Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta: Weapons Guide

Weapons Detail

QUICK INTEL:

• 22 Weapons available during the Beta.

• Nine Weapon classes, from Assault Rifles to Melee Weapons.

• Primary, Secondary, and Melee Weapon categories.

• Unlock additional Weapons as you rank up.

• Build every Loadout using Create a Class.

NOTE: This intel comes from the Modern Warfare 4 Beta: Everything You Need to Know Blog. Click here for the full blog.

 

During the Beta, you'll unlock and wield up to 22 of the 33 weapons available at launch, spanning every major weapon class. Whether you favor the adaptability of Assault Rifles, the aggressive mobility of SMGs, the stopping power of Shotguns and Sniper Rifles, or the utility of Launchers and Melee Weapons, the Beta offers a broad selection from the full Multiplayer arsenal.

Weapons are organized into Primary, Secondary, and Melee categories and can be tailored to your preferred combat role using Modern Warfare 4's expanded Create a Class system. Throughout the Beta, experiment with different weapon classes, refine your loadouts, and discover which playstyle best suits every engagement.

**Note: **All Beta weapons except those only accessible via a Default Loadout, Launchers and the Combat Knife support the new Apex Attachment system, unlocking specialized modifications as you level up each weapon.

 

Here’s an at-a-glance confirmation of the weapons you can access during the Beta:

• Six Assault Rifles (ARs): Han 86, M4, Hyeon Burst, Kastov 762, Patriot XMR, Axion (Default Loadout only)*

• Four Submachine Guns (SMGs): ISO Nightshade, PPSh-41, X-58 Nyx, Wz. 55 Striga (Campaign Mission only)*

• **One Shotgun: **Rezi 12

• Two Light Machine Guns (LMGs): FiNN LMG, Type 73

• Two Marksman Rifles: MAR-9, Oris 8.6

• Two Sniper Rifles: KG-7 Vulcan, Signal .50

• Three Pistols: Krait P68, .50 GS, Sang 9mm (Default Loadout only)*

• PILA

***Note: **The Axion (AR) and Sang 9mm (Pistol) are available within a Default Loadout class you can choose at the beginning of your Player Progression. The Wz. 55 Striga is only available during the Campaign Mission. These weapons have no access to the Gunsmith or their Apex Attachment. All other weapons can be levelled up, and their Attachments and Apex Attachments unlocked.

 

The Firing Range

Every Weapon category offers its own strengths, handling characteristics, and role within a Multiplayer match. As you unlock additional Weapons throughout the Beta, experiment with different loadouts and Attachment combinations to discover what best suits your preferred combat style. Visit the Firing Range at any time to compare Weapon builds, test Attachments, and evaluate performance before deploying into a match.

WEAPONS: TOP TIPS:

• Beta test:* Try every weapon class early. Each class fills a distinct combat role, and unlocking multiple weapons expands your Create a Class options.*

• Hand-crafted support:* Use the default loadouts to sample the available arsenal. They let you try different weapon types while you’re still unlocking custom Create a Class options.*

• Good backup:* Don't overlook your Secondary Weapon. Swapping weapons is often faster than reloading during close engagements, making Pistols and Launchers valuable backup options.*

• Proven strategy:* Progress your favorite weapons. The more you level a weapon, the more customization options become available through Gunsmith and Apex Attachments.*

Apex Attachments

QUICK INTEL:

• Unlock by fully leveling supported weapons.

• Equipped separately from standard Gunsmith attachments.

• Does not consume an attachment slot.

• Introduce unique gameplay effects and weapon behaviors.

• One unique Apex Attachment is available for each supported weapon in the Beta.

Apex Attachments introduce a new tier of optional weapon customization, unlocked as the final reward for fully leveling a supported weapon. Equipped separately from standard Gunsmith attachments, they don't consume an attachment slot, allowing you to further specialize your favorite weapons without changing your existing build.

Rather than offering incremental stat adjustments, Apex Attachments fundamentally change how a weapon performs. Some transform familiar platforms into entirely new combat roles, while others introduce alternate fire modes, integrated equipment, or specialized tactical capabilities unavailable through standard Gunsmith customization. Every supported weapon has its own unique Apex Attachment, encouraging experimentation and rewarding players who master the arsenal.

