Black Ops 6: 21 BEST SMGs in Ranked (Season 3 Reloaded)

Discover the top 21 SMGs dominating Black Ops 6 Ranked in Season 3 Reloaded! Our tier-based ranking reveals the must-use weapons for climbing the competitive ladder. See which SMGs reign supreme!

Key Takeaways

  • Meta SMGs like the JACKAL PDW offer superior time-to-kill and versatility in close-quarters combat, making them essential for Ranked.
  • A-Tier SMGs such as the C9 and PP-919 provide reliable performance and are viable alternatives for players seeking different handling characteristics.
  • Lower-tier SMGs like the SAUG and PPSh-41, while not optimal, can still be effective in specific situations for players who understand their limitations.

Season 3 Reloaded of Black Ops 6 introduces significant shifts in the Ranked meta, with SMGs maintaining their status as pivotal weapons for close-quarters dominance.

The fast-paced nature of Ranked play emphasizes mobility and rapid target acquisition, making SMGs ideal choices for aggressive players.

This analysis identifies the top 21 SMGs, ranked by their effectiveness in the current meta. The ranking criteria is based on a tier system, evaluating factors such as time-to-kill, recoil control, mobility, and overall versatility. This assessment uses in-game data and community feedback to provide an objective overview of each weapon's performance.

#1: JACKAL PDW

Weapon Level41
FreeFree
Ultra
41
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • KEPLER MICROFLEX
    Optic
    Level 20
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 18
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 13
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 2
  • EXTENDED MAG I
    Magazine
    Level 21
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 32
  • INFILTRATOR STOCK
    Stock
    Level 14
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 19

The JACKAL PDW is a meta-tier SMG in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded, recognized for its exceptional performance in close-quarters combat.

Its primary strength lies in its rapid time-to-kill, allowing players to quickly eliminate opponents in fast-paced engagements. The JACKAL PDW exhibits manageable recoil, contributing to its accuracy and ease of use.

While highly effective at close ranges, its damage falloff at longer distances can be a limitation. The JACKAL PDW's versatility makes it a top-tier choice for players prioritizing aggressive playstyles and close-range dominance.

#2: C9

Weapon Level43
FreeFree
Ultra
43
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 23
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 2
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 30
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 37
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 21

The C9 SMG is an A-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded, offering a balanced profile suitable for various combat scenarios.

It provides a reliable time-to-kill and good recoil control, making it effective in both close and mid-range engagements. The C9's strengths include its ease of handling and consistent performance across different game modes.

While it may not outperform meta-tier weapons in specific areas, its versatility and user-friendly nature make it a solid choice for players seeking a dependable SMG.

#3: PP-919

Weapon Level43
FreeFree
Ultra
43
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • SUPPRESSOR
    Muzzle
    Level 2
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 4
  • FAST MAG II
    Magazine
    Level 43
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 36
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 18

The PP-919 is an A-Tier SMG in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded, known for its high fire rate and solid close-quarters performance.

Its rapid rate of fire translates to a competitive time-to-kill, especially in one-on-one engagements. The PP-919's strengths include its mobility and ease of handling, allowing for aggressive playstyles.

However, its recoil can be challenging to manage, particularly during sustained fire. Despite this, the PP-919 remains a viable option for players who prioritize speed and aggression in their gameplay.

#4: KOMPAKT 92

Weapon Level43
FreeFree
Ultra
43
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 22
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 6
  • RANGER FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 8
  • EXTENDED MAG I
    Magazine
    Level 37
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 41
  • INFILTRATOR STOCK
    Stock
    Level 10
  • STRELOK LASER
    Laser
    Level 38
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 42

The KOMPAKT 92 SMG is an A-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded, known for its all-around solid performance and reliability.

It offers a good balance of fire rate, damage, and recoil control, making it effective in various combat situations. The KOMPAKT 92 stands out for its versatility, allowing players to adapt to different playstyles and scenarios.

While it may not excel in any single area compared to meta-tier weapons, its consistent performance and ease of use make it a dependable choice for Ranked play.

#5: SAUG

Weapon Level39
FreeFree
Ultra
39
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 20
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 5
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 7
  • EXTENDED MAG I
    Magazine
    Level 6
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 26
  • INFILTRATOR STOCK
    Stock
    Level 4
  • TARGET LASER
    Laser
    Level 37
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 31

The SAUG SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. While it offers excellent mobility and good handling, its high recoil and lower damage output place it at a disadvantage compared to higher-tier SMGs.

The SAUG's fast rate of fire can be effective in very close-quarters engagements, but its lack of range and control make it less viable in mid-range fights.

