There are successful gun-centric video games, and there’s the Call of Duty franchise. In 2022, COD surpassed $30 billion in lifetime revenue, with over half a billion copies sold to date. MW3 featured 114 guns at launch: 77 returning weapons from Modern Warfare 2, and 37 new weapons.
Let’s geek out about Call of Duty guns: our favorite setups, the best guns for MW3 fans, and how video game guns compare to firearms IRL.
Our Favorite Setups: Combos in COD
We want to highlight some of our favorite combos (rifle/pistol sets). When used properly and to their full potential, rifle/pistol sets offer tactical and self-defense advantages, enhanced performance, and simplified logistics. Here are our picks for entry-level, mid-level, and higher-level firearm users.
Entry Level: Diamondback AR15 + Ruger RXM
Mid-Level: Springfield Armory Echelon + Sig Sauer M400 AR-Rifle
Higher-Level: Springfield Armory Prodigy Pistol + Radian MDL 1 Rifle
Call of Duty Guns IRL: a Few for Your Wish List
Like all video game guns, the best guns in MW3 are closely modeled on the real thing’s aesthetics. But games like COD favor simplicity over realism when it comes to mechanics, handling, and (obviously) consequences/risk. That said, here are some suggestions for firearm owners and enthusiasts looking for a similar ease-of-use from a real-world analog.
HK MP5 and maybe a cheaper clone as an alternative
SVD Dragonuv
Modern Warfare vs. Modern Warfare: Thoughts & Advice
We like the fact that the Call of Duty games focus on the positive aspects of military service. The camaraderie of team gameplay, and that “mission-accomplished” feeling are great. As gamers who also own a gun shop, it’s fun to connect people asking about FN Scars, Barrett .50 Cals, and other COD guns to their real-life counterparts.
It’s no surprise video game guns bring learning opportunities for anyone looking to transition to the real thing. For one, the circumstances in COD are unrealistic compared to the vast majority of situations where civilians use firearms for safety and defense. When you’re playing a game, the enemy’s fairly obvious. In life, safety threats (and the best course of action when you’re facing them) aren’t always apparent. There’s a lot of blending in, a lot of unknowns, and (obviously) much higher stakes.
Learning to use firearms safely is a crucial piece of the puzzle, but it’s only one. You also have to recognize and evaluate threats and safety issues accurately, and that only comes with lived experience and expertise.
If you’re looking to purchase a firearm similar to your favorite Call of Duty guns, you can do it safely and responsibly:
- Do some research. Search Youtube for honest reviews: watch them carefully and narrow down your list accordingly.
- Talk to experts. No matter your ultimate decision, we want to help you feel confident and safe. We enjoy talking with firearm hobbyists, enthusiasts, and collectors about what they want to accomplish with their firearm. What features do they like? What do they dislike or want to avoid? Taking the time to talk it through will keep you from wasting time and money on something that’s not a good fit.
- Be honest with yourself (and others). Fear and nerves are natural parts of the process: address them. Whether it’s recoil, safety, storage, ammunition capacity, or something else, there are safe, knowledgeable communities that can help you get your questions answered.
- Be prepared to practice. Using a firearm is like working out. The more often you do it, the more comfortable you are, and the more safely and confidently you can use the tools and equipment. If you’re feeling confident when you purchase a firearm, but don’t touch it for a year or two, you’ll be facing a much steeper learning curve when you finally pick it up. In other words, you’re only as good as your practice.
Questions About Call of Duty Guns and Combos? Ask the Guild
Not everyone who plays Call of Duty wants to buy a firearm, and that’s totally fine. But if you’re curious, you’re in the right place. Gundalorium is more than an online gun store. We’re committed to fun, enriching firearm education and principles of ethical, lawful ownership.
Enter the Gundalorian Guild: a diverse community of gun nerds, hobbyists, enthusiasts, and experts who value safety and responsibility. Thinking of purchasing a firearm to match the best guns in MW3? We’re here to help. Jump on Discord with us: let’s chat about all things guns and gear.
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Safety Note: Firearm ownership comes with responsibilities. If you’re considering purchasing a firearm or other weapon, do your due diligence. Brush up on State and Federal laws, training and background check requirements, and any permits you’d need. Safe storage and usage is paramount to Gundalorian staff and Guild members.
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