Call of Duty Black Ops 6: Best Handgun Builds

Written by — November 26, 2024 at 14:27

Every second counts in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and having the right weapon for every situation can make a world of difference. While most players focus on primary weapons like Assault Rifles or Submachine Guns, handguns offer a reliable, often overlooked backup option that can make a significant difference in close-quarter encounters.

This guide focuses on the best handgun builds in Black Ops 6, offering you setups that maximize effectiveness in multiple scenarios. Whether you’re navigating intense firefights, holding down a position or in need of a quick switch in emergencies, these handgun builds provide the speed, power and precision to match your playstyle.

Why Handgun Builds Matter in Black Ops 6

Handguns in Black Ops 6 may be small, but they pack a big punch when you really need it. Often serving as a last resort when your primary weapon is out of ammo or when quick mobility is essential, handguns are designed for versatility. Whether you’re in tight spaces, facing an enemy too close for comfort or looking to support a sniper loadout, handguns can save the day.

Key Benefits of Customizing Handguns:

• Quick Access for Emergencies: When reloading a primary weapon isn’t an option, a well-equipped handgun is a dependable fallback.

• Improved Mobility: Handguns are typically lighter and allow for faster movement, making them perfect for players who favor agility.

• Backup Support for Snipers: For those sporting long-range setups, a strong handgun build ensures that you’re prepared for unexpected close encounters.

• Freedom of Customization: The variety of attachments on offer lets you tailor your handgun to suit different combat needs, from high damage in close quarters to suppressive fire and stealthy eliminations.

With the right setup, a handgun is more than a secondary weapon; it’s an adaptable tool that can really change the game. This guide covers builds designed to take advantage of handguns as the strategic assets they are and provides options for every playstyle and situation.

Top Handgun Builds in Black Ops 6

Each of the following handgun builds offers a unique approach to close-range combat, giving players options to match various playstyles and tactical needs. Explore Black Ops 6 weapon cheats to maximize your performance with these specialized builds. From dual-wield setups for fast takedowns to precision-focused builds for controlled engagements, these loadouts are designed for players to get the most out of their handguns.

1. Akimbo Grekhovas: Dual-Wield Power for High-Intensity Combat

• Attachments:

  • Long Barrel: Extends damage range, making it easier to secure kills at slightly longer distances.

  • Extended Mag II: Increases magazine size, reducing the need for frequent reloads in combat.

  • CQB Grip: Boosts sprint-to-fire, slide-to-fire and dive-to-fire speeds - perfect for fast maneuvers.

  • Akimbo Grekhova (Stock): Enables dual-wielding, which doubles damage output but limits accuracy to hip-fire.

  • Steady Aim Laser: Improves hip-fire accuracy, which is crucial for a dual-wield setup.

• Overview:

  • This build works brilliantly in close combat, delivering a fast time-to-kill (TTK) and allowing players to overwhelm opponents in fast, intense battles.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Use aggressive movement to close in on enemies while relying on hip-fire for effective takedowns.

  • Ideal for players who thrive in high-speed situations and aren’t afraid to get up close and personal.

2. Rapid Fire Stryder .22: Speed and Precision for Mid-Range Control

• Attachments:

  • Suppressor: Keeps players off the minimap and improves stealth.

  • Reinforced Barrel: Increases damage range and bullet velocity, providing an edge in medium-range engagements.

  • Fast Mag II: Improves reload speed, allowing for smoother handling in extended skirmishes.

  • Commando Grip: Boosts aim-down-sight and sprint-to-fire speeds, improving overall agility.

  • Rapid Fire Mod: Increases fire rate without sacrificing control, reducing TTK.

• Overview:

  • Designed for players who want a balance between speed and precision, the Stryder .22 build is ideal for taking on multiple targets while maintaining recoil control.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Engage from medium range and use the Suppressor to avoid drawing attention.

  • Maximize fire rate with precise, well-placed shots to keep up with faster opponents.

3. 9mm PM: Balanced Performance with High Versatility

• Attachments:

  • Suppressor: Reduces detection, making it perfect for stealth play.

  • Reinforced Barrel: Maintains a high damage range, providing flexibility across different combat ranges.

  • Extended Mag II: Increases ammo capacity, which is useful for handling multiple targets in succession.

  • Commando Grip: Supports faster aiming and quick response times after sprinting.

  • Rapid Fire Mod: Boosts fire rate, allowing you to keep up with fast-moving targets.

• Overview:

  • This versatile build provides solid performance for players who need a reliable secondary in different combat situations.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Pair with a primary weapon that benefits from a quick-draw secondary.

  • Extended magazine ensures that you can face multiple opponents without constant reloads.

4. Rapid Fire GS45: High-Damage Output for Close-Range Power

• Attachments:

  • Muzzle Brake: Reduces vertical recoil, improving accuracy.

  • Reinforced Barrel: Extends range and bullet velocity, improving effectiveness beyond close quarters.

  • Extended Mag I: Boosts ammo without heavily affecting handling.

  • Commando Grip: Increases aim-down-sight and sprint-to-fire speeds.

  • Rapid Fire Mod: Maximizes fire rate for a faster kill in close encounters.

• Overview:

  • With a high-damage output and reliable accuracy, this GS45 build is well-suited for players focused on quick, decisive kills.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Aim for headshots to take advantage of the high damage potential.

  • Best for players who need a powerful secondary to secure kills at close range.

5. Accurate Grekhova: Precision and Stability for Sniper Support

• Attachments:

  • Compensator: Manages vertical recoil, which is critical for accuracy.

  • Long Barrel: Maximizes damage range and bullet speed, giving this build added reach.

  • Extended Mag II: Provides extra rounds for sustained firefights.

