Ultimate PU-21 Loadout Guide for Black Ops 6: Class Setup, Attachments, Perks, and More

While Call of Duty is often synonymous with fast-paced action and exhilarating shootouts, there are moments when adopting a more defensive approach with an LMG can lead to victory. In this guide, we’ll present the optimal PU-21 loadout, incorporating the necessary attachments and perks to help you become an unstoppable turret.

LMGs have been part of the Call of Duty franchise for many years, yet their effectiveness in the meta has fluctuated over time. Although the PU-21 is not currently the dominant choice in Black Ops 6, it remains a formidable weapon due to its minimal recoil, making it a viable option to consider.

Thus, we have crafted this detailed guide on the most effective PU-21 loadout, giving you the chance to test it out and potentially enhance your kill-to-death (K/D) ratio.

Optimal PU-21 Loadout

Loadout builder screen for the PU-21 in Black Ops 6 — Image credit: dexerto / Activision

Muzzle: Suppressor
Optic: Merlin Reflex
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Fire Mods: Recoil Springs
Magazine: Fast Mag 1

When utilizing the PU-21, it’s likely you’ll adopt a stationary post, so we prioritized accuracy and handling over mobility. This is where the Vertical Foregrip and Recoil Springs play a crucial role by diminishing both horizontal and vertical recoil, ensuring greater accuracy in your shots.

While we found the PU-21’s iron sights to be serviceable, equipping the Merlin Reflex optic is advantageous, particularly for engaging at longer distances. Additionally, given the slow reload speed characteristic of LMGs, adding the Fast Mag 1 is beneficial for quicker reloads.

Lastly, to remain hidden from enemy view, utilizing the Suppressor is vital, preventing opponents from locating you via your red dot on the minimap.

Best PU-21 Class: Perks, Gear, and Wildcards

Wildcard: Perk Greed
Perk 1: Flak Jacket
Perk 2: Fast Hands
Perk 3: Cold-Blooded
Perk Greed: Ghost
Lethal: Frag
Tactical: Concussion
Field Upgrade: Assault Pack

Class builder screen for PU-21 showing perks, equipment, and wildcard — Image credit: dexerto / Activision

Considering the playstyle with the PU-21 involves holding a defensive position, we have selected perks to optimize that strategy.

Firstly, we utilized the Perk Greed Wildcard to unlock an additional perk, choosing Ghost to avoid detection by Scout Pulses and UAVs while moving, allowing for an undetected approach to your chosen location. Cold-Blooded serves a similar purpose, preventing detection from thermal sights and protecting you from enemy-controlled killstreak markers.

Fast Hands facilitates quick weapon swaps, allowing for a rapid transition to a pistol if a foe gets too close, while Flak Jacket grants better protection against explosive attacks, enhancing your survivability in combat.

For sustained firepower, we recommend the Assault Pack, ensuring you’re well-stocked with ammo for your LMG, alongside a Frag grenade and a Concussion grenade for versatile offensive options.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the PU-21

ADVANTAGES	DISADVANTAGES
Rapid time to kill (TTK)	Limited mobility, hindering movement
Minimal recoil	Sluggish aim-down-sights (ADS) speed can disadvantage
Iron sights could be improved

Current Status of the PU-21 in the Black Ops 6 Meta

Regarding its place in the overarching Black Ops 6 meta, the PU-21 ranks 17th in usage, with only 1.48% of players opting for it. This is quite a distance from the leading weapon, the C9 SMG, which enjoys a 14.3% pick rate, as reported by WZStats.gg.

In terms of long-range weaponry, the PU-21’s position does not improve significantly; the AEK-973 leads at 11.5%, while the XM4 follows closely at 10.6%. Moreover, it’s not even the most popular LMG, with the XMG surpassing it by a mere 0.02%.

Nevertheless, don’t allow these statistics to deter you from experimenting with the PU-21, as it remains a strong firearm worthy of consideration, especially for players favoring a methodical playstyle.

Unlocking the PU-21

The great news for players is that the PU-21 is available as one of the default weapons in Black Ops 6. Upon reaching Level 4 and unlocking the option for custom loadouts, you will gain immediate access to this formidable LMG.

Top Alternative to PU-21 in Black Ops 6

If the PU-21 does not meet your needs, the XM4 is an excellent alternative for those who seek effective long-range damage. The AK-74 could also serve as a powerful option, boasting a strong damage output and decent range while remaining more agile than traditional LMGs.

For players who prefer to engage enemies from a distance with precision, consider integrating either the LR 7.62 or the LW3A1 Frostline sniper rifles into your loadout, as they are currently among the game’s best sniper options.

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