A returning gun from past CoD titles, Modern Warfare 3‘s Striker SMG is, as the game says, “a hard-hitting and controllable submachine gun chambered in .45 auto” that is “reliable at close to mid-range.” It may be outshined by a handful of weapons, but it’s still a player favorite.
This is the best Striker loadout in MW3.
Best Striker loadout and class setup in MW3
Best Striker build in MW3 multiplayer
- Barrel: Striker Recon Long Barrel
- Underbarrel: XRK Edge BW-4 Handstop
- Ammunition: .45 Auto High Grain Rounds
- Rear Grip: SAKIN ZX Grip
- Stock: Lachmann MK2 Light Stock
This loadout does its best to help shore up the Striker’s weaknesses by adding damage range, recoil control, and accuracy. It’s a solid overall loadout for the SMG that will keep you in most fights.
The Striker, or UMP 45, is reliable at close range and will give you a fighting chance at medium range, too. Don’t bother trying to take on an AR player at long range, but if you’re playing the SMG like an SMG player should, you’ll find yourself in situations that benefit the playstyle.
When it comes to flying around the map, slaying enemies, and playing the objective, one of the best SMG options in MW3 so far is the Striker. That may change over time, but for now, pro players and amateurs alike are having a ton of fun with this gun, and so am I.
Related: Rank up your home and wardrobe with this exclusive MW3 merch
Best Striker class in MW3 multiplayer
- Vest: Infantry Vest
- Handgun: Renetti
- Tactical: Flash Grenade
- Lethal: Semtex
- Field Equipment: Trophy System
- Gloves: Marksman Gloves
- Boots: Lightweight Boots or Covert Sneakers
- Gear: Tac Mask
The basic go-to class setup in MW3 multiplayer for any kind of SMG works well here. The Infantry Vest is the catch-all for great classes without going too weird since it allows you to use all pieces of available gear and perks.
Marksman Gloves, Lightweight Boots, and Tac Mask will all help you stay on the move while dodging gunfire and tactical grenades, and this is very important when playing the role of an objective player or slayer in CoD.
I’ve always been more of an AR player, but the Striker holds its own even in my hands when it comes to the submachine gun class in MW3. It’s one of the best choices in the early months of the game, so make sure to level it up and use the Gunsmith to help it reach its maximum potential.
Upon MW3’s launch, it felt underpowered but got a big buff in November 2023 to help bring it back to its former glory. It’s not quite as dominant as it once was, but it’s still very good.
We think you can’t really go wrong with this build if you’re looking for a strong SMG to run and gun with in MW3.
