S.W.A.T.

10 Best Episodes of S.W.A.T. - Season 3

S.W.A.T. is a CBS show that first aired in 2017. It follows a lieutenant torn between loyalty to the streets and duty to his fellow officers when he's tasked to run a highly-trained unit that's the last stop for solving crimes in Los Angeles. Now in its 7th season, the show has delivered some incredible episodes that deserve recognition. For those who want to know the best of the best, we've ranked the top S.W.A.T. episodes and compiled them into this list.

The episodes are ranked based on a variety of factors, including entertainment value, character development, and impact on the show's overall storyline. Each episode is given a score from 0 to 10, with 10 being the best. The episodes are listed in order from highest to lowest score, so you can easily find the best of the best.

So if you're looking for the ultimate S.W.A.T. viewing experience, look no further. Here are the top ranked S.W.A.T. episodes, guaranteed to provide you with the best entertainment possible.

Written by Sophie and last updated on apr 20, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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S.W.A.T. - S3E13

#15 - Ekitai Rashku (Season 3 - Episode 13)

Hondo, Deacon, Tan and Commander Hicks engage in a manhunt across Tokyo when they escort an extradited fugitive to Japan, where he escapes local custody. Back in Los Angeles, the rest of SWAT search for any contacts the criminal cultivated while hiding out in Los Angeles, and Street isolates himself from the team as he deals with family issues.

The episode was rated 7.74 from 819 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E8

#14 - Lion's Den (Season 3 - Episode 8)

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The SWAT team engages in tense negotiations with a family that takes a local officer hostage when they’re evicted from their home due to eminent domain. Also, Hondo reflects on his personal life choices as he helps his father through a medical crisis and Chris’ relationship with Kira and Ty reaches a critical juncture.

The episode was rated 7.75 from 790 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E15

#13 - Knockout (Season 3 - Episode 15)

Deacon’s second job working private security at a high-profile boxing match places the SWAT team in the middle of a kidnapping case when a prize fighter’s wife is abducted. Also, Hondo’s young charge, Darryl, becomes frustrated with his lack of paternal rights regarding his infant son, and Tan prepares to introduce his critical mother to his girlfriend, Bonnie.

The episode was rated 7.75 from 789 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E2

#12 - Bad Faith (Season 3 - Episode 2)

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Lt. Lynch pulls the SWAT team’s focus when the mayor tasks her with enacting a departmental review of the squad right as they pursue the unstable and dangerous fugitive leader of an infamous doomsday cult. Meanwhile, Luca asks the team to invest in his new passion project, a Guatemalan food truck.

The episode was rated 7.75 from 957 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E14

#11 - Animus (Season 3 - Episode 14)

The SWAT team searches for a link between the seemingly unconnected victims of a lone gunman targeting women. Also, Luca assists with a homicide investigation in his neighborhood; Lieutenant Lynch pushes Chris to do a news interview; and Hondo reaches a juncture in his relationship with Nichelle.

The episode was rated 7.76 from 812 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E1

#10 - Fire in the Sky (Season 3 - Episode 1)

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The SWAT team works with Lieutenant Piper Lynch, a senior LAPD Hollywood Division officer, when the mayor assigns her to oversee city departments joining forces to stop a serial bomber using drones as detonation devices. Also, just as Hondo settles into legal guardianship of his teen charge, Darryl, his home life becomes more complicated when his estranged father unexpectedly moves in.

The episode was rated 7.79 from 1024 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E3

#9 - Funny Money (Season 3 - Episode 3)

The SWAT team bumps heads with Lt. Lynch when she signs them up for an off-book undercover operation to take down a local gang printing counterfeit money, without giving them enough time to prepare for the mission. Also, tensions rise at home for Hondo as his parents’ strained relationship becomes worse.

The episode was rated 7.79 from 933 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E5

#8 - The LBC (Season 3 - Episode 5)

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Street reconnects with his estranged foster brother, Nate, to help a joint investigation between SWAT and the Long Beach Police Department when criminals steal a mass arsenal of LAPD assault rifles. Also, Hondo finds himself at odds with his father over the elder man’s declining health, and Luca is overwhelmed when the entire team reconsiders becoming investors in his food truck,

The episode was rated 7.80 from 862 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E19

#7 - Vice (Season 3 - Episode 19)

The SWAT team searches for an escaped convict who plans to kill Tan and every member of law enforcement who helped put him in prison years ago. Also, Chris comes face to face with internal corruption when she arrests a young man who is given a free pass due to his powerful father, and a surprise visit by Hondo’s sister, Winnie, puts pressure on his relationship with Nichelle.

The episode was rated 7.81 from 729 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E20

#6 - Wild Ones (Season 3 - Episode 20)

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In the heart-pounding episode of S.W.A.T. titled "Wild Ones," the SWAT team finds themselves on the trail of a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde duo. As the couple embarks on a daring chase while hunting for valuable chest pieces worth millions, the team must race against time to bring them to justice. With adrenaline-pumping action and unexpected turns, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Meanwhile, Hondo and Darryl face a surprising visit from Darryl's ex-girlfriend, who arrives with his young son, adding emotional complexity to the intense manhunt unfolding. The personal dynamics at play bring a new layer of tension to the already high-stakes situation, leaving viewers eager to see how these relationships will evolve amidst the chaos.

Adding to the drama, Luca grapples with his own internal struggles as he helps his mentee, Kelly, navigate challenges. As Luca confronts his fear of failure in his requalification process to return to active duty, viewers are taken on a journey of resilience, growth, and the true meaning of teamwork. Don't miss this gripping episode of S.W.A.T. that promises to deliver thrills, emotions, and unforgettable moments.

