Call of Duty MW3: Best Pistols [Top 5]

Sidearms usually play a secondary role in the world of COD, which makes sense, especially when you can use two primary weapons. However, in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, you’ve got 12 pistol options, and some pistols pack quite a punch. 

Similar Guides:

• Best SMGs in MW3
• Best Shotguns In MW3
• Best ARs in MW3
• Best MW3 Snipers

Custom loadouts are unlocked once you reach XP Level 4, and then you can see the list of sidearms available in the Handguns sections. Many factors decide whether a sidearm is good or not. The table below contains the best pistol for each category:

Category	Handgun
Best Early Game	COR-45
Best Overall	Renetti
Most Stable	9mm Daemon
Best Fire Rate	FTAC Siege
Best Damage	Basilisk

Best Pistols In COD MW3

COD: MW3 features 12 pistols, which you can unlock as you level up, and these are the overall best five pistols in Modern Warfare 3:

Serial No	Pistol	Damage	Fire Rate	Reload Time	Magazine Size
1	Renetti	46/36/33	207	2.1s	15
2	FTAC Siege	35/24/24	1200	3s	32
3	TYR	40/156/144	260	4.6s	5
4	Basilisk	210/157/105	300	3.7s	5
5	WPS Stinger	26/24/24	1000	2s	20

5. WSP Stinger

Best High Fire Rate Pistol In MW3

Using the WSP Stinger pistol is like using an SMG as your sidearm. This sidearm brings a unique blend of features to your loadout. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:

• Full-Auto Firepower: The WSP Stinger boasts a full-auto capability, allowing for a rapid rate of fire similar to a Uzi SMG.
• Recoil and Accuracy: While the WSP Stinger sacrifices a bit in the recoil and accuracy department, it’s important to note that this is typical for weapons in the Uzi category.
• Close-Quarter Dominance: The primary purpose of the WSP Stinger is to excel in close-quarters combat, delivering good and reliable damage-per-second when engagements are up close and personal.

Though it may not claim the top spot in its category, the WSP Stinger admirably fulfills its role, making it a solid choice for players who prioritize consistent performance in intense, close-range encounters.

4. Basilisk

Best High-damage Pistol In COD MW3

The Basilisk is renowned for its hard-hitting capabilities, making it the go-to sidearm for many players, particularly during the MW2 era. Here’s why it stands out:

• Sniper-like Power: Unlike many sidearms, the Basilisk can be transformed into a one-handed sniper rifle, making it a unique and powerful choice.
• Optimized Range and Damage: Equip the right attachments, and the Basilisk becomes a force to be reckoned with, offering stellar range and damage potential.
• Recoil: While the Basilisk does pack a punch, its recoil can be mitigated with the right adjustments, enhancing its overall usability.

With some practice, the Basilisk transforms into a true powerhouse pistol, capable of holding its own even in lobbies dominated by primary weapons.

3. TYR

Highest Firepower Pistol In Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3

Due to its heavy recoil, The TYR revolver is not the most dependable sidearm, especially without ample practice. But once you get a hold of this handgun, it can become one of the best pistols in COD: MW3. Here’s a closer look into its pros and cons:

• Formidable Firepower: The TYR revolver is known for its significant power, making it a serious contender alongside the Basilisk.
• Hefty Recoil: Like any revolver, the TYR has a substantial and somewhat challenging recoil kick, so you must keep that in mind while using this pistol.

The TYR emphasizes the trade-off between power and manageability, but it is highly recommended that you give enough time and practice to this gun.

2. FTAC Siege

Best Low Recoil & High Accuracy Pistol

The FTAC Siege is a powerhouse among pistols, nearly claiming the top spot in our pistols ranking. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths:

• Full-Auto Dominance: This sidearm operates in full-auto mode, showcasing its formidable firepower.
• Low Recoil, High Accuracy: The FTAC Siege is known for its remarkable combination of softer recoil and high accuracy, making it a reliable choice in the heat of battle.
• Recoil Management: With the right attachments, the already low recoil can be further minimized, providing users with a stable and controlled shooting experience.

The FTAC Siege’s strength is evident in its performance. It feels like you are using an SMG as your secondary weapon, making it a top choice for handguns, in my opinion.

1. Renetti

Best Damage & High-accuracy Weapon In MW3

The Renetti earns the title of the best Pistol in COD: MW3. At the start, it may not impress you much, but similar to the FTAC Siege, it has the potential to serve as a full-auto sidearm. Here’s a look into some of it’s main features:

• Unlockable Power: You must reach the maximum level with the Renetti to unleash its true potential. Then, you must acquire the JAK Ferocity Carbine conversion kit, a key attachment that transforms the weapon. 
• Full-Auto Capability: The full-auto Renetti offers a remarkable combination of features that make it stand toe-to-toe with primary weapons.

With the JAK Ferocity Carbine, the Renetti evolves into one of the best guns in the game. It excels in damage, accuracy, and range and maintains low recoil, making it a powerhouse sidearm.

My Thoughts

After playing for about 70 hours, this was my take on the Best Pistols in COD: MW3. However, I must emphasize that you try every sidearm to find out what suits you best. Every weapon in MW3 can be upgraded to a pretty usable level, so it really depends on your playstyle and what you want to use. With pistols, it really comes down to whether you prefer stability, fire rate, or sacrifice both for more damage.

To learn more about the game, head over to eXputer’s Review of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. If you want to know what perks to use with your weapons, go to COD: MW3 best perks and find what gear suits you best.