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Battlefield 6 Weapons Tier List

The best weapons in Battlefield 6, what are they? We’ve compared and ranked all weapons in the game based on damage, handling, and in-game performance so you know which guns are meta.

The Only Battlefield 6 Weapons Tier List You Need

Welcome, Battlefield fans, BF6 is returning to its past glory of non-nonsense epic military battles. Today, we’re giving you the Battlefield 6 best weapons tier list for the launch version. 

The full release of Battlefield 6 launches with 45 weapons spread across eight categories, with several tied to class-specific bonuses through the new signature weapon system. In this guide, we’re ranking all of them to help you pick the strongest loadouts right from day one.

As we always do, we’ll start by explaining the criteria for our tier list, so the ranking doesn’t feel unreasonable like some of the other tier lists out there. We’ll break down each weapon separately and explain why it holds its position in the tier. What makes it better or worse than others? And let’s just get this out of the way right now – different weapon types are better in certain situations – sniper rifles for long range, shotguns for CQB. You know the drill, so don’t take this tier list as the only “correct” way of judging these guns.

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BF6 Weapons Tier List Explained

First off, for this BF6 gun tier list, we’re going to be looking at all 45 weapons from all eight categories, those being:

  1. Assault Rifles
  2. Carbines
  3. SMGs (Submachine Guns)
  4. LMGs (Light Machine Guns)
  5. DMRs (Designated Marksman Rifles)
  6. Sniper Rifles
  7. Shotguns
  8. Sidearms (Pistols and Revolvers)

To get BF 6 weapons ranked into a tier from S (the absolute best) to C (the least effective). These placements are based on how every gun performs in live matches, factoring in a combination of raw stats and practical combat effectiveness.

The main stats considered for this tier list include:

  • DMG (Damage per shot)
  • RPM (Rate of Fire)
  • Magazine Size (Mag)
  • Hipfire Accuracy
  • Precision (ADS accuracy and accuracy scaling)
  • Control (Recoil and handling ease)
  • Mobility (Movement speed and weapon handling weight)
  • Effective Range (Optimal combat distance)
  • Signature Perk (Class Synergy Bonus or Role Boost)

These values help define how lethal, flexible, and user-friendly each weapon is in real matches.

Here’s what each tier means in this ranking system:

  • S Tier – The Best Weapons in Battlefield 6
     These guns are top-of-the-line picks that dominate across nearly all scenarios. They blend superior damage with excellent handling, range, and versatility, making them meta-defining choices.
  • A Tier – Strong Meta Weapons
     Highly effective weapons that excel within specific roles. They might not be as universally dominant as S-Tier guns, but their strengths make them powerful in the right hands.
  • B Tier – Reliable and Versatile Choices
     Solid weapons that hold up well in most situations. They might not be standout performers, but with good attachments or smart play, they remain reliable choices.
  • C Tier – Situational and Niche Picks
     These weapons come with clear drawbacks in damage, recoil, or role fit. They can be effective in specific scenarios but are generally less competitive compared to higher-tier picks.

This list covers all 45 primary and secondary weapons available at Battlefield 6’s launch. Gadgets and throwables will be addressed separately in future breakdowns.

BF6 Best Assault Rifles Tier List

Well now, let’s do what we came for and rank the weapons. There are only 15 of them here, but this amount of enough to create diverse playstyles and cater to the classic BF roles of Assault, Engineer, Support, and Recon. And let’s not forget about the various mods you can install to tweak the stats of the chosen weapon, even if ever so slightly.

Each placement is based on live-match performance, considering damage output, recoil control, handling, effective range, magazine size, mobility, and role viability for Battlefield 6 meta weapons. While every gun has a role, not all of them are equally competitive. Some are meta-defining staples, while others are fallback options or situational picks.

The table below ranks the best guns to use in BF6 in the assault rifles category:

Tier Weapons
S Tier NVO-228E, AK4D
A Tier L85A3, SOR-556 MK2, KORD 6P67
B Tier M433, B36A4, TR-7

No assault rifle is useless, but the NVO-228E and AK4D stand out as the most competitive thanks to their high damage profiles. Mid-tier rifles like the L85A3 and SOR-556 MK2 excel in stability and accuracy, while the M433, B36A4, and TR-7 are more situational and depend heavily on player skill or engagement range.

