Battlefield 6’s return to the classic four-class system brings a crucial question: which weapons will dominate when it launches on October 10, 2025? After extensive beta testing revealed surprising meta shifts, we now have clear data on the top performers for each class.
The new “Open Weapon” system lets any class use any primary weapon, but your class’s signature weapon proficiency only activates with specific weapon types. This creates a strategic dilemma – do you take the statistically superior gun or keep your class bonus?
BF6’s Weapon System

Battlefield 6 revolutionizes weapon selection with three interconnected systems that create deeper tactical choices than any previous title. Understanding this foundation is crucial before diving into specific weapon recommendations.
The “Pick 100” System Explained
BF6 Weapon Performance
Before revealing the best weapons, you need to understand what makes them superior. Beta testing revealed specific metrics that determine weapon effectiveness in Battlefield 6’s unique sandbox.
Time-to-Kill Comparison (0-10m)
Lower is better – based on body shots with optimal attachments
Assault Class: Best Weapons
The Assault class returns as the versatile infantry powerhouse, with faster weapon handling when using assault rifles. But is that bonus worth keeping when other options exist?
NVO-228E
Assault Rifle
The NVO-228E dominated the beta meta with its perfect balance of power and control. Its 33 damage model allows 3-shot kills at close range, giving it the edge in head-to-head gunfights. The moderate fire rate keeps recoil manageable while maintaining competitive TTK.
B36A4
Assault Rifle
Called the “laser beam” during beta, the B36A4 trades raw TTK for exceptional accuracy. Its incredibly low recoil makes it the most user-friendly assault rifle, perfect for landing consistent headshots at medium to long range.
NVO-228E Meta Build
Compensated Brake (15pts) + 409mm Fluted Barrel (20pts) + Classic Vertical Grip (25pts) + 40RND Magazine (25pts) + CCO 2.0x Scope (5pts) + Polymer Case Ammo (10pts). Maximizes the 3-shot kill range while maintaining control.
B36A4 Laser Build
CQB Suppressor (30pts) + 480 MG Barrel (10pts) + Stippled Stubby Grip (35pts) + 30RND Magazine (5pts) + SU-123 1.25x Scope (10pts) + FMJ Ammo (5pts). Built for stealth flanking with pinpoint accuracy.
Engineer Class: Best Weapons
Engineers face a unique challenge: their anti-vehicle role often requires medium-range engagements, but their SMG proficiency bonus only helps in close combat. This creates fascinating loadout decisions.
PW7A2
Submachine Gun
The PW7A2’s blistering 947 RPM makes it the fastest-firing SMG in the game. Unlike typical SMGs, it maintains surprising effectiveness at medium range, making it perfect for Engineers who need to defend themselves while hunting vehicles.
M4A1 Carbine
Carbine
The M4A1 bridges the gap between SMG mobility and assault rifle range. While you lose the Engineer’s hip-fire bonus, you gain the ability to engage infantry protecting enemy vehicles at medium range – a common scenario in combined arms combat.
Support Class: Best Weapons
Support’s signature LMG proficiency removes all sprint speed penalties, transforming traditionally static weapons into mobile powerhouses. This fundamentally changes how LMGs function in BF6.
L110
Light Machine Gun
The L110 redefines what an LMG can be. With Support’s mobility perk, you can advance with your squad while laying down continuous suppressive fire. The 100-round belt means you can lock down entire lanes without reloading.
KTS100 MK8
Light Machine Gun
The KTS100 trades fire rate for laser-like accuracy. With Synthetic Tip ammo providing a 2.1x headshot multiplier (unlike the standard 1.35x), skilled players can dominate long ranges. The exceptional velocity makes hitting distant targets effortless.
Recon Class: Best Weapons
Recon offers two distinct paths: traditional long-range sniping or the increasingly popular “Infiltrator” role using motion sensors and spawn beacons with automatic weapons.
M2010 ESR
Sniper Rifle
The only bolt-action in the beta, the M2010 ESR features a unique “sweet spot” mechanic where body shot damage increases with range. Beyond 75 meters, it becomes a one-shot body kill, making it exceptionally forgiving for a sniper rifle.
