The MCW is a formidable assault rifle in Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) that boasts exceptional accuracy at long range, particularly when paired with a top-tier loadout.
Originally featured in Modern Warfare 2, the ACR was a dominant force in multiplayer. Now, 14 years later, it re-emerges as the MCW in Call of Duty’s latest installment, continuing its legacy. Similar to its predecessor, the MCW is a premier weapon that consistently excels across all maps within MW3.
One of the standout features of the MCW is its remarkable accuracy, allowing players to effectively engage enemies from near and far. This makes the MCW an appealing choice for both novice players and seasoned veterans, offering versatility for all playstyles.
However, due to various balance updates and meta changes throughout seasons, your previous MCW loadout may no longer be effective, necessitating the use of our optimized build for improved performance.
Best MCW MW3 Loadout
- Muzzle: Quartermaster Suppressor
- Barrel: 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Long Barrel
- Optic: JAK Glassless Optic
- Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop
- Rear Grip: RB Claw-PSL Grip
To maximize the MCW’s capabilities, it’s essential to minimize its recoil, enhancing its status as the most precise weapon in MW3. The Quartermaster Suppressor along with the RB Claw-PSL Grip effectively improves recoil control by a combined 20%, while the suppressor conceals your position by silencing outgoing fire.
The MCW also shines with its impressive damage range, further augmented by the 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Long Barrel. This attachment increases the effective range by 15%, enhancing vital stats such as bullet velocity and aim stability.
For a weapon focused on accuracy, equipping a meta optic like the JAK Glassless Optic is a smart choice since it remains the best sight for close to medium range in the game. This optic facilitates easier targeting and tracking of distant foes, crucial given the MCW’s extensive damage range.
The DR-6 Handstop is an outstanding underbarrel option that enhances aim down sight speed and other critical handling attributes, allowing the MCW to adapt swiftly to MW3’s fast-paced gameplay.
Best MCW Class: Perks and Equipment
- Vest: Infantry Vest
- Gloves: Scavenger Gloves
- Boots: Covert Sneakers
- Gear 1: EOD Padding
- Gear 2: Tac Mask
- Lethal: Sticky Grenade
- Tactical: Stun Grenade
- Field Upgrade: Trophy System
Utilizing the Infantry Vest provides a solid balance of benefits, extending Tactical Sprint duration and availing numerous perk slots.
For gloves, opt for Scavenger Gloves to maintain a steady supply of ammunition. In the boots category, Covert Sneakers are advantageous as they mute your footsteps, allowing stealthy approaches on enemies.
For the gear slots, EOD Padding lessens damage from explosives, while Tac Mask mitigates the impact of enemy tactical gadgets. This combination minimizes risks from incoming threats, especially when paired with a Trophy System that neutralizes enemy equipment.
Although protected from foes’ equipment, ensure they are vulnerable to yours. A well-timed Sticky Grenade can pressure opponents hiding in cover, complemented by a Stun Grenade to incapacitate rivals, facilitating an easier takedown.
MCW Pros and Cons
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very low recoil | Slow close-range TTK |
| User-friendly | Average handling stats |
| Fast long-range TTK | Average mobility stats |
| High damage range |
MCW’s Position in the MW3 Meta
The MCW stands out as a top weapon, being the most frequently used in Modern Warfare 3. Its strengths lie in its superior accuracy and low recoil, making it ideal for medium to large maps where players can leverage long sightlines.
This weapon is particularly beneficial for players with lower to medium skill levels who may struggle with recoil control. The MCW is very forgiving in this aspect, enabling even beginners to easily target foes from a distance.
However, the MCW does not have the quickest time to kill (TTK) in close encounters. Aiming for a headshot can reduce its TTK to just 252 ms, making it a formidable option considering its simplicity of use. Without headshots, the sought-after assault rifle may find itself outperformed by other choices like the SVA 545 and STG 44, so aiming for at least one headshot is advisable.
How to Unlock the MCW
You can unlock the MCW by reaching level 44 through gameplay in multiplayer, Zombies, or Warzone. Since progression is shared across these three modes, you can choose to play the one you enjoy most.
MW3 MCW Alternatives
While the MCW is already among the best firearms in Modern Warfare 3, if you’re seeking alternatives, the Holger 556 is worth considering. Although it may not be as precise, it possesses greater damage potential, making it an excellent choice for players who can manage its recoil effectively.
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