NVO-228E

"This powerful assault rifle chambered in 7.62 Soviet is a reliable weapon designed for mid-range encounters."

The NVO-228E could easily be the best weapon in Battlefield 6. It is one of the strongest assault rifles in Battlefield 6. Its high damage per shot (33) combined with a forgiving rate of fire (654 RPM) makes it lethal across mid-range engagements. A 30-round magazine ensures consistent uptime, while its solid mobility keeps it competitive in aggressive pushes. Its only real drawbacks are middling precision and control, but in the hands of most players, it remains an S-Tier, meta-defining AR.

AK4D

"A classic battle rifle with a slow rate of fire, best utilized during mid to long range engagements."

The AK4D is a battle rifle hybrid in the assault rifle category. With devastating per-shot damage (33) and excellent recoil control (51), it thrives in long-range gunfights. Its slow fire rate (514 RPM) and small magazine (20) demand careful trigger discipline, making it less forgiving in close-range scenarios. However, for players who value precision and raw stopping power, the AK4D is unmatched, securing its S-Tier placement. BLOG20

L85A3

"With a steady rate of fire, this modified bullpup rifle favors mid to long range engagements."

The L85A3 is one of the most stable rifles in Battlefield 6. With strong control (62) and high precision (42), it rewards disciplined players who prefer consistency over raw firepower. Its 36-round magazine provides excellent uptime, though its moderate fire rate (635 RPM) and poor mobility (36) limit it in fast-paced close-range fights. As a result, it excels as a dependable A-Tier rifle for players who anchor mid-to-long range positions.

SOR-556 MK2

"This modular rifle is in an intermediate configuration. Its highly accurate and best utilized at mid to long range engagements."

The SOR-556 MK2 trades raw DPS for precision. With excellent control (60) and high accuracy (46), it dominates longer engagements, though its low rate of fire (568 RPM) means missed shots are costly. The larger magazine (36) helps offset this weakness, allowing sustained fire without frequent reloads. It’s not versatile enough for every situation, but its stability makes it a strong A-Tier rifle in the right hands.

KORD 6P67

"This low-recoil, high rate-of-fire rifle performs well at both close and long ranges."

The KORD 6P67 is the AR of choice for sustained pressure. Its blistering 900 RPM rate of fire and a 40-round magazine make it ideal for laying down continuous fire. Despite its low damage per shot (20), excellent recoil control (65) and good precision (39) ensure it remains effective in both close and medium-range encounters. Its killing power isn’t as high as NVO-228E or AK4D, but it’s a reliable A-Tier option for players who value consistency and suppression.

M433

"Chambered in 5.56×45mm, this cutting-edge rifle is best suited at closer ranges due to its above average rate of fire."

The M433 is designed for aggressive, close-range play. With its high fire rate (830 RPM) and respectable handling, it can shred opponents quickly in short-range engagements. However, its lower precision (20) and average control (41) make it unreliable beyond close quarters. A 30-round magazine balances its output, but compared to higher-damage rifles, it lacks competitive versatility. Overall, it’s a decent B-Tier rifle for rush-oriented players.

B36A4

"A versatile carbine that can be modified to compete in both close-quarters or ranged encounters."

The B36A4 sits in the middle ground of Battlefield 6’s AR lineup. With moderate fire rate (720 RPM), solid control (46), and decent precision (25), it offers balance without excelling in any category. Its versatility makes it a safe pick, but it struggles against specialists like the NVO-228E in mid-range or the M433 in close quarters. This jack-of-all-trades nature secures it a B-Tier placement, suitable for players who prefer flexibility over specialization.

TR-7

"With a relatively high fire rate and subsequent recoil, this popular bullpup battle rifle is better suited to close range combat."

The TR-7 delivers high damage (33) with a fast rate of fire (720 RPM), making it deadly in close-range engagements. Unfortunately, its small magazine (25), poor precision (18), and weak control (38) heavily limit its consistency. While it can dominate in the right situation, it demands constant repositioning and clean tracking. For most players, it’s too unforgiving to be a top-tier option, settling it into B-Tier.

BF6 Best Carbines Tier List

Carbines is not the category where you’ll find the strongest gun in Battlefield 6. Rather, it offers a middle ground between the raw versatility of Assault Rifles and the niche power of SMGs or DMRs. They bring mobility, handling, and strong mid-range potential, making them an attractive choice for players who want flexibility without committing to extremes. That said, not all carbines are created equal. Some lean heavily into close-range dominance, while others thrive when picking enemies apart from medium distances.

