Black Ops 6 Knife Guide: Tips and Tricks for Close Combat
Image Credit: Activision, Call of Duty Black Ops 6
In Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the knife is back in a big way, but it’s not just a button-mash weapon like in previous Call of Duty titles. Now, the knife has become a permanent part of your loadout, and with a few key techniques, it can become one of your most powerful tools in close combat situations. But switching to it, especially for newcomers, can be tricky. Here’s an in-depth look at how to pull out your knife, when to use it, and why it’s worth mastering.
How to Equip Your Knife in Black Ops 6
Unlike previous games where the knife was a one-off melee hit, in Black Ops 6, the knife is a distinct weapon that you can pull out for quick kills. The difference this time is in the controls:
Switching to Your Knife: To equip your knife, press and hold the melee button. If you simply tap it, you’ll perform a melee strike with your current weapon instead, which might not be what you’re aiming for in a critical moment. Holding the button brings the knife out, letting you keep it ready for multiple quick slashes without switching back to your primary weapon after each hit.
Platform-Specific Controls:
PlayStation: By default, holding R3 will bring out your knife. If you’re using the Tactical controls preset, this changes to Circle.
Xbox: For Xbox players, holding RS is the default way to switch to your knife.
PC: On PC, you’ll need to hold the designated melee key (usually V unless customized).
With this new setup, you can really make the most out of melee. It lets you go full stealth or rely on the knife for quick, clean takedowns without having to switch back to your gun every time.
When to Use the Knife in Combat
The knife in Black Ops 6 is ideal for players who like to get close and personal. Here are a few scenarios where pulling out your knife can make all the difference:
Close-Quarters Combat: In tight spaces, like buildings or narrow alleyways, your knife can be a game-changer. Guns can be cumbersome in these settings, especially if you’re looking to stay off the radar. With your knife, you can take out enemies quickly and quietly.
Stealthy Approaches: For players who enjoy sneaking behind enemy lines, the knife is perfect for silent eliminations. Since melee attacks don’t make noise that alerts nearby opponents, your knife can be the ultimate stealth weapon. Just remember to equip it in advance to avoid fumbling in high-stress moments.
Finishing Moves: If you’ve weakened an opponent and they’re closing in, switching to the knife can help you finish them off before they can react. In many cases, it’s faster than trying to aim for that last shot with your primary weapon.
Pro Tips for Mastering the Knife in Black Ops 6
Mastering the knife in Black Ops 6 takes practice, but with a few tips, you can make it an effective part of your arsenal:
Hold for Full Switch: Make sure you’re fully holding down the melee button when you want to switch to the knife. Quick taps will only make a melee attempt with your gun, which could get you killed if you’re expecting to slash rather than strike.
Memorize the Default Button Layout: Knowing your platform’s button for switching to the knife will save you in chaotic close-range encounters. If you use custom controls, make sure you know which button you’ve mapped for quick and easy access.
Use It for Quick Kills in High Traffic Areas: If you’re patrolling areas with heavy foot traffic, keeping your knife equipped can give you an edge when enemies get too close for comfort. Quick knife kills keep your visibility low, preventing those noisy gunshots from giving away your position.
Practice Switching Quickly: Timing is everything. Practice pulling out the knife smoothly so it becomes muscle memory. This way, when you’re face-to-face with an opponent, you can react instinctively and cut down your reaction time.
Combine with Tactical Movement: Pairing the knife with tactical sprint or crouch-walking lets you move swiftly and silently. If you’re approaching enemies from behind, the knife combined with crouched movement is deadly, allowing you to execute takedowns without being detected.
Knife Limitations and What to Watch For
While the knife is powerful, it has limitations. It’s a close-range weapon, so if you’re dealing with an enemy who spots you from a distance, you’ll want to switch back to your gun. Remember, drawing your knife puts you at a disadvantage if an enemy is outside of arm’s reach, so use it strategically.
Be aware that in tactical game modes where sound matters, having your knife ready can be an advantage. But if you’re running into groups of enemies, go in prepared with a backup plan in case you need to switch quickly.
Why the Knife is Worth Using in Black Ops 6
In Black Ops 6, the knife is a solid tool that rewards your close-range combat skill and with some practice you’ll find it can be just as effective as any primary weapon in the right situations.
Mastering your knife technique in Black Ops 6 will make you more adaptable in close quarters when you’re in a pinch or out of ammo and ultimately a tougher target to predict.
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