Best competitive Assault Rifle loadouts and classes for MW3

The assault rifle class is always the most popular when it comes to competitive play in any Call of Duty title. The weapon class is usually the easiest to use and allows players to be less aggressive and pick their enemies off from a distance. If you’re getting ready for Ranked Play or are looking to get into competitive in MW3, then you need the best loadouts for assault rifles to ensure you’re on the same playing field as everyone else.

In my guide below, I have listed the best assault rifle loadouts as well as what class items you should use for competitive in MW3.

Best competitive Assault Rifle loadouts in MW3

Right now, the MCW is the only choice when it comes to picking a competitive assault rifle. This AR has virtually no weaknesses and a tremendously strong loadout that can kill enemies at any distance, close or long-range. However, if you’re looking to use something other than the MCW, I also have another loadout for an underrated AR that you can use as an alternative.

As a note, I will not be including the Holger 556 in my list of loadouts, as it’s been banned by the Call of Duty League. This means it’s not included in Ranked Play or any official competitive websites.

MCW Loadout

• Optic: MK. 3 Reflector
• Muzzle: L4R Flash Hider
• Barrel: 16.5″ MCW Cyclone Barrel
• Underbarrel: XTEN Phantom-5 Handstop (accuracy)/DR-6 Handstop (mobility)
• REar Grip: RB Claw-PSL Grip

SVA 545 Loadout

• Muzzle: L4R Flash Hider
• Barrel: STV Precision Barrel
• Optic: MK. 3 Reflector
• Stock: Mane V6 Stock
• Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop

The SVA 545 is my pick for a backup choice to the MCW. While it’s not nearly as strong at long-range, the SVA is a monster in close range and has a terrific low recoil loadout that maintains its mobility.

Related: Best competitive SMG loadouts and classes for MW3

Best competitive Class Setup for ARs in MW3

Moving on, you need to set the rest of your competitive class. This includes picking a secondary weapon, perks, vest, equipment, and Field Upgrade. All of these selections will complement the AR’s role when playing competitive in MW3.

Vest

• Infantry Vest

Secondary Weapon

• Renetti

Perks

• Gloves – Marksman Gloves or Quick-Grip Gloves
• Boots – Covert Sneakers
• Gear – Tac Mask or EOD Padding

Equipment

• Lethal – Frag Grenade or Semtex Grenade
• Tactical – Stun Grenade or Smoke Grenade

Field Upgrade

• Trophy System

And that does it for the best competitive loadouts and class set up for an assault rifle in MW3. It’s possible the best MCW loadout or some of the class selections change over time, but this is the meta right now.