The table below shows how each of the seven carbines stacks up, ranked from S-Tier (meta-defining) to C-Tier (underwhelming options).

Tier Weapons
S Tier AK-205
A Tier M4A1, QBZ-192, SG 553R
B Tier GRT-BC, M417 A2 
C Tier M277

No carbine is outright useless, but some require much more precision, recoil control, or niche usage to shine.

AK-205

“With an average cyclic rate and 5.45×39mm chambering, this rifle offers superior ranged performance.”

The AK-205 is the most reliable carbine in Battlefield 6, earning its S-Tier spot. With high precision (76) and excellent control (65), it’s a laser at mid-to-long ranges, outperforming nearly every other carbine in consistency. Its only drawback is lower per-shot damage (20), but the stable 720 RPM makes up for it. This is the go-to carbine for players who want a dependable, competitive all-rounder.

M4A1

“With its high cyclic rate, extending this carbine’s effective range requires competent recoil management.”

The M4A1’s blistering 900 RPM makes it a close-range monster, shredding enemies faster than most primaries. Its hipfire (54) and mobility (60) make it excellent for run-and-gun players. The weakness is its low precision (25) and recoil (40), making it unreliable at range. Still, in the right hands, it can dominate urban fights and tight chokepoints, which secures it in A-Tier.

QBZ-192

“A modern rifle of East Asian origin chambered in the unique 5.8×42mm. Comes factory with a bipod grip for rapid stabilized shooting.”

The QBZ-192 is one of the most balanced carbines. Its 771 RPM, large 40-round mag, and decent control (53) make it great for sustained fights. While its precision (38) and control aren’t top-tier, the weapon’s flexibility in both short and medium range makes it an easy recommendation. Reliable and forgiving, it holds a strong A-Tier position.

SG 553R

“A classic cold-war era rifle modernized for export. Its effectiveness quickly diminishes beyond mid range.”

Packing 33 damage per shot and a steady 720 RPM, the SG 553R is a bruiser. Its strong hipfire (46) and mobility (52) let it shine up close, but its control (50) and precision (30) make longer-range fights difficult. Best for aggressive players who want stopping power, it’s a high A-Tier or situational B-Tier pick depending on your playstyle.

GRT-BC

“A compact bullpup rifle with an above average rate of fire and an intermediate chambering.”

The GRT-BC plays like a hybrid between an SMG and a carbine. Its 830 RPM and good mobility (50) make it lethal in close fights, but its control (54) and precision (33) keep it from excelling beyond that. With only moderate consistency at range, it sits in B-Tier — fun to use for aggression, but not competitive compared to the AK-205 or QBZ-192.

M417 A2

“Chambered in 7.62×51mm, this compact battle rifle offsets its high damage with a steady rate of fire.”

The M417 A2 hits hard at 33 damage per shot, but it’s crippled by a tiny 20-round mag and low control (35). It rewards accuracy with powerful tap-fire potential, but missing shots is punishing. With high mobility (60), it’s better suited for disciplined players who prefer precision bursts. Overall, a B-Tier carbine that can shine in the right hands but is less forgiving than its peers.

M277

“Chambered in 6.8×51mm, this newly fielded rifle is intended for overmatch at range at the cost of magazine capacity.”

The M277 sits in the middle ground. It has a 720 RPM fire rate and decent hipfire (51), but only a 25-round magazine and weak precision (23). While versatile, it lacks standout features that make it shine compared to the M4A1’s speed or AK-205’s accuracy. A solid but forgettable C-Tier carbine.

BF6 Best SMGs Tier List

SMGs in Battlefield 6 shine in close-quarters fights, where mobility and fire rate are more important than precision. The class has strong representation in the release version, offering a wide spread of PDWs that cater to both aggressive players and those who like more stable mid-range control. Each gun comes with trade-offs, but a few stand out as top-tier picks thanks to their rate of fire, hipfire accuracy, and ease of handling.

