Fans of Battlefield 5 appreciate the game for its interesting narrative takes on a World War 1 story. However, a lot of Battlefield aficionados also love Battlefield 5 for its innovative take on multiplayer. In turn, players can have a much more realistic take on FPS titles from a historical perspective. Moreover, new modes such as Firestorm and Grand Operations spice up the tactical and narrative potential of Battlefield's multiplayer.

Interestingly, fans interested in dominating multiplayer need to go beyond mastering just the mechanics behind the modes. In fact, players might want to pay attention to how to maximize multiplayer's four classes. After all, it seems the Recon, Support, Medic, and Assault classes all have unique takes on the "stereotypes" associated with them - particularly with their preferred loadouts.

Updated on November 26, 2023, by Rhenn Taguiam: Players who want a change of pace from the near-future Battlefield 2042 should consider getting back to the intense era of World War 2 with Battlefield 5. Realism becomes a focus in the FPS, especially when its four Classes not only resemble their real-world counterparts in terms of functionalities but even their weapons shoot and reload in similar ways. While players know the right primary weapon can accommodate different play styles per class, identifying the right sidearm can also change how players survive emergencies. Among top-rated sidearms include a heavy-hitting revolver, a decently handling pistol, and variations of fast-firing secondaries that help in either single-target or multi-target skirmishes. In this regard, which sidearms are best used per class loadout?

12 Assault: M1907

Damage: 25.1

The M1907 easily dominates other Assault Rifles for its high maximum damage (15-25.1) and its rate of fire (770 RPM). Its only downside would come in the form of full-auto recoil, especially when firing at continuous bursts. Similar to the StG 44 and Sturmgewehr 1-5, it has a steep drop-off and can suffer from low velocity at further rounds - limiting the M1907 at close-to-mid range.

Due to these downsides, the M1907 is best used in short incursions at mid-range. Players need to pay closer attention to its magazine size and the need to reload multiple times in engagements. Thankfully for players, Specializations can help give the M1907 bonuses for hip-fire accuracy (left path) and increased handling and accuracy (right path).

Assault: M1907’s Best Sidearm: P08

Due to the heavy recoil and limited distance of the M1907, the P08 Pistol can compensate for the Assault Class weapon’s combat setbacks. While boasting the same reload speed as its Battlefield 1 counterpart, more realistic ADS makes tracking much trickier with the P08. However, the pistol retains one of the fastest reload speeds in the game, allowing this gun to aid the M1907 in case of emergencies against multiple foes.

11 Assault: StG 44

Damage: 25.1

Assault soldiers who want to stay closer to the action can appreciate the all-rounder potential of the StG 44 across all ranges. By default, the StG 44 suffers as the second-slowest assault rifle in terms of full-auto rate of fire. In turn, this means the StG 44 does have a slower time-to-kill in terms of close encounters. However, its default 30-round magazine does enable players to do significant damage, with the right accessories and equipment. Essentially, the StG 44 becomes an excellent companion for quick close-range to medium-range encounters, while performing decently over long range.

In turn, players can transform StG 44 into a deadly weapon with the right Specialization. Slings and Swivels (Rank 1), Enhanced Grips (Rank 2), and Custom Stock (Rank 4) all boost the StG 44's overall accuracy. Meanwhile, Lightened Stock (3) ensures players still move fast while firing this rather heavy weapon.

Assault: StG 44’s Best Sidearm: P08

Despite the StG 44’s incredible firepower, the assault rifle still suffers from its mediocre firing rate at full-auto compared to its weaker-damaging counterparts. However, the P08 helps the StG 44 compensate for the speed department. Its faster reload speed can make the P08 an emergency sidearm should the StG 44 go empty in crucial situations. Moreover, should the StG 44 take too much time to pull off a reload, packing the P08 could get players out of heavy engagements and into a safe enough location to recover.

10 Assault: Gewehr 43

Damage: 45

Assault soldiers who want to use massive firepower can appreciate the Gewehr 43's damage potential. Among semi-auto rifles, the Gewehr 43 ties itself with Karabin 1938M and Selbstlader 1916 for high base damage. At 103m, the Gewehr can take out foes with three body shots - and can kill with two medium-range hits, provided one is a headshot. Moreover, its sheer high bullet velocity lets the Gewehr 43 perform more efficiently compared to other semi-automatic rifles. Unfortunately, its slow reload and low magazine capacity make it difficult to handle.

