Check out the best shotguns and MLS of Season 1

The Black Ops 7 Season 1 meta has clearly shown how close-range weapons remain essential in any fast-paced match. Between aggressive pushes, tight lane duels, and quick respawn swaps, shotguns and light machine guns remain mainstays for those looking to dominate the map through constant pressure. Each category brings its own style, but both share the same goal: always keep the enemy without space to react.

This guide brings together the most effective combinations for each situation, thinking about both mobility and immediate impact. Whether you prefer to take the fight head-on or control areas with cadence and consistency, here are the options that deliver the best performance of the season.

Akita

• Full bore Akita 12

• Cano security digit 12

• Strider handguard

• Venomous stock

• Redwell tactical laser

The Akita is, without exaggeration, the scariest hunting rifle of the season. Since it’s fully automatic, simply hold the trigger to clear anyone that appears in front of you. The ideal is to play aggressively, activating the executioner specialty with advantages focused on speed and recovery. The incentive becomes a mandatory element and, if we want to go further, the silent veil or active camouflage helps a lot to bypass and catch the enemy team off guard.

MK.78

• Purpose of ELO Deadly Tools

• A 762 Greaves silencer

• Skylance 15” hose

• Bowen Sentinel handle

• Fast feed belt

• Bowen push handle

• Charon light bollard

• 3 mw motion attack laser

The MK.78 needs the fire wildcard to really work, as LMGs are harder to fit into frenetic games like BO7. With eight accessories equipped, this becomes much more viable and consistent. On the plus side, lightness, opportunism and dexterity make everything smoother, and fervent also works well if you want to hold positions for longer.

Echo 12

• Choke modified by echo

• Ghostline 15” barrel

• Extraction stock

• EAM ignition handle

• Turnkey fast charger

The Echo 12 functions as a more stable shotgun option, focused on shots that hit hard without losing as much mobility. It works best when assembled with performance perks, as it depends on rapid swapping and constant repositioning. The boost helps keep pressure on the lanes and flanks, where it really shines.

M10 breacher

• Invasive precision choke

• Stable EAM adhesion

• LW skeleton stock

• Instinct laser set

• Pump rod

The M10 Breacher is that classic repeating rifle, but with a curious difference from the BO7. The shot can be charged, which improves damage and makes a big difference at close range. This works best with the Active Executioner Specialty, as you will always be close to your opponents. Stimulus is essential to survive the riskiest entries.

XM325

• Purpose of ELO Deadly Tools

• Compensator RL 7.62

• Flowguard handle

• Wessi quick belt

• Lucius 90 handle

The XM325 is a solid option for those who like light machine guns that balance cadence and control. With this assembly, it is light enough to follow the pace of matches and consistent over medium distance. The best advantages will depend on your style, but the scout specialty is generally the most effective for speeding up repositioning and maintaining an advantage in exchanges.