The table below ranks the best SMGs to use in BF6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier PW7A2, KV9, SCW-10
A Tier USG-90, PW5A3, SGX
B Tier SL9, UMG-40

The differences in control and range in SMGs become very noticeable when you look at the stats. SMGs like the PW7A2, KV9, and SCW-10 dominate close-range fights with blistering fire rates, while others like the UMG-40 sit lower due to their slower handling and less consistent DPS.

PW7A2

"A 4.6×30mm chambering ensures this PDW outperforms at range. Still effective in close quarters due to its high rate of fire."

The PW7A2 is one of the most versatile SMGs in Battlefield 6. Its 947 RPM and low recoil make it consistent in both close and mid-range fights. The damage per shot is slightly weaker, but the sheer volume of fire more than compensates. With solid mobility and accuracy, it dominates as an Engineer’s go-to pick.

KV9

"With a blistering cyclic rate, this sleek SMG will near-instantly consume the ammunition within a standard magazine."

The KV9 is pure close-range destruction. At 1080 RPM, it has the fastest fire rate of any SMG, allowing it to melt targets in a heartbeat. The downside is a small 27-round magazine, meaning reloads are frequent and punishing if mistimed. For players with great positioning and reflexes, it’s a nightmare weapon in tight corridors.

SCW-10

"Chambered in 10mm, this modular modern SMG offers increased stopping power where other PDWs fall short."

The SCW-10 strikes a balance between fire rate and stopping power. With 33 damage per shot and 800 RPM, it offers one of the best time-to-kill values in the SMG class. Recoil is noticeable, but its damage profile rewards players who can control it. This makes it a reliable hybrid option when Engineers need stronger dueling potential.

USG-90

"A high-capacity PDW with a unique design. Lower effective damage is offset by a high rate of fire."

The USG-90 (P90) is the spray-and-pray king. A 50-round magazine ensures Engineers can clear entire rooms before needing to reload, making it a powerhouse in objective play. The 900 RPM and strong hipfire stats make it excel in panic situations. Its lower per-shot damage means it’s less effective in duels beyond close quarters, but the sheer volume of bullets makes it forgiving and highly reliable.

SGX

"A modern 9×19mm PDW suited for close-range engagements. Can be configured to improve its ranged capabilities."

The SGX is a classic beginner-friendly SMG. With 830 RPM and 25 damage per shot, it’s effective in most short-range fights without demanding much control. Its recoil is a bit harsher compared to others, but it still feels manageable. While not as flashy as KV9 or PW7A2, it’s consistent enough to remain a staple in the Engineer loadout pool.

PW5A3

"This popular SMG performs admirably in all engagements up to and including mid range."

The PW5A3 is the definition of balanced. Its 771 RPM, steady recoil, and solid 30-round magazine make it one of the most reliable SMGs. It doesn’t dominate any one stat, but its overall consistency keeps it in A-Tier. For players who value predictability and control, it’s a comfortable pick that rarely lets you down.

UMG-40

"A renowned polymer SMG with a low rate of fire, chambered in .40 caliber. Outperforms its peers at mid range encounters."

The UMG-40 trades fire rate for control and accuracy. At 635 RPM, it’s slower than most SMGs, but the extra precision allows it to compete in longer engagements. It doesn’t excel in frantic close-quarters fights, but it offers a reliable, mid-range alternative for Engineers who want more control in their gunfights.

SL9

"Boasting a unique design, this cutting edge SMG is adaptable to a variety of combat scenarios."

The SL9 is the most well-rounded of the bunch, with 675 RPM and excellent precision and control stats. It won’t outpace a KV9 in raw DPS, but its stability makes it a dependable option for mixed-range fights. Strong hipfire and mobility keep it competitive, and its adaptability secures it a solid A-Tier spot.

BF6 Best LMGs Tier List

LMGs in Battlefield 6 provide the backbone of sustained firepower, ideal for locking down objectives and suppressing enemies. They are slower than assault rifles or carbines but compensate with massive magazine sizes, steady damage, and the ability to hold angles for extended fights. Each one is fit to be Battlefield 6 best weapons, especially if you’re playing the support role and need to get to your wounded friends who are still under heavy fire.

The table below ranks the best LMGs to use in BF6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier L110, DRS-IAR
A Tier M240L, KTS100 MK8
B Tier M123K, M250, RPKM
C Tier M/60

While all LMGs have their place, the S Tier options stand out for their balance of fire rate, handling, and versatility. A Tier guns like the M240L and KTS100 MK8 are excellent for ranged suppression but demand more positioning. B Tier weapons serve more specialized roles, while the M/60 lags behind due to its sluggish handling and limited flexibility.

