Audi
Well-Known Member
G’day privileged fuckers.
Because I think CS:GO is the best damn thing ever, I thought I’d write a little piece on it.
There are so many weapons in this game, and it’s not always apparent what they do. And when you’ve only got 45 seconds to make a choice as to what you wanna buy, you need to know what’s right for the job, and your budget.
So here’s a run-down on all of the weapons in the game.
Disclaimer: I am in no way an expert on the game. I’m not hugely good at it myself. Counter-Strike is one of those franchises (or perhaps, the franchise) where you get ridiculously, artistically skilled players coming out of the woodwork. So before anyone bites off my balls, there we are.
Additionally, all stats are right for Casual mode. Reward amounts are doubled in Competitive mode, and players in either mode have 100 health (so anything above 100 damage is a fatal shot). Also keep in mind that weapon damage is reduced when wallbanging (shooting through walls) and all weapons are affected differently by this. As a rule, damage is halved, or even more if it’s a shotgun.
Key:
Blue name = Counter-Terrorist (CT) weapon
Red name = Terrorist (T) weapon
Yellow name = CT and T weapon (useable by either team)
Orange # = unarmoured damage
Green # = armoured damage
[collapse=Pistols]
P2000
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 13
Ammo in reserve = 52
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 70
Chest & Arm = 34, 17
Stomach = 43, 21
Leg = 26, 26
The P2000 is the CT default pistol. It’s a decent weapon – it’s tied with the USP-S as the most accurate pistol in the game and it has better damage than its Terrorist counterpart, the Glock. However, compared to most other pistols, it’s lacklustre. It also carries far less ammo than the Glock, and tends to have annoying vertical recoil. It works in a pinch but consider buying a better pistol if you’re likely to use your pistol a lot.
USP-S
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 12
Ammo in reserve = 24
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 70
Chest & Arm = 34, 17
Stomach = 43, 21
Leg = 26, 26
You can choose at the Inventory screen to use the USP-S as the default CT pistol instead of the P2000. The USP-S has almost identical stats to the P2000. However, it has far less recoil, and comes with a silencer, making it a very stealthy weapon. You can take the silencer off by right-clicking. However, there’s almost no need to take off the silencer – it takes a long time to do, and it doesn’t meaningfully affect stats (it gives a slight increase to range, but that’s about it.)
Its main drawback is that it carries a tiny amount of ammo. This shouldn’t be a problem if you have a reliable primary, but if you’re using it on its own or with a sniper rifle, this could be problematic. Ultimately it’s a personal choice as to whether you use the USP-S or the P2000.
Glock-18
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto / burst-fire
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.2 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 111, 52
Chest & Arm = 27, 13
Stomach = 34, 16
Leg = 20, 20
The Glock is the default Terrorist pistol. It is capable of burst-firing (you can swap between firing modes with right-click) and it carries a ridiculous amount of ammo. However, it’s not a very reliable weapon – it has poor damage and even poorer armour penetration, as well as not being particularly accurate. Burst-firing gives a huge increase to damage, but accuracy takes a huge toll if you do so. It’s not a bad gun – it has good recoil and a high rate of fire. But otherwise it’s pretty shitty.
P250
STATS
Cost = $300
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 13
Ammo in reserve = 52
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 138, 107
Chest & Arm = 34, 26
Stomach = 43, 33
Leg = 25, 25
The P250 is a cheap pistol available to both teams. It’s got better damage than any of the default pistols (especially against armour), and it has manageable recoil. However it’s not particularly accurate and it doesn’t carry a lot of reserve ammo. It’s still a very popular weapon. Consider using it if you’re packing a shotgun or sniper rifle and you’re short on cash.
Five-SeveN
STATS
Cost = $500
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 126, 115
Chest & Arm = 31, 28
Stomach = 39, 35
Leg = 23, 23
The Five-SeveN is a mid-price, mid-range pistol available for CTs. It carries armour-piercing rounds, giving it great armour penetration. It has very few negatives (a change from its stats in previous Counter-Strike games, where it was the worst pistol in the game). It’s better than the P250 or any of the stock pistols. It’s worth choosing in the pistol round, or if you need a reliable sidearm in later rounds.
Tec-9
STATS
Cost = $500
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 32
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.7 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 149, 104
Chest & Arm = 37, 26
Stomach = 46, 32
Leg = 27, 27
This funny-lookin’ Terrorist pistol is a bit of a mixed bag. It has high recoil, high spread and poor accuracy. But it has the biggest clip out of any pistol in the game, has great damage, great armour piercing ability, and is cheaper than comparable pistols such as the Desert Eagle or the Dual Berettas. All in all, it’s a pretty good choice. It’s reliable and unlike other pistols, it can be used to spray. Just be careful. It looks like a machine pistol, but it isn’t. It’s semi-auto – don’t be caught out (like I did).
Dual Berettas
STATS
Cost = $700
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 149, 78
Chest & Arm = 37, 19
Stomach = 46, 24
Leg = 28, 28
The Dual Berettas can be considered a dual-team alternative to the Tec-9. It has a similarly large clip and has good damage. However, the Berettas have a far slower reload than the Tec and are worse at penetrating armour. The Berettas have the fastest possible fire rate out of any pistol, but lack range. The Dual Berettas are a niche choice – other pistols have better damage, range or reload times. It excels as an ambush weapon and can be used to spray. Note that the dual-wielding aspect to the weapon doesn’t affect accuracy or useability at all – this ain’t CoD. In this way, use it just as you would use any other pistol.