The SAUG's primary strengths are its agility and responsiveness, but these are often insufficient to overcome its significant drawbacks in competitive play.

#6: PPSh-41

Weapon Level100
FreeFree
Ultra
100
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • SUPPRESSOR
    Muzzle
    Level 10
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 11
  • PPSH-41 HELICAL MAG
    Magazine
    Level 100
  • AGILITY STOCK
    Stock
    Level 32
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 30

The PPSh-41 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. Its fast fire rate and impressive damage are offset by its high recoil and moderate handling, making it difficult to control in sustained engagements.

While the PPSh-41 can be effective in close-quarters combat, its limitations become apparent at longer ranges.

The weapon's recoil pattern requires significant practice to master, and its overall performance does not align with the demands of high-level Ranked play.

#7: KSV

Weapon Level43
FreeFree
Ultra
43
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 21
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 3
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 14
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 41
  • RECOIL SPRINGS
    Fire Mods
    Level 28

The KSV SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The KSV's performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier options. Its rate of fire is slow, recoil is moderate, and damage is low.

The KSV's recoil pattern is unpredictable, making it difficult to control in sustained engagements. While the KSV can be effective in close-quarters combat, its limitations become apparent at longer ranges.

The weapon's recoil pattern requires significant practice to master, and its overall performance does not align with the demands of high-level Ranked play.

#8: TANTO .22

Weapon Level42
FreeFree
Ultra
42
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • KEPLER MICROFLEX
    Optic
    Level 1
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 16
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 4
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 10
  • EXTENDED MAG I
    Magazine
    Level 3
  • ERGONOMIC GRIP
    Rear Grip
    Level 42
  • INFILTRATOR STOCK
    Stock
    Level 8
  • RAPID FIRE
    Fire Mods
    Level 38

The TANTO .22 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The TANTO .22's performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier options. Its rate of fire is slow, recoil is moderate, and damage is low.

The TANTO .22's recoil pattern is unpredictable, making it difficult to control in sustained engagements. While the TANTO .22 can be effective in close-quarters combat, its limitations become apparent at longer ranges.

The weapon's recoil pattern requires significant practice to master, and its overall performance does not align with the demands of high-level Ranked play.

#9: LADRA

Weapon Level38
FreeFree
Ultra
38
Suppressor
Optic
5Attachments
8Attachments
  • COMPENSATOR
    Muzzle
    Level 25
  • LONG BARREL
    Barrel
    Level 6
  • VERTICAL FOREGRIP
    Underbarrel
    Level 7
  • EXTENDED MAG I
    Magazine
    Level 4
  • RAPID FIRE
    Fire Mods
    Level 27

The LADRA SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. It features an extreme rate of fire, excellent range, and low recoil. Headshots can help offset lower base damage.

Despite these strengths, the LADRA's lower base damage makes it less forgiving in engagements where accuracy is crucial. Its high fire rate can quickly deplete ammunition, requiring frequent reloads.

While the LADRA's attributes might appeal to some players, its overall effectiveness is limited compared to higher-tier SMGs in the current meta.

#10: Striker 9

We do not have builds for the STRIKER 9 in Black Ops 6

The Striker 9 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. This compact SMG handles like a carbine while taking advantage of the low recoil and versatility of 9mm rounds.

Despite its manageable recoil and carbine-like handling, the Striker 9's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its damage output is relatively low, making it less effective in quick engagements.

The Striker 9 may serve as a decent starting weapon, its limitations become apparent at higher levels of play.

#11: Fennec 45

We do not have builds for the FENNEC 45 in Black Ops 6

The Fennec 45 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The Fennec 45 is an SMG with a high fire rate and great mobility. However, its recoil and low ammo capacity can be difficult to manage.

The Fennec 45's high recoil and limited magazine size can hinder its effectiveness in sustained gunfights. While its mobility allows for aggressive plays, the weapon's drawbacks make it a less viable option compared to higher-tier SMGs in the competitive environment.

#12: PDSW 528

We do not have builds for the PDSW 528 in Black Ops 6

The PDSW 528 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The PDSW 528 is a high fire rate SMG with the highest mobility in the SMG category. It has a good time to kill but the iron sights are not liked by many.

Despite its mobility and potentially fast TTK, the PDSW 528's unpopular iron sights can be a significant disadvantage, impacting accuracy and target acquisition. While its high fire rate may be effective in close-quarters combat, its limitations make it a less competitive choice compared to other SMGs.

#13: WSP Swarm

We do not have builds for the WSP SWARM in Black Ops 6

The WSP Swarm SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. Ultra combat and maneuverable, this 9mm SMG overwhelms targets with a fast fire rate.

