What is a Clean Kill in MW3?

Clean up on battlefield aisle.

MW3 still

Most Call of Duty eliminations unleash bloody messes with the countless sweet takedowns of opponents. However, some challenges forbid you from getting your hands dirty, specifically with the MW3 Clean Kill objective. It’s a feat that doesn’t necessarily have a description, so we’re here to explain it in detail.

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MW3 Clean Kills, explained

MW3’s Clean Kills are eliminations where you don’t take any damage from the target or other Operators. So, while you’re busy eliminating an enemy, make sure not to get hit by anyone else on the opposing side. This includes explosions, bullets, or any melee attacks. Unfortunately, the game won’t instantly notify you when a Clean Kill is initiated, so check the progress on the challenge to see if it worked:

MW3 Clean Kill challenge
Screenshot by Destructoid

As an avid Call of Duty player, I know how hard Clean Kills can be since shooting often puts a target on your back. One way I’ve found helpful is using Killstreaks and gear to mark the opposing sides’ positions. That way, it’ll reduce the risk of a surprise attack. UAV and Advanced UAV Killstreaks are excellent tools to use, as is the CCT Comms Vest (which shows any nearby enemy locations upon a kill).

Long-distance attacks probably work best for the Clean Kills in MW3, given that opponents are less likely to hit you. I suggest avoiding the more compact-sized maps like Stash House and Growhouse. It’s almost impossible not to get hit in smaller locations, so try out medium areas such as Highrise, 6 Star, and Greece.

Many challenges utilize Clean Kills to earn exclusive rewards. For example, MW3 weekly and camo challenges frequently require this elimination. So, stay alive while shooting the enemy to get those valuables in no time.

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Kristina Ebanez
Staff Writer - Kristina has been a video game lover ever since she saw Solid Snake get under that cardboard box in Metal Gear Solid. She continues to show off her love for gaming and has been writing about it for more than two years. Aside from the Metal Gear Solid series, she enjoys playing The Sims, Call of Duty, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Horizon Forbidden West, Minecraft, and many more.
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