Desert Eagle
STATS
Cost = $800
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 35
Reload time = 2.2 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 250, 231
Chest & Arm = 62, 58
Stomach = 77, 72
Leg = 62, 62
The Desert Eagle, or the Deagle as it’s affectionately known, is an incredibly popular weapon, and for good reason. It does a ridiculous amount of damage and has great range. Balancing this is its tiny clip size, huge recoil, poor spread and cost. The Deagle is almost always a good choice – it complements a sniper rifle brilliantly. However, there are more versatile (and cheaper) pistols.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Shotguns]
Nova
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = pump-action
Clip size = 8
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = roughly 4.5 sec
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 174, 129
Chest & Arm = 105, 90
Stomach = 108, 104
Leg = 112, 112
The Nova is a cheap and effective primary. It’s powerful and has the least spread out of any shotgun in the game. However, it has a slow pump-action and is close to useless outside of close range. It also has next-to-no wallbanging ability. Consider using the Nova when you’re low on cash and you know you’ll be fighting people in close-range scenarios. Like every shotgun, it has a huge kill reward bonus – this makes it a very rewarding gun. If you’re good with shotguns, you can rack up a huge amount of dosh, and you can get back on top in no time.
Sawed-Off
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = pump-action
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = around 4.5 sec
Movement speed = 210 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Damage is widely variable. However, it does a lot of damage at short range, and damage peters off hugely over range.
The Sawed-Off is a Terrorist exclusive shotgun, and is noted for its spectacular damage. It will kill most enemies in one shot at close range. It’s as cheap as the Nova and is ostensibly more useful. However it has terrible accuracy, fire rate and range. It is also very heavy, and slows down your movement speed considerably. If you don’t hit your target with the first shot, you’re more or less screwed. Be careful when using it – engage enemies at close range, and retreat. Using a good pistol like the Tec-9 complements this weapon well.
MAG-7
STATS
Cost = $1800
Firing mode = hybrid
Clip size = 5
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = 3 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 108
Chest & Arm = 110, 106
Stomach = 103, 100
Leg = 29, 19
The MAG-7 is a very powerful CT shotgun. It packs a real punch, and is reasonably accurate. It handles faster than other shotguns, and reloads with a magazine, making a reload from empty a significantly faster venture. It is not perfect, though – it has a low rate of fire and low capacity. Recoil and spread are also significant issues. It’s best used as an ambush weapon – it’s not very useful against multiple enemies. Aim for centre mass and retreat to reload. While this shotgun is pump-action, it can be fired continuously by holding down left-click. But as the MAG-7’s fire rate is so poor, this is ill-advised. The MAG-7 is a very popular shotgun and you’ll often see it being used to devastating effect.
XM1014
STATS
Cost = $2200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = approx. 4.2 sec
Movement speed = / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 228, 117
Chest & Arm = 114, 54
Stomach = 120, 72
Leg = 84, 84
The XM1014, or the auto-shotty, is a very powerful weapon and the most expensive shotgun. It’s arguably the most useful too, as it has great damage and unlike the other shotguns, has a good fire rate. It is capable of sustaining fully automatic fire, meaning you can really paint a room with lead. However, it deals less damage than the Nova and has truly ridiculous recoil. Like all shotguns, it’s unreliable at long ranges and it’s not particularly accurate. It’s also more expensive than most SMGs, and is close in price to some rifles! Choose it when you want to decimate groups of people in close quarters combat.[/collapse]
[collapse=LMGs]
M249
STATS
Cost = $5200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 100
Ammo in reserve = 200
Reload time = 5 sec
Movement speed = 195 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 127, 102
Chest & Arm = 31, 25
Stomach = 39, 31
Leg = 23, 23
The M249 is one of the two LMGs in CS:GO. It’s the second most expensive weapon in the game, and packs firepower in suit. The main advantage of LMGs is their huge clips and fire rates. The M249 is more accurate and has less recoil than the other LMG, the Negev, but has a smaller clip and a slower fire rate. Recoil management and its slow reload time are its main drawbacks. However, it has great wall penetration and has good bullet damage. It’s ideally suited to taking out large groups of enemies, or spraying.
Negev
STATS
Cost = $5700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 125
Ammo in reserve = 200
Reload time = 5.9 sec
Movement speed = 195 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 131, 100
Chest & Arm = 32, 24
Stomach = 41, 30
Leg = 24, 24
The Negev is the most expensive gun in the game. It’s a risky choice – it has truly uncontrollable recoil, spread and accuracy. It’s cumbersome and it has a slow reload. But it makes up for these faults in firepower. It has the largest clip size and fire rate out of any gun in the game, and is deadly at close range. It’s good at mowing down groups of enemies or spraying. If you’ve got money to burn, go for the Negev – it’s a beast.