However, players can optimize the Gewehr 43 by speeding up its slow components. Quick Aim (Rank 1) and Enhanced Grip (Rank 2) further increase the Gewehr's accuracy. Meanwhile, Detachable Magazine (Rank 3) and Recoil Buffer (Rank 4) compensate for unpleasant recoil and reload speed.

Assault: Gewehr 43’s Best Sidearm: Repetierpistole M1912

The Gewehr 43’s potential for single-target devastation is only held back by its rather low mag capacity and even slower reloads, making the Repetierpistole M1912 a speed-oriented sidearm of choice. While boasting similar stats to the P08, the M1912 packs a much higher rate of fire, making it ideal for single-target fights. Should the Gewehr 43 fail to kill an opponent in a few hits, the fast-firing M1912 could finish the job.

9 Support: M30 Drilling

Damage: 6.3

Support troopers who want to secure the kills in close range could rely on the M30 Drilling to do the job properly. Unlike other shotguns, players can use the select fire function, allowing them to use both their shotgun barrels and their single rifle barrel. Thanks to this system, the Drilling uses two separate ammo pools. Essentially, the M30 Drilling can become both a shotgun and a sniper at a moment's notice. Unfortunately, its offensive potential is hindered by its two-round limit.

However, players can maximize Drilling's favorable components with the right use of Specializations. For instance, Heavy Load (Rank 2) can further increase the Drilling's range at the cost of the rate of fire, something that can be balanced with Trigger Job (Rank 1) which increases the fire rate maximum. Meanwhile, Penetrating Shot (Rank 3) gives the Drilling a spread-fire potential, with Internal Choke (Rank 4) further increasing its shock spread. Theoretically, the M30 Drilling can serve as a deadly weapon against groups, or against enemies unfortunate enough to try to support the Drilling's target.

Support: M30 Drilling’s Best Sidearm: P38 Red Devil

Given the one-two-punch firepower of the M30 Drilling, Support Classes may benefit from the added firepower of the P38 Red Devil. While boasting a similar performance as the P08, the Red Devil does suffer from a bit of jankiness in terms of ADS. However, the Red Devil compensates for this setback with a slightly faster empty reload, making this a faster-paced sidearm for emergencies, especially when players find the M30 Drilling’s limited mag size a hindrance in firefights.

8 Support: Model 37

Damage: 11.2

Support troopers who want to lay down hell on enemies can count on Model 37. Despite its appearance as a pump-operated shotgun, players can actually slamfire the weapon - hold the fire button to keep on shooting, as though it's automatic. Due to this feature, Model 37 easily boasts one of the best fire rates out of all shotguns in the game. Moreover, given its high per-shot damage, it can cause quite a lot of death in such short proximity. Sadly, its strong damage does come with a range caveat, as damage drops heavily for enemies beyond 7 meters.

However, players can compensate for these disadvantages by pumping up Model 37's sheer potential. Extended Magazine (Rank 3) enables the Model 37 to last longer in firefights. Meanwhile, Quick Reload (Rank 1) and Slings and Swivels (Rank 2) allow players to reload faster and get more mobile without suffering damage penalties. Players need such a benefit for close-range dependent weapons like the Model 37. Lastly, Heavy Load (Rank 4) boosts the Model 37's range at the cost of the rate of fire, something it can take given its already-high fire rate.

Support: Model 37’s Best Sidearm: Repetierpistole M1912

Despite the Model 37 boasting a punch-after-punch slamfire feature, they can opt out of the Shotgun when facing enemies retreating from a heavy firefight and finish the job with the Repetierpistole M1912. The faster firing rate of the M1912 and its capability to fight mid-range allows it to become an optimal finisher when the Model 37’s range limitations can hinder its overall damage potential.

7 Support: FG-42

Damage: 25.1

The FG-42 holds the distinction of being the second-best weapon in terms of time-to-kill across the LMG Category, behind the BAR M1918A2 with its Fast ROF enabled. Regardless, the FG-42 boasts low magazine capacity but with the highest rate of fire. As such, the FG-42 tends to rely on quick reloads and suffers from poor control in the middle of engagements. In the right hands, the FG-42’s unpredictable recoil can become deadly when facing multiple opponents.

Interestingly for players, the FG-42 is the only Support weapon that can equip a Bayonet. In terms of Specializations, the left path can boost hip fire accuracy, vertical recoil, and ADS. Meanwhile, the right path improves general accuracy and decreases horizontal recoil, making mobile engagements more plausible.

