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The Close Quarters DLC for Battlefield 3 introduces a new game mode: Gun Master. This mode is similar to the “Gun Game” mode introduced as a mod to Counter-Strike.

Here I will explain the game mode, then go into tips and strategy.

How does the Gun Master mode work?

All players are locked into using a single weapon. Everyone begins with a pistol and must get kills to advance to the next level. When a new level is reached, a new gun is equipped. There are a total of 17 levels – the first player to complete the 17th level wins, ending the round.

Some additional info:

Dying does not cause you to lose your progress.

Ammo is unlimited, but guns must be reloaded as usual.

unlimited, but guns must be reloaded as usual. Specializations, such as SPRNT, are unavailable in Gun Master.

Weapon attachments are set by the game mode and cannot be changed.

You’re equipped with a knife at all times, but getting a kill will only advance your own rank if you’re on the final level (17).

Killing a player with the knife instead of your main weapon with demote them to the previous level.

Levels 1-15 require two kills each.

Levels 16 and 17 (the M320 LVG and Knife) require one kill each.

This is a team-based mode; players are split between two sides. All teammates of the winning player are also credited with a victory.

You can earn points (XP) toward your next level, weapon unlocks, assignments, and ribbons/medals in the Gun Master mode. However, no points toward classes are given as you’re not allowed to select a class.

Weapon progression is as follows: 3 pistols -> 2 PDW’s -> 2 shotguns -> 2 carbines -> 2 assault rifles -> 2 LMG’s -> 2 sniper rifles -> grenade launcher -> knife. (Full Gun Master weapon and attachment list)

You can see your current level and kills towards the next level just above the minimap in the bottom left corner, as shown below.

The progress bar, shown below, tells you what level you’re on compared to all the other players. Your level is the one highlighted with a white box. This can be seen either when dead, or at the bottom of the screen while alive.

Battlelog shows the progress bar under the scoreboard. You’ll have the best shot of winning if you join at the start of the round (as in the upper part of the image below). As another option, you can join near the end of the round and wait a short while for the next round to begin.

Gun Master tips and strategy: