In Modern Warfare 3, choosing the best SMG is the way to go if you’re all about speed and action. Picking the right gun and setup can make a big difference, letting you dominate without much effort. However, not all SMGs are equal. Each one has its strengths and weaknesses.
Infantry Vest, Commando, Covert Sneakers, Trophy System
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1. WSP-9
The best Beginner-Friendly SMG in MW3
WSP-9 (image by eXputer)
Why I chose it: Lightweight and easy to use.
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It is a great SMG to use if you are a pure damage lover, and Its ability to reach further than other SMGs is really handy when dealing with enemies at mid-range. Add some specific attachments, and it becomes even better.
It may have high damage and excellent mobility, but I desperately want higher fire rates from our SMGs. Its other stats aren’t impressive enough to boost it, especially when it performs worse than other MW3 SMGs. A buff to that low fire rate may catapult the WSP-9 compared to other SMGs.
Following is the best loadout for WSP-9:
Muzzle: Bruen Cubic Comp
Stock: WSP Factory Stock
Barrel: WSP Infiltrate Integrated
Ammunition: 9mm High Grain Rounds
Magazine: 32 Round Mag
Optic: Slate Reflector
Following is the best class setup for WSP-9:
Vest: CCT Comms Vest
Handgun: Renetti
Tactical: Stun Grenade
Gloves: Commando Gloves
Field Equipment: Dead Silence
Boots: Tactical Pads
Gear: Hijacked IFF Strobe
Recoil Control
ADS Speed
Ease of use
Short range
Accuracy decreases with distance
2. WSP Swarm
The SMG with High Firing Rate
WSP Swarm (image by eXputer)
Why I chose it: High TTK in close-quarter combats.
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The WSP Swarm stands out as a top SMG in the game because of its rapid fire and a much faster time to kill. It can handle multiple nearby enemies using just one magazine in skilled hands.
It’s on par with the top SMGs in tight spots but falls short when dealing damage beyond close distances. Even the WSP-9 manages better damage at medium range. Still, it excels in the right SMG showdowns.
Why I chose it: Reliable base damage, fire rate and handling.
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When examining the Striker 9, it’s natural to compare it against the dominating Striker. However, the Striker 9 remains in the shadow of its superior counterpart. Lacking the necessary firepower, it is hard to declare it the best SMG in Modern Warfare 3.
The Striker 9 does well with controlling recoil and hitting targets at medium range, although it sacrifices a bit of close-quarters damage compared to the Striker. I think that Striker 9 might seize the chance to claim the top spot with a little buff in close range. This potential shift could see the Striker 9 becoming a favored choice in the game.
Why I chose it: Versatility in attachments and class setup.
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If you’re searching for an SMG that covers all bases, be it taking down enemies from a good distance, dominating in close combat, and allowing you to zip around the map, the AMR9 best serves the purpose. This versatile choice ensures you’re ready for any situation during your Modern Warfare 3 adventure.
The AMR 9 behaves like a speedy Assault Rifle, customizable with attachments that match that style. I think for Assault Rifle enthusiasts, the AMR9 might feel familiar and serve as a great choice for those starting with SMGs.
Why I chose this: Lightweight with reliable Time to Kill (TTK).
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The Rival-9 is all about moving fast. It’s a powerful weapon with excellent handling, offering damage and range. Like the Striker, it’s great for winning fights from a distance, even doing better than some Assault Rifles.
Its new Tac-Stance feature gives it a big boost, especially when you’re sliding and maneuvering around the maps. Its hip-fire accuracy is surprisingly good. This makes it a close-range beast and gives total value against surprise enemy attacks.
Why I chose it: Impressive base stats and versatility.
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Undoubtedly, the best SMG in Modern Warfare 3 is the Striker. It’s a sharpshooter in medium distances and surprisingly effective even at long ranges. Its damage is unmatchable in close range, allowing you to tear through opponents with the right attachments and good aim.
This gun is an SMG beast because it has zero recoil and a comfortable fire rate, making aiming easy. This versatility in all departments makes it a heaven for players like me who love fast action with SMGs.
Following is the best loadout for Striker:
Muzzle: XTEN Razor Comp
Barrel: Striker Recon Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Chewk Angled Grip
Stock: Lachmann Recon Series Stock
Rear Grip: Sakin ZX Grip
Following is the best class setup for Striker:
Vest: Infantry Vest
Gloves: Commando
Boots: Covert Sneakers
Handgun: WSP Stinger
Lethal: Semtex
Tactical: Stun Grenade
Field Equipment: Trophy System
High base damage
Low recoil
High mobility
Excellent choice for aggressive gameplay
Effectiveness decreases with distance
Other Honorable Mentions
Here are some other viable options that are worth mentioning. But I didn’t include them in the guide because of some individual factors.
Lachmann Sub: A good option, but its larger capacity magazines can create an impact on your overall speed.
Vaznev-9K: A commendable choice, as it has a good balance between high damage and accuracy, but lacks mobility.
Lachmann Shroud: A solid pick that comes with a burst fire mode, but do not depend on it for long-range engagements.
Fennec 45: An excellent option, that possesses a high fire rate, but has low accuracy and hard-to-control recoil as compared to the other SMGs.
FSS Hurricane: A fine pick that has high base damage output, and woks greatly for the one’s who prefer aggressive playstyle.
My Opinion On The Best SMG
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In my opinion, Striker is the best SMG in Modern Warfare 3, as the gun has high damage, and with zero recoil, it provides so much value in both close and medium range. Using the right attachments and class setup with the weapon further enhances the weapon’s capabilities.
So, for players looking for an overall balanced SMG in Modern Warfare 3, Striker is the way to go. But you can also try Rival-9 and Striker-9, according to your play style.
Huzaifa Malik is a Guides Writer on eXputer who’s been playing FPS games like Call of Duty for as long as he can recall. He is one of the most seasoned COD players on eXputer. He has several years of experience writing for games. By following his passion for games, he chose eXputer as his hub to deliver information-rich articles. Feel free to get more familiar with Huzaifa on his gaming profiles on Steam.
Experience: 3+ years || Education: Bachelor in Architectural Engineering.
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