Shotguns, while often sparking debate among players, are undeniably a pivotal element in the Black Ops 6 competitive meta. They boast an unmatched lethality, making them ideal for players looking to dominate in close-range combat scenarios.
Many Call of Duty enthusiasts gravitate towards SMGs for engaging in tight gunfights. However, shotguns offer a compelling alternative that can be equally effective when utilized correctly. Leveraging unsuitable attachments or opting for weaker weapons might leave you vulnerable in battles. To avoid this, consider our expert-recommended shotgun builds crafted to maximize your performance in Black Ops 6. Below, we present the top shotgun loadouts, ranked from best to worst.
Top Shotgun Loadouts in Black Ops 6
1. Marine SP
- Muzzle: Modified Choke
- Barrel: Long Barrel
- Stock: Combat Stock
- Laser: Tactical Laser
- Fire Mods: Rapid Fire
The Marine SP stands out as the premier shotgun in Black Ops 6. This potent pump-action weapon guarantees impressive range, especially when paired with a Tac-Stance build. If your goal is to outgun opponents with SMGs or eliminate enemies from distances of up to 11 meters with a single shot, the Marine SP is your go-to choice. This weapon excels in modes like Face Off, where smaller maps amplify its strengths.
To optimize the Marine SP’s capabilities, equip the Modified Choke to tighten its pellet spread, enhancing consistency and extending its effective range. Additionally, the Tactical Laser is essential to activate Tac Stance, which improves the weapon’s handling and mobility.
2. ASG-89
- Muzzle: Modified Choke
- Barrel: Long Barrel
- Rear Grip: Assault Grip
- Laser: Tactical Laser
- Fire Mods: Fire Mods
The ASG-89 is the only other shotgun available in Black Ops 6, featuring a semi-automatic design tailored for players who prefer rapid-fire engagements over precise shots. With its quick firing rate and effective hip-fire accuracy, it suits playstyles focused on fast-paced, close-quarters combat. However, the ASG-89’s limited range constrains its effectiveness primarily to the smallest maps.
Utilizing the Tactical Laser is beneficial, as it enables Tac-Stance, which tightens pellet spread without sacrificing mobility. This balance equips the ASG-89 for dominating in close-range battles.
Ranking of All Black Ops 6 Shotguns
At launch, Black Ops 6 offers two distinctive shotguns—the Marine SP and the ASG-89—each catering to different gameplay styles and scenarios. Below is a ranking of these shotguns, alongside their maximum damage ranges using optimal loadouts:
| Rank | Gun | Max Damage Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marine-SP | 11m |
| 2 | ASG-89 | 3m |
Meta Analysis
When comparing the shotguns, the Marine SP emerges as the superior choice due to its impressive range, allowing for one-shot kills at distances up to 11 meters. This performance is particularly notable given Black Ops 6’s longer time-to-kill dynamics, offering a significant upgrade compared to shotgun mechanics in previous titles like MW3.
Conversely, the ASG-89’s meager range limits its viability predominantly to a select few smaller maps such as Stakeout, Sandhouse, and Nuketown. On larger terrains, this shotgun is outmatched by virtually all other weapon types, although players seeking casual fun can still enjoy its responsive nature.
If you’re interested in exploring alternatives beyond shotguns, be sure to check out our breakdown of the best assault rifles and sniper rifles for multiplayer. Additionally, our comprehensive weapon tier list for Black Ops 6 offers an in-depth overview of the current meta landscape.
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