Tac-Stance is a new aiming option that was introduced in Modern Warfare 3. Here’s exactly how the hip-fire and ADS hybrid works in the latest Call of Duty game.
At the top of several Modern Warfare 3 community wishlists was overhauling the game’s movement system. Sledgehammer Games delivered on several fronts to increase the pace of matches. Some examples include quicker mantling speeds, firing during and immediately and after sliding, and an increase in tactical sprint durations.
MW3 also marked the return of slide canceling, a fan-favorite movement mechanic first introduced in MW2019. The initial excitement for slide canceling quickly soured as players discovered a “horrible” delay after the animation. Sledgehammer Games responded by cutting down on delay.
With all eyes on other movement mechanics, players have yet to realize the potential of Tac-Stance. Let’s jump right into how to take advantage of the new feature.
What is Tac-Stance in MW3?
As explained aptly by a CoD blog post, Tactical Stance is a “perfect middle-ground between hip-fire and aiming down sights.” Players get the best of both worlds, as the feature provides a tighter bullet spread than normal hip firing and quicker mobility than ADS.
As described by the devs, Tac-Stance is ideal in close-quarter combat situations when close to enemies, specially designed to be used in an aggressive manner.
Tac-Stance balances mobility and accuracy, allowing for evasive maneuvers and aggressive engagements. It’s available on most weapons, including those carried forward from #MW2, and can be dynamically toggled anytime during gameplay.
— Sledgehammer Games (@SHGames) August 17, 2023
By default, you also fire in Tac-Stance while sliding, making shooting while sliding a more viable strategy. It’s important to note that the feature will take some time to get used to, as turning the weapon sideways to use canted iron sights is jarring at first.
As Sledgehammer themselves put it, “Tac-Stance balances mobility and accuracy, allowing for evasive maneuvers and aggressive engagements.”
But how do you enter Tac-Stance when not sliding?
How to use Tac-Stance in Modern Warfare 3

Players can decide for themselves how they want Tac-Stance to Activate. Options include Aim + Melee, Aim + Down, or off