[/collapse]
[collapse=SMGs]
MAC-10
STATS
Cost = $1050
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.45 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 113, 54
Chest & Arm = 28, 13
Stomach = 35, 17
Leg = 21, 21
The MAC-10 is a Terrorist-exclusive SMG, with its counterpart being the MP9. The MAC-10 is the cheapest fully automatic weapon in the game. It has poor armour-piercing capabilities as well as crappy recoil and accuracy, but it has a high rate of fire and reasonable damage. You get real bang for your buck when you use a MAC-10, but it’s not as good as many, more expensive weapons.
MP9
STATS
Cost = $1250
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.3 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 103, 51
Chest & Arm = 25, 12
Stomach = 32, 16
Leg = 19, 19
The MP9 is a cheap SMG available to CTs, and like all SMGs, has double the regular kill rewards ($300 as opposed to the default $150). The MP9 has a fast reload and very high rate of fire, but otherwise fails in all other areas. Poor accuracy, high spread, low damage and bad armour piercing capabilities makes it an unforgiving weapon. No weapon in CS:GO is bad. But the MP9 is worse than most.
UMP-45
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 25
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.75 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 76
Chest & Arm = 34, 19
Stomach = 43, 23
Leg = 26, 25
The UMP is another good cheap automatic weapon. While it has the slowest rate of fire out of all SMGs, its clip is small and its reload speed errs on the cumbersome, it is very accurate, and unlike other SMGs it’s effective over longer ranges. It also has the highest damage per shot out of any SMG. Another good feature of the UMP is that it actually does the most damage to the legs on armoured opponents – a reversal of the norm. All in all, the UMP is a decent gun that’s worth picking up if you’re low on cash.
PP-Bizon
STATS
Cost = $1400
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 64
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 107, 50
Chest & Arm = 26, 12
Stomach = 33, 15
Leg = 19, 19
The Bizon is an interesting SMG. It has the biggest clip out of any SMG, and packs a fast reload and great recoil to boot. However, it is wildly inaccurate and has terrible damage. Unlike most guns in CS:GO, where it’s better to take measured, short bursts, the Bizon is best used to spray. It’s basically designed to spray – step out of cover, empty the clip, and in another few seconds, you’re ready to go again. The Bizon is a chump-change harassment weapon – give it a go.
MP7
STATS
Cost = $1700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 3 sec, give or take
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 115, 60
Chest & Arm = 28, 15
Stomach = 35, 18
Leg = 21, 21
The MP7 is a more expensive SMG available to both teams. It has a high rate of fire and has good accuracy whilst moving. It’s a good hit-and-run weapon and also lends itself to ambush tactics. However, it has poor armour penetration and high spread. It’s a good middle-of-the-bar weapon that’s worth buying if you don’t have enough for a rifle, and it’s too risky to use a shotgun.
P90
STATS
Cost = $2350
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 50
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.5 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 103, 67
Chest & Arm = 25, 16
Stomach = 32, 20
Leg = 19, 19
The P90 is the most expensive SMG in the game, and is a very popular choice among the punters. While it is quite pricy (it’s more expensive than some rifles) and it only gives you the default kill reward amount, it is a very versatile weapon. It has a large clip and a very high rate of fire. It also uses armour piercing ammo. Its reload time is a big long, it doesn’t carry much ammo in reserve, and it has high recoil like other SMGs, but otherwise it’s a useful gun that outperforms many more expensive items. Spray and get payed, kids.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Assault Rifles]
Galil AR
STATS
Cost = $2000
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 35
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.3 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 118, 92
Chest & Arm = 29, 23
Stomach = 37, 28
Leg = 22, 22
The Galil is the cheapest assault rifle in the game, and is a Terrorist exclusive. It’s an accessible alternative to using a shotgun or SMG, and has many good attributes. It has the largest clip out of any rifle in the game, and has good all-around stats. It also has less recoil than the slightly pricier AK-47. However, it isn’t very accurate, and it still has considerable recoil. It’s also the heaviest assault rifle, meaning you’ll walk very slowly with it out. However, it’s a great gun – instead of buying an AK, try buying a Galil and a few grenades instead!
FAMAS
STATS
Cost = $2250
Firing mode = full-auto / burst-fire
Clip size = 25
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = oh, let’s say, 3 sec?
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 119, 83
Chest & Arm = 29, 20
Stomach = 37, 26
Leg = 22, 22
The FAMAS is the cheapest assault rifle available to the CTs. Like the Glock, it is capable of burst-fire, but unlike the Glock, burst-firing the FAMAS will make it more accurate. Full-auto firing on the FAMAS tends to be inaccurate, but burst-firing makes it a deadly long range weapon. The FAMAS is otherwise a pretty decent gun. It’s let down by its tiny clip and poor damage, but it has a high fire rate. It’s a versatile and cheap weapon.
AK-47
STATS
Cost = $2700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 143, 112
Chest & Arm = 35, 27
Stomach = 44, 34
Leg = 26, 26
The AK is incredibly popular, and many consider it to be the best gun in the game. It is favoured for its accurate and deadly first shot. It can kill even armoured opponents with just one shot to the head! Additionally, it has a fast reload, great penetration, good damage and a reasonable price. It’s not all good news though – its first shot might be accurate, but every shot after that isn’t. The AK suffers from high recoil, poor accuracy and an unimpressive fire rate. The AK is a very good gun. It’s considered part of the “default loadout” and is always a good choice.
