Black Ops 6: BEST Close Range Tier List! (March 2025)

This tier list analyzes the close-range weapon landscape in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer. Weapons are categorized into tiers—Meta, A, B, C, and D—based on their performance and viability. The Meta tier represents the most dominant weapons, while the A tier includes excellent alternatives. The B tier contains strong, viable weapons, the C tier includes average weapons with limitations, and the D tier features below-average options.

Rankings are determined by evaluating factors such as time-to-kill (TTK), recoil control, mobility, and effective range. The analysis considers recent game updates and patches that may have influenced weapon balance and performance. This assessment provides players with data to optimize their loadouts and strategies in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer.

META Tier

META tier weapons are the absolute best, dominating the current meta. These weapons offer statistical advantages, making them top choices for competitive play and high-performance scenarios.

KSV

The KSV is a META-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, known for its balanced profile. Its key strengths include a competitive TTK and manageable recoil, making it effective in various close-quarters engagements. Statistically, the KSV offers a solid rate of fire and decent damage output. While it may not excel in any single category, its well-rounded performance ensures consistent results.

The KSV is particularly effective in objective-based modes and smaller maps where close to mid-range fights are frequent.

JACKAL PDW

The JACKAL PDW secures its META-tier status in Black Ops 6 due to its exceptional mobility and aggressive playstyle potential. Its strengths lie in its rapid ADS time and high rate of fire, allowing for quick engagements and outmaneuvering opponents. Statistical analysis reveals a favorable TTK in close quarters, offset by a higher recoil pattern that demands skilled control.

The JACKAL PDW excels in fast-paced game modes and tight map layouts, though it may struggle in longer-range scenarios where recoil becomes a limiting factor.

C9

The C9 earns its META-tier designation in Black Ops 6 through a combination of rapid fire rate and substantial damage output. A key strength is its ability to quickly eliminate opponents in close-quarters combat, supported by favorable TTK metrics. Despite a higher recoil, skilled players can manage it effectively, making the C9 a formidable choice.

This SMG excels in aggressive, fast-paced scenarios, such as objective-based modes and confined map areas. However, its effectiveness diminishes in long-range engagements where recoil control becomes more critical.

PPSh-41

The PPSh-41 is a META-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, characterized by its fast fire rate and impressive damage. Its key strength is a rapid TTK in close engagements, making it highly effective in aggressive playstyles. Statistically, the PPSh-41 boasts a high rate of fire, offset by its high recoil and moderate handling.

This weapon excels in close-quarters combat and objective-based modes where quick eliminations are crucial. However, its high recoil can be a significant weakness in longer-range scenarios, requiring precise recoil control.

A Tier

A-tier weapons are excellent choices, just shy of meta status. These weapons are highly competitive and can challenge meta weapons in the right hands, offering strong performance with only minor disadvantages.

PP-919

The PP-919 is an A-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, known for its reliable performance and versatility. Its strengths include a good balance of fire rate, recoil control, and mobility. While its TTK may not match the META-tier weapons, it remains competitive in most engagements. Statistically, the PP-919 offers a stable recoil pattern and decent damage output.

It excels in a variety of situations, from close-quarters combat to mid-range skirmishes, making it a solid all-around choice.

TANTO .22

The TANTO .22 is recognized as an A-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, offering a unique blend of stealth and agility. Its key strengths include exceptional mobility and a suppressed firing sound, allowing for covert maneuvers. Statistically, the TANTO .22 provides a competitive ADS time and manageable recoil.

While its damage output may be slightly lower than META options, its stealth capabilities and ease of handling make it ideal for flanking and aggressive plays. It excels in modes where map control and surprise engagements are crucial.

SAUG

The SAUG is an A-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, known for its excellent mobility and high rate of fire. Its strengths lie in its ability to quickly engage and disengage from fights, making it ideal for aggressive players. Statistically, the SAUG boasts a high rate of fire, but this is balanced by its high recoil.

This weapon excels in close-quarters combat where its mobility and fire rate can be fully utilized. However, its high recoil can be a significant weakness in longer-range engagements, requiring careful recoil management.

KOMPAKT 92

The KOMPAKT 92 is an A-tier SMG in Black Ops 6 due to its balanced attributes and ease of use. Its strengths lie in its manageable recoil and consistent damage output. Statistically, it offers a reliable TTK and good accuracy, making it effective in a variety of combat scenarios.

The KOMPAKT 92 excels in both close-quarters and mid-range engagements, providing a versatile option for players who prefer a balanced playstyle. While it may not outperform META weapons in specific areas, its overall reliability makes it a strong choice.

Marine SP

The Marine SP is an A-tier shotgun in Black Ops 6, excelling in tight, confined spaces. Its key strengths include high burst damage and quick handling. Statistically, the Marine SP offers a one-shot kill potential within its effective range.

While its range is limited compared to other weapon types, its raw power in close quarters makes it a formidable option. It excels in objective-based modes and indoor environments where engagements are often up close and personal.