APEX ATTACHMENTS: TOP TIPS

• Every Apex Attachment is unique.* They don't provide generic stat bonuses; they introduce bespoke gameplay effects specific to each supported weapon.*

• They don't consume an attachment slot.* Equip an Apex Attachment alongside your standard Gunsmith build to further specialize your weapon.*

• Choose your weapon first*, then chase its Apex Attachment. Fully leveling a weapon unlocks its Apex Attachment, making weapon progression worthwhile beyond standard attachment unlocks.*

* *

Primary Weapons Available During the Modern Warfare 4 Beta

Assault Rifles Available in the Beta (6)

Assault Rifles (ARs) offer a dependable balance of damage, accuracy, and handling, making them an excellent choice for almost any combat scenario. While they won't match the close-range speed of an SMG or the long-range precision of a Sniper Rifle, their versatility makes them one of the most adaptable Primary Weapon classes.

 

Han 86

**Unlocked: **Immediately. Levels: 68

Intel: Manufactured for the South Korean military, the Han 86 delivers reliable performance across a wide range of combat environments. Chambered in 5.56, the weapon’s high rate of fire and moderate damage make it a capable option for close-quarters engagements and longer-range fights.

**Apex Attachment: HAN 86 X20 SKYBREAKER: **This advanced weapons system comes equipped with a specialized targeting optic and airburst launcher. The Han X20 Skybreaker dials into a precise area within range and fires a 20mm airburst shell, which detonates on target with devastating results. Highly effective at flushing cover.

 

M4

**Unlocked: **Player Rank 9. **Levels: **68

**Intel: **Fully automatic and highly adaptable, this iconic service rifle excels in most combat engagements.

Apex Attachment: M4 HURRICANE: A top-loading, high-capacity M4 variant chambered in 5.7x28mm. Taking inspiration from other bullpup designs, this agile right is light, maneuverable, and boasts a high rate of fire.

 

Hyeon Burst

**Unlocked: Player Rank 18. Levels: **64

**Intel: **A versatile North Korean prototype rifle running 6.8 SPC with a hard-hitting burst mode that puts fast, decisive rounds on target.

**Apex Attachment 1: HYEON AUTO: **Converted to fully automatic fire, the Hyeon Auto was built for laying down stable, rapid fire. Offering a substantial increase in continuous RPM over the burst fire/semi-automatic variant, this weapon relies on firepower over precision.

Apex Attachment 2: HYEON HYPERBURST: Features an overclocked receiver that delivers a blinding-fast, three-round burst followed by slow, controlled, fully automatic fire. Deliver a burst of precision followed by sustained fire to finish off anything still standing.

 

Kastov 762

**Unlocked: Player Rank 21. Levels: **71

**Intel: **A full-auto 7.62x39mm rifle offering heavy per-shot impact with equally firm recoil. Reliable and forceful but requires control to keep on target.

Apex Attachment 1: Kastov 545: Fires 5.45x39mm rounds, offering smooth handling and rapid follow-up shots without sacrificing combat effectiveness.

Apex Attachment 2: Kastov ARC: An experimental disruption barrel with an integrated optic. Emits a concentrated high-intensity RF pulse capable of incapacitating infantry, crippling electronics, and destabilizing vehicles caught in its crosshairs.

 

Patriot XMR (Battle Rifle)

**Unlocked: Player Rank 25. Levels: **64

**Intel: **A full-auto rifle delivering high-impact fire with substantial recoil, the Patriot XMR rewards controlled fire, hitting hard at mid to long ranges when properly braced.

Apex Attachment 1: PATRIOT XMR VOLT: Stun targets and clear tight quarters with shocking efficiency with this underbarrel launcher, which fires a wide dispersal of several 50,000V darts. Non-lethal, but powerful enough to override fine motor control and prime targets for elimination.

 

Axion

**Unlocked: Default Loadout Only. Levels: **67

**Intel: **A moderate recoil .300 Blackout rifle with solid impact and a fast cyclic rate, built for controlled automatic fire.

Apex Attachment 1: AXION CRUSADER: Receiver conversion that reconfigures the R&M Axion into a compact, high-mobility variant with an integrated saw stock and side grip for aggressive maneuvering.

 

Submachine Guns Available in the Beta (4)

Submachine Guns (SMGs) excel in fast-paced, close-quarters combat, pairing high mobility with rapid fire to overwhelm opponents before they can react. Their effectiveness drops off at longer ranges, rewarding Operators who can close the distance and stay on the move.

 

ISO Nightshade

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **56

Intel: A full-auto 9x19mm SMG with a fast-firing rhythm, the ISO Nightshade delivers strong class-level impact with a notable recoil signature.

**Apex Attachment: ISO TRACE: **Specialized RFID ammunition tags targets on impact, feeding real-time tracking data to the optic’s integrated display, which shows a red dot of the target’s movement and direction.

