an A-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, providing a balance of power and reliability. This shotgun is designed for players who prefer a consistent and effective close-quarters weapon. Its strengths lie in its dependable damage output and manageable recoil, making it a solid choice for various combat scenarios.

While the Marine SP is a reliable weapon, it does have some limitations. Its fire rate is not as high as some of the automatic shotguns, which can put players at a disadvantage in rapid engagements. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the Marine SP remains a strong option for players seeking a dependable and effective shotgun.

#12: SIRIN 9mm

The SIRIN 9mm Assault Rifle is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, designed as a specialty weapon with SMG-like characteristics. This fully automatic rifle offers a unique option for players seeking a secondary weapon with close-quarters capabilities. Its strengths lie in its versatility and ability to serve as a backup in tight situations.

However, the SIRIN 9mm has several limitations. Its slow rate of fire can put players at a disadvantage against faster-firing SMGs. Additionally, its damage output is lower compared to primary assault rifles. Despite these drawbacks, the SIRIN 9mm can be effective in specific scenarios where mobility and adaptability are key.

#13: D.13 Sector

The D.13 Sector Assault Rifle is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a unique projectile-based playstyle. This rechambering blade launcher allows players to equip different magazines for a variety of deadly projectile types. Its strengths lie in its versatility and ability to adapt to different combat situations.

However, the D.13 Sector has several limitations. Its projectile-based mechanics require precise aiming and timing, which can be challenging for some players. Additionally, its effectiveness depends heavily on the chosen magazine type. Despite these drawbacks, the D.13 Sector can be a powerful and versatile weapon in the hands of skilled players.

#14: GREKHOVA

The GREKHOVA Pistol is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a reliable sidearm option for various combat scenarios. This pistol is designed for players who need a dependable backup weapon in close-quarters engagements. Its strengths lie in its ease of use and manageable recoil, making it a solid choice for quick reactions.

However, the GREKHOVA has several limitations. Its damage output is lower compared to primary weapons, requiring players to be accurate with their shots. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the GREKHOVA remains a dependable sidearm for players who need a reliable backup weapon.

#15: 9mm PM

The 9mm PM Pistol is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a balanced and versatile sidearm option. This pistol is designed for players who need a reliable backup weapon in various combat situations. Its strengths lie in its manageable recoil and decent damage output, making it a solid choice for close-quarters engagements.

However, the 9mm PM has some limitations. Its damage output is lower compared to primary weapons, requiring players to be accurate with their shots. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the 9mm PM remains a dependable sidearm for players who need a versatile backup weapon.

#16: STRYDER .22

The STRYDER .22 Pistol is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a unique combination of stealth and precision. This pistol is designed for players who prefer a more tactical approach to close-quarters combat. Its strengths lie in its suppressed firing and accurate shots, allowing for stealthy takedowns.

However, the STRYDER .22 has several limitations. Its damage output is lower compared to other pistols, requiring players to be extremely precise with their shots. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the STRYDER .22 can be effective in the hands of skilled players who excel in stealth and precision.

#17: GS45

The GS45 Pistol is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, providing a reliable and versatile sidearm option. This pistol is designed for players who need a dependable backup weapon in various combat scenarios. Its strengths lie in its manageable recoil and decent damage output, making it a solid choice for close-quarters engagements.

However, the GS45 has some limitations. Its damage output is lower compared to primary weapons, requiring players to be accurate with their shots. Additionally, its effective range is limited, making it less viable in open areas. Despite these drawbacks, the GS45 remains a dependable sidearm for players who need a versatile backup weapon.

#18: POWER DRILL

The POWER DRILL Assault Rifle is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering a unique, high-risk, high-reward playstyle. This weapon is known for its two-hit kill capability in Multiplayer, making it deadly in extremely close-quarters combat. Its strength lies in its very fast attack speed, allowing for quick takedowns in tight situations.

However, the POWER DRILL has significant limitations. Its very short range makes it ineffective beyond point-blank engagements. This requires players to be extremely aggressive and strategic in their positioning. Despite these drawbacks, the POWER DRILL can be devastating in the hands of skilled players who can effectively close the gap and capitalize on its fast attack speed.

#19: KNIFE

The KNIFE Assault Rifle is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, providing a unique and specialized melee option. This weapon is designed for players who excel in close-quarters combat and prefer a stealthy approach. Its strengths lie in its silent takedowns and quick mobility, making it effective for flanking and eliminating unsuspecting opponents.

However, the KNIFE has several limitations. Its extremely short range requires players to get within striking distance, which can be risky. Additionally, its effectiveness depends heavily on player skill and map knowledge. Despite these drawbacks, the KNIFE can be a powerful tool in the hands of skilled players who can effectively utilize stealth and mobility.

#20: Kali Sticks

The Kali Sticks Assault Rifle is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, offering an extremely fast attack speed and close-quarters dominance. These melee weapons are designed for players who prefer an aggressive, in-your-face playstyle. Their strengths lie in their rapid swings and quick takedowns, allowing players to eliminate targets in a flash.

However, the Kali Sticks have significant limitations. Their short range requires players to get within striking distance, which can be risky. Additionally, their effectiveness depends heavily on player skill and timing. Despite these drawbacks, the Kali Sticks can be devastating in the hands of skilled players who can effectively close the gap and capitalize on their speed.

#21: Cigma 2B

The Cigma 2B Assault Rifle is a C-tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer, generally considered underpowered compared to other options. This weapon may struggle in various combat scenarios due to its limitations. Its weaknesses often outweigh its strengths, making it a less desirable choice for most players.

While the Cigma 2B may have some niche uses, its overall performance is generally underwhelming. Players may find more success with other weapons that offer better damage, range, or handling. As a C-tier weapon, the Cigma 2B is typically not recommended for competitive play.

Conclusion

In April 2025, the close-range meta in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer is dominated by SMGs and shotguns, each offering unique advantages. Weapons are categorized by Tier, reflecting their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

The KSV, JACKAL PDW, and C9 SMGs stand out as top-tier choices, excelling in aggressive, fast-paced engagements. The KSV shines with its rapid fire rate and manageable recoil, while the JACKAL PDW offers high damage output. The C9 SMG, especially with the 10mm Auto 30-Round Mags, is the ultimate CQB weapon, making it a favorite among competitive players.