Support: FG-42’s Best Sidearm: M1911

Should the FG-42’s crazy recoil end up with players missing out on their damage options, they can always send themselves up close and personal to enemies with the M1911. At first glance, the M1911’s slow firing rate as a pistol can make it a jarring pair to the much faster FG-42. However, players who want to transition from spray-firing to more precise shooting can rely on the massive damage capacity of the M1911, being able to kill up close with only three shots when aimed correctly.

6 Medic: Suomi KP/-31

Damage: 25.1

Medics who want a more aggressive battlefield approach might appreciate the tactical advantage of the Suomi KP/-31. Despite being the Medic's starting submachine gun, it vastly outperforms other SMGs in terms of rate of fire. It also boasts the quickest time-to-kill for all SMGs. Unfortunately, players do need to balance the Suomi's killing potential with its massive recoil, especially when hiring automatically. Plus, its 20-round capacity makes it fall short in extended firefights. Thankfully, players can tinker with Specializations to their advantage.

Upgrades allow players to circumvent some of the Suomi KP/-31's mediocre magazine size and heavy recoil. Opting for Custom Stock (Rank 2) and Recoil Buffer (Rank 4) adds accuracy and reduces vertical recoil. Meanwhile, Extended Magazine (Rank 2) remains a safe pick to increase its overall firepower. Moreover, going for Slings and Swivels (Rank 1) for faster weapon-switching ensures players can fall back to their Sidearm in case of emergencies.

Medic: Suomi KP/-31’s Best Sidearm: MK 6 Revolver

Since the Suomi KP/-31 likely encourages Medic Class players to stay up close and personal, failing to kill enemies due to its recoil could still give room for the MK 6 Revolver to do the job. Despite its limited magazine size, its 50 Max Damage and ability to do kills with two body shots and one headshot should surprise enemies who think an empty Suomi leaves the Medic unprepared.

5 Medic: Tommy Gun

Damage: 25.1

Medics who want to swing into action with an iconic weapon can find it in no other than the Tommy Gun itself. Players who want a change from the Suomi but still enjoy similar performance can opt for the M1928A1 instead. Its 20-round capacity, short time-to-kill, and high fire rate let the Tommy Gun become a great companion for hit-and-run practitioners.

Moreover, players can further enhance the Tommy Gun's performance for faster and more efficient mobile engagements. For instance, Medics should aim to even out the Tommy Gun's disadvantages by maximizing its best qualities. Extended Magazine (Rank 3) increases the Tommy Gun's ammo count to 50. Meanwhile, Quick Aim (Rank 1) and Custom Stock (Rank 2) improve the Tommy Gun's overall accuracy. However, the Tommy Gun can shine best with the Recoil Buffer (Rank 4), which can heavily reduce horizontal recoil. That way, Medics can enjoy fast-and-loose encounters without losing their targets in the middle of a chase.

Medic: Tommy Gun’s Best Sidearm: M1911

Given the capacity of the Tommy Gun to facilitate faster-paced engagements, Medic Class players who love getting up on their enemy’s faces could secure the kill with the M1911. Players can easily circumvent the Sidearm’s damage drop-off by staying in close range, a distance they can capitalize with the Tommy Gun’s 20-round spread. Alternating between the fast-paced but lower-damaging SMG and the slower-firing but high-impact Sidearm makes for a more well-rounded arsenal.

4 Medic: ZK-383

Damage: 25.1

The ZK-383 boasts one of the best accuracy stat across SMGs, thanks to its bipod access. When used, the ZK-383 gives players high stability when deployed. To add to its accuracy supremacy, the ZK-383 has low recoil and rate of fire. As such, the ZK-383 is theoretically a better performer at ranged incursions with a rather middling damage profile. Of course, this limited damage profile can make the Medic vulnerable in short-range encounters.

Thankfully, players can drastically improve the ZK-383’s performance with Specializations. Perks such as Quick Reload, Light Bolt, Quick Aim, and Lightened Stock (left path) can boost the SMG’s performance in short range. Meanwhile, High Velocity Bullets, Extended Magazine, Custom Stock, and Barrel Bedding (right path) can further improve the SMG’s sustainability and accuracy.