SVK-8.6
DMR
The SVK-8.6 offers a more forgiving alternative to bolt-action sniping. Its consistent two-shot kill and semi-automatic fire make it perfect for engaging multiple targets or following up on body shots. Far superior to the underwhelming M39 EMR.
Infiltrator Recon Build
Forget sniping – equip motion sensors and spawn beacons with a suppressed M4A1. Sneak behind enemy lines, place beacons for flanking spawns, and feed your team constant intel. This playstyle had massive impact in competitive beta matches.
Universal Meta Weapons in Battlefield 6
Some weapons performed so well in beta that they’re worth using regardless of class, even if it means losing your proficiency bonus. Here are the standouts that transcend class boundaries.
Cross-Class Meta Weapons
Weapons worth sacrificing class bonuses for
Conclusion
Success in Battlefield 6 isn’t about finding one “best” weapon; it’s about when to prioritize raw stats over class synergy. The Open Weapon system creates constant tactical decisions that reward adaptability over rigid loadouts.
- For Assault players: The NVO-228E remains king for versatile play, while the B36A4 rewards precision. Keep the class bonus – assault rifles are already optimal.
- For Engineers: The PW7A2 dominates close-quarters while maintaining the crucial hip-fire bonus. On vehicle-heavy maps, sacrificing the bonus for an M4A1 often makes sense.
- For Support: The L110 with mobility becomes an offensive powerhouse. Don’t overlook the M4A1 for aggressive medic playstyles on infantry maps.
- For Recon: The M2010 ESR offers unmatched long-range lethality, but the “Infiltrator” playstyle with automatic weapons often provides more value to your team.
Remember: these recommendations are based on extensive beta data, but launch day patches will shift the meta. Master the fundamentals of each weapon type, understand the attachment system’s trade-offs, and be ready to adapt when the battlefield changes on October 10, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any class use any weapon in Battlefield 6?
Yes, the “Open Weapon” system allows any class to equip any primary weapon. However, each class only receives their signature weapon proficiency bonus when using their designated weapon type (Assault-ARs, Engineer-SMGs, Support-LMGs, Recon-Snipers).
What is the best overall weapon in BF6?
The NVO-228E assault rifle dominated the beta with its 3-shot kill potential and versatility. However, the M4A1 Carbine is arguably more universal, performing well for all classes and playstyles while maintaining good mobility and range.
How does the Pick 100 attachment system work?
You have 100 points to spend on attachments for primary weapons (60 for sidearms). Different attachments cost different amounts – a basic grip might cost 15 points while a suppressor costs 30. This forces strategic choices between powerful attachments and versatility.
Will the M87A1 shotgun be nerfed at launch?
Almost certainly. The M87A1 achieved 337 million kills in beta with one-shot potential at 15+ meters. Developers acknowledged this was overpowered. Expect the effective range reduced to 8-10 meters to match traditional shotgun balance.
Should I use my class’s signature weapon or pick the best gun?
It depends on the map and situation. Assault rifles are strong enough that Assault players should keep their bonus. Engineers often benefit from carbines on vehicle maps despite losing hip-fire bonuses. Support’s LMG mobility is unique enough to usually keep. Recon’s infiltrator playstyle often works better with automatic weapons.
What’s different about headshots in BF6?
The headshot multiplier is only 1.35x instead of the traditional 2.0x. This means most 4-shot weapons won’t become 3-shot kills with one headshot. Consistent body shot accuracy matters more than headshot hunting, fundamentally changing which weapons are viable.
Is the Recon infiltrator playstyle actually viable?
Extremely viable. Using motion sensors and spawn beacons with a suppressed automatic weapon often provides more team value than traditional sniping. Competitive beta matches showed infiltrator Recons completely changing match flow through strategic beacon placement and constant intel.
Why do Support LMGs feel different in BF6?
Support’s signature proficiency removes all sprint speed penalties when using LMGs. This transforms traditionally static weapons into mobile assault tools. You can advance with your squad while maintaining suppressive fire, completely changing the LMG’s tactical role.