While its high fire rate can be devastating in close-quarters, the WSP Swarm suffers from significant recoil, making it difficult to control in sustained engagements. Its effectiveness is highly dependent on the player's ability to manage recoil, which can be a limiting factor in competitive play.

#14: BAS-P

We do not have builds for the BAS P in Black Ops 6

The BAS-P SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The BAS-P is a high fire rate SMG with manageable recoil and great mobility. It has one of the fastest times to kill in close range and its damage range is the highest in class. it can be an excellent sniper support as well.

Despite its strengths, the BAS-P's overall effectiveness is limited by its inconsistent performance in various combat scenarios. While it may excel in specific situations, its drawbacks make it a less reliable choice compared to higher-tier SMGs.

#15: Vaznev-9k

We do not have builds for the VAZNEV 9K in Black Ops 6

The Vaznev-9k SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The Vaznev-9K is a great SMG to use in Warzone 2. It has a short time to kill in close-quarter combats and its recoil is very manageable.

Despite its manageable recoil and decent TTK, the Vaznev-9k's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its damage output and range are limited, making it less effective in diverse combat situations.

The Vaznev-9k may be a viable option for beginners, its limitations become apparent at higher levels of play.

#16: VEL 46

We do not have builds for the VEL 46 in Black Ops 6

The VEL 46 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The VEL 46 is a high fire SMG that is easy to use. It has a good time to kill and low recoil.

Despite its ease of use and manageable recoil, the VEL 46's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its damage output and range are limited, making it less effective in diverse combat situations.

The VEL 46 may be a viable option for beginners, its limitations become apparent at higher levels of play.

#17: FSS Hurricane

We do not have builds for the FSS HURRICANE in Black Ops 6

The FSS Hurricane SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The FSS Hurricane is a versatile SMG that can be used in close-quarter and long-range fights. It has a high bullet velocity and a good short- and mid-range TTK. It makes a great sniper support weapon.

Despite its versatility and decent TTK, the FSS Hurricane's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its damage output and recoil control are not optimal, making it less effective in competitive engagements.

#18: Minibak

We do not have builds for the MINIBAK in Black Ops 6

The Minibak SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The Minibak SMG is a good SMG to use in Warzone 2. It has high damage at close range and low recoil. It also has a large magazine, which makes it a good choice for sniper support. However, it is not the most powerful SMG available, so keep that in mind when using it in combat.

Despite its high damage at close range and low recoil, the Minibak's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its damage output and recoil control are not optimal, making it less effective in competitive engagements.

#19: WSP-9

We do not have builds for the WSP 9 in Black Ops 6

The WSP-9 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. A fully automatic SMG featuring a slow rate of fire balanced by high damage, control, and mobility. It has a fast time to kill but its fire rate is slow & unforgiving when missing shots.

While the WSP-9 boasts high damage and control, its slow rate of fire makes it unforgiving, especially when missing shots. Its effectiveness is highly dependent on the player's accuracy, which can be a limiting factor in fast-paced competitive play.

#20: ISO 45

We do not have builds for the ISO 45 in Black Ops 6

The ISO 45 SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. A fast fire rate SMG with great mobility. Its not the easiest to use but its extremely deadly in the right hands.

Despite its high fire rate and mobility, the ISO 45's overall performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier SMGs. Its recoil is difficult to control, making it less effective in sustained engagements.

The ISO 45 may be a viable option for highly skilled players, its limitations become apparent at higher levels of play.

#21: Lachmann Shroud

We do not have builds for the LACHMANN SHROUD in Black Ops 6

The Lachmann Shroud SMG is a D-Tier weapon in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded. The Lachmann Shroud's performance is underwhelming compared to higher-tier options. Its rate of fire is slow, recoil is moderate, and damage is low.

The Lachmann Shroud's recoil pattern is unpredictable, making it difficult to control in sustained engagements. While the Lachmann Shroud can be effective in close-quarters combat, its limitations become apparent at longer ranges.

The weapon's recoil pattern requires significant practice to master, and its overall performance does not align with the demands of high-level Ranked play.

Conclusion

In summary, the SMG landscape in Black Ops 6 Ranked Season 3 Reloaded is diverse, with weapons ranging from meta-defining to niche picks. The JACKAL PDW stands out for its exceptional close-quarters TTK, making it ideal for aggressive players.

A-Tier options like the C9 and PP-919 provide reliable alternatives with balanced performance. While lower-tier SMGs such as the SAUG, PPSh-41, and others can be viable in specific situations, they generally require more skillful handling to overcome their inherent limitations in the current meta.

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