Updated on September 16, 10:15 a.m. (GMT+8): Added relevant guides.

Tactical Stance is one of the new features introduced in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone.

It is a unique aiming mechanic that offers players a strategic alternative to traditional aiming down sights (ADS) and hipfire.

Modern Warfare 3 operator attempting to eliminate his opponent using a knife on Terminal map in ONE Esports' image for the article on Operator Kills
Credit: ONE Esports, Activision
What are Operator Kills in Modern Warfare 3? It’s easier than you think

Essentially, it serves as a middle ground between ADS and hipfire. This enables you to enjoy certain advantages of both mechanics without fully committing to either and encountering their respective drawbacks.

In this comprehensive ONE Esports guide, we delve into the benefits of using Tactical Stance, along with insights into its proper execution and strategic timing.

Advantages of using Tactical Stance

Tactical Stance MW3 in-game screenshot
Screenshot by Jeremiah Sevilla/ONE Esports

Tactical Stance allows you to hold your weapon at a more prepared position, offering several advantages.

Compared to hipfire, it tightens your bullet spread, increasing the chance of landing hits at close to medium range.

At the same time, you retain a faster movement speed compared to ADS, allowing for quicker strafing and target acquisition in close-quarter battles.

Modern Warfare 3 operator BBQ in ONE Esports' image for the best audio settings in MW3
Credit: ONE Esports, Activision
Best audio settings in Modern Warfare 3 to hear enemy footsteps clearly

Additionally, unlike ADS, which zooms in on your target, Tactical Stance maintains a wider field of view, giving you better situational awareness.

How to use Tac Stance in MW3 and WZ

By default, Tactical Stance activates by pressing down on the D-pad for consoles or the “V” key for PC while using ADS.

However, you have options to change its activation and behavior in the gameplay tab under the controller or keyboard and mouse settings.

Warzone best settings guide on controller, graphics, and audio
Credit: Activision, ONE Esports
Best Warzone settings guide: Controller, graphics, and audio

Regarding the activation of Tactical Stance, we suggest utilizing “ADS + Sprint” for controller users. For keyboard and mouse users, you have the flexibility to select your preferred method.

As for the behavior, we recommend choosing “Once” to facilitate seamless switching to ADS or hipfire as needed.

When to use Tac Stance

Tactical Stance excels in close to mid range combat situations where quick reflexes and target acquisition are important.

Operator Rocket shooting enemies on Scrapyard in ONE Esports' image for how to use burst fire mode in Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone
Credit: Activision, ONE Esports
How to use burst fire mode in Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone

It’s highly recommended that you use it to eliminate enemies when you are peeking from tight corners or entering a small area of the map. The improved hipfire accuracy and wider field of view give you an edge in surprise encounters.

You can also employ Tac Stance when your weapon is equipped with a high-magnification scope, and your target is not distant enough to necessitate ADS.

Furthermore, use it when you are defending objectives. It provides you with a balance between accuracy and awareness, enabling you to hold down objectives against multiple opponents.

A Quad engages in battle as featured in ONE Esports' image for the guide on how to perform Squad Assemble in Warzone
Credit: Activision, ONE Esports
How to perform Squad Assemble in Warzone — complete this weekly challenge easily

To enhance your proficiency with this mechanic, consider combining it with strafing, sliding, and jumping maneuvers.

Mastering the usage of Tactical Stance takes practice. You need to experiment in various scenarios to determine its optimal effectiveness

READ MORE: Do you need PlayStation Plus to play Warzone? Here’s the answer