Home >  News >  Top SMGs to Use in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Top SMGs to Use in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

by Max Jun 24,2025

Here’s the SEO-optimized and content-refined version of your article, designed for superior readability and compatibility with Google's search engine standards while preserving the original structure and formatting:


Assault Rifles have long held a strong presence in *Call of Duty*, but with the fast-paced gameplay and Omnimovement mechanics introduced in *Black Ops 6*, SMGs are rising to prominence like never before. In this guide, we break down the top SMGs currently dominating both Multiplayer and Zombies modes.

Recommended Videos

The Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Multiplayer

Best SMGs in Black Ops 6.

In *Black Ops 6* Multiplayer and Ranked Play, several SMGs have proven themselves as some of the most versatile and powerful weapons in the game. Thanks to their high fire rates, excellent mobility, and close-range dominance, SMGs thrive in the fast-paced combat environments that define *Black Ops 6*. With Gunsmith customization options, players can even extend their effective range, allowing SMGs to compete with Assault Rifles at mid-distances. Based on extensive testing and data from sources like the *Warzone* Meta, here are our top picks for the best SMGs in *Black Ops 6* Multiplayer:

#4. PP-919

The PP-919 stands out among *Black Ops 6* SMGs for its impressive performance at medium range. While it lags slightly behind others in terms of mobility, handling, and fire rate, its standout feature is its massive magazine capacity. At 64 rounds by default, it surpasses many Assault Rifles and nearly rivals Light Machine Guns. This makes the PP-919 especially valuable in Ranked Play, where extended magazines are not permitted, giving it a unique edge over other loadouts.

#3. PPSh-41

This iconic World War II-era SMG made a strong return during *Black Ops 6* and *Warzone* Season 2. The PPSh-41 delivers exactly what you'd expect from a classic SMG: high fire rate, solid mobility, and excellent close-quarters performance. It also offers surprisingly manageable recoil control, which can be further improved with attachments such as the Vertical Foregrip. In standard Multiplayer, equipping the drum mag gives you a generous 55-round capacity—ideal for sustained firefights.

#2. Jackal PDW

Since its debut in the September 2024 Beta, the Jackal PDW has become a staple in the *Black Ops 6* meta. While it doesn’t dominate in any one category, its balanced stats make it highly adaptable across all maps and game modes. With good mobility, a steady fire rate, and predictable recoil, the Jackal PDW is an excellent choice for players who prefer a reliable, easy-to-use weapon that performs consistently under pressure.

#1 KSV

The KSV is quickly becoming the go-to SMG for competitive players and professionals alike. Resembling the beloved AK74u from earlier *Call of Duty* titles, the KSV combines fast handling with rapid fire, making it ideal for the fluid movement enabled by Omnimovement. Its clean iron sights allow room for additional attachments, enhancing either accuracy or mobility depending on your playstyle. Whether you're pushing objectives or holding a point, the KSV delivers precision and speed in equal measure.

Related: How To Unlock the Full Auto Mod in Black Ops 6 & Warzone

The Best SMGs in Black Ops 6 Zombies

PPSH as part of an article about best SMGs in Black Ops 6.

In *Black Ops 6* Zombies, SMGs remain one of the most effective weapon types, second only to Wonder Weapons. Their high fire rates and mobility make them perfect for clearing large groups of enemies efficiently. Here are our top choices for the best SMGs in Zombies mode:

#4. Kompakt 92

The Kompakt 92 excels in delivering high damage output with a controllable recoil pattern. This makes it particularly effective against elite enemies like Abominations and Amalgams. If you're looking for a compact SMG that packs a punch without sacrificing control, the Kompakt 92 should be on your radar.

#3 Saug

The Saug is a niche but powerful option in Zombies thanks to its Akimbo attachment, which allows players to dual-wield two Saugs for significantly increased DPS. When paired with the Napalm Burst Ammo Mod, it becomes an absolute powerhouse up close. Although recent balance changes have toned down its effectiveness compared to its early days in Citadelle des Morts, the Saug still holds value for players who enjoy aggressive, close-range combat.

#2 PPSh-41

While the PP-919 may boast larger magazine sizes (especially after Pack-a-Punch multipliers), the PPSh-41 remains superior in almost every other aspect. It features a blistering fire rate, solid mobility, and quick reload times. Equipped with Deadshot Daiquiri and the Dead Head Augment, the PPSh becomes a headshot monster, tearing through unarmored zombies with ease and efficiency.

#1 KSV

As in Multiplayer, the KSV dominates the Zombies meta. Its high fire rate and pinpoint accuracy result in incredible DPS potential. Combined with Deadshot Daiquiri and fully upgraded, the KSV can cut through regular zombies and Doppelghasts effortlessly. Paired with Stamin-Up, its mobility becomes even more valuable, letting you outmaneuver swarms of undead foes with ease.

And there you have it—the definitive list of the best SMGs in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* for both Multiplayer and Zombies.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.