Best SMG Loadouts in Black Ops 6 Season 4 Reloaded (March 2026)

Updated by Ankit Babal
July 3, 2025
Gaming

The high-octane nature of Black Ops 6 multiplayer continues to favor aggressive players, and with Season 4 Reloaded dropping on July 2, 2026, the SMG meta has evolved yet again. After extensive testing and analyzing the latest patch notes, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide to help you dominate close-quarters combat with the best SMG loadouts in the game.

COD Black Ops 6: SMG Tier List for Season 4 Reloaded

Before diving into specific loadouts, here’s a quick overview of where each SMG stands in the current meta:

Tier	SMG	TTK	Best Range	Playstyle
S-Tier	LC10	240ms	All ranges	Versatile
S-Tier	Ladra	220ms	Close	Aggressive
A-Tier	KSV	225ms	Close	Rush
A-Tier	C9	250ms	Mid-range	Balanced
B-Tier	Tanto .22	260ms	Mid-range	Precision
B-Tier	Jackal PDW	230ms	Close	Fast-paced
C-Tier	PPSh-41	240ms	Close	Spray
C-Tier	Saug	245ms	Close	Mobile
D-Tier	PP-919	280ms	Mid-range	Support
D-Tier	Kompakt 92	215ms	Very Close	Situational

1. LC10 – The New Meta King

The LC10 has quickly established itself as the best SMG in Season 4 Reloaded. This returning Cold War favorite offers exceptional versatility that sets it apart from the competition.

Best LC10 Loadout

Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
Stock: Balanced Stock

The LC10 isn’t your typical fast-firing SMG. Instead, it’s tailored for ranged engagements beyond the 20-meter mark, thanks to its low recoil and excellent handling. With this loadout, you’ll maintain competitive TTK figures across all ranges while enjoying laser-like accuracy. The Extended Mag II is essential given the LC10’s slower reload animation, particularly noticeable toward the end.

Pro Tips for LC10

Play more methodically than with traditional SMGs
Pre-aim common angles to maximize the weapon’s range advantage
Use the excellent iron sights to save an attachment slot

2. Ladra – The Close-Range Menace

The Ladra, introduced in Season 3 Reloaded, remains a top-tier choice for aggressive players who thrive in close-quarters combat.

Best Ladra Loadout

Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Barrel: Gain-Twist Barrel
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag I
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

With its blistering fire rate and minimal recoil, the Ladra excels on small-sized maps like Nuketown and Stakeout. The Monolithic Suppressor keeps you off the radar while the Gain-Twist Barrel extends your effective range slightly. However, be aware that its effectiveness drops significantly beyond 15 meters.

Ladra Strategy

Stick to interior spaces and tight corridors
Use sliding and diving mechanics to close gaps quickly
Pair with the Gung-Ho perk for maximum aggression

3. KSV – The Versatile Powerhouse

Despite no longer being the absolute meta, the KSV remains incredibly competitive with its insane 225ms TTK at close range.

Best KSV Loadout

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Stock: Infiltrator Stock
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

The Compensator and Long Barrel combination addresses the KSV’s main weaknesses: recoil and damage range. The Infiltrator Stock provides a crucial ADS movement speed boost, keeping you mobile during firefights. Since the KSV features clean iron sights, you can skip the optic for better mobility.

KSV Tactics

Focus on upper torso shots for optimal TTK
Use strafing to your advantage with improved ADS movement
Ideal for Search and Destroy due to its quick elimination potential

4. C9 – The Reliable All-Rounder

The C9 continues to live up to its MP5 legacy as the most accessible and well-balanced SMG in Black Ops 6.

Best C9 Loadout

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

Our loadout transforms the C9 into a nearly recoilless laser beam. The Season 4 Reloaded patch specifically buffed the C9’s Tactical Laser attachment, making it a viable alternative if you prefer faster ADS speeds. This versatile SMG excels at both close and medium ranges, making it perfect for players still learning the maps.

C9 Gameplay Tips

Perfect for beginners due to low recoil
Effective on medium-sized maps like Fringe
Consider the Gunfighter wildcard for additional attachments

5. Tanto .22 – The Precision SMG

The Tanto .22 offers a unique playstyle that rewards accuracy over spray-and-pray tactics.

Best Tanto .22 Loadout

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Fire Mods: Rapid Fire

With its slower fire rate but higher damage per shot, the Tanto .22 bridges the gap between SMGs and assault rifles. The Rapid Fire mod is essential to remain competitive, while the Compensator and Vertical Foregrip offset the increased recoil. This SMG shines in the hands of precise players who can consistently hit upper torso shots.

Tanto .22 Strategy

Pre-fire common angles to compensate for slower fire rate
Excellent for holding down lanes on larger maps
Pairs well with the Enforcer perk for extended range fights

6. Jackal PDW – The Fallen King

Once the undisputed SMG meta, the Jackal PDW received heavy nerfs in Season 3 that pushed it down the tier list.

