The Season 2 update for Black Ops 6 and Warzone introduced several significant changes, particularly in multiplayer and Zombies. However, the battle royale meta has also seen a major shift—most notably, the once-dominant Jackal PDW SMG is no longer the powerhouse it used to be.

Previously, the Jackal PDW and XM4 defined a stale meta that had been in place since November. But with Season 2’s adjustments, several other weapons are now emerging as top contenders.

While the XM4 remains a reliable and popular choice, players are finding success with alternatives like the best AK-74 loadout or the underutilized Goblin Mk 2, which is quickly proving to be a force to be reckoned with.

As for SMGs, the Jackal is no longer the top choice for close-quarters combat, with several superior options now available. Sticking with the outdated meta could end up costing players crucial wins.

According to the Season 2 patch notes, the Jackal PDW was hit with significant nerfs, particularly to its damage range at short and medium distances. Bullet velocity has also been reduced, along with damage multipliers for both the upper and lower torso. These adjustments have led to a noticeable drop in performance, forcing players to rethink their loadouts.

The Changes are shown below:

Top Jackal Alternatives After the Nerf

C9

If you're looking for a solid replacement for the Jackal, there are three SMGs that can outperform it, further diversifying the meta.

First up is the C9. With the Season 2 update, this weapon received several buffs, including increased damage and damage range, faster ADS and sprint-to-fire speeds, improved bullet velocity, and a leg damage multiplier boost from 0.9x to 1x.

Here’s our recommended build:

• Muzzle: Compensator
• Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
• Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
• Magazine: Extended Mag II
• Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

PPSh-41

The latest SMG in the class, the PPSh has returned to Call of Duty and immediately found itself atop the meta rankings. Here’s how we deck out our best PPSh class:

• Muzzle: Compensator
• Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
• Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
• Magazine: Extended Mag II
• Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

KSV

The KSV is another strong option, benefiting from buffs that extended its damage range, making it more effective at medium distances. It also received improvements to ADS speed, sprint-to-fire time, and bullet velocity, enhancing its overall performance.

Here are the attachments we recommend:

• Muzzle: Compensator
• Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
• Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
• Magazine: Extended Mag II
• Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

Of course, this list isn’t comprehensive and doesn’t factor in personal preferences, playstyle, or weapon familiarity.

At the end of the day, the Jackal is still a viable weapon, but relying on it as an all-purpose SMG will put you at a disadvantage.

We highly recommend testing out some alternatives to find one that suits your playstyle. If you prefer aggressive, close-quarters fights on Rebirth Island, the PPSh is an excellent choice.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a well-rounded option that doesn’t rely as heavily on an AR for medium to long-range engagements, the C9 might be a better fit. Try them out and see which one works best for you before fully committing.