At release, there are exactly 22 weapons to choose from in Battlefield 2042. MeinMMO presents them all to you. We also tell you the most important advantages and disadvantages of each weapon and briefly explain how to use them best.

We present all 22 weapons that you can play in Battlefield 2042. We also mention the key advantages and disadvantages of the weapons. Additionally, we provide a brief assessment of the optimal use of each weapon. Another 55 weapons are available to you in Battlefield Portal.

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Secondary Weapon

G57

Description: “Compact, lightweight, and reliable Austrian pistol.”

Features: Light, Aggressive, minimal range

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? The G57 is an emergency weapon. It serves as a good backup when you need to reload your primary weapon – or when you run out of ammunition.

It is not particularly strong but reliable. If you think about changing the fire mode of the G57 before a close combat situation, you can quickly inflict good damage through burst fire.

MP28

Description: “The MP28 transforms the 9mm pistol M28 into a stable and precise carbine.”

Features: Precise, reduced range

Unlocked at: Rank 17

How do I use this weapon? The MP28 is a good choice if you have a primary weapon that is only effective in close combat. The MP28 may not replace a DMR, but it can shoot accurately at opponents at medium ranges.

The damage is not brilliant, but good enough to reliably kill an opponent.

M44

Description: “The M44 was originally developed for large game hunting and has enough penetration power to take down even the most dangerous predators.”

Features: Manual, High-Power

Unlocked at: Rank 29

How do I use this weapon? The M44 is not a weapon you should use in frantic moments. It should be used less to compensate for a shortage of ammunition in your primary weapon.

Instead, the M44 shines when you can hit enemy heads very precisely – even at surprisingly high distances, you will only need one shot for the kill.

Submachine Guns (SMG)

PBX-45

Description: “The PBX-45 was developed by the private sector for potential foreign military and NGO clients and offers a powerful .45 ACP alternative to lighter SMGs. The delayed recoil reduces the barrel’s rise.”

Features: Versatile, Controllable, Short Range

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? The PBX-45 is never a bad choice. It may not excel in anything special but is also not really bad in any way.

The weapon is effective at almost all distances and can be well controlled despite quite high recoil. Many attachments make the weapon even more flexible.

PP-29

Description: “A submachine gun designed for 9mm Makarov pistol ammunition with a unique snail magazine holding 53 rounds, which also serves as a grip.”

Features: High capacity, Reduced range

Unlocked at: Rank 18

How do I use this weapon? At first, the PP-29 was the best and most popular weapon in the game. After an update, there are better alternatives. In Battlefield 2042, it is still among the most popular and best weapons.

Despite the nerf, the PP-29 remains a strong weapon. Its large magazine and fast handling are its greatest strengths. It can easily kill an entire squad at medium distances without needing to be reloaded.

MP9

Description: “The Swiss MP9 is a compact SMG for short ranges, fed by an extended 30-round magazine for 9mm rounds.”

Features: Controllable, Lightweight

Unlocked at: Rank 36

How do I use this weapon? The MP9 is a monster in close combat and very fun to play. With short bursts of fire, however, the weapon is also to be taken seriously at medium range.

Because the MP9 only has 20 rounds in the standard magazine, chaotic close combat quickly becomes a problem. The MP9 can get even better with attachments. In particular, the 50-round magazine makes the weapon significantly stronger.

K30

Description: “Unique recoil system that directs the force downwards, compensating for the rise of the barrel, which increases the accuracy of sustained fire compared to other SMGs.”

Features: Aggressive, extreme rate of fire, minimal range

Unlocked at: Rank 53

How do I use this weapon? The K30 is an extreme version of the MP9. All strengths and weaknesses of the Swiss MP also apply to this weapon, but in an even stronger form.

Therefore, it also holds true: Great in close combat, poor for everything else. Since close combat is the exception rather than the rule in Battlefield 2042, the weapon has only a small niche, but it dominates that niche effortlessly.

