How to Unlock the ISO Hemlock: A Comprehensive Guide
The ISO Hemlock, a powerful and versatile assault rifle in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0, has become a favorite among players for its low recoil and impressive damage. Unlocking this weapon requires a specific approach, but once you have it, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the best ARs in the game. So, let’s get straight to the point:
How do you get the Hemlock?
The ISO Hemlock is unlocked by completing Sector B11 of the Season 2 Battle Pass. This means you don’t necessarily have to purchase the premium version of the battle pass; the ISO Hemlock is available on the free track. To access it, you’ll need to progress through the battle pass, unlocking preceding sectors until you reach B11. Once you reach B11, the Hemlock becomes yours as the sector’s final reward. This requires unlocking all other items in Sector B11 first. It’s a straightforward process if you know what to focus on.
Understanding the ISO Hemlock
What is the ISO Hemlock?
The ISO Hemlock is an assault rifle that was introduced as part of the Season Two update in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0. It’s a highly customizable and potent weapon, designed to excel in mid-range engagements thanks to its accuracy and manageable recoil.
Real-World Inspiration
The ISO Hemlock draws its design from the real-life Brügger & Thomet APC556 carbine, a well-regarded firearm known for its reliability. In-game, it is manufactured by “Expedite Firearms” and is designed to utilize both 5.56 and subsonic .300 BLK ammunition. This gives it a unique edge and flexibility on the battlefield.
Unlocking the Hemlock: A Step-by-Step Guide
The primary method for unlocking the ISO Hemlock is through the Season 2 Battle Pass. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Battle Pass Progression
The Battle Pass is a progression system where you unlock various items by earning experience points (XP) and completing matches. The Battle Pass is split into Sectors, each with rewards that can be earned by completing the required steps in each sector.
Reaching Sector B11
To obtain the ISO Hemlock, you must reach Sector B11 of the Battle Pass. This involves unlocking all four previous items within the sector to claim the final reward of the ISO Hemlock. You don’t necessarily have to unlock all the sectors preceding Sector B11 as the Battle Pass allows players to choose their path. So if you are not interested in the items of sectors prior you can skip right to Sector B11 using Battle Pass Tier Skips.
Free Track Unlock
The crucial point here is that the ISO Hemlock is available on the free track of the Battle Pass. This means you can obtain it even if you don’t purchase the premium version of the Battle Pass. This accessibility makes it a must-have weapon for every player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the ISO Hemlock
1. Can I unlock the ISO Hemlock without purchasing the Battle Pass?
Yes, the ISO Hemlock can be unlocked through the free track of the Season 2 Battle Pass. You do not need to purchase the premium Battle Pass to get it. The ISO Hemlock is the reward within Sector B11.
2. What is the fastest way to unlock the ISO Hemlock?
The fastest way is to use Tier Skips to quickly reach Sector B11 and then complete all items within it. If you lack Tier Skips, play game modes where you earn experience quickly and focus your efforts towards completing challenges which reward additional Battle Pass progression.
3. Is the ISO Hemlock a real gun?
Yes, the ISO Hemlock is based on the real-life Brügger & Thomet APC556 carbine. This gives the weapon a sense of authenticity and realism within the game.
4. What is the best ISO Hemlock Loadout?
A popular and effective loadout includes:
- Muzzle: Harbinger D20
- Optic: Aim Op-V4
- Barrel: Fielder-T50
- Underbarrel: FTAC Ripper 56
- Magazine: 45 Round Mag
This configuration aims to reduce recoil and improve overall accuracy and control.
5. How do you unlock the ISO Hemlock optic?
The ISO Hemlock optic is not a specific unlockable item by itself. You can unlock various optics through different methods, including leveling up other weapons, completing challenges, and progressing through the Battle Pass. The optic mentioned in the loadout above can be unlocked through the progression of the weapon itself.
6. Is the ISO Hemlock similar to the ACR?
While not a direct copy, the ISO Hemlock shares visual similarities with the ACR (Adaptive Combat Rifle), especially in its overall shape. Many players feel it offers a similar feel to the ACR and the more modern version than the one in previous Modern Warfare games.
7. Is the ISO Hemlock good in MW2?
Yes, the ISO Hemlock is considered one of the best assault rifles in Modern Warfare 2, thanks to its high damage output, low recoil, and good overall performance. It remains a strong choice even after minor nerfs.
8. What ammunition does the ISO Hemlock use?
The ISO Hemlock uses 5.56 ammunition, as well as subsonic .300 BLK ammunition. These ammunition types influence the weapons damage and range.
9. Did the ISO Hemlock receive any nerfs?
Yes, the ISO Hemlock was nerfed in a game update on May 31, 2023. This adjustment reduced its power to ensure the weapon was not overpowered in the meta. However it remains a powerful weapon.
10. Can you unlock the ISO Hemlock in Modern Warfare 3?
The ISO Hemlock was introduced in MW2, it is likely that if MW3 is a sequel or connected to MW2, then the ISO Hemlock could be available in MW3. However the way to unlock the weapon may change.
11. What is the overall real life inspiration for the ISO Hemlock?
The ISO Hemlock’s design is heavily influenced by the Brügger & Thomet APC556, a real-world firearm used by various military and law enforcement agencies.
12. Is the Hemlock more powerful than the TAQ-56?
The TAQ-56 is known for its lower recoil and higher velocity, making it a popular choice. The ISO Hemlock is more of a powerful AR with better damage but slightly more recoil than the TAQ-56. Both are top tier AR’s but it is up to the players preference.
13. How does the ISO Hemlock compare to other ARs?
The ISO Hemlock stands out for its balance between damage, accuracy, and control. It’s a very versatile weapon, well-suited for a variety of situations and playstyles. It has a higher potential damage output than a lot of ARs in it’s category.
14. How do I get Battle Pass Tier Skips?
Battle Pass Tier Skips can be obtained by completing daily challenges, limited-time events, or through bundles in the in game store. These skips will speed up your battle pass progression.
15. What is the most common mistake people make when trying to unlock the Hemlock?
Many new players mistakenly focus on other sectors and their rewards, instead of making a direct path to Sector B11. Remember that you can skip to sector B11, unlock its items, and instantly claim the Hemlock, without having to do any other Sectors if you choose.
Conclusion
Unlocking the ISO Hemlock is a straightforward process once you know what to do. By focusing on the Season 2 Battle Pass and reaching Sector B11, you can add this incredibly powerful and versatile assault rifle to your arsenal. With its manageable recoil, high damage output, and real-world inspiration, the ISO Hemlock is a weapon you’ll want to use in your Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0 matches, especially after applying a well-optimized loadout. So, jump into the game, grind those levels, and get ready to dominate the competition with the ISO Hemlock!