Best MK2 Carbine Loadout in Modern Warfare (2019)
October 30, 2026 · Updated November 10, 2026 · 2 min read
Original-game build
Original-game guide from the October 2026 editorial snapshot. Accessible sources confirm the attachment names; this is not a claim of a majority consensus or current Warzone compatibility.
Source check: 2026-11-10 · 1 independent source families
One source family supports this setup; a wider consensus is not established.
- Rear Grip
- Stippled Grip Tape
- Laser
- Tac Laser
- Optic
- Aim-Op Reflex Sight
- Barrel
- FSS 18.0" Factory
- Perk
- Sleight of Hand
On this page
Source review — 10 November 2026: This is an original-game loadout from the dated guide below. Accessible source pages confirm the listed weapon attachment names. Perks and equipment retain their original dated attribution; the source review does not imply hands-on testing or a fresh balance-patch analysis.
The MK2 Carbine is the Modern Warfare (2019) marksman rifle the guides we read like most. Dexerto called it the best marksman rifle in the game in November 2019, and Esports Tales called it an absolute machine in April 2020, placing it in Tier S. Use Esports Tales' newer set, dated 13 April 2020. Later balance changes are not reflected.
Best MK2 Carbine loadout
Esports Tales lists this set (13 April 2020). Dexerto's 2019 build confirms the Stippled Grip Tape but differs elsewhere, so opinion is split on the other slots.
| Slot | Pick | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Grip | Stippled Grip Tape | 2 frames less ADS time; may cut sprint-to-fire by 5-10% |
| Laser | Tac Laser | 2 more frames off ADS; better aim-walking steadiness |
| Optic | Aim-Op Reflex Sight | A personal pick; VLK 3.0x for longer-range modes |
| Barrel | FSS 18.0" Factory | Slightly more damage range and velocity, with the lowest ADS penalty of the barrels |
| Perk | Sleight of Hand | Listed as a strong default, giving 6 bullets in the chamber |
Why this build works
Four frames off ADS from two parts is what makes the gun so fast to use, and the barrel adds range with the smallest penalty on offer. The author says one-shot kills come easily while running, which is why the build spends so much on movement-friendly aiming. Sleight of Hand keeps you firing longer without stopping.
How to play it
Stay mobile, aim for one-shot headshots and keep moving between lanes. For longer modes, change the optic to the VLK 3.0x. Esports Tales also suggests an aim-walking speed stock or ADS speed stock as alternatives to the perk.
Alternative setups
Early class (Dexerto, 6 November 2019): VLK 3.0 Optic, Compensator, Stippled Grip Tape, FFS MK2 Sport Comb, Recon. Dexerto says this gives faster ADS, more range and slightly better mobility. This is the earliest build here and predates a lot of balance work.
Sources
- Esports Tales: Best Marksman Rifles attachments in CoD Modern Warfare and Warzone
- Dexerto: Best guns for each weapon class in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Checked: 30 October 2026. Reflects multiplayer balance as of April 2020.