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InCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Scatter Mines are electronic reconnaissance devices. When deployed, they create a cluster of smaller mines that detonate once an enemy approaches. The explosion is not lethal and will merely stun the target for a second.
This guide will teachModern Warfare 3players how Scatter Mines work and when they unlock in both multiplayer and Zombies mode. Gamers will also receive strategic tips on how to deploy them effectively.
Updated on May 14, 2025, by Mohsen Baqery: Scatter Mines have been nerfed in MW3. They now function as audio tripwires that reveal nearby enemies. The stun effect of these mines has been reduced, making them less effective at stopping or bothering fully equipped targets. Despite this, Scatter Mines remain an underrated piece of tactical equipment in MW3, as they can improve most stealth-oriented loadouts. This article has been updated to introduce one such loadout to help snipers be aware of their surroundings and stay alert while hunting down enemies.
How Do Scatter Mines Work?
When deployed, Scatter Mines scan for nearby enemies and detonate upon detecting them. These tactical mine clusters don’t kill enemies but, instead,reveal their location with a hit marker on the display. The downside is that Scatter Mines won’t mark the detected enemy on the map; players must memorize the deployment location to track the stunned opponent.
How to Unlock the Scatter Mine
InModern Warfare 3’s multiplayer, players will need tolevel up to Military Rank 18to unlock the Scatter Mine. Once obtained, it can be accessed from the loadout menu — under the Tactical Equipment section.
Reach Lv. 18
A cluster of detection mines that reveal the enemy’s location.
Unlike Field Upgrades, tactical gadgets such as Scatter Mines have a limited supply. Once depleted, they must be acquired by looting enemies or refreshing loadouts.
After unlocking Scatter Mines, a Daily Mission might require players to get three Operator hits with this equipment. To complete this mission, players have to detect three enemies using Scatter Mines.
How to Get Scatter Mines in MW3 Zombies
Scatter Mines are available inthe Zombies modefrom the get-go. Players will need tofind them inloot boxes, retrieve them from enemy drops, or earn them as contract rewards.
The Best Loadout for Scatter Mine
Scatter Mine works best in a sniper loadout focused on stealthiness. To create such a class, equip the Engineer vest, Marksman gloves, Lightweight boots, Ghost T/V Camo gear, and Bone Conduction Headset. For the primary and secondary weapons, the KATT-AMR and the Renetti are reliable options.
How to Use the Scatter Mine Effectively
The best perks to pair with Scatter Mines inanMW3loadoutareCovert Sneakers, Ghost T/V Camo, and Bone Conduction Headset. These items minimize the combat noise, allowing for better target acquisition and sneaky attacks.
Players are also advised to equip Scatter Mines in maps with dense structures. Some ideal locations are Highrise, Invasion, Scrapyard, and Favela.