M4A4
STATS
Cost = $3100
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 129, 92
Chest & Arm = 32, 23
Stomach = 40, 28
Leg = 24, 24
Although the M4 is the CT counterpart to the AK, it’s slightly different in both function and ability. It’s more expensive and doesn’t share the AK’s famed headshooting ability or damage. However, it’s significantly more accurate and has better recoil, as well as being lighter. It’s a spectacularly good gun and is good for all scenarios.
M4A1-S
STATS
Cost = $2800
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 40
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 129, 92
Chest & Arm = 32, 23
Stomach = 40, 28
Leg = 24, 24
The M4A1-S, like the USP-S, is a silenced alternative to the M4. Its stats are identical to the M4, but it has significantly less recoil. It’s arguably the most accurate rifle in the game. It’s let down by its tiny clip and pitiful ammo reserve. Right-clicking will take off the silencer, but this is largely pointless – without the silencer, the gun has ridiculous recoil. Again, it’s just a personal choice – the M4 is perhaps more reliable, but the M4A1 is more accurate and more stealthy (and cheaper!)
SG 553
STATS
Cost = $3000
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3 sec
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 119, 119
Chest & Arm = 29, 29
Stomach = 37, 37
Leg = 22, 22
The SG functions similarly to the AK, but its main feature is its scope. With right-click, you can aim down the SG’s scope to get a better view on targets. This allows you to be more accurate at longer ranges. Like the AK, it can kill someone with one shot to the head, but unlike the AK, it’s significantly more accurate. It does good damage and has low spread. It also has the best armour penetration out of any gun in the game – unarmoured and armoured damage stats for the SG are identical. However, it has the lowest fire rate out of any assault rifle, and it errs on the expensive side. It’s a good gun that gives you more long-range viability.
AUG
STATS
Cost = $3300
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 221 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 110, 100
Chest & Arm = 27, 25
Stomach = 34, 31
Leg = 20, 20
The AUG is the CT counterpart to the SG, and is the most expensive assault rifle in the game. It’s less damaging than the SG or the M4, and has a long reload time. This is balanced by its incredible accuracy, low spread, and its headshooting-viability. It’s a very popular weapon (our good mate Zen here loves the AUG) and is a good choice if you’re looking to fight at longer ranges.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Sniper Rifles]
SSG 08
STATS
Cost = $2000
Firing mode = bolt-action
Clip size = 10
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.9 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 351, 298
Chest & Arm = 87, 74
Stomach = 109, 93
Leg = 65, 65
Better known as the Scout, the SSG 08 is the cheapest sniper rifle in the game (and is as cheap as the cheapest assault rifle). Right-click to aim down the scope, click again to zoom in more, and click again to zoom out. It’s a very accessible weapon – it’s the lightest and fastest-handling sniper rifle, and it carries a ridiculous amount of reserve ammo. On paper, it’s seemingly great – high relative damage, good movement speed, and a naturally quiet gun. However, it can’t match the damage that the other sniper rifles deal out, and is less accurate than other sniper rifles. It’s hard to use in regular gameplay, especially if your foes are using one of the more expensive sniper rifles. The Scout reaps rewards in the hands of skilled players. Note that like all sniper rifles, it’s very inaccurate whilst unscoped - a lack of crosshairs when unscoped means that you really need to scope in to kill people.
AWP
STATS
Cost = $4750
Firing mode = bolt-action
Clip size = 10
Ammo in reserve = 30
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 200 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $50
DAMAGE
Headshot = 456, 448
Chest & Arm = 114, 111
Stomach = 143, 140
Leg = 86, 84
The infamous AWP! This rifle is notorious within the Counter-Strike franchise. It’s perennially popular and incredibly powerful. The AWP is a one-shot kill on every part of the body except the legs. It’s very accurate and its scope has a hugely magnified zoom level. As of such, it’s the perfect long-range weapon. However, its immense power is balanced by its awful fire rate, huge weight, exorbitant price tag and scoped sensitivity. It’s not good at taking out groups of enemies, and unless you’re standing still, you’re at a huge loss. Additionally, a kill from the AWP will only award you $50 – a third of the default amount. The AWP excels at killing people, but unless you can reliably kill a number of people, it’s not a very cash-wise choice. The AWP’s firepower is unsurpassed and is a great choice of sniper rifle. However, it’s often safer to buy one of the scoped assault rifles or one of the semi-auto rifles instead.
Personally, I think the AWP is overpowered, and it often ruins gameplay. Because one bullet is enough to kill someone, you’ll find campers everywhere taking potshots with AWPs, despite its low kill reward. While it’s not too hard to combat an AWP user, it’s frustrating when you’ll be 5 seconds into a game and you’re already dead because someone got a lucky hit with an AWP.
G3SG1
STATS
Cost = $5000
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 5 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 319, 263
Chest & Arm = 79, 65
Stomach = 99, 82
Leg = 59, 59
The G3 is an exceptionally powerful sniper rifle available to Terrorists. It and its CT counterpart, the SCAR-20, are known as the “dak dak”, a reference to its firing sound. The G3, whilst being more expensive and less damaging than the AWP, is semi-automatic. This means you don’t need to mess around chambering shots – if you miss, just take another few shots! It’s still very damaging and two shots are enough to kill any target. The G3 does suffer high recoil, and it has a very slow reload, but it is a very good weapon. If you have the cash and you know you’ll be fighting at longer ranges, buy a dak dak and dak dak away.
