Ultimate Maelstrom Loadout Guide for Black Ops 6: Class Setup, Attachments, and Perks

The Maelstrom shotgun in Black Ops 6 has rapidly gained acclaim for its ability to eliminate foes with astounding speed, provided players can manage its considerable recoil. With the right loadout, mastering this weapon becomes a straightforward task.

While full-auto shotguns are not the most conventional choice in Call of Duty, they have a storied legacy beginning with the legendary AA-12 in the original Modern Warfare 2. The series has featured various models, such as the M1216, S-12, and MX Guardian, all contributing to this divisive category of weaponry. The Maelstrom marks the latest contribution in this lineage, proving itself particularly effective on compact maps when utilizing our recommended setup.

Optimal Maelstrom Loadout in BO6

Muzzle: Modified Choke
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Rear Grip: CQB Grip
Laser: Tactical Laser
Fire Mod: Rapid Fire

The best Maelstrom loadout in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. — Source: Dexerto

Equipping the Rapid Fire mod significantly enhances the Maelstrom’s performance by increasing its firing rate by 5%. This seemingly minor boost translates into improved damage per second (DPS), effectively reducing the time to kill (TTK) against enemies.

However, the augmentation of fire rate introduces additional recoil, complicating control. To mitigate this, gamers should utilize the Tactical Laser and employ Tac-Stance, avoiding the extreme vertical kick that can occur when aiming down sights (ADS). This tactic significantly enhances accuracy and target tracking, thus improving overall gameplay consistency.

The Modified Choke narrows the shot spread, enhancing the Maelstrom’s accuracy. Pairing it with the Ranger Foregrip further fortifies accuracy by diminishing horizontal recoil and increasing sprint speed—ideal for aggressive playstyles aiming to outmaneuver opponents.

For those looking to employ advanced movement tactics, the CQB Grip is indispensable. It accelerates shooting speed after dives, slides, and runs, allowing players to maintain the upper hand when engaging enemies up close.

Recommended Perks, Equipment, and Wildcard

Combat Specialty: Recon
Perk 1: Ninja
Perk 2: Tracker
Perk 3: Cold-Blooded
Wildcard: Overkill
Lethal: Combat Axe
Tactical: Flashbang
Field Upgrade: Trophy System

The best perks and equipment to use with the Maelstrom in Black Ops 6. — Source: Dexerto

The Maelstrom’s limited range makes the Ninja perk highly beneficial, as it silences player footsteps, allowing for stealthy maneuvers. Coupled with Tracker, which highlights the footprints of nearby enemies, players can effectively hunt their targets in silence.

Additionally, Cold-Blooded is essential for immunity against AI-controlled scorestreaks like the Watchdog Helo and Sentry Turret, enhancing survivability and empowering the Recon combat specialty to alert players when enemies are aiming in their direction.

Utilizing the Overkill wildcard is advisable due to the Maelstrom’s design for close-quarters combat. Pairing it with a versatile assault rifle like the Krig C or XM4 caters to scenarios requiring extended engagement distances.

Auxiliary equipment like Flashbangs can disorient foes, enabling the Maelstrom user to eliminate targets with ease. Furthermore, deploying a Trophy System is crucial for defending objectives and countering incoming enemy equipment. Finally, a Combat Axe offers a quick and silent method of eliminating threats without direct confrontation.

Pros and Cons of the Maelstrom

PROS	CONS
Outstanding TTK up close	Limited effective range
Rapid fire capabilities	Complex recoil management
Engaging to use in the right gameplay setting	Utility restricted to select maps
Good handling characteristics	Average mobility metrics

Maelstrom’s Position in the BO6 Meta

Within the Black Ops 6 meta, the Maelstrom is considered a low-tier weapon, excelling only on a few select maps. For instance, small battlegrounds like Pit, Nuketown, and Stakeout are where this shotgun shines; elsewhere, its effectiveness wanes due to insufficient range when pitted against SMGs and other shotguns.

Although using the Maelstrom can be an exhilarating experience, players aiming for competitive success might prefer alternatives. Weapons like the Marine SP offer significantly enhanced effective range, while rapid-firing SMGs like the Kompakt 92 provide greater versatility and reliability.

Ultimately, the Maelstrom often serves as a temporary selection for players aiming to acquire mastery camouflages, with many moving on once they’ve achieved their goals. This weapon may find its niche in Warzone, where high burst damage is more impactful, but in a multiplayer context, players typically have better options unless confined to smaller maps.

Unlocking the Maelstrom in Black Ops 6

To unlock the Maelstrom, players must complete the Merry Mayhem event. After completion, it becomes accessible for custom loadouts. Alternatively, acquiring a Maelstrom blueprint as a reward, through the store, or via the Battle Pass will also grant access to this formidable shotgun.

Top Alternatives to the Maelstrom

The ASG-89 shotgun being inspected in Black Ops 6. — Source: Dexerto

A prime alternative to the Maelstrom is the ASG-89. This shotgun also features rapid fire capabilities and excels in close-range encounters. While it possesses slightly greater range, it requires manual firing of each round rather than offering a full-auto option. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual playstyle preferences.

For those seeking to enhance their gameplay, we’ve provided an in-depth guide on the best controller and PC settings to optimize performance and enjoyment.

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