The Ultimate Guide to Getting Longshot Kills in Black Ops 7

Longshot kills are the bane of every camo grinder’s existence. You’re halfway through mastering your favorite weapon, working toward that elusive mastery camo, when suddenly you hit the longshot challenge—and progress grinds to a halt. Unlike straightforward headshot or elimination challenges, longshots require specific positioning, map knowledge, and a fundamental change in how you approach gunfights in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

If you’re staring at a challenge that demands 50+ longshot kills with a weapon you’ve been using at close range the entire time, don’t worry. This comprehensive guide will break down exactly what longshots are, the precise distance requirements for each weapon class, and most importantly, the strategies and loadouts that make grinding these frustrating challenges as painless as possible.

What Exactly Is a Longshot Kill?

Let’s start with the fundamentals, because the game doesn’t explain this clearly.

Longshot Definition: A longshot kill is an elimination where the distance between you and your target at the moment of the kill exceeds a specific threshold determined by your weapon class. When you achieve this, you’ll see a “Longshot” medal appear on your screen, confirming the kill counted toward your challenge.

Key Points:

• Distance is measured in meters from you to the enemy
• The requirement varies significantly by weapon class
• Distance is calculated at the exact moment of elimination, not when you start shooting
• Moving closer mid-fight can invalidate a longshot even if you started far away
• No visual indicator shows when you’re at longshot range (you learn through experience)

Why Longshots Matter: Longshot kills are required for:

• Weapon mastery camos (unlocking progressively difficult camo tiers)
• Prestige calling cards and emblems
• Challenge completion for XP and rewards
• Completionist satisfaction (bragging rights)

For most weapons, you’ll need anywhere from 25 to 75 longshot kills depending on the specific camo challenge tier. That’s a significant time investment if you’re not approaching it strategically.

Longshot Distance Requirements by Weapon Class

Understanding the exact distance threshold for your weapon class is critical. Here are the specific requirements:

Submachine Guns (SMGs)

Longshot Distance: 30 meters

This is the shortest longshot requirement, which makes sense given SMGs’ close-range specialization. However, 30 meters is still significantly beyond most SMGs’ effective range, making these among the most challenging longshots to complete.

Challenge:

• Most SMGs experience severe damage falloff by 30 meters
• Bullet velocity is low, requiring significant leading of targets
• Recoil becomes difficult to control at this distance
• You’re often outgunned by ARs and sniper rifles

Example Weapons:

• Dravec 45
• Ryden 45K
• Carbon 57 (returning BO2 weapon)

Assault Rifles (ARs)

Longshot Distance: 38 meters

ARs fall in the middle ground—challenging but reasonable. 38 meters is within most ARs’ effective range if built correctly, making these some of the more manageable longshot grinds.

Challenge:

• Moderate recoil control required
• Bullet velocity is adequate for most scenarios
• Damage falloff is present but manageable
• Competitive against other long-range weapons

Example Weapons:

• XM4
• AK-47
• Peacekeeper MK1 (BO2 Classic)

Tactical Rifles / Marksman Rifles

Longshot Distance: 38 meters

Same requirement as ARs, but these weapons are naturally better suited to the task due to their precision-focused design.

Advantage:

• Higher damage per shot
• Better accuracy at range
• Often semi-auto or burst fire for controlled shots
• Designed for exactly this distance

Example Weapons:

• M8A1 (particularly effective)
• DMR variants
• Other marksman rifles

Light Machine Guns (LMGs)

Longshot Distance: 38 meters

LMGs share the AR requirement but have unique characteristics that can make longshots easier or harder depending on the specific weapon.

Consideration:

• High ammo capacity (sustained fire capability)
• Often higher recoil (requires control)
• Slower handling (less mobile playstyle required)
• Excellent damage retention at range

Sniper Rifles

Longshot Distance: 50+ meters

Sniper rifles have the longest longshot requirement, but ironically, these are often the easiest longshots to complete because snipers are designed specifically for extreme-range engagements.