 

PPSh-41

**Unlocked: Player Rank 11. Levels: **54

Intel: A legendary submachine gun with over 80 years of combat service, the PPSh-41 overwhelms enemies at close range with its best-in-class rate of fire and generous ammo capacity.

**Apex Attachment: PPSH-41 EMBER: **A unique underbarrel that launches a rapid burst of advanced pyrotechnic projectiles, laying down intense incendiary coverage that remains burning for a short time, offering area control.

 

X-58 Nyx

**Unlocked: Player Rank 27. Levels: **47

Intel: An integrally suppressed subsonic SMG with high impact, very low recoil, and a steady firing rhythm for effective stealthy operations.

**Apex Attachment: X-58 VOID: **The pinnacle of stealth warfare. This subsonic modification produces an exceptionally quiet report, hides skulls on enemy deaths, and minimizes directional hit indicators to keep your attacks concealed.

 

WZ.55 Striga

**Unlocked: Campaign Mission Only. Levels: **52

Intel: Fast, lethal, and easy to handle, this 9x18mm SMG delivers best-in-class mobility and recoil control with significant stopping power and a slow rate of fire.

Apex Attachment: \

 

Shotgun Available in the Beta (1)

Shotguns deliver devastating damage at close range, capable of ending a fight with a well-placed blast. Their limited effective range and slower follow-up shots mean success depends on closing the distance and choosing engagements carefully.

 

Rezi 12

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **60

Intel: A fast-cycling semi-auto 12-guage, the Rezi 12 delivers powerful, controlled shots with smooth recovery. Built tough and tuned for decisive close-range work.

**Apex Attachment: REZI 12 ENFORCER: **Enables pump-action cycling and is outfitted with a side-saddle for hot-loaded explosive slugs. The added capability extends the platform’s engagement envelope well beyond traditional 12-gauge roles.

 

Light Machine Guns Available in the Beta (2)

Light Machine Guns (LMGs) carry large magazines that let you stay in the fight longer before reloading, making them ideal for defending objectives and engaging multiple enemies. They trade mobility, handling speed, and quicker reloads for sustained firepower and ammunition capacity.

 

Finn LMG

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **52

Intel: A high-impact 5.56x45mm LMG with a steady firing rhythm and a firm recoil feel, optimized for mobile sustained fire.

**Apex Attachment: FINN ADVERSE: **A Tempus Armament weapon modification that unthrottles the rate of fire beyond the weapon’s operational abilities. Sustained fire can overheat the weapon, requiring the weapon to cool down before returning to full auto fire.

 

Type 73

**Unlocked: Player Rank 5. Levels: **57

Intel: A fast-cycling 7.62x54R LMG, the Type 73 offers balanced recoil and mid-tier impact for its class.

**Apex Attachment: TYPE 73 ASSAULT: **A specialized weapon kit that adapts the Type 73 receiver to accept a top-mounted magazine loaded with Explosive Rounds. Limited ammo capacity is offset by the sheer, overwhelming stopping power.

 

 

Marksman Rifles Available in the Beta (2)

Marksman Rifles bridge the gap between Assault Rifles and Sniper Rifles, combining strong damage with accurate fire at longer distances. They perform best in the hands of Operators who can consistently land precise shots.

 

MAR-9

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **67

Intel: A designated marksman rifle chambered in 7.62 NATO, the MAR-9 delivers precise semi-automatic fire from a rigid, accurized platform. Its tuned gas system, heavy barrel, and optic-ready classis make it dependable for mid to long-range engagements.

**Apex Attachment: MAR-9 AUTO: **Introducing the fully automatic Mar-9 Auto from Bruen. Boasting a high rate of fire, this powerhouse provides a significant increase in stopping power over its semi-automatic counterpart.

 

Oris 8.6

**Unlocked: Player Rank 14. Levels: **68

Intel: A lightweight bolt-action rifle chambered in 8.6 Blackout, the Oris 8.6 delivers impressive energy from a compact, modular frame. Sleek monolithic design and smooth cycling make it effective for precision fire in tight or mobile engagements.

**Apex Attachment: ORIS 8.6 RAZOR: **A compact blade module mounted to the receiver, housing a pair of rapidly deployable kunai for close-range, low-signature engagements. Designed as a reliable fallback when stealth or conservation of fire matters most.

 

Sniper Rifles Available in the Beta (2)

Sniper Rifles are built for extreme-range precision, capable of eliminating enemies with a single well-placed shot. They trade mobility, handling speed, and faster follow-up shots for exceptional accuracy and stopping power.

