The Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 beta may offer fewer weapons than the full game's November release, but there's already a clear meta forming among players. With 16 guns available, the current beta showcases an impressive range of assault rifles, SMGs, snipers, and even a powerful new shotgun. After extensive testing and feedback from the community, several weapons have quickly emerged as the best in the Black Ops 7 beta - dominating in both casual and competitive play.

Whether you prefer aggressive close-quarters fights or tactical long-range engagements, this breakdown of the best guns in the Black Ops 7 beta will help you build the strongest loadouts possible.

1. MXR-17 (Assault Rifle)

If there's one weapon dominating the Black Ops 7 beta right now, it's the MXR-17. Unlocked early at level 4, the MXR-17 is the second assault rifle available and already regarded as the best all-around weapon in the beta.

It packs massive damage per shot, making it a top-tier choice for players who value precision and power. While its fire rate is slightly slower than the M15 or Peacekeeper, its manageable recoil and high-impact bullets make it a deadly force in skilled hands.

Once you unlock Gunfighter at level 20, you can equip eight attachments, turning the MXR-17 into an unstoppable laser.

Recommended attachments:

·Recoil Sync Unit (Fire Mod): Reduces recoil for laser accuracy.

·20" Imperial Barrel / 18" Rift-M7 Barrel: Enhances bullet velocity and damage.

·Optical Sight: Improves visual clarity for mid-to-long range engagements.

Why it's the best: The MXR-17 offers a perfect mix of damage and stability, making it ideal for players refining their accuracy by buying CoD Black Ops 7 Bot Lobbies or practicing high-stakes play before Season 1.

Pro tip: Watch Hero's gameplay breakdown - his MXR-17 setup absolutely melts enemies and showcases the weapon's raw potential.

2. M8A1 (Marksman Rifle)

The M8A1 is back - and it's every bit as deadly as fans remember from Black Ops 2. This burst-fire marksman rifle has quickly risen to the top thanks to its precision and incredibly high damage potential.

Each four-round burst from the M8A1 can instantly take down enemies at full health if all shots land, making it a "one burst kill" machine reminiscent of the classic M16A4 and FAMAS.

Recommended attachments:

·Long Barrel: Extends range and minimizes damage drop-off.

·Optical Sight: Increases accuracy for distant targets.

·Stabilizer: Reduces recoil between bursts for greater control.

Why it's the best: It rewards accuracy and tactical positioning, making it perfect for players who prefer deliberate, skill-based gameplay.

Fun fact: Former pro player Octane already dropped a nuke using his M8A1 setup - proof that this gun can absolutely dominate once mastered.

3. Dravec 45 (SMG)

When it comes to close-range powerhouses, the Dravec 45 stands out as the best SMG in the beta. Unlocked at level 10, it feels like a spiritual successor to the PP-19 Bizon, featuring a high fire rate, large magazine, and remarkable range for an SMG.

What sets the Dravec 45 apart this time is its stability and versatility. With the right attachments, it can rival assault rifles at medium range without losing its close-quarters edge.

Recommended attachments:

·Accelerated Recoil System (Fire Mod): Keeps recoil tight during extended bursts.

·Monolithic Suppressor: Increases damage range and keeps you off the minimap.

·19" Horizon Fluted Barrel / 14" Verse Barrel: Adjust based on whether you prioritize range or mobility.

Why it's the best: The Dravec 45 is the go-to weapon for high-tempo players pushing objectives or racking up kills. Many players use CoD Black Ops 7 Bot Lobbies to refine their movement, recoil patterns, and flanking routes before entering ranked play.

Performance highlight: Paradox managed a 100+ kill game using his Dravec 45 build - showcasing just how dominant this SMG can be in the right hands.

4. VS Recon (Sniper Rifle)

For snipers and quickscopers, the VS Recon is the weapon to master in the beta. This bolt-action sniper rifle is available from the start, making it a top pick for players who want to immediately begin unlocking attachments.

The VS Recon hits hard and handles smoothly, catering to both aggressive and patient playstyles. Whether you're quickscoping on small maps or locking down long sightlines, it delivers consistent one-shot kills.

Recommended attachments:

·Quickdraw Grip: Boosts ADS speed - essential for quickscoping.

·Rapid Fire Mod: Slightly increases firing rate for follow-up shots.

·Handling Laser: Improves aim stability while sprinting or sliding.

Why it's the best: The combination of power and handling makes the VS Recon one of the most flexible sniper rifles in the series' recent history.

Bonus clip: SoaR Roy achieved a nuke while using the VS Recon exclusively, proving it's viable in even the most aggressive playstyles.

5. Echo 12 (Shotgun)

Closing out the list is the Echo 12, a pump-action, double-barreled shotgun that's quickly become a fan favorite during the beta's second weekend.

The Echo 12 stands out because it lets you fire twice before pumping, allowing you to secure kills faster and more reliably than most shotguns. Despite its short range, it's surprisingly effective in tight corridors or objective-based maps like Domination or Control.

Recommended attachments:

·Extended Barrel: Slightly increases range.

·Quick Grip: Boosts ADS and handling speed.

·Reinforced Stock: Improves mobility when moving between cover.

Why it's the best: The Echo 12 rewards aggressive movement and precision. With perks like Lightweight and Tac Sprinter, you can close the distance quickly and dominate close-quarters fights.

Final Thoughts - The Beta Meta So Far

The Black Ops 7 may only feature a limited arsenal, but the weapon balance feels better than ever. There's something for every playstyle - the MXR-17 for consistent dominance, the M8A1 for burst accuracy, the Dravec 45 for mobility, the VS Recon for sniping purists, and the Echo 12 for those who love up-close chaos.

Stay tuned for full release updates, balance changes, and loadout optimizations once Black Ops 7 officially launches this fall.