L110

"An all-purpose Squad Automatic Weapon chambered in 5.56x45mm. Well-matched for most engagements."

The L110 is the most dependable all-rounder in the class. It balances damage, fire rate, and belt size to perform well in nearly every scenario. Strong control values keep it steady in extended bursts, making it perfect for objective defense.

DRS-IAR

"A reliable LSW that blurs the boundary into service rifle. Attachments equipped decide how to best use this versatile firearm."

Blending LMG suppression with rifle-like flexibility, the DRS-IAR adapts easily to different ranges. Its strong control and precision give it more versatility than most LMGs, making it equally effective on defense or when pushing with a squad.

M240L

"A general purpose machine gun modernized to improve weight and increase capacity. Effective in both aggressive and defensive roles."

The M240L dominates in mid to long-range fights with its huge belt size and reliable accuracy. While slower to handle, it excels in overwatch roles and defensive holds where sustained fire is critical.

KTS100 MK8

"With low recoil and a steady RPM, this light machine gun’s moderate damage is offset by accurate suppressive fire."

This LMG emphasizes precision, offering very high control and stability values. It is ideal for players who prefer accurate suppressive fire over raw DPS, making it deadly when set up with bipods or cover.

M123K

"An ideal LMG for mobile fire support. Will dominate in close-quarters and keep enemies suppressed with a high firerate."

The M123K is the most aggressive LMG option, pairing a high fire rate with a 100-round belt. It’s excellent for close-range suppression and pushing objectives but struggles in long-range consistency.

M250

"A companion to the M277 with similar ranged overmatch effectiveness, combining suppressing fire with lethal ranged capability."

The M250 bridges the gap between ranged power and mobility. It provides reliable suppression and strong performance at distance but lacks the standout traits of top-tier LMGs.

RPKM

"The original Light Support Weapon. Relatively configurable and best suited for mid range suppressive fire."

The RPKM is a steady mid-range suppressor. Its balance of control and magazine size makes it dependable, though it lacks the standout advantages needed to compete with the very best.

M/60

"This widely used general purpose machine gun is capable of keeping enemies suppressed with a slow and steady rate of fire."

The M/60 is powerful per bullet but suffers from sluggish handling and the lowest fire rate in the class. It is most effective in static defense but feels clunky in dynamic fights, placing it at the bottom of the tier list.

BF6 Best DMRs Tier List

Designated Marksman Rifles in Battlefield 6 bridge the gap between assault rifles and sniper rifles, offering semi-automatic precision for players who want reach without giving up too much flexibility. They can punish enemies at mid-to-long ranges but require steady aim and careful timing due to low magazine sizes and slower follow-up shots. Each DMR leans into a different strength, from pure stopping power to versatile adaptability.

The table below ranks the best DMRs to use in BF6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier SVK-8.6
A Tier M39 EMR, SVDM
B Tier LMR27

DMRs are more specialized compared to other weapon classes, excelling in ranged encounters but suffering in close-quarters fights. The SVK-8.6’s raw damage makes it the standout pick for skilled players, while the M39 EMR and SVDM balance precision and consistency. The LMR27 sits at the bottom due to its weak stopping power, demanding too many hits to secure kills.

M39 EMR (DMR)

Chambered in 7.62x51mm, this versatile marksman rifle is a solid addition to any squad arsenal.

The M39 EMR delivers 40 damage per shot with decent precision and stability, making it reliable for long-range fights. Its main drawback is low control, forcing disciplined pacing on follow-up shots. Still, it sits in A Tier as a dependable and accessible option.

LMR27 (DMR)

With an intermediate chambering, this cutting-edge precision rifle allows for rapid follow-up shots at the cost of relatively low damage. BLOG20

The LMR27 struggles with only 27 damage per round and a 15-round magazine, making it the weakest DMR. Its faster rate of fire doesn’t fully compensate, as players need multiple body shots to secure kills. This places it firmly in B Tier.

SVK-8.6 (DMR)

A precision rifle chambered in the powerful 8.6x70mm cartridge, its lethality is offset by a lower effective rate of fire.