Assault Rifles

M5A3

Description: “The M5A3 has been the standard rifle of the US military since 2034 and fires semi- or fully automatic various types of ammunition.”

Features: Versatile, Controllable, Medium Range

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? A look at the values of the M5A3 reveals what lies behind the weapon: It has 50 out of 100 points in all categories by default. Even the rate of fire and magazine size are average.

But that is not a disadvantage: The M5A3 is never the best weapon, but it is a good choice in most situations. Because situations in Battlefield 2042 can change rapidly, you are always well-equipped with the M5A3. The attachments help as well.

AK-24

Description: “Lives up to all praise for Russian assault rifles. Fires 5.45×39 mm caliber with three fire modes and a 30-round magazine.”

Features: High-Power, Medium Range

Unlocked at: Rank 11

How do I use this weapon? For us, the AK-24 is currently the best weapon in the game. It is comparable to the M5A3, trading slightly more damage and range for a significantly higher recoil.

This is an advantage at shorter and medium ranges, but it can quickly become a significant disadvantage.

SFAR-M GL

Description: “Developed for SOCOM. Fires standard NATO ammunition in caliber 7.62 mm. Supports semi-automatic and fully automatic. The standard grenade launcher EGLM 40 mm can deal considerable damage to various targets.”

Features: High-Power, Destruction, Heavy

Unlocked at: Rank 27

How do I use this weapon? The SFAR-M GL has the highest firepower among all assault rifles. However, the standard TTK with the weapon is very long despite high damage. This is due to the slow fire rate.

Together with the small magazine, the weapon leaves a lot to be desired – despite its strong grenade launcher. Attachments noticeably improve the weapon. If you can get through the difficult start with the weapon, you will be rewarded with a strong weapon.

AC-42

Description: “The AC-42 is a next-generation Russian assault rifle and uses an unusual bullpup design to be compact without sacrificing barrel length or precision.”

Features: Burst fire, Extreme rate of fire

Unlocked at: Rank 40

How do I use this weapon? A look at the numbers shows: No value of the AC-42 is below average. The rate of fire is the largest outlier upwards: The weapon fires twice as fast as the SFAR-M. These numbers are offset by the fact that the AC-42 cannot fire in full automatic mode.

The TTK of the AC-42 is also frighteningly fast: A 3-shot burst can kill an opponent at closer range – with 30 rounds in the magazine, that’s potentially 10 dead opponents without reloading.

LMG

LCMG

Description: “The LCMG goes back to US Special Forces in the Vietnam War – its lightweight design and Constant-Recoil system provide unparalleled control. An ideal weapon for fire support during troop assaults.”

Features: Versatile, Sustained Fire

Unlocked at: Rank 3

How do I use this weapon? The first of currently two LMGs in the game behaves exactly as one would expect a standard LMG to behave.

Much ammunition is balanced by the heaviness of all animations. This way, you don’t have to place so much value on perfect precision and can put pressure on enemies with sustained fire.

Fans of this type of weapon will enjoy the LCMG.

PKP-BP

Description: “Historic Russian LMG. Effective fire support in 7.62x54mm caliber with belt feed at a lethal fire rate of 800 rounds per minute.”

Features: Aggressive, Heavy, High Capacity

Unlocked at: Rank 32

How do I use this weapon? The PKP-BP provides a significantly lower TTK compared to the LCMG due to higher damage and faster rate of fire. However, it plays even heavier.

The PKP-BP is also significantly less precise than the other LMG. Aggressive LMG players will have a lot of fun with this weapon.

Semi-Automatic

DM7

Description: “Precision over rate of fire. The DM7 can be configured for nearly any mission with its extended 40cm barrel and flexible attachment system SOCOM RIS II. Prioritize targets that exceed your precision and range.”

Features: Versatile, High Distance

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? For us, the DM7 is the currently best weapon in the game. This weapon can be used easily in most situations of the game, but it excels particularly at medium distances.

With the DM7, you don’t have to stand still and camp; it is suitable both defensively and offensively.