Advantage:

• One-shot kill potential (no sustained accuracy needed)
• Designed for long-range combat
• 50 meters is a comfortable range for snipers
• Most maps have abundant 50+ meter sightlines

Example Weapons:

• VS Recon (DSR-50) (BO2 Classic)
• Other sniper variants

Check our best sniper loadouts guide for optimization tips.

Shotguns

Longshot Distance: Variable (typically 12-15 meters)

Shotguns have the shortest requirement because their effective range is so limited. However, getting shotgun longshots is paradoxically difficult because you’re operating at the absolute edge of the weapon’s capability.

Extreme Challenge:

• Damage falloff makes kills difficult
• Inconsistent pellet spread at range
• Often requires hardcore mode (covered below)
• Most frustrating longshot grind for many players

Pistols

Longshot Distance: ~30 meters (similar to SMGs)

Secondary weapons have moderate requirements but limited effectiveness at those ranges.

For detailed pistol optimization, see our best pistol builds guide.

The Hardcore Mode Advantage

This is the single most important tip for efficient longshot grinding:

Why Hardcore Changes Everything

Hardcore Mode Characteristics:

• Reduced base health (30% of core mode)
• No health regeneration
• Minimal HUD (no minimap by default)
• Friendly fire enabled
• Same damage falloff mechanics (critical detail)

The Longshot Benefit:

While damage falloff still exists in hardcore, the dramatically reduced health pool means weapons that would require 6-8 shots to kill at longshot range in core mode might only need 2-3 in hardcore. This is transformative for:

SMGs in Hardcore:

• Core mode: 7-8 shots to kill at 30 meters (nearly impossible)
• Hardcore mode: 2-3 shots to kill at 30 meters (very manageable)

ARs in Hardcore:

• Core mode: 5-6 shots to kill at 38 meters (challenging)
• Hardcore mode: 1-3 shots to kill at 38 meters (easy)

Shotguns in Hardcore:

• Core mode: Multiple pellets required at range (inconsistent)
• Hardcore mode: Single pellet can secure kill (much more reliable)

Hardcore Best Practices

Advantages:

• ✅ Dramatically lower TTK at range
• ✅ Forgiving of damage falloff
• ✅ Spray-and-pray becomes viable
• ✅ Complete longshots much faster

Disadvantages:

• ❌ You die just as fast (requires defensive positioning)
• ❌ Friendly fire risks (teammates can kill you accidentally)
• ❌ Reduced HUD makes awareness harder
• ❌ Different meta (need to adjust playstyle)

Strategy for Hardcore Longshots:

1. Find your sightline (long lane or objective view)
2. Post up defensively (don’t expose yourself)
3. Pre-aim common routes (enemies will appear)
4. Fire quickly (you don’t need sustained accuracy)
5. Reposition if overwhelmed (don’t challenge close-range)

Hardcore is the secret weapon for longshot challenges. If you’re struggling in core modes, switch to hardcore and watch your progress accelerate.

Best Game Modes for Longshot Kills

Not all game modes are created equal for longshot grinding. Here’s the tier list:

S-Tier (Best Options)

Domination:

Why It’s Perfect:

• Predictable enemy movement toward and around flags
• Static objectives that enemies must approach
• Long matches providing many opportunities
• Large player counts (more targets)

Strategy:

• Position yourself overlooking B flag from range
• Watch common approach routes to A or C flags
• Maintain longshot distance while covering objectives
• Enemies will come to you

Hardpoint:

Why It’s Excellent:

• Rotating objectives force enemies into predictable locations
• Time-based defense means enemies must push the hill
• Known spawns based on objective location
• High-traffic chokepoints near hardpoints

Strategy:

• Learn hardpoint rotations on each map
• Position at longshot range from the upcoming hardpoint
• Pre-aim entrances before enemies arrive
• Rotate with the hardpoint

A-Tier (Good Options)

Control:

Attack/defend format creates sightline opportunities similar to Domination, with the added benefit of limited lives making enemies more cautious (easier to hit).

Ground War (if available):

Large-scale modes with massive maps naturally create abundant longshot opportunities, though finding consistent sightlines can be challenging due to chaos.