  • Commando Grip: Improves aim and sprint-to-fire times, which is useful for quick switches.

  • 9x18mm Makarov Overpressured Mod: Increases bullet velocity, which is perfect for improving precision.

• Overview:

  • This build allows for accurate shots even at longer distances and is designed for players who prefer accuracy and need a reliable secondary alongside a sniper rifle.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Use for controlled, steady shots rather than rapid fire.

  • Excellent as a backup for sniper loadouts, keeping you ready for close-quarter engagements.

Choosing the Right Handgun Build Based on Your Playstyle

With a range of options for customizing your handgun, the best build often comes down to how you play. Each of these builds is suited to different playstyles and tactics, allowing you to adapt your approach based on what fits your role and strategy.

1. Aggressive Play

• Recommended Builds: Akimbo Grekhovas, Rapid Fire GS45.

• Why These Builds Work: For players who like to push forward and stay in the action, Akimbo Grekhovas and Rapid Fire GS45 offer high damage and quick takedowns. These builds are designed for rapid engagement and make it easy to overwhelm opponents in close quarters.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Keep moving to stay close to opponents and make full use of the sprint-to-fire speed.

  • Use hip-fire with Akimbo Grekhovas to maintain a short response time.

2. Stealth Play

• Recommended Builds: Suppressed Stryder .22, 9mm PM with Suppressor.

• Why These Builds Work: Both builds prioritize silence and reduced visibility on the minimap, making them ideal for players who rely on staying hidden and taking out targets quietly. With these setups, you can move through areas without drawing attention.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Avoid unnecessary shots to keep your position hidden.

  • Use cover effectively to maintain stealth and approach opponents undetected.

3. Support Roles

• Recommended Build: Accurate Grekhova.

• Why This Build Works: When paired with a sniper loadout, the Accurate Grekhova offers precision and control, making it a great backup for snipers who need a reliable secondary in close-range situations. This build emphasizes stability and accuracy, giving you a solid option for mid-range support.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Aim for precise shots rather than rapid fire to maintain accuracy.

  • Use this handgun to cover teammates or control areas when a sniper rifle is impractical.

4. Versatile Play

• Recommended Build: 9mm PM.

• Why This Build Works: The 9mm PM’s balanced performance makes it a versatile choice for players who switch between roles or need a reliable all-purpose secondary weapon. This build offers solid handling, high fire rate and stealth, making it adaptable in many situations.

• Playstyle Tips:

  • Switch between primary and secondary as needed to adjust to different combat ranges.

  • Make use of the extended magazine to stay prepared for multiple targets.

Choosing the right build improves your gameplay by aligning your weapon setup with your unique approach to the game. From stealthy takedowns to intense firefights, each of these handgun builds provides options that cater to a variety of combat styles.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Handgun Effectiveness

Once you've chosen your ideal handgun build, a few strategic adjustments can make a big difference in how effectively you handle these secondary weapons. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your handgun in Black Ops 6.

1. Quick Switching for Emergency Reloads

• Tip: When your primary weapon runs out of ammo during an intense firefight, quickly switch to your handgun to keep the pressure on without needing to reload.

• Benefit: Handguns offer a faster draw speed, making them the perfect backup in critical moments.

2. Use Attachments to Boost Handling and Accuracy

• Tip: Attachments like the Commando Grip or CQB Grip improve sprint-to-fire and aim-down-sight speeds, allowing for quicker engagements with better control.

• Benefit: These handling improvements give you a speed advantage in close-range encounters, helping you to stay agile and ready to respond to threats.

3. Take Advantage of Cover and Positioning

• Tip: Use cover effectively to minimize exposure while switching to or firing your handgun, especially if you’re using a stealth build like the Stryder .22 with a suppressor.

• Benefit: Strategic positioning allows you to avoid being in the direct line of sight of enemies, making it easier to surprise opponents or evade detection on the minimap.

4. Practice Hip-Firing for Close Combat

• Tip: For dual-wield builds like the Akimbo Grekhovas, practice hip-firing in close combat situations, as these builds rely on accuracy without aiming down sights.

• Benefit: Hip-firing ensures that you can engage opponents quickly without losing precious time aiming, which is crucial for fast-paced skirmishes.

5. Pair Your Handgun with a Complementary Primary Weapon

• Tip: Choose a primary weapon that complements your handgun’s strengths. For example, a sniper loadout pairs well with the Accurate Grekhova for close-range backup, while an SMG loadout can benefit from a powerful GS45 for added versatility.

• Benefit: Balancing your primary and secondary weapons gives you options for different combat scenarios, making it easier to adapt to unexpected situations.

6. Prioritize Stealth Attachments for Concealed Play

• Tip: If stealth is your focus, prioritize attachments like suppressors and Rapid Fire mods that boost fire rate without sacrificing control, keeping you hidden on the minimap and fast enough to compete with SMGs.

• Benefit: Staying off the minimap gives you an edge when flanking enemies or moving undetected through enemy lines, making it harder for opponents to anticipate your movements.

By combining these practical strategies with the right handgun build, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any situation in Black Ops 6. Following these tips ensures that your secondary weapon is more than just a backup, but rather a valuable asset in your loadout.

Handguns in Black Ops 6 are great secondary options, but they also provide versatility, speed and specialized power when customized correctly. By choosing the right build, from the dual-wield Akimbo Grekhovas for high-damage close combat to the stealthy Rapid Fire Stryder .22, you can maximize your effectiveness in various combat situations. Each build is designed to cater to unique playstyles, allowing players to switch strategies on the fly and stay prepared for whatever comes their way.

Experiment with different attachments and configurations to find the handgun build that best complements your approach and remember the practical tips above. With the right combination, your handgun will be a reliable partner in battle, ready to help you secure victory.