Call of Duty: Vanguard has arrived and it’s surprisingly fun. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t perfect. Dodgy spawns and inaudible footsteps are its main issues. But, overall, it’s an enjoyable experience and the multiplayer is certainly an improvement over Black Ops Cold War. However, with a fun and addictive multiplayer comes intense competition. And with competition comes the question of meta (most effective tactics available) guns and which ones will give players the biggest edge in the game. So, let’s take a look at what we think the CoD Vanguard meta gun is – and hopefully help you to get the most out of it.
CoD Vanguard Meta Gun – STG44
The STG44 has been hailed by many as Call of Duty: Vanguard‘s first meta gun. And we agree. While it is the first assault rifle available in the game, it shouldn’t be overlooked. And its official in-game description gives a big clue as to why: “Versatile assault rifle adaptable to any situation”.
When you look at the STG44, it doesn’t immediately scream “meta gun”. But it is a truly great all-rounder. Its in-game stats show as much, with a great balance between Firepower, Speed, Accuracy and Ammo. Out of all the assault rifles available, it doesn’t have the highest in any of the stat categories. Yet it performs solidly in almost all situations – and even more so when outfitted with the best attachments. The first time you try it, you might not be convinced. But trust us, the STG44 is the CoD Vanguard meta gun.
STG44 Vanguard Loadout
So, now we’ve looked at why the STG44 is the current meta gun in Call of Duty: Vanguard, let’s run down the best STG44 attachments.
- Muzzle: Mercury Silencer (Unlocks at level 31)
- Barrel: VDD 760MM 05B (Unlocks at level 38)
- Optic: Slate Reflector (Unlocks at level 17)
- Stock: Konstanz Tactical (Unlocks at level 9)
- Underbarrel: M1930 Strife Angled (Unlocks at level 49)
- Magazine: 8mm Kurz 45 Round Drums (Unlocks at level 53)
- Ammo Type: Lengthened (Unlocks at level 62)
- Rear Grip: Stippled Grip (Unlocks at level 67)
- Proficiency: Vital (Unlocks at level 55)
- Kit: Fully Loaded (Unlocks at level 42)
STG44 Best Attachments
With this loadout, you’ll understand why many have been calling the STG44 the CoD Vanguard meta gun.
Muzzle
For me, the Mercury Silencer is a must. Thanks to the Radar perk, unsilenced weapons appear as pings on the mini map. That means you’re exposed if you fire a gun without a silencer. Of course, you can take the risk. But with the added benefit of recoil control and only a slight sacrifice on damage range, it’s worth it. If you would rather use something else, the F8 Stabilizer is also a good bet with its +2 Accuracy and +1 Damage Range. But it will leave you exposed.
Barrel
The VDD 760MM 05B barrel is an obvious choice. It offers highly improved accuracy over long distances but is still viable at close rage. So, it will give you the upper hand in most encounters no matter the distance.
Optic
Optics are largely personal preference. The Slate Reflector is a good choice owing to its simplicity. But you could also use the M19 4.0x Flip for the option to switch between 1.5x and 4.0x magnification. Or the G16 2.5x if you favour mid-range combat.
Stock
The Konstanz Tactical stock is a really solid option for methodical players who take their time when moving around. It increases aim walking speed and steadiness, as well as buffing initial shot accuracy and recoil. This means you’ll always be prepared as you head round blind corners.
Underbarrel
There are a few decent choices when it comes to the STG44’s underbarrel attachment. However, the M1930 Strife Angled is my pick owing to its increased accuracy and aiming stability. For mid to long range gun fights, this is what you want.
Magazine
The 8MM Kurz 45 Round Drums are a bit of a no-brainer. The amount of times you can lose a gunfight in Call of Duty: Vanguard thanks to an empty clip is staggering. And the 45 Round Drums will ensure that happens as infrequently as possible.
Ammo Type
Lengthened rounds give you +3 Bullet Velocity meaning your shots always pack more of a punch. Need I say more?
Rear Grip
There are quite a few viable options here depending on how you play. But to make those fury kills a reality, the Strippled Grip is a safe bet. It presents no disadvantages while offering increased recoil recovery and initial accuracy. That means you can jump from target to target without missing a beat. The Pine Tar Grip is also a good choice.
Proficiency
Vital is an excellent Proficiency for when you’re not firing as accurately as you’d like because it increases the area for critical hits on enemies.
Kit
This CoD Vanguard meta gun will have you on high kill streaks in no time. So, why not get the longest kill streaks possible thanks to Fully Loaded? It gives you the maximum possible starting ammo, so you’re unlikely to run out of bullets as you’re blasting through enemy ranks.
Do you agree that the STG44 is the CoD Vanguard meta gun? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
