Top Warzone SMG replacements for MP-40 nerf: Type 100, PPSh, Owen Gun loadout strategies and advanced tips
Understanding the MP-40 Meta Shift
The Call of Duty: Warzone mid-season update brings significant changes to weapon balance, with the dominant MP-40 facing planned nerfs that will reshape close-quarters combat dynamics.
Warzone’s mid-season adjustments target the MP-40’s overwhelming popularity, creating opportunities for previously overlooked SMGs and close-range weapons to emerge as new meta contenders.
The MP-40 established itself as Warzone Pacific’s premier close-range option through exceptional versatility and minimal recoil. Its dominance stems from both ground loot performance and customized loadout capabilities that outperform competing weapons in most engagement scenarios.
With January’s update signaling nerfs to both the Bren LMG and MP-40 SMG, players need prepared alternatives. While long-range Bren replacements have been discussed, the close-range void requires different strategic considerations and weapon characteristics.
Effective close-range weapon selection prioritizes mobility and damage output above all else, followed by fire rate, magazine capacity, and recoil management. Understanding these priority factors helps identify which weapons can genuinely replace the MP-40’s role in your loadout rotation.
Primary SMG Replacements: Type 100, PPSh, Owen Gun
Three standout SMG alternatives demonstrate the potential to claim the MP-40’s position: the Type 100, PPSh-41, and Owen Gun. Each brings distinct handling characteristics and optimal engagement ranges that cater to different player preferences.
The Type 100 offers remarkable configuration flexibility, allowing players to emphasize either maximum damage output or extended magazine capacity based on their playstyle needs. This adaptability makes it suitable for both aggressive pushing and defensive positioning.
Conversely, the PPSh-41 specializes in hipfire dominance with specific attachment combinations that create devastating close-quarters performance. Its popularity has surged thanks to highlight-reel gameplay demonstrations from skilled players.
Uhhh… might need to take a shower after seeing this @Destroy_215 clip 🤮
Hipfire PPSh is absolutely filthy in Warzonepic.twitter.com/Novn3pXyY4
— Dexerto Esports (@DexertoEsports) January 10, 2022
The Owen Gun distinguishes itself through superior recoil control compared to other SMG options. This stability advantage enables effective engagement at intermediate distances where most SMGs typically struggle, providing unique tactical flexibility.
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Alternative Close-Range Options
Beyond the primary three contenders, several additional weapons deserve consideration for close-range dominance. Secondary SMG options include the Sten and newly introduced Welgun, while non-traditional choices like the AS44 assault rifle and Einhorn Revolving shotgun offer specialized solutions.
The Sten provides balanced performance across all metrics without excelling in any particular area, yet has gained traction through community endorsement on social platforms. Its consistency makes it a reliable if unspectacular choice.
The Welgun, introduced during Vanguard’s Season 1.5 update, received professional validation from respected analyst JGOD, highlighting its combination of fire rate and manageable recoil as key advantages for user-friendly performance.
New Welgun is very nice in Vanguard and Potential to be very good in Warzone based on the fire rate and recoil which are huge for ease of use. pic.twitter.com/VulwWyxgOf
— James – JGOD (@JGODYT) January 12, 2022
For players seeking unconventional approaches, the AS44 configured for close-quarters combat demonstrates impressive hipfire accuracy, as showcased by streamers like Swagg. The Einhorn Revolving shotgun remains a formidable option since it avoided nerfs in the recent update, maintaining shotgun superiority in extreme close-range situations.
Advanced Playstyle Strategies
Mastering the transition from MP-40 to alternative weapons requires understanding advanced movement techniques and attachment optimization. Successful players adapt their approach based on which replacement weapon they select.
For Type 100 users, focus on strafing speed and aim-down-sights time improvements to maximize its versatility. The PPSh benefits from slide-canceling and jump-shot techniques that complement its hipfire strengths. Owen Gun players should practice controlled aggression, using its stability to win fights at ranges where opponents struggle.
Attachment selection varies significantly between these options. The Type 100 performs best with either the 5.6″ Shrouded Barrel for mobility or 8″ Kurz Barrel for damage range. PPSh builds should prioritize the 14.9″ Empress Barrel and 71-round Drum Mag for sustained hipfire pressure. The Owen Gun excels with the Hockenson 142mm Rapid Barrel and 9mm 60-round Drums.
Map awareness dictates which replacement weapon to use. Smaller Caldera areas like Peak and Capital favor the PPSh’s hipfire dominance, while larger spaces such as Fields and Beachhead benefit from the Owen Gun’s extended effective range. The Type 100 serves as an excellent all-purpose option for players who frequent varied terrain.
While these weapon recommendations provide solid foundations, the evolving meta means players must remain flexible. Additional mid-season adjustments could elevate different close-quarters options, so maintaining multiple leveled alternatives ensures competitive readiness.
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