Medic: ZK-383’s Best Sidearm: P08

Due to the distance specialization of the ZK-383, it’s easy for the Medic Class player to feel vulnerable should enemies get the jump on them, making the P08 an ideal Sidearm for backup. Should they fail to secure the kill at range with the ZK-383, an enemy will likely swoop in to finish off the Medic during their reload panic. In this case, a quick switch to the P08 should give players enough time to regroup while dishing out short-to-midrange firepower at a decent speed.

3 Recon: Model 8

Damage: 52.1

The Model 8 serves as one of the first unlockable weapons in the Recon set, but it still boasts great killing power. It boasts the fastest rate of fire in its default setting across all Self-Loading Rifles, which can be further upgraded through Specializations. It can get a two-shot body kill within 50 meters - requiring at least three at further distances. With this in mind, the Model 8 does work best in terms of short-ranged and mid-ranged incursions.

Perhaps its only disadvantage lies in its five-round magazine, requiring multiple reloads. Specializations such as stripper clips can increase reload speed, albeit this gets disabled via equipping Medium or Long-Range Scopes.

Recon: Model 8 ’s Best Sidearm: P08

Considering the Model 8’s capacity to quickly kill foes with a few shots at mid-range, its stopping power could be complemented by the speed of the P08. Should the Model 8 fail to kill enemies from a distance, it’s likely the rifle’s Recon Class user has gotten the attention of that opponent and their squad members. In these situations, players can rely on the P08 to aid them in fighting multiple enemies who try to close the gap, or at least give them enough time to rush to a new vantage point.

2 Recon: Krag-Jorgensen

Damage:60

Recons in Battlefield 5 need a reliable tool to scout and eliminate enemies from a distance, and the Krag-Jorgensen performs decently as a sniper rifle for this purpose. Unlike other bolt-action sniper rifles, the Krag has the lowest maximum damage number for its shots. However, despite its rather middling statistics, its low-max damage values remain consistent across all ranges. In turn, the Krag-Jorgensen becomes an easy-to-handle weapon that can still score one-hit headshot kills to unfortunate souls.

Moreover, Specializations can boost the Krag's efficiency even further. Quick Aim (Rank 1) speeds up ADS time by 33%, while Custom Stock (Rank 2) improves aim while moving - effectively making the Krag effective for high-stakes combat. Moreover, Machined Bolt (Rank 3) makes it much easier to switch to a secondary weapon for emergencies, while Bipod (Rank 4) essentially enables Recons to become snipers whenever the moment calls for it.

Recon: Krag-Jorgensen’s Best Sidearm: Repetierpistole M1912

While the Krag-Jorgensen has the potential to one-shot enemies from afar despite its low damage output, the Repetierpistole M1912 is a more practical Sidearm choice compared to thematic heavy-hitters such as the M1911 and the MK 6 Revolver. This is due to how the M1912 meshes well with the Krag-Jorgensen’s lower damage by its faster rate of fire. Should the Krag-Jorgensen fail to secure the kill on a target, continuous fire with the M1912 could help get the job done.

1 Recon: Gewehr M95/30

Damage: 80

Recons with a knack for less movement and more aiming will appreciate the speed the Gewehr M95/30 offers. Despite its lowered rate of fire, the Gewehr M95/30 remains one of the best snipers in the game for its inherent damage potential. Essentially, the Gewehr M95/30 outclasses other weapons in its class in terms of maximum damage. After all, it suffers drop-offs only at around 30-meters. However, this range alone serves its purpose as this allows Recons to eliminate wounded enemies who try to escape.

At its core, the Gewehr M95/30 enjoys a faster reload that isn't affected even by long-range optic accessories. Players can improve this performance further with Specializations. Quick Reload (Rank 1) enables the Gewehr M95/30 to reload at an even faster rate. Meanwhile, Slings and Swivels (Rank 2) increases weapon-switch and switching-fire speed, enabling Recons to switch weapons at a moment's notice. Machined Bolt (Rank 3) increases the Gewehr's lower rate of fire, while Variable Zeroing further improves the weapon's long-range sniping potential.

Recon: Gewehr M95/30’s Best Sidearm: MK6 Revolver

Due to how the Gewehr M95/30 allows Recon Class specialists to take enemies from afar without being noticed, the MK6 Revolver makes for a decent deterrent when other opponents try to jump the gun on them. The disadvantage of long-distance optics equipped with the M95/30 can be circumvented with the MK6’s short-range specialty, quickly disposing of enemies who try to kill them up close so they can regroup and hide in another spot.