PUBG has evolved significantly over the years, with numerous updates reshaping the weapon meta time and time again. Some guns rise to the top, while others fall into obscurity. Whether you’re a casual player or grinding the leaderboards like pro players TGLTN and ChocoTaco, understanding the best weapons in the game will give you a major edge.
In this guide, we’ll break down the current weapon meta, focusing on world-spawn weapons only. No crate weapons here—just the best (and worst) guns you’ll find scattered across the battlegrounds.
Best Weapons in PUBG’s Current Meta
Assault Rifles (ARs)
These weapons remain the backbone of any solid PUBG loadout. The AUG has made its return to world spawns, and the Beryl continues to be a favorite for those who can handle its recoil.
- AUG – High damage, fast fire rate, and low recoil make this a dominant AR.
- Beryl M762 – Insanely powerful in close-range fights, but with brutal recoil.
- M416 – The long-time favorite, still reliable and versatile with attachments.
- ACE32 – A budget Beryl with better recoil control.
- SCAR-L – Not the best, but decent for mid-range combat.
Designated Marksman Rifles (DMRs)
DMRs offer a mix of precision and power, making them essential for mid-to-long-range fights.
- Mk12 – One of the best DMRs with minimal recoil and a fast fire rate.
- Dragunov – High damage but slow fire rate and significant recoil.
- SLR – Packs a punch, but its recoil makes it difficult for some players.
- QBU – Vikendi’s go-to DMR with excellent stability.
- Mini14 – A solid choice with high bullet velocity and easy control.
Submachine Guns (SMGs)
Perfect for close-quarters combat, these SMGs dominate in early fights.
- UMP45 – The king of SMGs, offering great damage and control.
- MP5K – Found on Vikendi, with an incredibly stable fire rate.
- MP9 – A fast-firing, low-recoil option, great in close combat.
- JS9 – A new addition with a controllable recoil pattern and great DPS.
Sniper Rifles (SRs)
For players who prefer long-range engagements, these bolt-action rifles remain crucial.
- Kar98k / Mosin Nagant – Practically the same gun, still decent for headshots.
- M24 – A slightly stronger version of the Kar98k, making it more desirable.
Shotguns
Shotguns remain situational but can be lethal in early fights and building-clearing scenarios.
- S1897 – A powerful pump-action shotgun.
- S686 – A double-barrel shotgun that rewards precise aim.
- O12 – A devastating semi-auto shotgun that shreds at close range.
Handguns
Pistols are often overlooked, but these can be viable in early fights.
- Deagle – A high-damage, high-recoil pistol that rewards accuracy.
- R45 – A decent revolver with quick reloads.
- R1895 – Hits hard but painfully slow reload speed.
Melee Weapons
- Pan – A PUBG legend, protecting you from bullets when slung on your back.
- Crowbar – Useful for opening special buildings on Vikendi.
- Pickaxe – A Rondo-exclusive item, allowing you to dig through certain areas.
Throwables
Grenades are a crucial part of PUBG, allowing for strategic plays.
- Frag Grenade – Always a must-have for clearing buildings.
- BZ Grenade – Great for area denial.
- Molotov Cocktail – The best way to force campers out of hiding.
- Smoke Grenade – Lifesaving in open areas (except on Vikendi, where Thermal Scopes counter them).
Other Noteworthy Weapons
- M249 – A deadly LMG with a massive magazine.
- Panzerfaust – A single-shot rocket launcher that wrecks vehicles.
- M79 Smoke Launcher – For long-range smoke support.
- Crossbow – Silent and deadly for stealth players.
Pro Loadout: What Does TGLTN Use?
TGLTN, one of PUBG’s top pro players, currently favors the AUG and Mk12 combo. These weapons offer a strong balance of power, accuracy, and fire rate, making them dominant choices in competitive play.
Worst Weapons in PUBG (Avoid These at All Costs)
Not all weapons are created equal. Some guns are just plain bad, either due to poor stats or impractical mechanics. Here’s what to avoid:
- Stun Gun – Has anyone ever successfully used this for anything useful?
- DP-28 – A slow-firing LMG with awful accuracy. At least it’s only on Erangel.
- S12K – A shotgun that feels like it shoots ping-pong balls.
- SKS – A once-decent DMR that’s now too slow, with terrible bullet drop.
- M16A4 – The lack of full-auto mode makes it hard to recommend over other ARs.
Final Thoughts
The PUBG weapon meta keeps evolving, but right now, ARs like the AUG and Beryl, along with the Mk12 DMR, dominate the game. Whether you’re playing casually or climbing the ranks, knowing which guns to prioritize (and which to avoid) can be the difference between victory and an early exit.
Happy hunting, and may your shots always hit their mark!