B-Tier (Situational)

Team Deathmatch:

Can work on larger maps but enemy movement is unpredictable. Better than nothing but inefficient compared to objective modes.

Kill Confirmed:

Similar to TDM—enemies move erratically and you need to collect tags (often forcing you out of position).

C-Tier (Avoid for Longshots)

Search and Destroy:

One-life format means limited opportunities per round. Too slow for efficient longshot grinding.

Free-for-All:

Complete chaos with no predictable enemy patterns. Difficult to set up effective longshot positions.

Best Maps for Longshot Kills

Map selection is almost as important as game mode. Here are general characteristics to look for:

Ideal Map Characteristics

Long Sightlines: Maps with extended lanes or corridors that naturally create 30-50+ meter engagements.

Elevated Positions: High ground overlooking objectives or choke points where you can engage from safety at range.

Predictable Traffic: Areas where enemies must funnel through to reach objectives, creating consistent target opportunities.

Reduced Close-Quarters: Maps with fewer tight corners and rooms that force close engagements.

Map Examples (Black Ops 7)

Note: Specific map names may vary, but look for these archetypes:

Large, Open Maps:

• Crossroads-style maps with long lanes between objectives
• Satellite-like maps with open spaces and minimal cover
• Any maps labeled “large” or featuring vehicle combat

Three-Lane Maps with Long Lanes:

• Traditional three-lane design with extended sightlines down each lane
• Raid-style maps (if returning from BO2)
• Express-type layouts

Avoid:

• Nuketown (too small, constant close-quarters)
• Combine (tiny, CQB-focused)
• Any map labeled “small” or “close-quarters”

Map-Specific Positioning

General Strategy:

1. Load into a match on your chosen map
2. During first life, explore to find the longest sightlines
3. Identify which objectives these sightlines overlook
4. For subsequent lives, rush to these positions early
5. Hold the position and farm longshots

Pro Tip: In Domination, the lane between A and C flags often provides the longest sightlines on three-lane maps. Position yourself at one end looking toward the other.

Optimal Weapon Attachments for Longshots

Attachment selection can make or break your longshot efficiency. Here’s what to prioritize:

Universal Priorities

Muzzle: Suppressor (Optional but Recommended)

Benefits:

• Stays off minimap (enemies don’t immediately know your position)
• Slight range increase on some suppressors
• Allows sustained positioning without immediate retaliation

Consideration: May reduce bullet velocity (makes leading targets harder)

Optic: Long-Range Scope

Why It Helps:

• Better target acquisition at distance
• Zoom helps with precise aiming
• Reticle options for range estimation

Recommended:

• 3x-4x magnification for ARs/SMGs
• Higher magnification for marksman rifles/snipers

Don’t over-magnify on SMGs—too much zoom makes tracking difficult.

Barrel: Range-Extending Options

Critical for Longshots:

• Increased bullet velocity (bullets reach target faster)
• Improved damage range (less damage falloff)
• Better accuracy (tighter spread at distance)

Trade-off: Often reduces mobility or ADS speed (acceptable for longshot grinding)

Underbarrel: Recoil Control

Essential for Sustained Fire:

• Foregrips reduce vertical and horizontal recoil
• Allows sustained fire at range (multiple shots more likely to land)
• Critical for SMGs and high-recoil weapons

Recommended:

• Vertical foregrip for vertical recoil
• Combined grips for both vertical and horizontal

Rear Grip: ADS Speed (Optional)

Benefit: Faster target acquisition when enemies appear unexpectedly

Lower Priority: Less important than range/recoil for longshots specifically

Stock: Strafe Speed (Optional)

Benefit: Maintain accuracy while moving slightly (avoiding sniper fire)

Lower Priority: Mobility matters less when posted up

Ammunition: Standard or High-Velocity

High-Velocity Rounds: If available, dramatically improve bullet travel time at range

Magazine: Extended (Highly Recommended)

Why: Longshot attempts often require more bullets than optimal kills. Extended mags prevent running dry mid-engagement.