 

KG-7 Vulcan

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **72

Intel: A high-capacity, bolt-action sniper rifle that has seen more combat than most. Its longstanding battlefield experience translates into a higher rate of fire for quickly sending shots down range.

**Apex Attachment: KG-9 DRILLCHARGE: **Allows for KG-9 Drill charges to be side-mounted to the rifle. Each projectile drills into a surface before quickly detonating. Ideal for flushing out entrenched combatants.

 

Signal .50

**Unlocked: Player Rank 30. Levels: **73

Intel: Equipped with a recoil-reducing reciprocating barrel, this devastating .50 Cal anti-material rifle offers enhanced shot stability and precision, helping operators stay on target when every round counts.

**Apex Attachment: SIGNAL 50 INFERNO: **Gives “weapons hot” a new meaning. This aftermarket modification from XRK loads the Signal 50 with .50 Cal Incendiary Rounds, providing a significant increase to vehicle and Killstreak damage.

 

Available During the Modern Warfare 4 Beta: Secondary and Melee Weapons

 

Pistols Available in the Beta (3)

Pistols provide a dependable backup when your Primary Weapon isn't the right tool for the engagement or needs to be reloaded. While they lack the range and firepower of Primary Weapons, their quick handling and fast weapon swap speed can prove invaluable in a firefight.

 

Karit P68

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **34

Intel: A semi-automatic .45 ACP pistol with a modern, ergonomic frame, the Krait P68 delivers reliable performance and strong close-range effectiveness.

**Apex Attachment: KRAIT P68 COMMANDO: **Held in an icepick grip, this CQB tactical knife is ready for action at a moment’s notice. Improves melee damage and melee lunge range. Off-hand stabilizes the weapon for better recoil control.

 

.50 GS

**Unlocked: Player Rank 23. Levels: **50

Intel: A powerhouse in any operator’s hands, this 50-caliber sidearm is a heavy hitter when the recoil is controlled.

**Apex Attachment: GS MAGNA: **Packing devastating firepower and a thunderous rate of fire, this fully automatic .50 GS turns every trigger pull into a show of force. Warning: Not intended for accuracy.

 

Sang 9mm

**Unlocked: Default Loading Only. Levels: **34

Intel: A lightweight 9x19mm service pistol, the Sang 9mm offers quick cycling and easy handling, trading heavier impact for speed and controllability.

**Apex Attachment: SANG 9&12: **An underbarrel single-shot 12-gauge chamber that adds a close-range breaching option to the Sang 9mm. One loaded round provides a decisive punch when the pistol needs immediate stopping power.

 

Launchers Available in the Beta (1)

Launchers specialize in destroying vehicles, equipment, and Killstreaks while remaining capable of dealing devastating explosive damage against groups of enemies. Their limited ammunition and slower reload times reward careful shot placement and target selection.

* *

PILA

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **36

Intel: A lightweight, portable air-defense system, the PILA can deploy both guided or unguided missiles as needed.

**Apex Attachment: None: **No Gunsmith is available for this weapon.

 

Melee Weapons Available in the Beta (1)

Melee Weapons are built for silent, close-quarters eliminations, rewarding Operators who can close the distance without being detected. They sacrifice ranged capability entirely in exchange for swift, decisive attacks at point-blank range.

 

Combat Knife

**Unlocked: Player Rank Immediately. Levels: **30

Intel: Lightweight combat blade with a reinforced spine and vented profile for fast, lethal use in close quarters.

**Apex Attachment: None: **No Gunsmith is available for this weapon.

* *

 

* *

Gunny

QUICK INTEL:

• Optional Gunnery Sergeant, nicknamed Gunny.

• Weapon build recommender within Create a Class.

• With a click of a button, can generate new builds using the attachments you've already unlocked.

• Adapts recommendations as your arsenal grows.

• Built for both new and experienced players.

Short for Gunnery Sergeant, Gunny helps you spend less time building weapons and more time playing. Whether you're looking for a dependable all-round setup or experimenting with different combat roles, Gunny can quickly assemble effective weapon builds using the attachments you've already unlocked. All Gunny’s recommended weapon builds have been crafted by Infinity Ward’s developers.

Gunny serves two key purposes throughout the Beta. It provides ready-to-use weapon builds for players who want to jump straight into the action, while also helping you experiment with different weapon characteristics, engagement ranges, and playstyles as your arsenal expands. As you unlock additional attachments, Gunny's recommendations evolve alongside your Weapon progression, continually offering fresh ways to approach combat.