ASG-89

The ASG-89 is an A-tier shotgun in Black Ops 6, known for its semi-automatic firing and consistent damage output. Its strengths lie in its ability to deliver rapid follow-up shots and maintain accuracy. Statistically, the ASG-89 offers a competitive fire rate for a shotgun, allowing for quick eliminations in close quarters.

While it may not have the one-shot kill potential of pump-action shotguns, its reliability and ease of use make it a strong choice. It excels in aggressive, fast-paced engagements where quick follow-up shots are essential.

B Tier

B-tier weapons are strong and very viable in most situations. While not as dominant as the meta, these weapons can still perform well with the right strategy and skill.

SIRIN 9mm

The SIRIN 9mm is a B-tier assault rifle in Black Ops 6, offering SMG-like characteristics in a primary weapon slot. Its strengths include good mobility and handling, making it effective in close to mid-range engagements. Statistically, the SIRIN 9mm has a slower rate of fire compared to other SMGs, but it compensates with decent damage output.

It excels as a secondary weapon for players who prefer assault rifles but need a close-quarters option. However, its slower fire rate can be a disadvantage against META weapons in direct confrontations.

D.13 Sector

The D.13 Sector is a B-tier assault rifle in Black Ops 6, distinguished by its unique blade launcher. Its strengths lie in its versatility, offering various projectile types through different magazine attachments. Statistically, the D.13 Sector's effectiveness varies greatly depending on the chosen magazine, allowing for customized gameplay.

It excels in strategic engagements where players can exploit its unique capabilities. However, its unconventional mechanics and projectile-based damage may require a higher skill level to use effectively compared to traditional weapons.

MAELSTROM

The MAELSTROM is a B-tier shotgun in Black Ops 6, offering fully automatic fire with good range and handling. Its strengths include its ability to quickly deliver multiple shots, making it effective in close-quarters combat. Statistically, the MAELSTROM has a high recoil and large hip spread, requiring careful control.

It excels in aggressive playstyles where players can take advantage of its rapid fire rate. However, its high recoil and spread can be a disadvantage in longer-range engagements, limiting its overall effectiveness.

GREKHOVA

The GREKHOVA is a B-tier pistol in Black Ops 6, offering reliable performance and ease of use. Its strengths include decent accuracy and manageable recoil, making it a solid choice for a secondary weapon. Statistically, the GREKHOVA provides a balanced damage output and a moderate rate of fire.

It excels in situations where players need a quick and dependable sidearm. However, its overall performance is outclassed by META-tier pistols and SMGs in dedicated close-quarters combat.

9mm PM

The 9mm PM is a B-tier pistol in Black Ops 6, known for its rapid fire rate and decent handling. Its strengths include a fast rate of fire and manageable recoil, making it effective in close-quarters engagements. Statistically, the 9mm PM offers a competitive rate of fire for a pistol.

While its damage per bullet is lower than some other pistols, its high fire rate allows for quick eliminations. It excels in situations where players need a fast-firing sidearm to finish off opponents.

STRYDER .22

The STRYDER .22 is a B-tier pistol in Black Ops 6, offering a unique combination of stealth and precision. Its strengths include a suppressed firing sound and good accuracy, making it effective for covert operations. Statistically, the STRYDER .22 provides a low recoil and a decent damage output.

While its rate of fire is not as high as other pistols, its accuracy and stealth capabilities make it a viable choice for players who prefer a more tactical approach.

GS45

The GS45 is a B-tier pistol in Black Ops 6, offering a balance of power and control. Its strengths include a high damage output and manageable recoil, making it effective in various combat scenarios. Statistically, the GS45 delivers a significant amount of damage per shot, allowing for quick eliminations.

While its rate of fire may not be as high as other pistols, its stopping power makes it a reliable choice. It excels in situations where players need a powerful sidearm to deal with close to mid-range threats.

POWER DRILL

The POWER DRILL is a B-tier assault rifle in Black Ops 6, known for its unique two-hit kill potential in Multiplayer. Its strengths include a very fast attack speed and high damage output in close quarters. Statistically, the POWER DRILL offers a very fast TTK within its limited range.

However, its very short range is a significant weakness, making it only effective in extremely close engagements. It excels in aggressive, fast-paced gameplay where players can quickly close the distance.

KNIFE

The KNIFE is a B-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a silent and deadly option for close-quarters combat. Its strengths lie in its one-hit kill potential and silent movement, allowing for stealthy approaches. The Knife is most effective when flanking enemies or in tight corridors where surprise attacks are possible.

While it lacks range, its speed and lethality make it a viable choice for skilled players who can navigate the map effectively and close the gap on their opponents.

C Tier

C-tier weapons are good but have limitations or specific use cases. These weapons can be effective in the right hands and situations, but they generally struggle against higher-tier options.