Class-Specific Builds

SMG Longshot Build Example:

• Optic: 3x Scope
• Muzzle: Suppressor
• Barrel: Maximum range barrel
• Underbarrel: Foregrip (recoil control)
• Magazine: Extended mag

Focus: Maximize range and control since SMGs naturally struggle

AR Longshot Build Example:

• Optic: 4x Scope
• Barrel: Range/velocity barrel
• Underbarrel: Foregrip
• Rear Grip: ADS speed
• Magazine: Extended mag

Focus: Balanced approach enhancing natural AR strengths

Sniper Longshot Build:

Honestly, just use your normal sniper build. Longshots are natural for snipers. See our sniper guide for full optimization.

Optimal Perks and Equipment for Longshots

Recommended Perks

Ghost (Recon Perk): Stay off UAVs while holding your longshot position. Prevents enemies from immediately knowing where you’re sniping from.

Cold-Blooded (Recon Perk): Invisible to thermal scopes and targeting systems. Helps avoid counter-sniping.

Tactical Mask (Strategist Perk): Reduces stun/flash effectiveness. When enemies throw utility at your position, you can still aim.

Engineer (Recon Perk): See enemy equipment. Spot claymores or trophy systems enemies place to defend approaches.

Combat Specialty

Recon Combat Specialty:

Perfect for longshot grinding because:

• Leave no death skulls (enemies don’t know exactly where you’re positioned)
• See direction of closest enemy on respawn
• HUD pulses for enemies outside view

Check our Combat Specialties guide for full details.

Equipment

Lethal: Claymore

Place behind you or covering flank routes. Protects your longshot position from sneaky flankers.

Tactical: Smoke Grenade

Block enemy sightlines when you need to reposition or escape. Can also obscure their vision of your location.

Field Upgrade: Trophy System

Deploy near your position to destroy incoming grenades/equipment that would dislodge you.

Advanced Longshot Strategies

The Spawn System Advantage

How Spawns Work in Objective Modes:

Spawns are influenced by:

• Objective positions (teams spawn away from captured objectives)
• Teammate locations (spawn near teammates when safe)
• Enemy pressure (spawn flips when team pushes too far)

Exploiting for Longshots:

1. Learn spawn influence zones for each objective
2. Position at longshot range from likely spawns
3. Don’t push forward (maintains spawns in front of you)
4. Farm enemies as they spawn and push objectives

Example (Domination):

• Your team holds A and B flags
• Enemies spawn near C flag
• Position yourself 38+ meters from C flag approaches
• Enemies pushing toward B walk into your sightline
• Maintain position, don’t cap C (keeps spawns predictable)

The Pre-Aim Technique

Method:

1. Identify high-traffic chokepoint at longshot range
2. ADS pre-aimed at head level on the chokepoint
3. Wait for enemies to walk into your crosshair
4. Fire immediately when they appear
5. Minimal aiming required (they walked into your shot)

Best Locations:

• Doorways enemies must use
• Corners they peek around
• Objective entry points

Requires:

• Patience (boring but effective)
• Map knowledge (knowing where they’ll appear)
• Trigger discipline (don’t give away position prematurely)

The Longshot Trade-Off

Accept That You’ll Die More:

When grinding longshots, you’re not playing optimally for KD or win rate. You’re:

• Positioning suboptimally (for longshots, not map control)
• Using potentially suboptimal attachments (range over handling)
• Playing passively (holding positions vs. aggressive play)

This is okay. Longshots are a temporary grind toward a larger goal (mastery camos). Accept the KD hit during this period.

Hardcore vs. Core Decision Matrix

Use Hardcore When:

• ✅ Weapon is SMG or shotgun (dramatically easier)
• ✅ You’re comfortable with lower TTK (you die fast too)
• ✅ You understand hardcore pacing
• ✅ Progress is stalling in core

Use Core When:

• ✅ Weapon is sniper or marksman rifle (already one-shot)
• ✅ You’re unfamiliar with hardcore (learning curve)
• ✅ Making reasonable progress already
• ✅ You prefer the core experience

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Playing Regular Modes Normally

Don’t play your regular aggressive style while trying for longshots. Adapt your playstyle specifically for the challenge.