The SVK-8.6 dominates with 66 damage per shot, capable of downing enemies in two hits. Its slow ROF and limited 10-round mag demand careful aim, but its unmatched stopping power earns it the top spot in S Tier.

SVDM (DMR)

A classic marksman’s rifle modernized for the 21st century. The right configuration can offer extreme mobility or ranged eliminations.

The SVDM offers 40 damage per shot with balanced handling, making it comparable to the M39 EMR but with slightly weaker control. Its consistency and adaptability at range keep it in A Tier as a strong all-rounder for precision-focused players.

BF6 Best Sniper Rifles Tier List

Sniper rifles in Battlefield 6 represent the ultimate long-range option, built for precision and devastating single-shot power. These weapons excel in holding down lanes, picking enemies at extreme distances, and punishing exposed targets. Their drawbacks are slow handling, low rate of fire, and magazine limitations, but for patient sharpshooters, they deliver unmatched performance.

Here’s how the sniper rifles rank in Battlefield 6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier PSR, M2010 ESR
A Tier SV-98
B Tier

The PSR and M2010 ESR dominate because of their unmatched damage and extreme accuracy, perfect for players who can consistently land shots. The SV-98 offers solid performance but lacks the same range specialization, making it slightly less impactful compared to the others.

M2010 ESR

“This accurate bolt action sniper rifle reaches targets at greater distances with its .300 WM chambering.”

The M2010 ESR delivers 100 damage per shot, ensuring one-hit eliminations on most targets. Its precision stat maxes out at 100, making it extremely forgiving at long ranges. A low magazine size of 5 and slow rate of fire (43) mean every bullet must count, but skilled players will find it one of the most lethal weapons in the game.

SV-98

“Firing the legacy 7.62×54mmR, this balanced bolt-action rifle is most effective between 45m–90m.”

The SV-98 provides a good balance between damage and usability, hitting the same 100 damage threshold but with a slightly higher magazine of 10. It still suffers from a slow fire rate (38) and weaker control stats, limiting it in competitive long-range duels against the M2010 ESR or PSR.

PSR

“Designed for extreme ranges, this sniper rifle is most effective between 75m–150m.”

The PSR is the king of extreme range combat. With 100 damage per shot, pinpoint accuracy, and the longest effective range, it’s unmatched for holding open spaces and securing long-distance kills. Its small magazine of 7 and very slow handling are trade-offs, but in the hands of a dedicated Recon, it outclasses all other snipers.

BF6 Best Shotguns Tier List

Shotguns in Battlefield 6 bring unmatched close-range stopping power, perfect for clearing buildings and holding tight corners. Their damage output is brutal, but trade-offs in control, magazine size, and range make them situational compared to SMGs or carbines. The choice often comes down to pump-action reliability versus semi-auto speed and consistency.

The table below ranks the best shotguns to use in BF6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier M87A1
A Tier M1014
B Tier 18.5KS-K

While all three can shred at close range, the M87A1 rises above thanks to its devastating per-shot damage and pump-action consistency. The M1014 offers a solid semi-auto alternative, trading raw punch for faster follow-up shots. The 18.5KS-K is the weakest option, with lower control and less dependable DPS, keeping it firmly in the B Tier.

M87A1

A reliable pump-action shotgun chambered with 3” shells for improved stopping power.

The M87A1 is the king of raw damage output at 134 per shot, making it the most lethal option in point-blank engagements. Its 8-round capacity is limiting, and mobility is just average, but its ability to one-shot consistently puts it in S Tier for clutch defense and room clearing.

M1014

This popular semi-automatic shotgun hits hard with 3” shells but is limited by its magazine tube capacity.

The M1014’s 115 damage is slightly lower than the M87A1, but the semi-auto firing mode gives it superior follow-up potential. Its 7-round magazine is restrictive, yet it feels smoother to control under pressure. These traits earn it an A Tier spot, making it a balanced pick for aggressive pushes.

18.5KS-K

A magazine-fed, semi-automatic shotgun firing 2.75” shells for sizable damage.

On paper, the 18.5KS-K offers good mobility and a magazine-fed design for faster reloads. However, its 80 base damage per shot means it struggles to secure one-hit eliminations, especially against armored targets. Combined with poor control and range falloff, it drops into B Tier, being more of a niche alternative than a reliable main pick.