The episode was rated 7.82 from 730 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E21

#5 - Diablo (Season 3 - Episode 21)

In the episode "Diablo" of S.W.A.T., tension runs high as the SWAT team embarks on a mission to track down drug smugglers who crash a plane in a quiet Los Angeles suburb, causing chaos as they flee the scene. Partnering with the DEA initially, the operation takes an unexpected turn, leaving the team to navigate a complex situation with high stakes.

Meanwhile, Hondo finds himself grappling with personal relationships as he seeks to make amends with Nichelle, adding an emotional layer to the intense action unfolding. Luca, on the other hand, wrestles with feelings of anxiety as he faces the prospect of returning to the field, showcasing the human side of the brave officers who put their lives on the line.

Amidst the adrenaline-pumping events, Deacon faces a challenging dilemma when called upon to address a group of recruits about mental health. Struggling with his own uncertainties, Deacon's internal conflict adds a thought-provoking subplot to an episode filled with thrills and emotional depth. As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of action, relationships, and inner struggles, keeping them on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

The episode was rated 7.84 from 695 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E11

#4 - Bad Cop (Season 3 - Episode 11)

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In this intense episode of S.W.A.T. titled "Bad Cop," Street finds himself torn between his loyalty to the SWAT team and his deep bond with his foster brother, Nate, whose involvement in a criminal scheme threatens to shatter their lives. As Street grapples with this moral dilemma, the SWAT team is on the hunt for a dangerous gang that resorts to deadly tactics while carrying out heists at card casinos across the city.

Amidst the high-stakes operations, Buck approaches Deacon with a proposal to team up on a private security venture, adding another layer of intrigue to the already action-packed storyline. However, as the team races against time to bring down the ruthless crew terrorizing the city, tensions rise and loyalties are tested, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion that will leave viewers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

While some viewers may find Street's character arc predictable and divisive, the gripping narrative and adrenaline-fueled sequences in this episode make it a must-watch for fans of the show. With unexpected twists and a cliffhanger ending that promises more excitement to come, "Bad Cop" delivers a compelling mix of drama, suspense, and camaraderie that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for the next episode, as the SWAT team faces new challenges and the repercussions of their actions unfold in unexpected ways.

The episode was rated 7.88 from 825 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E4

#3 - Immunity (Season 3 - Episode 4)

In the episode "Immunity" of S.W.A.T., Deacon and the SWAT team find themselves facing a dangerous drug cartel that puts Deacon's family at risk. The stakes are high as they work to take down the cartel's leader, a former rebel force leader who operates openly through a local flower market. The action-packed pursuit of justice takes a personal turn for Deacon, adding a layer of tension and emotion to the mission.

Meanwhile, Hondo receives distressing news about his father, injecting a sense of vulnerability into his usually strong and composed demeanor. As he grapples with this personal revelation, the team must stay focused on their dangerous assignment, highlighting the balancing act between personal struggles and professional responsibilities that the characters face in each episode.

Additionally, Tan finds himself facing scrutiny from an internal review board due to his girlfriend's actions. This subplot adds a touch of personal drama to the overall intense narrative, showcasing the complexities of maintaining relationships and professional integrity in the high-pressure environment of law enforcement. Despite the challenges and obstacles faced by the team, the episode ultimately delivers a satisfying conclusion as justice prevails and the characters navigate the intricate web of their personal and professional lives.

The episode was rated 7.89 from 897 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E18

#2 - Stigma (Season 3 - Episode 18)

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In the intense episode "Stigma" of S.W.A.T., Hondo and the SWAT team are faced with a race against time to locate and save Buck, their former unit leader, as he veers dangerously off the grid with possible self-harm intentions. Through poignant flashbacks, viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the search for Buck, intertwined with one of the team's most challenging missions to date. This gripping narrative not only delves into the high-stakes rescue operation but also sheds light on the often unspoken mental and emotional struggles that come with being part of the SWAT unit.

While some viewers expressed disappointment in the episode's focus on Buck and the team's emotional dynamics rather than the central "case" at hand, others found the deep dive into the characters' vulnerabilities compelling. As each team member seeks counseling and engages in candid discussions about the hidden burdens they carry while serving in SWAT, the episode offers a raw and honest portrayal of the toll that such high-pressure roles can take on individuals. Despite differing opinions on the episode's pacing and emphasis, one thing remains clear – the exploration of mental health and the complexities of teamwork in "Stigma" leave a lasting impact on both the characters and the audience.

Through moments of vulnerability and resilience, "Stigma" serves as a poignant reminder of the human side behind the tactical gear and high-octane missions of the SWAT team. As the intricacies of each team member's struggles are brought to the forefront, viewers are invited to reflect on the sacrifices and challenges that come with serving in law enforcement. With its blend of heart-wrenching moments and adrenaline-pumping action, this episode of S.W.A.T. is sure to resonate with fans and spark important conversations about mental health and camaraderie in high-stress environments.

The episode was rated 7.89 from 759 votes.

S.W.A.T. - S3E12

#1 - Good Cop (Season 3 - Episode 12)

In this gripping episode of S.W.A.T. titled "Good Cop," we see Hondo and the rest of the SWAT team coming together to support Street in a heart-pounding mission. Street puts everything on the line to help his foster brother Nate break free from a dangerous drug ring, showcasing the strong bond between the team members and the lengths they will go to for family.

As tensions rise and risks escalate, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride as Street navigates the treacherous world of the drug ring to save his brother. The episode is filled with intense action sequences, emotional moments, and unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

With the team rallying behind Street and facing challenges head-on, "Good Cop" delivers a powerful message about loyalty, courage, and the true meaning of family. As fans of the show continue to be drawn in by the characters' compelling storylines, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impact and keep viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next in the world of S.W.A.T.

The episode was rated 7.91 from 815 votes.

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