MW3 – How to get 2 primary weapons with the right gear

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Are you wondering how to get two primary weapons in MW3? In past Call of Duty games, you could equip the Overkill perk, allowing you to hold a second primary weapon. This was great for anyone who wanted some extra firepower for their loadout.

Before you replace your secondary weapon, make sure you know all the weapons in the MW3. This will help you choose which weapons are best for you. Make sure you also know all of the maps in MW3.

Maybe you want to hold onto two light machine guns. Perhaps you want a submachine gun and a light machine gun. Whatever your reasoning for wanting two weapons, this guide will show you how to get 2 primary weapons in Modern Warfare 3.

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A screenshot showcasing the gunner vest in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3. Image captured by VideoGamer.
A screenshot showcasing the gunner vest in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3. Image captured by VideoGamer.

How to get 2 primary weapons in Modern Warfare 3

If you want to hold two primary weapons in Modern Warfare 3, you need to equip the Gunner or Overkill Vest. MW3 uses some RPG-inspired mechanics including the ability to equip pieces of gear. This means you can change your boots, gloves, and vest. Different pieces of gear grant you different bonuses.

For instance, boots are about mobility and agility and will grant you bonuses for movement. Gloves will increase your precision and reload speed whether you are using an assault rifle, sniper rifle, or SMG.


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The Gunner Vest will grant you the following bonuses:

  • Deploy with max ammo
  • Equip a second primary weapon
  • Improved reload speed

And here’s what the Overkill vest offers in MW3:

  • Improved weapon swap speed
  • Reload while sprinting
  • Equip a second primary weapon
  • Gain the Marksman Gloves effects if you use Quick-Grip Gloves or Commando Gloves

The overkill effect is a hidden bonus of the Gunner Vest. Because of this, you may not see it when you obtain the item. You should unlock the Gunner Vest at around level 20. Those who want to carry multiple primary weapons into combat will want to try and grind their way through the levels to get this item. You could also opt for the Overkill vest at level 50. Read up on the other MW3 vests here.

Pair weapons based on their strengths in MW3

If your first weapon is great at close-quarters damage, pick a second weapon that excels at ranged shootouts. A sniper rifle could be paired with an SMG, for instance.

With the Overkill or Gunner vest, you will have more versatility, you can mix and match weapons with different shot types. For instance, you can have a full-auto weapon and a battle rifle with more accuracy. You can also carry a shotgun for close-quarters combat and a marksman rifle for long-range battles. Use the right attachments to double down on these strengths.

Now that you know how to carry 2 primary weapons in MW3, we can show you the best loadouts for some of the best weapons in the game. Check out our best loadout for the Rival 9 in MW3. You can also check out the best loadout for the AMR9 in MW3. Season 2 is now live on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. Check out the latest MW3 Season 2 battle pass rewards too.

MW3 carry 2 primary weapons FAQ

Is the Overkill perk in Modern Warfare 3?

The traditional Overkill perk is not in MW3. Instead, you can equip the Gunner or Overkill Vest to hold a second primary weapon.

How do you hold two primary weapons in Modern Warfare 3?

To hold two primary weapons, you need to equip the Gunner or Overkill Vest.

About the Author

Aden Carter

Aden Carter is a guides writer for VideoGamer with a focus on action RPGs and adventure games. When he isn't busy writing, he is spinning tales with his friends at the local game shop.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

  • Platform(s): iOS, macOS, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo DS, PC, PlayStation 3, Wii, Xbox 360, Xbox One
  • Genre(s): Action, First Person, Shooter
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