BF6 Best Sidearms Tier List

Handguns in Battlefield 6 serve as reliable backup weapons when your primary runs dry. They are fast to swap to, easy to handle, and can clutch out close-quarters fights. Each sidearm has distinct trade-offs between stopping power, fire rate, and magazine size, making the choice dependent on your playstyle.

The table below ranks the best handguns to use in BF6:

Tier Weapons
S Tier P18, ES 5.7
A Tier M44
B Tier M45A1

While all sidearms can get the job done in emergencies, some clearly outperform the rest. The P18 and ES 5.7 dominate thanks to their fire rate, magazine capacity, and ease of use, while the M44 offers unmatched raw stopping power at the cost of speed. The M45A1 lags behind due to its limited mag size and lack of versatility.

P18

A reliable sidearm able to meet the demands of almost any combat scenario.

The P18 is the most well-rounded pistol in Battlefield 6. With 25 damage, 400 RPM, and a 17-round magazine, it strikes an excellent balance between fire rate and stopping power. Its strong control and mobility stats make it dependable in frantic fights, and its versatility cements it as a top-tier sidearm.

ES 5.7

Companion to the USG-90, this sidearm has generous magazine capacity and exceptional bullet velocity compared to its peers.

The ES 5.7 excels thanks to its 20-round magazine and high 450 RPM, giving it the best sustained fire of any sidearm. While its per-shot damage is only 20, the fast follow-ups and accuracy make it lethal in close-range duels. It’s ideal for players who want consistency and forgiveness in secondary fights.

M44

A modern revolver and hand cannon. Best ranged potential of any sidearm, but its capacity and effective rate of fire are limited.

The M44 is the revolver powerhouse, dealing 66 damage per shot with excellent precision. However, its 6-round cylinder and slower 163 RPM make it a high-risk weapon. Deadly when shots land, but punishing when they don’t. It’s placed in A Tier for its burst lethality, but it lacks the flexibility of the P18 and ES 5.7.

M45A1

A classic sidearm brought into the 21st century. The damage it inflicts with .45 ACP is offset by a low base magazine capacity.

The M45A1 is functional but unimpressive compared to its peers. With 33 damage and 327 RPM, it offers a middle ground between the P18 and M44, but its 7-round magazine is its biggest weakness. This forces frequent reloads in clutch moments, dropping it to B Tier despite solid handling and mobility.

Do you want me to continue this exact structure for all categories we’ve gone through (ARs, Carbines, SMGs, LMGs, DMRs, Snipers, Shotguns, and Sidearms) so you’ll have one unified tier list article ready?

Conclusion

The full release of Battlefield 6 delivers a balanced and varied weapon sandbox, with every category offering viable choices for different playstyles. From flexible assault rifles to powerhouse shotguns and precision snipers, there’s always a gun suited for the fight. Some stand out as top-tier for their consistency, handling, and raw damage, but lower-tier picks can still shine with the right attachments and map awareness.

The tier lists above provide a reliable baseline for the current meta, but things will continue to shift as players discover new setups and Dice introduces balance updates. Adaptability remains key—switch weapons depending on the map, mode, and role your squad needs filled.

F.A.Q.

What is the best weapon in Battlefield 6 right now?

 

The M87A1 Shotgun remains one of the strongest options thanks to its one-shot potential, but assault rifles like the NVO-228E and M433 are considered the most reliable across all ranges.

What is the fastest killing gun in Battlefield 6?

 

The PW7A2 and M4A1 lead the pack in terms of time-to-kill, with blistering RPM and strong close-range performance.

What are the best assault rifles in Battlefield 6?

 

The NVO-228E, M433, and B36A4 stand out for their versatility, damage, and attachment options, making them strong choices in nearly every situation.

Are shotguns good in Battlefield 6?

 

Yes. The M87A1 dominates close-range fights and other options like the M1014 and 18.5KS-K provide variety for different playstyles. They aren’t as strong at range, but in close quarters they can be devastating.

Which weapon has the highest damage in Battlefield 6?

 

The M2010 ESR sniper rifle and M87A1 shotgun both deal 100 damage per shot, giving them unmatched lethality in their respective roles.

What is the best sniper rifle in Battlefield 6?

 

The M2010 ESR is the most consistent sniper, offering precise one-shot kills at long distances, while the PSR provides superior performance for extreme range engagements.

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