Best DG-56 loadout for MW3: Class setup, attachments, Perks & more

❘ Published: 2024-02-19T12:40:58

The DG-56 assault rifle in Modern Warfare 3.

The DG-56 is a great assault rifle in Modern Warfare 3 but its recoil can make it difficult to use, that is unless you use our meta loadout that transforms it into a top-tier MW3 weapon.

The DG-56, previously called the DG-58, is an assault rifle very loosely based on the real-world QBZ-95. Alongside the FR 5.56, it is one of two burst rifles in MW3 and arguably the stronger of the pair.

Though it dominated multiplayer when Modern Warfare 3 was first released, the DG-56 has since fallen out of favor. Even so, it is still a strong weapon that has a lot of value, especially if it’s built right.

To help you create the best loadout possible, we’ve put together this optimized DG-56 which can dominate multiplayer lobbies in the right hands.

Best DG-56 loadout in Modern Warfare 3
DG-56 MW3 loadout: Perks and equipment
How to unlock DG-56
Best alternative to DG-56

Best DG-56 loadout in Modern Warfare 3

Muzzle: T4LR Saber Compensator
Barrel: DG-56 LS18 Barrel
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Extended TP-9 Buttplate
Underbarrel: DR-6 Handstop

By default, the DG-56 has a far-from-ideal recoil pattern which makes its burst highly inaccurate limiting its range. The biggest reason for this is its substantial horizontal recoil which can be fixed by equipping the T4LR Saber Compensator muzzle.

To further improve recoil it is also recommended to use the Extended TP-9 Buttplate stock. With both of these attachments equipped the DG-56 is an incredibly accurate weapon that remains a threat from over 50 meters.

However, to really make the DG-56 one of MW3’s most deadly long-range weapons you’ll need to run the DG-56 LS18 Barrel which boosts damage range, bullet velocity, recoil, and aiming idle stability. This pairs well with the Slate Reflector optic which is highly recommended on such a precision weapon.

The only downside to these accuracy-focused attachments is that they slow down the DG-56 quite a lot. Even though it isn’t a weapon suited to a faster-paced playstyle by any means, it doesn’t hurt to use the DR-6 Handstop underbarrel to improve various handling and mobility stats.

DG-56 previewed in Call of Duty: Warzone.

The DG-56 is an excellent burst weapon that offers fantastic range with this optimized loadout.

DG-56 MW3 loadout: Perks and equipment

Vest: Overkill Vest
Gloves: Marksman Gloves
Boots: Stalker Boots
Gear: Bone Conduction Headset
Lethal: Frag Grenade
Tactical: Flash Grenade

The DG-56 struggles at close range as its fire rate is somewhat slow and its hip-fire accuracy is far from ideal. For this reason, it’s good to use the Overkill Vest which enables the use of a second primary weapon better suited to close range like a meta SMG or shotgun.

To get the most out of the DG-56’s strengths in MW3 use the Marksman Gloves and Stalker Boots. While the Marksman Gloves are not typically that useful on assault rifles, they benefit a burst weapon like the DG-56 more than most other ARs. Similarly, the Stalker Boots make more sense than usual here as this DG-56 build has surprisingly high ADS Movement Speed.

Since we aren’t using a suppressor and have no stealth Perks, Bone Conduction Headset is a must. This Perk reduces player and environmental sounds making it much easier to hear nearby enemies which greatly increases awareness of your surroundings.

For equipment, the classic combination of a Frag Grenade and Flash Grenade is always a solid setup with them offering both top-tier lethality and utility when its necessary.

How to unlock DG-56 in Modern Warfare 3

The DG-56 can be unlocked through the Armory, first accessible at level 25. After unlocking the Armory, activate the DG-56 and either complete 3 Daily Challenges or win 3 multiplayer matches. Another option is to obtain and extract the assault rifle in Zombies to bypass the Armory altogether.

Best alternative to DG-56 in Modern Warfare 3

Though the FR 5.56 is the obvious competitor with it being the only other burst assault rifle in MW3, we actually think the full auto MCW is a better alternative to the DG-56 as it offers comparable damage at long range.

Be sure to check out our other Modern Warfare 3 content to stay ahead: