That is due to the fact that many weapons were given quite major nerfs, most notably the popular Krig 6 assault rifle.
Also on the proverbial chopping block was the OTs 9; this SMG, which the developers describe as a "firecracker", has quickly become a favourite of many since its introduction in Season 4 Reloaded on account of its ridiculous fire rate and relatively low recoil.

Those days are somewhat over, though, after a nerf that saw its maximum damage range decrease by 6.2%. Now, this needn't spell the end for the OTs 9, though the developers do state they will continue to monitor the gun's performance; however, if you want to persist with the OTs 9 and get it back to its pre-Reloaded power, then we have a loadout/class setup just for you.
Best OTs 9 loadout for Warzone Season 5 Reloaded
This loadout is courtesy of YouTuber, JuiccyTV, who believes that the OTs 9 is still a top-tier SMG even with the damage range decrease, and we have to agree, this gun is all about getting up close and melting opponents and to that end, he has designed a loadout that should keep that happening in Season 5 Reloaded.

- Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
- Barrel: 8.1" Task Force
- Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
- Stock: Spetnaz Stock
- Magazine: VDV 40 Rnd Fast Mag
This loadout is quite standard for those that run an OTs 9, and there aren't many surprises here.
The GRU Suppressor helps control that vertical recoil while also giving muzzle flash concealment and is a must-have.
The 8.1" Task Force helps negate some of the weapon's nerfs, offering up 50% effective damage range and an increase of 6% damage.
Increase your shooting move speed and aim walking movement speed by attaching the Spetnaz Stock; the Tiger Team Spotlight will help to get sighted opponents onto your minimap.
- Read more: Warzone SMG tier list - Every submachine gun ranked from best to worst for Season 5 Reloaded
Last but not least is the VDV 40 Rnd Fast Mag, which increases the ammo capacity as well as reload times, keeping you in action for longer.
For more news and guides from Verdansk, check out our dedicated Call of Duty: Warzone section.