How to Unlock Akimbo in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

As a passionate Modern Warfare 2 player with over 12 days of in-game time, mastering akimbo pistols has been one of my proudest accomplishments. The dual wield perk transforms pistols into wrecking balls in close quarters. Here‘s an in-depth guide to unlocking akimbo for different pistols in MW2.

What is Akimbo and Why Unlock It?

The akimbo perk allows simultaneously equipping two of the same pistol. This grants increased firepower at the cost of weapon handling and accuracy. According to popular Call of Duty expert TheXclusiveAce, akimbo inflicts "the highest close range DPS in MW2" when mastered.

I can personally confirm that akimbo pistols absolutely shred enemies up close. The two main benefits are:

• Extreme close quarters damage output when landing shots
• Unique and enjoyable playstyle compared to traditional primary weapons

However, effectively using akimbo requires practice. You give up range and handling for raw damage. But the payoff of mowing down entire teams at close range makes grinding the unlock worthwhile.

Leveling Up to Unlock Akimbo Challenges

Before being able to attempt the akimbo challenges, you first need to reach certain weapon levels with pistols:

Gaining weapon XP can be earned in multiplayer by getting kills, assists, completing challenges, etc while an arm is equipped. Playing small map playlists with lots of engagements greatly speeds this up.

According to Ace, the Season 1 XP changes also boosted pistol leveling speed significantly. This was a major quality of life change that makes the akimbo grind more reasonable for casual players.

Completing Akimbo Challenges

Upon hitting the required weapon level for a pistol, its akimbo challenge unlocks. The challenge is the same for all pistols:

"Get 3 kills while using the Mo‘Money perk equipped in 5 different matches"

Mo‘Money gives increased cash rewards for kills, making it ideal for the challenge. Completing it unlocks akimbo for that specific pistol. So you must do this separately for every pistol you wish to use akimbo with.

Based on my experience, Small Map Moshpit or Shoot House 24/7 are perfect for quickly finishing these. Smokes, stuns, and flanking help find enemies and close distances. Completing akimbo challenges in just a few hours is possible this way.

Comparing Viable Akimbo Pistols in MW2 PvP

While akimbo can be equipped on all pistols, some fare better than others. According to testing from Ace and top Call of Duty stats tracker TrueGameData, the current meta akimbo choices are:

1. P890 – The fastest killing akimbo pistol. Extreme damage but limited range.
2. X13 Auto – More range and ammo with excellent TTK. Easier to use than the P890.
3. Basilisk – Highest one-shot kill potential and clean iron sights. Very unforgiving if missing though.

The P890 and X13 are likely the best starting points for newer akimbo users. Their faster fire rates give more room for error compared to the Basilisk‘s revolver.

No matter the pistol, making use of laser attachments like VLK LZR 7mW helps tighten bullet spread for more consistent damage. Perks like Double Time and Fast Hands also improve mobility and weapon readiness with akimbo.

The Intricacies and Excitement of Akimbo Pistols

While outrageously strong up close, akimbo still requires skill to master in MW2. Having two guns leaves you highly vulnerable when reloading, as the animation takes several seconds. Ammo capacity can also be chewed through rapidly if not careful with shots.

This gives balanced risk vs reward. The raw TTK and enjoyment of unleashing akimbo is offset by the attention needed to ammunition and positioning. Mastering movement and engagement choosing transforms you into a destructive force though.

Few things get my heart pounding like darting between cover and unleashing twin machine pistols at just the right moment. Securing a ruthless medal as the entire killfeed fills with your name simply never gets old. Akimbo certainly caters to an aggressive thrill-seeking playstyle.

Unlocking Devastating Dual Wield For Your Arsenal

Hopefully this guide has prepared you to unlock akimbo pistols in Modern Warfare 2! Summing up:

• Level up your chosen pistol to hit the unlock threshold
• Complete the Mo‘Money akimbo challenge
• Equip lethal close range attachments and perks
• Practice ammo awareness and flanking

Feel free to reference TrueGameData.com, TheXclusiveAce, and my own @MW2Slayer for more weapon statistics and loadout recommendations. Akimbo pistols take skill, but melt enemies with proper mastery. Now get out there and shred some lobbies!