MW3 best zombies loadout – see our 5 top weapons and equipment to use against zombies

There are lots of ways to battle the undead without even using guns but in Modern Warfare 3, guns are your first go-to option in the vastness of Urzikstan. The best zombies loadout in MW3 will go a long way to keep you alive against hordes of the undead. 

If you play your cards right by managing ammo and not delving too deep into high-level threat zones, our list of weapon loadouts will help you secure a successful exfil. If you’re struggling with zombies mode, we suggest going over our MW3 zombies tips and tricks or even check out our MW3 Easter eggs containing unique rewards that’ll enhance your gameplay. 

Best zombies loadout in MW3 

Before we list the best zombies loadout, we encourage you to craft your weapons and customize attachments in the Gunsmith. You can access the Gunsmith in the MWZ menu by navigating to Gear, choosing a weapon slot in the loadout menu, going over the insured slot, and selecting the Gunsmith banner above it. Keep in mind that Contraband weapons are not modifiable in the Gunsmith.

Striker (Submachine Gun)

Renowned among core multiplayer enthusiasts, the Striker SMG stands out as a top-tier weapon in its class.  It proves to be a formidable choice in the realm of Zombies, where our best loadout choice can help you amplify its capabilities. Our loadout prioritizes recoil control and range at the cost of mobility, while simultaneously doubling the weapon’s base magazine size.

• Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
• Rear Grip: Skin ZX Grip
• Barrel: Striker Recon Long Barrel
• Optic: MK. 3 Reflector
• Magazine: 60 Round Mag

The striker is also a lightweight weapon that retains your sprint speed. And since you’ll be doing a lot of running in Urzikstan, the Striker will come in handy to help you maintain your pace without having to un-equip your weapon. 

MTZ-556 (Assault Rifle)

The MTZ boasts one of the fastest firing rates among assault rifles in MW3. This translates to rapid bullet showers, ideal for mowing down hordes of zombies before they can overwhelm you. It’s especially effective in tight spaces or when reviving teammates caught in the midst of a swarm or is being attacked by mercenaries.

• Barrel: MTZ Clinch Pro Barrel
• Optic: Mk. 23 Reflector
• Stock: MTZ Marauder Stock
• Muzzle: VT-7 Spiritfire Suppressor
• Underbarrel: Bruen Heavy Support Grip
• Rear Grip: Bruen TR-24 Assault Grip

Assault rifles dominate our list of the best MW3 zombies loadout because despite their high fire rate, they retain good accuracy. This allows you to land precise headshots on slower or distant zombies with the MTZ-556 and can save you ammo and ensure you don’t waste precious bullets on missed shots. 

BAS-B (Battle Rifle)

The BAS-B packs a punch, capable of taking down multiple zombies with a single well-placed shot. This can be crucial for dealing with large hordes or even saving teammates. Compared to other Battle Rifles, the BAS-B also has a manageable recoil and good stability, making it easier to land precise shots on moving targets, like the sprinting zombies you find in high-level threat areas. 

• Barrel: Crippling Malice Integral Suppressor 
• Stock: FSS Ravager-45 Stock
• Optic: Corvus Mini Riser Optic
• Magazine: 30 Round Mag
• Rear Grip: Tourney Tac Grip

The weapon is a favourite for many players outside zombies mode. It can be a good choice against zombies especially if you prioritize hitting hard and precise shots. However, its slow fire rate and small magazine can be drawbacks. So consider your playstyle and the specific map/situation before choosing the BAS-B and using our above loadout choice. 

SVA 545 (Assault Rifle)

Despite its high fire rate, the SVA 545 boasts decent accuracy and respectable range. This makes it effective at mid-range engagements and allows you to pick off stragglers or headshot distant zombies without sacrificing close-quarters efficiency. 

• Muzzle: HMRES Mod Suppressor 
• Rear Grip: Citadel Grip
• Barrel: Authority IV Short Barrel
• Optic: MK. 3 Reflector
• Underbarrel: Chewk Angled Grip
• Magazine: 60 Round Mag

Unlike other high-fire-rate assault rifles in MW3, the SVA 545 has relatively manageable recoil. This makes it easier to control your shots and maintain accuracy, even during sustained fire, which is crucial for dealing with large waves of zombies.

MCW (Assault Rifle)

The MCW is a fantastic all-around weapon for MW3 zombies. Its balanced blend of damage, fire rate, accuracy, and recoil makes it adaptable to any situation and playstyle. Whether you’re a seasoned slayer or a newbie eager to survive the apocalypse, the MCW is a reliable companion for your zombie-busting adventures. 

• Barrel: Second Line Mammoth Heavy
• Muzzle: HMRES Mod Suppressor
• Stock: MCW Lancer Tactical Stock
• Grip: RB Talon-X3 Grip
• Optic: QTG Reflex Sight

The weapon also has an extended magazine that keeps the firestorm going without reloading frequently. And if you’re just starting your zombies adventure, the MCW can be unlocked relatively early. So you can use its balanced stats and ease of use to master the game’s mechanics.

✓ Isa’s remark

Prioritise your melee weapon

Forget fancy guns – when your back’s against the wall, nothing beats the raw fury (and infinite ammo) of a melee weapon. Sometimes you’ll either run out of ammo or you simply won’t be available to aim accurately. It’s happened to me a lot and resorting to your melee weapon will get the job done. So always go into a zombies match with a melee weapon in hand.

MW3 zombies best equipment

Claymores: These explosive traps are perfect for setting up chokepoints and decimating hordes. Place them strategically in doorways or narrow passages to maximize their impact.

Flashbangs: Disorienting zombies gives you precious seconds to reload, revive teammates, or escape a tight spot. Throw them into crowded areas or directly at tougher zombies.

C4: Detonating C4 strategically can take down large groups or clear pathways. Place them on walls or near chokepoints for maximum effectiveness.

Semtex: Sticky grenades can be attached to zombies for delayed explosions, creating chain reactions and taking down large groups efficiently.

Decoy Grenade: Distract the undead and buy yourself some breathing room with these handy decoys. Throw them into crowded areas to draw attention away from you and your teammates

That’s all we have for you on the best MW3 zombies loadout. If you’ve just started playing Modern Warfare 3, you should go over our detailed MW3 beginners guide where we outline some of the basic gameplay features you should familiarise yourself with. 

Modern Warfare 3 zombies FAQs

What role do killstreaks play in Zombies mode, and which ones are recommended?

Killstreaks can provide essential support. Consider using ones that deploy offensive tools or offer defensive advantages, such as Sentry Guns or Chopper Gunners.

Are there specific attachments or upgrades that work well for Zombies in MW3?

Opt for attachments that increase damage, accuracy, and handling. Upgrades like Pack-a-Punch can significantly enhance your weapon’s effectiveness.