SCAR-20
STATS
Cost = $5000
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 319, 263
Chest & Arm = 79, 65
Stomach = 99, 82
Leg = 59, 59
The SCAR-20 is the CT version of the G3. In terms of damage and cost, the guns are identical. However, the SCAR-20 has a faster reload and less recoil than the G3, but has slightly worse accuracy. Personally, I find the SCAR to be an easier weapon to use – it’s arguably the easiest sniper rifle to use. As a Terrorist, you’re not disadvantaged by the difference between the G3 and the SCAR, though. Like the G3, the SCAR is a more versatile sniper rifle than the AWP. It’s still very expensive, so don’t buy it for the sake of it.[/collapse]
[collapse=Knife Slot]
Knife
STATS
Cost = $0
Firing mode = slash / stab
Movement speed = 250 / 250 units/sec (maximum possible speed)
Kill reward = $750
DAMAGE
Fast attack = 34-21 (consecutive attacks do less damage)
Fast attack – back = 90
Slow attack = 55
Slow attack – back = 180
By default, you’re given a knife. Unlike other weapons, you can’t drop or pick up knifes. You’ll always have a knife. When you’re holding the knife, you’ll move at the fastest possible speed you can. It’s good, then, to hold your knife if you need to travel quickly. The knife on its own isn’t a very good weapon – obviously, it has very limited range, and it doesn’t do a lot of damage. However, it’s quiet and it doesn’t use ammo. Left-clicking with the knife will perform a fast, low-damage slash which can be spammed by holding down left-click. Right-clicking will perform a slow, high-damage stab. A stab to the back is an instant death, making it an effective and stealthy attack. Knifing someone to death also gives you a huge cash reward, so if you can sneak up on someone, try knifing them. Lastly, use the knife to destroy objects like windowpanes or debris – why make a noise and waste ammo?
Zeus x27
STATS
Cost = $1000
Firing mode = single-shot
Clip size = 1
Ammo in reserve = 0
Movement speed = 250 / 250 units/sec (maximum possible speed)
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Instant kill to any part of the body
The Zeus x27 taser is a bit of a joke weapon. It’s very expensive, carries only one ammo, and has a tiny functional range. However, it’s a one-shot kill to any part of an enemy’s body. It’s largely useless – you may as well just knife someone. Strangely, it shares the same slot as the knife, meaning you can carry the taser as well as another two weapons, your knife and some grenades. If you’ve got cash to waste, you may as well buy one for a laugh. The Zeus is only available in Casual mode, but honestly, it doesn’t affect the game at all. It’s a rarely-seen, rarely used gimmick that’s only worthwhile for humiliation value.[/collapse]
I hope that helps a few of you kids. Now, the best way to see how these guns work is to test them out
in-game. CS:GO is a truly great game and if you don’t already have it, buy it. It’s not too expensive and it’s a very barebones shooter. No CoD rubbish, no TF2 bullshit – just good ol’ kebab removal.
I’m keen to get a few CS:GO gamenights going. Let’s reinstate the T9K tradition of tooling around on Counter-Strike servers whilst discussing the subtleties of pineapple preparation.
Hint: you peel pineapples like a banana.
Love,
Vorsprung
Because I think CS:GO is the best damn thing ever, I thought I’d write a little piece on it.
There are so many weapons in this game, and it’s not always apparent what they do. And when you’ve only got 45 seconds to make a choice as to what you wanna buy, you need to know what’s right for the job, and your budget.
So here’s a run-down on all of the weapons in the game.
Disclaimer: I am in no way an expert on the game. I’m not hugely good at it myself. Counter-Strike is one of those franchises (or perhaps, the franchise) where you get ridiculously, artistically skilled players coming out of the woodwork. So before anyone bites off my balls, there we are.
Additionally, all stats are right for Casual mode. Reward amounts are doubled in Competitive mode, and players in either mode have 100 health (so anything above 100 damage is a fatal shot). Also keep in mind that weapon damage is reduced when wallbanging (shooting through walls) and all weapons are affected differently by this. As a rule, damage is halved, or even more if it’s a shotgun.
Key:
Blue name = Counter-Terrorist (CT) weapon
Red name = Terrorist (T) weapon
Yellow name = CT and T weapon (useable by either team)
Orange # = unarmoured damage
Green # = armoured damage
[collapse=Pistols]
P2000
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 13
Ammo in reserve = 52
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 70
Chest & Arm = 34, 17
Stomach = 43, 21
Leg = 26, 26
The P2000 is the CT default pistol. It’s a decent weapon – it’s tied with the USP-S as the most accurate pistol in the game and it has better damage than its Terrorist counterpart, the Glock. However, compared to most other pistols, it’s lacklustre. It also carries far less ammo than the Glock, and tends to have annoying vertical recoil. It works in a pinch but consider buying a better pistol if you’re likely to use your pistol a lot.