But you should avoid close combat whenever possible. Try to stay at the back of an advancing squad and apply pressure to enemies from there.

SVK

Description: “The Russian SVK was heavily influenced by Western counterparts and is a gas-operated short-stroke DMR with a maximum effective range of 1,500 m.”

Features: Heavy, High-Power, Long Range

Unlocked at: Rank 14

How do I use this weapon? The SVK is among the currently 3 best weapons. And that, even though it has basically only one true strength. But it’s worth noting: It does the same damage on body shots as a sniper rifle. Its handling and fire rate, however, are significantly better compared to a sniper.

You must therefore play exactly the playstyle the weapon requires from you; otherwise, it can be very frustrating very quickly. As long as you shoot patiently and stationary at your opponents, it is an absolute monster.

However, as soon as you want to play aggressively in any form, it will quickly let you down.

VCAR

Description: “Lightweight, portable carbine – it weighs only 3.8 pounds and measures 57 cm in total length with the stock folded. Ideal for covert operations with a suppressor.”

Features: Light, Short Range, Precise

Unlocked at: Rank 47

How do I use this weapon? The VCAR looks like an SMG, is listed as a DMR – and is neither fish nor fowl. This primary weapon is functionally and damage-wise comparable to the MP28 – a secondary weapon.

The VCAR does not justify its contradictory design as ‘close combat DMR’ in any way. Even the suppressors recommended by the game are only unlocked after approximately 200 kills. Play this weapon just as a joke or challenge.

Sniper Rifle

SWS-10

Description: “Finnish bolt-action sniper rifle with a lightweight aluminum frame and adjustable/folding stock.”

Features: Versatile, Long Range

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? The SWS-10 has significant weaknesses and fantastic strengths, but these are all to be expected from a sniper rifle.

The SWS-10 is, like all first weapons, an average weapon without major strengths or weaknesses for its weapon type.

Its comparatively high fire rate and the generous magazine for a sniper make it very beginner-friendly.

DXR-1

Description: “The DXR-1 is lightweight and compact, yet delivers deadly precision at ranges up to 800 m.

Features: Heavy, High-Power, Extreme Range

Unlocked at: Rank 24

How do I use this weapon? The game describes the weapon as both lightweight and heavy. The values show: This weapon is significantly heavier than the SWS-10.

These characteristics make the weapon less flexible, but it has become the current favorite among snipers.

The MP28 is a good secondary weapon with the DXR-1 since it can quickly and lethally follow up on unclean body shots.

NTW-50

Description: “South African large-caliber anti-material rifle for neutralizing engine blocks and gun positions. Can destroy dreams at ranges up to 1,500 m.”

Features: Anti-material, Extreme Weight, Destruction

Unlocked at: Rank 60

How do I use this weapon? The last weapon that you unlock in Battlefield 2042 is a blast. It can also kill with a body shot.

If you hit the weak points of a tank, you can even destroy it faster with the NWT-50 than with a rocket launcher (via redditt).

This power is balanced by a very slow handling – and by a very late unlocking of the weapon itself.

Utility

MCS-880

Description: “The tactical shotgun MCS-880 has been a staple of American arsenals for nearly a century. Aiming is optional.”

Features: Versatile, High-Power, Reduced Range

Unlocked at: Rank 1

How do I use this weapon? The MCS-880 is predictably useless at higher distances. However, this shotgun has much more range than one would expect from other games.

Extremely dominant in close combat. Unlockable weapon attachments, such as slug ammunition, increase effectiveness at range a bit.

GVT 45-70

Description: “Old school meets the combat requirements of the mid-21st century. With modern sights and extensions, the 6-shot GVT 45-70 is the dream of every border dweller.”

Features: Light, Aggressive, Precise

Unlocked at: Rank 21

How do I use this weapon? Don’t be misled: The GVT 45-70 is not a shotgun.

It is a modern version of the guns from the Wild West. Thus, it is essentially useless in close combat. Shooting at heads from a distance is very fun, but not necessarily extremely effective.