Best Jackal PDW Loadout

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Suppressor
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

Despite the nerfs, the Jackal PDW’s blistering fire rate still makes it viable on smaller maps. The Long Barrel is crucial to compensate for its reduced damage range, while the Suppressor keeps you stealthy. If you’ve already invested time leveling this weapon, it’s still worth using, especially in objective-based modes.

7. PPSh-41 – The Spray Machine

The classic WW2 SMG embodies the “spray and pray” philosophy with its chaotic recoil pattern and extreme fire rate.

Best PPSh-41 Loadout

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag I

The PPSh-41 can be incredibly satisfying when you catch enemies off-guard at close range. However, its unpredictable recoil and rapid ammo consumption make it challenging to master. The Compensator and Vertical Foregrip are non-negotiable to maintain any semblance of control.

Secondary SMG Choices

8. Saug

While the Saug impressed during its Season 2 debut, it has failed to establish itself in the meta. Its main issues are limited effective range and being outclassed by newer additions. However, the Akimbo attachment can make it fun for casual matches.

9. PP-919 (Bizon)

The PP-919 offers laser-like precision but lacks the firepower to compete with meta SMGs. Its massive magazine is its only real advantage, making it suitable for players who struggle with reload timing.

10. Kompakt 92

Despite having the fastest theoretical TTK at 215ms, the Kompakt 92’s excessive recoil, poor range, and terrible handling make it the worst SMG choice. Only use it for camo challenges or when you want a serious handicap.

Best Perks and Equipment for SMG Loadouts in Black Ops 6

To maximize your SMG effectiveness, pair your weapon with these optimal perks and equipment:

Perk Setup

Perk 1: Ninja (Essential for flanking)
Perk 2: Gung-Ho (Sprint while reloading)
Perk 3: Double Time (Extended tactical sprint)

Equipment

Tactical: Stim Shot (Quick healing for aggressive plays)
Lethal: Semtex (Quick throw for room clearing)
Field Upgrade: Trophy System or Dead Silence

SMG Movement Tips for Season 4 Reloaded

The attachment tuning in Season 4 Reloaded has made movement even more crucial:

Slide Canceling: Still effective but requires proper timing
Dive Mechanics: Use diving around corners to catch enemies off-guard
Omnimovement: Master the new movement system for unpredictable plays
Pre-aiming: Critical with slower-handling SMGs like the LC10

Map-Specific SMG Recommendations

Different maps favor different SMG playstyles:

Nuketown/Stakeout: Ladra or KSV for pure aggression
Fringe/Babylon: LC10 or C9 for versatility
Eclipse (New): Kompakt 92 might actually work here due to tight spaces
Larger Maps: Tanto .22 or LC10 for extended range engagements

Gunfighter Builds for Advanced Players

If you’re using the Gunfighter wildcard, here are optimal 8-attachment builds:

LC10 Gunfighter

Add: Kepler Microflex, Quickdraw Grip, Combat Stock

Ladra Gunfighter

Add: Kepler Microflex, Infiltrator Stock, Fast Mag

Common SMG Mistakes to Avoid

Over-extending: Know your weapon’s effective range
Ignoring recoil patterns: Spend time in the firing range
Poor positioning: SMGs require smart map movement
Neglecting hip-fire: Many SMGs excel at hip-fire accuracy
Wrong attachment priorities: Focus on recoil control first

Future Meta Predictions

With ongoing attachment tuning and potential weapon buffs/nerfs, keep an eye on:

Possible LC10 nerfs due to its dominance
Potential buffs to underperforming SMGs like the PP-919
New SMG additions in future seasons
Attachment meta shifts based on community feedback

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best overall SMG in Season 4 Reloaded?

The LC10 takes the crown for its exceptional versatility and ease of use. It performs well at all ranges while maintaining competitive TTK figures, making it suitable for any playstyle or map.

Did the Jackal PDW get buffed in Season 4 Reloaded?

No, the Jackal PDW remains nerfed from Season 3. While still usable, it’s no longer the dominant force it once was, with reduced damage range and output compared to newer options.

Which SMG has the fastest TTK?

The Kompakt 92 technically has the fastest TTK at 215ms, but its terrible recoil and range make it impractical. The KSV offers the best balance of fast TTK (225ms) and usability.

Are SMGs viable in Warzone Season 4?

Yes, particularly the LC10 and Tanto .22, which offer better range than traditional SMGs. However, they’re best paired with a long-range option for versatility.

Should I use an optic on SMGs?

It depends on the weapon. The LC10, C9, and KSV have excellent iron sights, allowing you to save an attachment slot. The PPSh-41 and older SMGs benefit from optics due to cluttered iron sights.

What’s the best SMG for beginners?

The C9 is perfect for beginners due to its low recoil, good damage, and forgiving fire rate. It’s also the first SMG you unlock, making it accessible from the start.

Remember to stay updated with patch notes as the meta continues to evolve throughout Season 4 Reloaded. Whether you prefer the versatile LC10 or the aggressive Ladra, mastering your chosen SMG’s strengths and limitations is key to dominating the battlefield.

Want to explore more Black Ops 6 content? Check out our guide on Black Ops 6 Season 4 Reloaded release details or learn about cross-platform compatibility in previous Black Ops titles.