USP-S
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 12
Ammo in reserve = 24
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 70
Chest & Arm = 34, 17
Stomach = 43, 21
Leg = 26, 26
You can choose at the Inventory screen to use the USP-S as the default CT pistol instead of the P2000. The USP-S has almost identical stats to the P2000. However, it has far less recoil, and comes with a silencer, making it a very stealthy weapon. You can take the silencer off by right-clicking. However, there’s almost no need to take off the silencer – it takes a long time to do, and it doesn’t meaningfully affect stats (it gives a slight increase to range, but that’s about it.)
Its main drawback is that it carries a tiny amount of ammo. This shouldn’t be a problem if you have a reliable primary, but if you’re using it on its own or with a sniper rifle, this could be problematic. Ultimately it’s a personal choice as to whether you use the USP-S or the P2000.
Glock-18
STATS
Cost = $200
Firing mode = semi-auto / burst-fire
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.2 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 111, 52
Chest & Arm = 27, 13
Stomach = 34, 16
Leg = 20, 20
The Glock is the default Terrorist pistol. It is capable of burst-firing (you can swap between firing modes with right-click) and it carries a ridiculous amount of ammo. However, it’s not a very reliable weapon – it has poor damage and even poorer armour penetration, as well as not being particularly accurate. Burst-firing gives a huge increase to damage, but accuracy takes a huge toll if you do so. It’s not a bad gun – it has good recoil and a high rate of fire. But otherwise it’s pretty shitty.
P250
STATS
Cost = $300
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 13
Ammo in reserve = 52
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 138, 107
Chest & Arm = 34, 26
Stomach = 43, 33
Leg = 25, 25
The P250 is a cheap pistol available to both teams. It’s got better damage than any of the default pistols (especially against armour), and it has manageable recoil. However it’s not particularly accurate and it doesn’t carry a lot of reserve ammo. It’s still a very popular weapon. Consider using it if you’re packing a shotgun or sniper rifle and you’re short on cash.
Five-SeveN
STATS
Cost = $500
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 126, 115
Chest & Arm = 31, 28
Stomach = 39, 35
Leg = 23, 23
The Five-SeveN is a mid-price, mid-range pistol available for CTs. It carries armour-piercing rounds, giving it great armour penetration. It has very few negatives (a change from its stats in previous Counter-Strike games, where it was the worst pistol in the game). It’s better than the P250 or any of the stock pistols. It’s worth choosing in the pistol round, or if you need a reliable sidearm in later rounds.
Tec-9
STATS
Cost = $500
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 32
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.7 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 149, 104
Chest & Arm = 37, 26
Stomach = 46, 32
Leg = 27, 27
This funny-lookin’ Terrorist pistol is a bit of a mixed bag. It has high recoil, high spread and poor accuracy. But it has the biggest clip out of any pistol in the game, has great damage, great armour piercing ability, and is cheaper than comparable pistols such as the Desert Eagle or the Dual Berettas. All in all, it’s a pretty good choice. It’s reliable and unlike other pistols, it can be used to spray. Just be careful. It looks like a machine pistol, but it isn’t. It’s semi-auto – don’t be caught out (like I did).
Dual Berettas
STATS
Cost = $700
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 149, 78
Chest & Arm = 37, 19
Stomach = 46, 24
Leg = 28, 28
The Dual Berettas can be considered a dual-team alternative to the Tec-9. It has a similarly large clip and has good damage. However, the Berettas have a far slower reload than the Tec and are worse at penetrating armour. The Berettas have the fastest possible fire rate out of any pistol, but lack range. The Dual Berettas are a niche choice – other pistols have better damage, range or reload times. It excels as an ambush weapon and can be used to spray. Note that the dual-wielding aspect to the weapon doesn’t affect accuracy or useability at all – this ain’t CoD. In this way, use it just as you would use any other pistol.
Desert Eagle
STATS
Cost = $800
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 35
Reload time = 2.2 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 250, 231
Chest & Arm = 62, 58
Stomach = 77, 72
Leg = 62, 62
The Desert Eagle, or the Deagle as it’s affectionately known, is an incredibly popular weapon, and for good reason. It does a ridiculous amount of damage and has great range. Balancing this is its tiny clip size, huge recoil, poor spread and cost. The Deagle is almost always a good choice – it complements a sniper rifle brilliantly. However, there are more versatile (and cheaper) pistols.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Shotguns]
Nova
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = pump-action
Clip size = 8
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = roughly 4.5 sec
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 174, 129
Chest & Arm = 105, 90
Stomach = 108, 104
Leg = 112, 112
The Nova is a cheap and effective primary. It’s powerful and has the least spread out of any shotgun in the game. However, it has a slow pump-action and is close to useless outside of close range. It also has next-to-no wallbanging ability. Consider using the Nova when you’re low on cash and you know you’ll be fighting people in close-range scenarios. Like every shotgun, it has a huge kill reward bonus – this makes it a very rewarding gun. If you’re good with shotguns, you can rack up a huge amount of dosh, and you can get back on top in no time.
Sawed-Off
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = pump-action
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = around 4.5 sec
Movement speed = 210 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Damage is widely variable. However, it does a lot of damage at short range, and damage peters off hugely over range.
