Unleash the full potential of the MCW in Modern Warfare 3 with the ultimate loadout that balances precision, control, and versatility. Whether you’re storming close quarters or engaging at mid-range, this guide reveals the top attachments and class setup to dominate on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. Prepare to master recoil, boost bullet velocity, and gain the edge in every firefight with the best MCW build for MW3 Season 6 and beyond.
It’s not the only gun heavily inspired by weapons in older Call of Duty games as we also have the best Striker loadout, which is essentially the UMP-45. Without further ado, here is the best MCW loadout in MW3 and how to unlock it.
How to unlock the MCW in Modern Warfare 3
To unlock the MCW in Modern Warfare 3, you need to reach player level 44. You can increase your level by earning XP through various in-game actions such as getting kills and completing objectives in Multiplayer or Zombies mode. Utilizing Double XP tokens and completing daily or weekly challenges can accelerate this process. Once unlocked, the MCW can be equipped and customized in your loadouts. Additionally, in Multiplayer matches, you can use the preset ’Counter-Invasion’ loadout to access the MCW earlier, though without customization options initially.
While the MCW was a fairly early unlock in the beta, to unlock the MCW in Modern Warfare 3 you must level up to rank 44.
This is because the SVA 545 has replaced the MCW as the first assault rifle you unlock in the game, although if you have a few double XP tokens to use, reaching level 44 shouldn’t take you too long.
Best MCW loadout in Modern Warfare 3
The best MCW loadout in Modern Warfare 3 focuses on maximizing precision, control, and versatility to dominate mid to long-range engagements. A popular setup includes the L4R Flash Hider to reduce muzzle flash, the 16.5” MCW Cyclone Long Barrel for increased damage range and bullet velocity, and the Bruen Pivot Vertical Grip to improve recoil control and ADS speed. Complementing these are the RB Claw-PSL Grip for better handling and the SZ Lonewolf Optic for clear sightlines, helping to manage the weapon’s visual recoil effectively. This build balances accuracy and mobility, making the MCW a formidable all-around assault rifle suitable for various combat scenarios.
Here is the best MCW loadout in Modern Warfare 3:
- Muzzle: L4R Flash Hider
- Barrel: 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Long Barrel
- Underbarrel: Bruen Pivot Vertical Grip
- Rear Grip: RB Claw-PSL Grip
- Optic: SZ Lonewolf Optic
The Optic here is personal preference – this is a gun capable of taking out enemies from a fair distance, but you also don’t want to hinder your ability to fight up close, so the holographic SZ Lonewolf is a suitable medium between the two. The rest of the attachments are focused on ensuring the MCW has as little recoil with as much damage output as possible.
It can also compete at closer range too, but try to avoid running and gunning where possible, as the weapon draw speed after sprinting is a little slow. This is for players who like to play as an anchor, holding down positions and picking enemies off with ease rather than jumping on the objectives.
Best MCW class in Modern Warfare 3
The best MCW class in Modern Warfare 3 combines exceptional accuracy, mobility, and recoil control, making it a top-tier choice for assault rifle users. The MCW stands out due to its nearly vertical recoil pattern, allowing for precise shots and easy handling. A recommended loadout includes attachments like the T4LR Saber Compensator, SL Crater Heavy Barrel, FTAC SP-10 Angled Grip, RB Claw-PSL Grip, and JAK Cutthroat stock, which together minimize recoil and boost mobility. For the class setup, equipping the Infantry Vest, Renetti handgun, Stun Grenade, Semtex, Trophy System, Quick-Grip Gloves, and Stalker Boots enhances survivability and agility, making this configuration effective across all playstyles and competitive modes. This setup is widely regarded as the best MCW class for dominating in MW3 multiplayer.
Here is the best class to use alongside the MCW in Modern Warfare 3:
- Vest: Engineer Vest
- Secondary: Renetti (with Jak Ferocity Carbine conversion kit)
- Tactical: 2x Stun Grenade
- Field Upgrade: Munitions Box
- Gloves: Marksman Gloves
- Boots: Stalker Boots
- Gear: EOD Padding
- Gear: Mission Control Comlink
Since this class is built with a more sedentary playstyle in mind, holding down one location rather than running all over the map, the equipment here focuses on that. The converted Renetti is just as good as having another primary weapon since it’s essentially an SMG, and depending on your preference, you could switch the Stuns out for Flashes or Smokes. The Munitions Box is helpful if you find yourself running out of ammo, or you could go for a Med Box. Alternatively, if you want to earn some killstreaks, go for the Mission Control Comlink.
The Marksman Gloves and Stalker Boots both contribute to your accuracy in different scenarios, while the EOD Padding stops you from being grenaded out of your chosen anchor point. Finally, the Mission Control Comlink means you’ll earn your killstreaks one kill sooner, which is especially helpful if you have lethal killstreaks equipped – we recommend the Sentry Gun, Overwatch Helo, and VTOL Jet.
What makes the MCW the top choice for versatile combat in MW3
The MCW stands out as the top choice for versatile combat in Modern Warfare 3 due to its superb out-of-the-box performance and exceptional accuracy. It strikes a perfect balance with solid damage, fire rate, range, handling, and mobility, making it effective in close to medium-range engagements. Its nearly vertical recoil pattern allows players to maintain control with minimal effort, enabling precise shots even at longer distances. This ease of handling combined with its adaptability across various combat scenarios makes the MCW a reliable and formidable weapon for steady shooters aiming to dominate firefights on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
How does the MCW’s accuracy give it an edge in versatile combat
The MCW’s accuracy gives it a significant edge in versatile combat primarily due to its nearly vertical recoil pattern, which is easy to control and allows players to consistently land precise shots at various ranges. This recoil control reduces horizontal kick, making it simpler to maintain aim on target during sustained fire, especially at medium distances where many engagements occur. Additionally, the MCW boasts a high bullet velocity (around 710 m/s), which helps shots reach targets faster and reduces the need to lead moving enemies, further enhancing accuracy. These factors combine to make the MCW highly effective for steady shooters who prioritize precision over sheer fire rate, enabling it to win duels against more specialized weapons across close to medium ranges.
