The PPSh-41 is one of the most recognizable submachine guns in the Call of Duty series. Its high rate of fire, large magazine capacity, and historical significance make it a fan-favorite weapon. This SMG has appeared in multiple installments, each iteration featuring unique characteristics and gameplay mechanics. Whether it’s dominating close-quarters battles in World at War or making a return in Black Ops Cold War, the PPSh-41 remains a staple of Call of Duty’s arsenal. Discover the history, stats, and best strategies for using the Call of Duty PPSh-41 across multiple games. Learn its strengths and how to master it.

How to Unlock the PPSh-41 in Black Ops 6

The PPSh-41 is a high-value unlock in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Players can acquire it in Season 2 by reaching page six of the battle pass. This requires claiming 22 rewards to unlock the page, followed by obtaining all seven rewards on that page to gain access to the weapon. Unlike some previous unlocks, the PPSh-41 does not require a paid battle pass, making it accessible to all players. For those looking for an instant unlock, purchasing the ‘Strange Abyss’ bundle grants the Reef Hunter variant of the PPSh-41 for 2,800 COD Points.

Origins and Early Appearances

Call of Duty & United Offensive

The PPSh-41 made its debut in the original Call of Duty and its expansion, United Offensive. As part of the Soviet arsenal, it was an excellent close-range weapon with a 71-round drum magazine. The fast fire rate helped counterbalance its lower damage per shot. In single-player, it was highly effective against grouped enemies, while in multiplayer, its strengths lay in its sustained fire and suppression.

Call of Duty 2

The sequel retained the high-capacity drum but introduced greater recoil. This adjustment balanced the weapon’s firepower, making burst firing a necessity at medium range. The PPSh-41 became more accessible in the campaign, allowing players to rely on it more frequently.

Rise to Fame: World at War and Beyond

Call of Duty: World at War

World at War cemented the PPSh-41 as an iconic Call of Duty weapon. With an astonishing 1,250 rounds per minute rate of fire, it shredded through enemies in both campaign and multiplayer. The gun’s presence in Zombies mode made it even more beloved, as it was capable of racking up points rapidly. Upgrading it via Pack-a-Punch transformed it into “The Reaper,” increasing damage, magazine size, and fire rate, making it one of the most effective weapons in the mode.

Black Ops and Black Ops III

The PPSh-41 resurfaced in Black Ops, notably in the “Project Nova” mission. It retained the characteristics from World at War but featured a 35-round box magazine instead of the signature drum. Black Ops III later reintroduced the PPSh-41 in multiplayer and Zombies, where it closely resembled its World at War counterpart.

Modern Resurgence

Call of Duty: WWII

In WWII, the PPSh-41 returned as a popular SMG with a slightly reduced fire rate of 722 RPM. Despite the decrease, it remained a powerhouse at close range. The weapon’s moderate recoil and clean iron sights made it effective even at mid-range when handled properly. Customization options like Extended Mags and Rapid Fire allowed players to modify its performance.

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

Black Ops Cold War gave the PPSh-41 a new level of versatility. The base magazine held 32 rounds, but attachments allowed it to extend to 71. Its 909 RPM rate of fire and reliable damage output kept it competitive in multiplayer. In Zombies mode, Pack-a-Punch converted it into the Grisly Reaper, further amplifying its effectiveness with increased ammo capacity and alternate ammo types.

Call of Duty: Vanguard

The PPSh-41 in Vanguard maintained its fast-firing identity but introduced a select-fire mode, allowing players to switch between full-auto and semi-auto. This version provided diverse customization through Gunsmith, enabling loadouts that favored accuracy, mobility, or pure firepower. In Zombies, it became The Reaper when upgraded, mirroring its World at War legacy.

Call of Duty: Mobile

With its introduction in Call of Duty: Mobile during the Heist update, the PPSh-41 continued its legacy. The mobile version retained its high rate of fire, making it a formidable weapon in close-quarters combat. However, its damage output was balanced to ensure fair gameplay, with recoil management being crucial to success.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Advantages

• High Fire Rate: The PPSh-41 boasts one of the fastest fire rates in the series, allowing for overwhelming pressure in close-range fights.
• Large Magazine Capacity: The 71-round drum provides sustained fire, reducing the need for frequent reloads.
• Strong Performance in Zombies Mode: The weapon excels at scoring points due to its rapid-fire capabilities and high ammo count.

Disadvantages

• High Recoil: The trade-off for its fire rate is increased recoil, making it difficult to control at long distances.
• Low Damage Per Shot: Despite its speed, the PPSh-41 often requires multiple hits to secure a kill compared to other SMGs.
• Ammo Consumption: The rapid fire can lead to frequent reloads, requiring players to be mindful of their ammo reserves.

Best Strategies for Using the PPSh-41

Multiplayer Tips

To maximize the PPSh-41’s potential in multiplayer, it is best to engage in close-range combat where its fire rate can be fully utilized. Attaching a Grip helps manage recoil, while Extended Mags ensures more bullets per engagement. Quickdraw and Reflex Sight enhance targeting speed and accuracy.

Zombies Survival

When playing Zombies, prioritizing ammo conservation is key. The PPSh-41 generates a high point yield, making it ideal for building up resources. Pairing it with Speed Cola reduces reload times, and upgrading it to “The Reaper” makes it one of the best weapons for high-round strategies.

Best PPSh-41 Loadout in Black Ops 6

The PPSh-41 excels in close-quarters combat, and its loadout should emphasize speed and aggression. A high recoil and rapid fire rate mean that controlling engagements is essential.

Recommended Loadout:

• Barrel: Short Barrel – Enhances sprint-to-fire speed and jump ADS speed.
• Magazine: Extended Mag I – Increases magazine capacity from 32 to 45 rounds.
• Stock: Light Stock – Boosts movement speed, ideal for fast-paced play.
• Laser: Strelok Laser – Improves hipfire to ADS accuracy.
• Fire Mods: Recoil Springs – Helps maintain control in chaotic gunfights.

This setup ensures that mobility remains high, allowing players to push aggressively while mitigating the impact of recoil. The Short Barrel helps maximize responsiveness, while the Extended Mag reduces the need for frequent reloads.

Best PPSh-41 Class in Black Ops 6

A well-balanced class complements the PPSh-41’s strengths by providing a backup weapon and necessary perks.

Recommended Class Setup:

• Secondary Weapon: Grekhova – A fully automatic pistol to finish off enemies.
• Melee: Cleaver – Offers a reliable close-range option.
• Tactical: Stim Shot – Allows quick healing during gunfights.
• Lethal: Combat Axe – Useful for finishing off enemies and can be resupplied.
• Field Upgrade: Scrambler – Disrupts enemy minimaps while moving aggressively.
• Perk 1: Dexterity – Reduces weapon motion when jumping, sliding, and diving.
• Perk 2: Assassin – Identifies enemies on a kill streak.
• Perk 3: Double Time – Increases Tactical Sprint duration.
• Specialty: Enforcer – Boosts movement speed and health regeneration upon kills.
• Wildcard: Perk Greed – Unlocks additional perk slots.

This class setup is designed for relentless aggression, keeping players mobile and difficult to track. Perks like Double Time and Dexterity enhance movement capabilities, while the Scrambler ensures that enemy tracking is disrupted, further aiding in survivability.

Conclusion

The PPSh-41 has left a lasting impact on Call of Duty, evolving through multiple games while maintaining its reputation as a high-speed, close-quarters beast. From its World War II origins to modern-day reimaginings, it remains one of the most exciting and effective submachine guns available. Whether in campaign, multiplayer, or Zombies, mastering the PPSh-41 offers a rewarding experience for any player.