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 MW3 Snipers
• Best Shotguns In MW3
• Best ARs in MW3
• Best Marksman Rifles in MW3
• Best SMGs in MW3
• Best LMGs in MW3
• Best Multiplayer Loadouts in MW3

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 Compared

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	best for
1	Renetti	46/36/33	207	2.1s	15	Best Overall Pistol In MW3.
2	FTAC Siege	35/24/24	1200	3s	32	Pistol With Best Fire Rate In MW3.
3	TYR	40/156/144	260	4.6s	5	Best Alternative For Basilisk.
4	Basilisk	210/157/105	300	3.7s	5	Best Damage Dealing Pistol In Game.
5	WPS Stinger	26/24/24	1000	2s	20	Best Alternative For FTAC Siege.

5. WSP Stinger

Using the WSP Stinger pistol is like using an SMG as your sidearm. This sidearm brings a unique blend of features to your loadout. 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

The Basilisk is renowned for its hard-hitting capabilities, making it the go-to sidearm for many players, particularly during the MW2 era. Unlike many sidearms, the Basilisk can be transformed into a one-handed sniper rifle, making it a unique and powerful choice.

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

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.

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

2. FTAC Siege

The FTAC Siege is a powerhouse among pistols, nearly claiming the top spot in my pistols ranking. The weapon is known for its remarkable combination of softer recoil and high accuracy, making it a reliable choice in the heat of battle.

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

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. 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. 

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.

Why We Didn’t Go For Others

There are a few other Pistols that you can also try out in MW3. However, these pistols didn’t quite make it to my top 5 list due to various reasons:

• COR-45: It has a tricky recoil kick, which can make it difficult to control during sustained fire.
• 9mm Daemon: A viable option, but it has slightly less damage than the other weapons I picked above.
• P890: Despite being decent and effective in skilled hands, its high recoil makes it less versatile compared to other pistols.
• .50 GS: With a low fire rate and a magazine that only holds 7 rounds, it requires frequent reloads.

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.