Fulfills all cowboy dreams, along with the M44.

12M Auto

Description: “Despite the strong resemblance of the Russian 12M Auto to the assault rifle family from which it originated, there are glaring differences. Load and secure, comrades.”

Features: Aggressive, Fully Automatic

Unlocked at: Rank 44

How do I use this weapon? The only fully automatic shotgun in the game is extremely dominant in close combat. Even at somewhat higher distances, it surprisingly still does damage but should not be used this way.

Good choice to eliminate attackers in Breakthrough on Orbital or Kaleidoscope in the elevator.

With the seasons and the battle pass, more weapons are set to arrive in the game after release. What they will be is currently still unknown.

These are all the weapons in Battlefield 2042 at a glance. Which weapon is your favorite and why? Which weapon do you absolutely want to unlock? And which attachments do you prefer to use? Feel free to leave your opinion in the comments.

However, you should currently be cautious with the weapon attachments, as many weapon attachments in Battlefield 2042 work differently than you think

To be good at Battlefield 2042, you need to have a steady aim. With large maps and difficult to use weapons, there are many things to consider – and many aspects to improve. MeinMMO shows you the most important tips for aiming and how to get better.

In Battlefield 2042, many gameplay situations occur in one of two extremes: 

• Fights for a control point are chaotic close combat battles.
• To reach a control point, fights against enemies at distances of 100m (or even more) are not uncommon. 

Both extremes require good aim if you want to survive. 

The importance of aiming in Battlefield is also highlighted by the frustration of Battlefield fans regarding the bloom mechanic. Thanks to this, especially assault rifles are currently intentionally made imprecise. You can find a list of all weapons on MeinMMO: All 22 weapons of Battlefield 2042 at a glance: Their pros and cons

However, bloom is not responsible for every missed shot. Therefore, it is important to critically examine and improve your own habits. We will give you 5 important tips to improve your aim and win more fights.

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1. Don’t just aim for the head

What mistakes should I avoid? In most shooters, your bullets do different amounts of damage depending on where they hit the enemy:  

• Hits to the upper body deal normal damage, 
• Hits to the legs deal the least damage, 
• Hits to the head deal the most damage

Many players aim exclusively for the head because they want to deal the most damage. While this is generally a good idea, it’s not always the right approach.

Mechanics like recoil or bloom prevent your weapons from being perfectly accurate during sustained fire. Often, the recoil of a weapon pulls your aim upward. 

If you only shoot for the head, you will encounter the following problems: 

• The head is the smallest area of the opponent that you can hit. 
• Even the best aimers in the world do not hit heads 100% of the time. 
• If you are solely focused on the head, you make your life harder than necessary.
• Even if you hit the head with the first bullets, your aim will drift upward due to recoil. 
• For the crucial last hit, you will then shoot over the opponent’s head – into thin air. 
• This gives even less precise opponents the chance to kill you. 

More on the topic

3 Weapons to Dominate on the Release of Battlefield 2042

von Marko Jevtic

How do I play better? Instead of always aiming for the head, shoot for the upper body at short and medium distances. This has two major advantages: 

• The upper body is a large area that you can hit much more easily – especially when the opponent is moving. 
• If the recoil pulls your bullets upward, they will not miss – but rather hit the head.

By aiming for the chest, you not only hit more easily, but the recoil also helps direct your aim toward the head. This way, you use the actual disadvantage of recoil to your advantage. 

This tip does not apply or only applies in limited ways at long distances and with sniper rifles: Here, you should always try to hit the head because it deals more damage and recoil plays less of a role. We will explain the reason for this in the next tip.

2. Shoot in short bursts

What mistakes should I avoid? Sure, firing away with a fully automatic weapon is fun. However, in Battlefield 2042, this is rarely a good idea. 

While this playstyle might make you feel like Rambo, you hit less than a Storm Trooper from Star Wars.

This lack of precision is naturally amplified by the bloom mechanic. But even without bloom, you should try to use sustained fire primarily in close combat. This is a generally applicable rule – but depending on the weapon, it holds true to varying degrees.

