Best Rival-9 MW3 loadout, attachments, class & perks

Best Rival-9 MW3 loadout, attachments, class & perks
Courtesy of Activision

Written by 

Alex Garton

Last updated 

12th Nov 2023 19:58

Contents

The best Rival-9 loadout in MW3 has a top-tier combination of damage output and agility, making it perfect for aggressive players who are always on the hunt for their next gunfight. Capable of cutting down foes with ease at close quarters, the Rival-9 is the ultimate run-and-gun SMG that has to be on your MW3 setup list.

Despite this, the weapon will never reach its full potential without a loadout that pushes its strengths to the limits in multiplayer. Luckily, we've put together the best Rival-9 loadout in MW3 that will give you the tools to dominate the competition.

Best Rival-9 MW3 loadout

Rival 9 MW3
Click to enlarge

Attachments

  • Muzzle: Shadowstrike Suppressor S
  • Stock: EXF Close Quarters Assault
  • Underbarrel: Chewk Angled Grip
  • Magazine: 40 Round Mag
  • Rear Grip: Rival Vice Assault Grip

First of all, you'll want to equip the Shadowstrike Suppressor S in the muzzle slot as it makes you undetectable on the radar while firing.

Following this, equip the Rival Vice Assault Grip to add an extra level of stability to the Rival-9 and the Chewk Angled Grip for the reduced aiming idle sway and increased aim walking movement speed.

Equipping the EXF Close Quarters Assault Stock will bolster the SMG's kickback completely, ensuring your shots always hit the mark. 

Finally, round off the loadout with the 40 Round Mag so you always have enough ammo to take out multiple opponents in a row.

Best Rival-9 MW3 class: Equipment & perks

Rival 9 MW3 CoD
Click to enlarge

Perks

  • Gloves: Quick Grip
  • Boots: Lightweight
  • Gear: EOD Padding
  • Vest: Infantry

Equipment

  • Lethal: Grenade
  • Tactical: Battle Rage
  • Field Upgrade: Munitions Box

Kick off the best Rival-9 MW3 setup with Quick Grip Gloves so you can instantly switch your secondary in a pinch.

Following this, the Infantry Vest for improved tac-sprint and Lightweight Boots are absolutely essential for anyone looking to dominate with an SMG. EOD Padding in the Gear slot is also useful, as it helps you negate damage from non-killstreak explosives.

Moving onto Equipment, a Grenade will always be brilliant for flushing opponents out of cover, and Battle Rage turns you into a powerhouse when you're looking to make an aggressive play.

Round off with a Munitions Box Field Upgrade so you never run out of rounds when you're on a top-tier killstreak.

How to unlock the Rival-9 in MW3

In order to unlock the Rival-9 in Modern Warfare 3, you'll need to reach level 25 and complete an Armory unlock. This won't take too long and is well-worth the investment for such top-tier SMG.

Best Rival-9 alternative in MW3

Striker MW3
Click to enlarge

If the Rival-9 just doesn't feel right or is taking too long to unlock, then in my opinion, it's time to pick up the Striker.

A throwback to the UMP45 days, the Striker is a versatile SMG that devastates foes face-to-face, but can also hold its own at mid-range.

This versatility is a huge strength in multiplayer, where enemies can pop up at every angle and you have to be ready. If you're looking for the best Striker loadout in MW3, we've got you covered and as it's unlocked early, you can use it right away.

Now you know the best Rival-9 loadout in MW3, why not familiarise yourself with every killstreak so you always have the best selection for your style of play? Be sure to check out our MW3 homepage for all of the latest news and guides.

Alex Garton
About the author
Alex Garton
Alex is a Senior Writer at GGRecon. With a BA (Hons) in English, he has previously written for Dexerto & Gfinity. Specialising in Call of Duty & Apex Legends, he loves (attempting) to improve his aim in competitive shooters and will always make time for a single-player RPG.
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