The Sawed-Off is a Terrorist exclusive shotgun, and is noted for its spectacular damage. It will kill most enemies in one shot at close range. It’s as cheap as the Nova and is ostensibly more useful. However it has terrible accuracy, fire rate and range. It is also very heavy, and slows down your movement speed considerably. If you don’t hit your target with the first shot, you’re more or less screwed. Be careful when using it – engage enemies at close range, and retreat. Using a good pistol like the Tec-9 complements this weapon well.
MAG-7
STATS
Cost = $1800
Firing mode = hybrid
Clip size = 5
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = 3 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 108
Chest & Arm = 110, 106
Stomach = 103, 100
Leg = 29, 19
The MAG-7 is a very powerful CT shotgun. It packs a real punch, and is reasonably accurate. It handles faster than other shotguns, and reloads with a magazine, making a reload from empty a significantly faster venture. It is not perfect, though – it has a low rate of fire and low capacity. Recoil and spread are also significant issues. It’s best used as an ambush weapon – it’s not very useful against multiple enemies. Aim for centre mass and retreat to reload. While this shotgun is pump-action, it can be fired continuously by holding down left-click. But as the MAG-7’s fire rate is so poor, this is ill-advised. The MAG-7 is a very popular shotgun and you’ll often see it being used to devastating effect.
XM1014
STATS
Cost = $2200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 7
Ammo in reserve = 32
Reload time = approx. 4.2 sec
Movement speed = / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $450
DAMAGE
Headshot = 228, 117
Chest & Arm = 114, 54
Stomach = 120, 72
Leg = 84, 84
The XM1014, or the auto-shotty, is a very powerful weapon and the most expensive shotgun. It’s arguably the most useful too, as it has great damage and unlike the other shotguns, has a good fire rate. It is capable of sustaining fully automatic fire, meaning you can really paint a room with lead. However, it deals less damage than the Nova and has truly ridiculous recoil. Like all shotguns, it’s unreliable at long ranges and it’s not particularly accurate. It’s also more expensive than most SMGs, and is close in price to some rifles! Choose it when you want to decimate groups of people in close quarters combat.[/collapse]
[collapse=LMGs]
M249
STATS
Cost = $5200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 100
Ammo in reserve = 200
Reload time = 5 sec
Movement speed = 195 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 127, 102
Chest & Arm = 31, 25
Stomach = 39, 31
Leg = 23, 23
The M249 is one of the two LMGs in CS:GO. It’s the second most expensive weapon in the game, and packs firepower in suit. The main advantage of LMGs is their huge clips and fire rates. The M249 is more accurate and has less recoil than the other LMG, the Negev, but has a smaller clip and a slower fire rate. Recoil management and its slow reload time are its main drawbacks. However, it has great wall penetration and has good bullet damage. It’s ideally suited to taking out large groups of enemies, or spraying.
Negev
STATS
Cost = $5700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 125
Ammo in reserve = 200
Reload time = 5.9 sec
Movement speed = 195 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 131, 100
Chest & Arm = 32, 24
Stomach = 41, 30
Leg = 24, 24
The Negev is the most expensive gun in the game. It’s a risky choice – it has truly uncontrollable recoil, spread and accuracy. It’s cumbersome and it has a slow reload. But it makes up for these faults in firepower. It has the largest clip size and fire rate out of any gun in the game, and is deadly at close range. It’s good at mowing down groups of enemies or spraying. If you’ve got money to burn, go for the Negev – it’s a beast.
[/collapse]
[collapse=SMGs]
MAC-10
STATS
Cost = $1050
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.45 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 113, 54
Chest & Arm = 28, 13
Stomach = 35, 17
Leg = 21, 21
The MAC-10 is a Terrorist-exclusive SMG, with its counterpart being the MP9. The MAC-10 is the cheapest fully automatic weapon in the game. It has poor armour-piercing capabilities as well as crappy recoil and accuracy, but it has a high rate of fire and reasonable damage. You get real bang for your buck when you use a MAC-10, but it’s not as good as many, more expensive weapons.
MP9
STATS
Cost = $1250
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.3 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 103, 51
Chest & Arm = 25, 12
Stomach = 32, 16
Leg = 19, 19
The MP9 is a cheap SMG available to CTs, and like all SMGs, has double the regular kill rewards ($300 as opposed to the default $150). The MP9 has a fast reload and very high rate of fire, but otherwise fails in all other areas. Poor accuracy, high spread, low damage and bad armour piercing capabilities makes it an unforgiving weapon. No weapon in CS:GO is bad. But the MP9 is worse than most.
UMP-45
STATS
Cost = $1200
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 25
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.75 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 139, 76
Chest & Arm = 34, 19
Stomach = 43, 23
Leg = 26, 25
The UMP is another good cheap automatic weapon. While it has the slowest rate of fire out of all SMGs, its clip is small and its reload speed errs on the cumbersome, it is very accurate, and unlike other SMGs it’s effective over longer ranges. It also has the highest damage per shot out of any SMG. Another good feature of the UMP is that it actually does the most damage to the legs on armoured opponents – a reversal of the norm. All in all, the UMP is a decent gun that’s worth picking up if you’re low on cash.