Gunny is entirely optional. Every recommended build can still be customized manually, giving you complete control over your loadouts whenever you want it.

GUNNY: TOP TIPS:

• Try Gunny early. Generate a recommended build as soon as you unlock Create a Class to get into Multiplayer with a dependable weapon configuration.

• Experiment with different builds. As your arsenal grows, compare Gunny's Short Range, Balanced, and Long Range recommendations to discover which combat role best suits your playstyle.

• Make Gunny your starting point. Use a recommended build as-is or treat it as the foundation for your own Gunsmith customization as additional attachments become available.

 

* *

Gunsmith

QUICK INTEL:

• Customize Weapon performance, handling, and appearance.

• Equip a wide range of Attachments to suit your playstyle.

• Unlock Apex Attachments by fully leveling supported Weapons.

• Compare Weapon performance using detailed Gunsmith statistics.

• Build your own loadouts or use Gunny for optimized recommendations.

Modern Warfare 4’s Beta features a robust Gunsmith, a deep Weapon customization system that lets you tailor a firearm's performance, handling, and appearance by equipping Attachments and, new to Modern Warfare, Apex Attachments to suit your preferred playstyle.

Returning players will already be familiar with Gunsmith, while newcomers can expect a broad range of Attachment categories that allow you to customize every aspect of your weapon:

• Optics: Improve target acquisition with a variety of sights, helping you line up shots more effectively.

• Lasers: Tighten hip-fire spread, support a Canted Stance, highlight enemies, and provide other close-quarters aiming benefits—though some lasers may reveal your position.

• Barrels: Adjust a Weapon's damage range, bullet velocity, and other ballistic characteristics.

• Muzzles: Reduce recoil, suppress weapon fire, or otherwise refine shot control and weapon accuracy.

• Underbarrels: Enhance recoil control and aiming stability or equip specialized launcher attachments where available.

• Stocks: Boost mobility, accuracy, flinch resistance, or handling related handling traits.

• Rear Grips: Adjust weapon handling, including Aim Down Sight (ADS) and Sprint-to-Fire speeds.

Infinity Ward has introduced some streamlining to the way Attachments are accessed:

• Each Attachment is only unlocked once, meaning there is no redundant grinding. The same Attachment is available across all weapons that use it, once unlocked the first time.

• Each weapon can unlock all attachments available to it.

• Players do not have to utilize a different weapon to earn an attachment on their favorite gun(s).

• Grow your arsenal: The more attachments you unlock, the more that become immediately available when you start to use a new weapon.

• Weapon Progression Speed: If you reach a level on a weapon that would award you an attachment you already own, you skip that level with a Bonus Level Up.

GUNSMITH: TOP TIPS:

• Start with a purpose. Build your weapon around the engagement distances and combat role you expect to face rather than trying to improve every stat.

• Use Toggle Details frequently. Compare detailed weapon statistics before equipping Attachments to understand exactly what changes.

• Balance your build. Improving one attribute often comes with trade-offs elsewhere, so compare multiple builds before settling on a favorite.

• Experiment with different Attachment categories. Small changes to optics, grips, ammunition, or stocks can dramatically alter how a weapon handles.

• Let Gunny do the heavy lifting if you're unsure. Generate an optimized build first, then fine-tune it manually as you unlock additional Attachments.

• Canted Stance: Unlock compatible Laser Attachments such as the 1mW and 5mW Canted Lasers to access Canted Stance. This greatly improves ADS responsiveness and tactical mobility, though your laser beam will remain visible while aiming.

 

Development Credits

*Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 *development is led by Infinity Ward and will be available globally on Steam on Friday, October 23, 2026.

*Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 *for the PC delivers a fully optimized experience, led by Infinity Ward in partnership with Beenox for Steam.

Additional development in alphabetical order: Activision Central Design, Activision Central Technology, Activision QA, Activision Shanghai, Beenox, Demonware, High Moon Studios, Raven Software, Sledgehammer Games, and Treyarch.

 

** Actual launch date(s), times, and platform availability of MP Beta subject to change. See www.callofduty.com/beta for more details. Minimum Open Beta duration is 2 days. Limited time only. Internet connection required. Online multiplayer subscription may be required for MP Beta.*

* *

©/TM/® 2026 Activision Publishing, Inc.

* *

*For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and *, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty and @InfinityWard on X, Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X.

 

Join Call of Duty's Official Discord to get the latest updates and maybe even meet your next squadmate!