What Guns Can You Use in COD Ranked? A Comprehensive Guide

The competitive landscape of Call of Duty Ranked Play demands strategic weapon choices. Knowing exactly which guns are legal can be the difference between a dominating performance and a frustrating loss. Generally, Call of Duty Ranked Play weapon restrictions are based on the Call of Duty League (CDL) ruleset. This aims to maintain a balanced and competitive environment, preventing players from using overpowered or easily abused weapons.

Essentially, you can use most weapons deemed “fair” by the CDL. However, specific weapons and attachments are frequently banned or restricted to prevent unfair advantages or exploits.

Understanding Weapon Restrictions in COD Ranked

The exact list of allowed and banned weapons will vary between Call of Duty titles and even seasons within a single title. The developers often tweak the weapon restrictions list to address balance issues identified by the community and pro players. Therefore, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest restrictions before jumping into a Ranked Play match.

How to Find the Current Weapon Restriction List

Several resources provide the most up-to-date information on banned weapons and attachments in COD Ranked:

• In-Game Information: The Call of Duty game itself usually has a section within the Ranked Play menu that lists the current restrictions. Look for a “Ruleset” or “CDL Rules” option. This is the most reliable source.
• Official Call of Duty League Website: The official CDL website (https://callofdutyleague.com/) regularly publishes the official ruleset, including the allowed and banned weapons.
• Call of Duty Developers Social Media: Activision and the development studios (like Infinity Ward, Treyarch, and Sledgehammer Games) often announce changes to the ruleset on their social media channels (Twitter, Reddit, etc.). Follow them to stay informed.
• Reputable Call of Duty Content Creators and Websites: Many prominent content creators and websites dedicated to Call of Duty news and guides compile and disseminate information about the current Ranked Play ruleset.

General Categories of Banned Weapons and Attachments

While the specific list changes, certain categories of weapons and attachments are almost always restricted in COD Ranked:

• Launchers: Rocket launchers and grenade launchers are nearly always banned due to their explosive power and area-of-effect damage, which can disrupt the competitive balance.
• Shotguns (Sometimes): While some shotguns may be allowed, certain models deemed overly powerful or with excessive range are often restricted.
• Light Machine Guns (LMGs) (Sometimes): Similar to shotguns, some LMGs might be permitted, but those offering an unfair advantage in terms of fire rate, accuracy, or magazine size are often banned.
• Underbarrel Attachments that provide extra power: Underbarrel shotguns or grenade launchers are typically banned due to adding a secondary weapon effect.
• Certain Optics: Optics that provide thermal vision or excessive zoom can be restricted to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage in spotting enemies.
• Ammunition and Conversion Kits: Ammunition types or conversion kits that drastically alter a weapon’s performance and create an imbalance are often banned.
• Perks and Equipment: Specific Perks or Equipment pieces deemed too strong, or that promote passive and defensive playstyles, are usually restricted.
• Tactical and Lethal Equipment: Certain tactical grenades such as stun, flash or smoke grenades can be restricted, but more often lethals such as claymores and proximity mines will be restricted.

Building a Competitive Loadout Within the Rules

Once you understand the weapon restrictions, the next step is to create a competitive loadout that adheres to the rules while maximizing your effectiveness. Here are some tips:

• Focus on Versatile Weapons: Choose assault rifles, submachine guns (SMGs), and tactical rifles that excel in various combat situations. Versatility is key to adapting to different maps and game modes.
• Experiment with Attachments: Test different attachment combinations within the allowed parameters to find what works best for your playstyle. Consider factors like recoil control, accuracy, range, and mobility.
• Prioritize Accuracy and Recoil Control: In competitive play, accuracy is paramount. Focus on attachments that improve recoil control and stability.
• Communicate with Your Team: Coordinate your loadouts with your teammates to cover different roles and strategies. A well-balanced team composition is essential for success.
• Practice and Refine: The best way to optimize your loadout is to practice with it in Ranked Play matches. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t, and adjust your setup accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About COD Ranked Weapons

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify weapon restrictions in COD Ranked:

1. Where can I find the most up-to-date list of banned weapons and attachments?
   • Check the in-game Ranked Play menu, the official Call of Duty League website, and follow official Call of Duty social media accounts.
2. Are all launchers banned in Ranked Play?
   • Almost always, yes. Rocket launchers and grenade launchers are typically banned due to their explosive power and potential for abuse.
3. Are shotguns always banned in Ranked Play?
   • Not always, but some shotguns deemed too powerful or with excessive range are often restricted. Check the current ruleset for specific restrictions.
4. Why are certain optics banned in Ranked Play?
   • Optics that provide thermal vision or excessive zoom can offer an unfair advantage in spotting enemies, disrupting the competitive balance.
5. Can I use any ammunition type in Ranked Play?
   • No. Certain ammunition types or conversion kits that drastically alter a weapon’s performance and create an imbalance are often banned.
6. Do weapon restrictions ever change during a season?
   • Yes. The developers frequently tweak the ruleset to address balance issues or exploits identified by the community and pro players.
7. What happens if I accidentally use a banned weapon in Ranked Play?
   • The game will usually prevent you from using the banned weapon. In some cases, you may be penalized if you repeatedly try to circumvent the rules.
8. Why are some perks and equipment banned in Ranked Play?
   • Perks and equipment deemed too strong, or that promote passive and defensive playstyles, are usually restricted to encourage more dynamic gameplay.
9. Are all assault rifles allowed in Ranked Play?
   • While most assault rifles are permitted, the specific attachments you use can still be restricted. Some assault rifles that are deemed too powerful may be banned.
10. How do I know if an attachment is banned?
    • The in-game loadout menu will typically indicate which attachments are restricted in Ranked Play, sometimes by dimming the icon. Check the official ruleset as well.
11. Are there any resources that compare weapon stats and performance within the allowed ruleset?
    • Yes, many Call of Duty content creators and websites offer weapon guides and comparisons based on the current Ranked Play rules.
12. Why are underbarrel attachments such as grenade launchers restricted?
    • Adding an underbarrel shotgun or grenade launcher offers too much flexibility and power, disrupting weapon balance.
13. How important is it to stay updated on weapon restrictions?
    • Extremely important. Using a banned weapon or attachment can lead to penalties or put you at a significant disadvantage.
14. Are all tactical and lethal grenades allowed?
    • No, specific grenades may be banned. Claymores and proximity mines are common examples of restricted lethals. Check the official ruleset.
15. If a weapon isn’t listed as banned, does that automatically mean I can use it?
    • Not necessarily. Always double-check the entire ruleset, including attachment restrictions, to ensure your loadout is compliant. Sometimes, if a gun has a game-breaking bug it might not be listed as banned, so exercise caution when choosing weapons.

By understanding the weapon restrictions and staying informed about the latest updates, you can build competitive loadouts and improve your chances of success in Call of Duty Ranked Play. Good luck, and happy gaming!