Call of Duty can be a frantic game, especially on small maps. There’s a lot of running, bunny hopping, slide canceling, and more.
This might make you feel like using an LMG is not worth it.
However, in Modern Warfare 2 where movement is slower and more limited, this weapon class is much more viable.
The 556 Icarus is a great choice when it comes to those weapons, and ranks middle-of-the-pack in our MW2 LMG tier list.
That said, here is the best loadout for the 556 Icarus in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.
Best 556 Icarus Class Setup in MW2
- Barrel: FTAC Coldforge 16″ Barrel
- Laser: None
- Optic: None
- Stock: Demo Precision Elite Factory
- Underbarrel: FSS Sharkfin 90
- Ammunition: None
- Magazine: None
- Rear Grip: XTEN Grip
- Receiver: Forgetac APX
- Muzzle: Echoline GS-X Suppressor
A heavy weapon like the 556 Icarus is not great at short distances. Generally speaking, LMGs are not the best weapons for close-quarter combat.
That said, you can turn a heavy weapon into a deadly tool at medium to long ranges. Yet, you will need to have the right attachments to make it work.
Make sure that you take advantage of this weapon’s magazine. Like most LMGs in Call of Duty games, it takes a while for you to run out of ammo when you are using a 556 Icarus.
However, this also means your reload time is quite long, so you might want to use your secondary weapon when someone gets closer.
Best Secondary Weapon for the 556 Icarus
- Secondary Weapon: Any Pistol, SMG, or Shotgun
- Tactical Ammo: Stun Grenade
- Lethal: Frag Grenade
- Field Upgrade: Any
When carrying a heavy weapon for long-range combat, using an SMG as a secondary weapon is a reliable way to handle enemies up close.
Check the our guide on the best Lachmann Sub loadout if you decide to use an SMG.
Some players also like using shotguns for short-range combat, which is not a bad idea either.
In any case, if possible, don’t go for another heavy weapon. You will most likely need an alternative weapon that doesn’t hinder your movement speed.
When moving from one area of the map to another, you have to make sure you won’t be an easy target. You will also need to have a way to defend yourself in tight corridors, which is why an SMG is my first recommendation.
LMGs are good support guns due to the potential of long-lasting suppressive fire. Their TTK rivals that of an Assault Rifle, and their magazines last much longer, but they are much heavier than any rifle.
Best Uses for LMGs in Call of Duty
When you go for an LMG, you are trading versatility for suppressive power.
In other words, you lose fast Aim Down Sight Speed and Handling but gain the ability to hold down the trigger for much longer.
If you are not just playing for fun, keep a loadout with LMGs for larger maps. You probably won’t make the best out of the 556 Icarus in a tight map during a Team Deathmatch.
That said, you will notice that this kind of weapon shines much brighter in the Invasion and Domination game modes.
The damage, range, accuracy, and recoil control achieved with the recommended attachments make the 556 Icarus somewhat closer to an assault rifle.
Still, this weapon still is an LMG. You will have to aim more carefully and handle a stronger kick and harder to control recoil in exchange for the power of holding down the trigger for a long time.