Mistake 2: Using Close-Range Loadouts

If your weapon is built for CQB, you’re handicapping yourself. Rebuild specifically for longshots.

Mistake 3: Choosing Small Maps

Nuketown might be great for headshot grinding, but it’s terrible for longshots. Map selection matters enormously.

Mistake 4: Moving Too Much

Find your position and hold it. Constantly roaming reduces your longshot opportunities.

Mistake 5: Trying on Core Mode (SMGs/Shotguns)

Seriously, just go to hardcore for these weapon classes. You’ll save hours of frustration.

Mistake 6: Ignoring Spawn Logic

Understanding spawns lets you predict enemy movement. Random positioning hoping for longshots is inefficient.

Mistake 7: Leaving Hardcore Too Soon

Once you’re in hardcore making progress, stay there until the challenge is complete. Switching between modes breaks rhythm.

Tracking Your Progress

In-Game Challenge Tracker:

• Check your progress in the weapons menu
• Camo challenges show exact count (e.g., “35/50 Longshots”)
• Medals during gameplay confirm successful longshots

Session Goals: Set realistic targets:

• “I’ll get 10 longshots this session”
• Breaks the grind into manageable chunks
• Provides sense of progression

Time Estimates:

In Hardcore with Good Positioning:

• SMGs: ~10-15 longshots per hour
• ARs: ~15-20 longshots per hour
• Snipers: ~20-30 longshots per hour

In Core (Non-Optimal):

• Roughly half the above rates

Integration with Overall Progression

Longshot challenges are typically mid-to-late in the camo progression:

• Early challenges: Eliminations, headshots
• Mid challenges: Longshots, critical kills
• Late challenges: Double kills, streaks

Strategy: Don’t tackle longshots until you’ve maxed your weapon level and unlocked optimal attachments. Grinding longshots with suboptimal attachments wastes time.

For complete progression guidance, see our level unlocks guide and prestige planning.

Platform-Specific Considerations

Console Players:

• Controller aim at range is harder than mouse
• Use aim assist to your advantage (it works at longshot ranges)
• Consider lower sensitivity for steadier long-range aim

PC Players:

• Mouse precision helps with longshot accuracy
• Higher FOV can make distance judgment harder
• Adjust settings for optimal performance

Split-Screen Note: If playing split-screen, reduced visual clarity makes longshots harder. Solo play recommended for camo grinding.

Performance Optimization

Stable performance helps with long-range accuracy:

• Consistent frame rates for smooth tracking
• Low input lag for precise aim
• Stable connection to ensure hits register

Check our optimization guide and lag fixes if experiencing issues.

Patience and Positioning

Longshot kills represent one of the more frustrating challenges in Black Ops 7, but they’re entirely manageable with the right approach. The keys to success are simple:

The Formula:

✅ Know your distance requirement for your weapon class
✅ Play hardcore mode for SMGs, shotguns, and struggling weapons
✅ Choose objective modes (Domination, Hardpoint) on large maps
✅ Build for range (barrels, scopes, recoil control)
✅ Find your position and hold it patiently
✅ Exploit spawns and predictable enemy movement

Mindset Shift:

Stop treating longshots like regular gameplay. This is a specific grind requiring specific tactics. You’re not trying to win matches or maintain KD—you’re farming a challenge. Once you accept this and optimize accordingly, progress accelerates dramatically.

Time Investment:

Expect to spend 2-4 hours per weapon on longshots if you’re doing it correctly. That might sound like a lot, but consider:

• Improper approach can take 10+ hours of frustration
• Hardcore mode cuts time nearly in half
• Good positioning is the difference between 5 longshots per match and 15

The Payoff:

Once you complete longshots, the remaining challenges (usually double kills or streaks) feel easier by comparison. You’ve conquered the most tedious grind, and mastery camos await.

Now grab that long-barrel attachment, queue up hardcore Domination on a large map, find your sightline overlooking B flag, and start farming those longshots. Your mastery camo is waiting on the other side of this grind.

For more Black Ops 7 challenge guides and weapon optimization, explore our weapon loadout collection, crossplay settings, and complete progression systems.