How do I play better? In Battlefield 2042, it is important to focus on short bursts. This minimizes weapon recoil.

You don’t even have to change the fire mode of your weapon – although you can. Just try to shoot in short bursts, especially at distances. Press the fire button briefly and then let go quickly before shooting again with a new burst. 

The correct rhythm for the duration of each burst and the waiting time between bursts depends on the weapon. Try to interrupt the burst just when you feel the recoil of the weapon. Shoot again when the weapon has returned to its normal position.

DMRs also benefit from this tip, albeit for different reasons: 

• Instead of countering sustained fire recoil, you must wait for the DMR to recenter on your screen after each shot. 
• Too high a fire rate causes DMRs to become imprecise.

3. Move less

What mistakes should I avoid? In Battlefield 2042, your weapon becomes very imprecise when you move while shooting. This clip from reddit illustrates this error vividly: 

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The player in the clip blames bloom for this. However, that is incorrect: The SVK used in the clip has little to no bloom. 

The weapon becomes incredibly imprecise when fired while moving. However, the SVK is just the most extreme example – every weapon in the game becomes less precise when you move while shooting.

This mechanic also exists beyond Battlefield 2042. It serves for balance and is intended to prevent you from being too hard to hit due to high mobility while still allowing you to hit everything.

How do I play better? Try to stand still while shooting when a fight occurs at medium or long range. While this makes you easier to hit, the opponent must follow the same principles if they want to hit you. 

However, if the opponent stands still and you are moving, you will miss and get hit. This should be avoided.

An advanced tactic is to move and then briefly stop to shoot exactly when you are standing still. YouTuber Kugelmagnet Eddie shows this in this video:

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When shooting crouched or prone, your precision is also higher than when standing.

This tip only applies to a limited extent in close combat: When an opponent is directly in front of you, the lack of precision is not as important as your mobility.

4. Learn your weapon’s recoil

What mistakes should I avoid? Your weapons have recoil, but you do not have to succumb to it. Players who use sustained fire with their weapon without compensating for the recoil waste ammunition and miss their opponents. You can prevent this.

If the recoil of your weapon pulls your aim in a certain direction, you can use a technique to compensate for that recoil. 

How do I play better? Each weapon has a specific direction in which the recoil pulls you. Observe this direction while firing your weapon, and then aim in the exact opposite direction with your aim.

If your weapon is pulled up-right by the recoil, you need to aim down-left with your right stick or mouse. Do this at the same speed at which the weapon moves due to recoil. 

With some practice, you can balance the recoil with your favorite weapon. Pros can also shoot accurately with sustained fire at medium distances.

5. Test other settings

What mistakes should I avoid? It is a myth that changing your aim settings (too often) harms your aim skills. 

Especially those who are still searching for the right settings benefit more from experimenting than from stubbornly sticking with their old settings.

A common saying among gamers is: The more you play, the better you get at hitting “with closed eyes.” This concept of muscle memory is widespread but completely wrong on all levels. Aim professionals also say so (via Voltaic). 

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5 Settings for Battlefield 2042 that improve your performance and gameplay

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Even Shroud uses significantly different settings for almost every game. Nonetheless, he is one of the best aimers in the world and is affectionately called a “human aimbot” by his fans. 

How do I play better? It’s not a disadvantage to change your aim settings. On the contrary: Change can reveal bad habits and train better ones. 

Even if you have used a setting for years, especially a new game may require new settings. This is not only not a problem, but also a great opportunity to improve your aim skills in Battlefield 2042 and any other game. 

We hope these 5 tips help you hit more opponents in Battlefield 2042. But these tips also apply to other games.

Did you know these already? Do you perhaps have additional tips and tricks that you would like to share? And how do you like the gunplay in Battlefield 2042? We would love to hear your opinion in the comments.

If you want to unlock more weapons quickly to practice these tips, we recommend a strong loadout that gives you tons of XP and helps you win fights.