Top Marksman Rifle Loadouts for Black Ops 6 Season 1

For players who prioritize precision in Black Ops 6, marksman rifles represent the pinnacle of efficiency. By utilizing the most effective loadouts, you can establish yourself as a formidable opponent at both medium and long-range encounters. These rifles pack a punch, making them an essential choice for those looking to dominate online play.

While many gamers instinctively opt for assault rifles or sniper rifles in long-distance gunfights, marksman rifles have emerged as a powerful and often underappreciated category this season. With a well-optimized DMR build, you can easily outperform most other weapons in fair combat scenarios, thanks to their high damage and exceptional range. To assist you in maximizing the potential of these underrated weapons, we’ve compiled the top marksman rifle loadouts for Black Ops 6 Season 1 Reloaded, along with their comparative rankings.

Top Marksman Rifle Loadouts in BO6

1. Tsarkov 7.62

Best Tsarkov 7.62 loadout — Source: Dexerto

Optic: Jason Armory 2X
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Rear Grip: Quickdraw Grip
Laser: Target Laser

The Tsarkov 7.62 stands out as the only marksman rifle capable of delivering a one-shot kill. If you secure a headshot within its maximum damage range, you can eliminate foes with astounding efficiency, positioning it as one of Black Ops 6’s most deadly firearms. While its fast-paced gameplay can be challenging, seasoned players can harness this DMR’s power effectively.

To optimize its performance, utilize the Quickdraw Grip to enhance your aim-down-sights (ADS) speed, while the Long Barrel extends its one-shot kill range. Mastery of this loadout allows you to control any match, provided you can maintain accuracy under pressure.

2. AEK-973

Optic: K&S Red Dot
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Rear Grip: Commando Grip

The AEK-973 might have slipped under the radar for some players, but Treyarch quickly recognized its strength, leading to a nerf in Season 1. Its handling was adjusted, and the once-valuable Rapid Fire attachment lost its efficacy.

Despite the nerf, the AEK-973 remains relevant with its consistent accuracy and capable one-burst kill potential. Pair it with the Compensator and Vertical Foregrip to enhance accuracy with every shot.

3. DM-10

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Ported Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Rear Grip: Quickdraw Grip
Stock: Combat Stock

The DM-10 is often misunderstood; players typically view it as a long-range weapon due to its default scope. However, this marksman rifle excels in close to medium-range combat, effectively competing with the Goblin Mk2.

By focusing your build for close-quarters dominance, the DM-10 showcases one of the fastest time-to-kills (TTK) in BO6 at just 200 ms. With the Ported Compensator, you’ll find it easier to land those critical initial shots, making this rifle a rapidly effective choice.

4. SWAT 5.56

Best SWAT 5.56 loadout — Source: Dexerto

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Rear Grip: Commando Grip

Similar to the AEK-973, the SWAT 5.56 delivers lethal, one-burst kills with impressive range. However, it is designed for medium-range encounters, while the AEK finds its strength in long-distance fights, especially post-nerf.

While the SWAT is slightly less powerful due to its higher recoil and less optimal range, employing the Compensator and Vertical Foregrip can transform it into a formidable weapon that competes across most scenarios.

Ranking of All Marksman Rifles in Black Ops 6

In total, players have four distinct marksman rifles to choose from: AEK-973, DM-10, SWAT 5.56, and Tsarkov 7.62. Each rifle serves a unique role with distinct strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a concise ranking of these rifles, alongside their maximum damage ranges:

Rank	Weapon	Maximum Damage Range
1	Tsarkov 7.62	36m
2	AEK-973	34m
3	DM-10	25m
4	SWAT 5.56	32m

Meta Analysis

Inspecting the Tsarkov 7.62 in Warzone — Source: Dexerto

Following recent adjustments to the AEK-973, the Tsarkov 7.62 has solidified its position as the premier marksman rifle in Black Ops 6. Its ability to deliver a lethal one-shot kill makes it highly advantageous, especially on expansive maps with extended line-of-sight opportunities.

The AEK-973, while still a solid option, has relented from its former dominance post-nerf. Its diminished rapid-fire capabilities negatively impacted its TTK, which had drawn many players to use it in the first place. In contrast, the SWAT 5.56 suffers from greater recoil and range limitations, making the AEK-973 a somewhat better option, despite its reduced efficacy.

Interestingly, the DM-10 has risen in prominence as players adapt to its capabilities. Initially dismissed, it now serves a valuable role as an effective close to medium-range marksman rifle, thanks to its competitive TTK. Though challenging to master, wise players can harness its power to great effect.

As we look forward to future updates in Black Ops 6, expect more changes and adjustments affecting the marksman rifle meta. For players who seek variety, we’ve also detailed the best shotgun and SMG loadouts available, allowing you to explore different playstyles.

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