Cigma 2B

The Cigma 2B is a C-tier shotgun in Black Ops 6. Its strengths may include a moderate damage output. However, it generally struggles against higher-tier options.

HE-1

The HE-1 is a C-tier shotgun in Black Ops 6. Its strengths may include a moderate damage output. However, it generally struggles against higher-tier options.

CLEAVER

The CLEAVER is a C-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a one-hit kill potential in Multiplayer. Its strengths include high damage output and a relatively fast attack speed. However, its short to medium range limits its effectiveness in many combat scenarios.

The Cleaver is most effective in tight corridors and confined spaces where players can quickly close the distance on their opponents. While its one-hit kill potential is appealing, its limited range and situational effectiveness make it a situational pick.

BASEBALL BAT

The BASEBALL BAT is a C-tier weapon in Black Ops 6. Its strengths may include a moderate damage output. However, it generally struggles against higher-tier options.

D Tier

D-tier weapons are average but are outclassed by other options. These weapons can be used, but they generally perform poorly against higher-tier choices and require significant skill to be effective.

Skateboard

The Skateboard is a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a one-hit elimination with a moderately fast attack speed. Its strengths include high damage output and moderate range. However, its unique movement style may be difficult to control, and its effectiveness is limited compared to other melee weapons.

The Skateboard is most effective in situations where players can utilize its mobility to surprise their opponents. While its one-hit elimination potential is appealing, its unconventional handling makes it a situational pick.

Sai

The Sai is a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a one-hit elimination with a fast attack speed. Its strengths include quick strikes and a stealthy profile. However, its very short range severely limits its effectiveness in most combat scenarios.

The Sai is most effective when flanking enemies or in extremely close quarters where surprise attacks are possible. While its speed and lethality are appealing, its limited range makes it a situational pick.

Katanas

The Katanas are a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a one-hit elimination with a moderately fast attack speed. Its strengths include high damage output and a decent reach. However, its short range and relatively slow attack speed compared to other melee weapons make it less effective in fast-paced engagements.

The Katanas are most effective in situations where players can strategically position themselves for a decisive strike. While its one-hit elimination potential is appealing, its limitations make it a situational pick.

Bo Staff

The Bo Staff is a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a one-hit elimination with a slow attack speed. Its strengths include high damage output and a very long reach. However, its slow attack speed makes it vulnerable in close-quarters combat.

The Bo Staff is most effective in situations where players can maintain distance and utilize its reach to strike from afar. While its one-hit elimination potential is appealing, its slow attack speed makes it a situational pick.

Nunchaku

The Nunchaku is a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering a two-hit elimination with a very fast attack speed. Its strengths include rapid strikes and a unique combo potential. However, its reliance on multiple hits and moderate range make it less reliable than other melee weapons.

The Nunchaku is most effective in situations where players can chain together attacks and overwhelm their opponents. While its speed and combo potential are appealing, its two-hit elimination requirement makes it a situational pick.

Kali Sticks

The Kali Sticks are a D-tier weapon in Black Ops 6, offering extremely fast attack speed and short range. Their strength lies in the ability to deliver rapid strikes that can quickly eliminate opponents in very close quarters. However, their limited range and reliance on close proximity make them highly situational.

The Kali Sticks are most effective when flanking enemies or engaging in tight corridors where their speed can be fully utilized. While their attack speed is unmatched, their short range limits their overall effectiveness.

LADRA

The LADRA is a D-tier SMG in Black Ops 6, offering an extreme rate of fire, excellent range, and low recoil. Its strengths include its ability to quickly engage targets at various distances with minimal recoil. However, its lower base damage means that headshots are often necessary to maximize its effectiveness.

The LADRA is most effective in situations where players can consistently land headshots and take advantage of its high fire rate. While its handling and range are excellent, its dependence on headshots makes it a situational pick.

Conclusion

The close-range meta in Black Ops 6 for March 2025 is dominated by SMGs, with the META tier primarily consisting of weapons like the KSV, JACKAL PDW, C9, and PPSh-41. These weapons offer a combination of high fire rates, manageable recoil, and effective TTK in close quarters.

The A tier provides viable alternatives, while lower tiers (B, C, and D) offer situational options that require specific playstyles or strategic advantages to be effective. Future meta shifts may depend on upcoming patches that adjust weapon balance, potentially bringing more variety to the close-range landscape.

Methodology

Weapons were evaluated based on key performance indicators, including time-to-kill (TTK), recoil control, mobility, damage range, and ease of use. TTK was weighted most heavily (30%), as it directly impacts weapon lethality. Recoil control (25%) was also a significant factor, influencing accuracy and sustained fire effectiveness.

Mobility (20%) determined how quickly players could move and react with each weapon. Damage range (15%) assessed weapon effectiveness at various distances. Ease of use (10%) accounted for the learning curve and overall accessibility. Testing occurred in controlled multiplayer environments, focusing on real-world scenarios. Higher tiers favored weapons with low TTK, manageable recoil, and good mobility.