PP-Bizon
STATS
Cost = $1400
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 64
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 240 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 107, 50
Chest & Arm = 26, 12
Stomach = 33, 15
Leg = 19, 19
The Bizon is an interesting SMG. It has the biggest clip out of any SMG, and packs a fast reload and great recoil to boot. However, it is wildly inaccurate and has terrible damage. Unlike most guns in CS:GO, where it’s better to take measured, short bursts, the Bizon is best used to spray. It’s basically designed to spray – step out of cover, empty the clip, and in another few seconds, you’re ready to go again. The Bizon is a chump-change harassment weapon – give it a go.
MP7
STATS
Cost = $1700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 120
Reload time = 3 sec, give or take
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $300
DAMAGE
Headshot = 115, 60
Chest & Arm = 28, 15
Stomach = 35, 18
Leg = 21, 21
The MP7 is a more expensive SMG available to both teams. It has a high rate of fire and has good accuracy whilst moving. It’s a good hit-and-run weapon and also lends itself to ambush tactics. However, it has poor armour penetration and high spread. It’s a good middle-of-the-bar weapon that’s worth buying if you don’t have enough for a rifle, and it’s too risky to use a shotgun.
P90
STATS
Cost = $2350
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 50
Ammo in reserve = 100
Reload time = 3.5 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 103, 67
Chest & Arm = 25, 16
Stomach = 32, 20
Leg = 19, 19
The P90 is the most expensive SMG in the game, and is a very popular choice among the punters. While it is quite pricy (it’s more expensive than some rifles) and it only gives you the default kill reward amount, it is a very versatile weapon. It has a large clip and a very high rate of fire. It also uses armour piercing ammo. Its reload time is a big long, it doesn’t carry much ammo in reserve, and it has high recoil like other SMGs, but otherwise it’s a useful gun that outperforms many more expensive items. Spray and get payed, kids.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Assault Rifles]
Galil AR
STATS
Cost = $2000
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 35
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.3 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 118, 92
Chest & Arm = 29, 23
Stomach = 37, 28
Leg = 22, 22
The Galil is the cheapest assault rifle in the game, and is a Terrorist exclusive. It’s an accessible alternative to using a shotgun or SMG, and has many good attributes. It has the largest clip out of any rifle in the game, and has good all-around stats. It also has less recoil than the slightly pricier AK-47. However, it isn’t very accurate, and it still has considerable recoil. It’s also the heaviest assault rifle, meaning you’ll walk very slowly with it out. However, it’s a great gun – instead of buying an AK, try buying a Galil and a few grenades instead!
FAMAS
STATS
Cost = $2250
Firing mode = full-auto / burst-fire
Clip size = 25
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = oh, let’s say, 3 sec?
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 119, 83
Chest & Arm = 29, 20
Stomach = 37, 26
Leg = 22, 22
The FAMAS is the cheapest assault rifle available to the CTs. Like the Glock, it is capable of burst-fire, but unlike the Glock, burst-firing the FAMAS will make it more accurate. Full-auto firing on the FAMAS tends to be inaccurate, but burst-firing makes it a deadly long range weapon. The FAMAS is otherwise a pretty decent gun. It’s let down by its tiny clip and poor damage, but it has a high fire rate. It’s a versatile and cheap weapon.
AK-47
STATS
Cost = $2700
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 2.5 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 143, 112
Chest & Arm = 35, 27
Stomach = 44, 34
Leg = 26, 26
The AK is incredibly popular, and many consider it to be the best gun in the game. It is favoured for its accurate and deadly first shot. It can kill even armoured opponents with just one shot to the head! Additionally, it has a fast reload, great penetration, good damage and a reasonable price. It’s not all good news though – its first shot might be accurate, but every shot after that isn’t. The AK suffers from high recoil, poor accuracy and an unimpressive fire rate. The AK is a very good gun. It’s considered part of the “default loadout” and is always a good choice.
M4A4
STATS
Cost = $3100
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 129, 92
Chest & Arm = 32, 23
Stomach = 40, 28
Leg = 24, 24
Although the M4 is the CT counterpart to the AK, it’s slightly different in both function and ability. It’s more expensive and doesn’t share the AK’s famed headshooting ability or damage. However, it’s significantly more accurate and has better recoil, as well as being lighter. It’s a spectacularly good gun and is good for all scenarios.
M4A1-S
STATS
Cost = $2800
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 40
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 225 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 129, 92
Chest & Arm = 32, 23
Stomach = 40, 28
Leg = 24, 24
The M4A1-S, like the USP-S, is a silenced alternative to the M4. Its stats are identical to the M4, but it has significantly less recoil. It’s arguably the most accurate rifle in the game. It’s let down by its tiny clip and pitiful ammo reserve. Right-clicking will take off the silencer, but this is largely pointless – without the silencer, the gun has ridiculous recoil. Again, it’s just a personal choice – the M4 is perhaps more reliable, but the M4A1 is more accurate and more stealthy (and cheaper!)
SG 553
STATS
Cost = $3000
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3 sec
Movement speed = 220 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 119, 119
Chest & Arm = 29, 29
Stomach = 37, 37
Leg = 22, 22
The SG functions similarly to the AK, but its main feature is its scope. With right-click, you can aim down the SG’s scope to get a better view on targets. This allows you to be more accurate at longer ranges. Like the AK, it can kill someone with one shot to the head, but unlike the AK, it’s significantly more accurate. It does good damage and has low spread. It also has the best armour penetration out of any gun in the game – unarmoured and armoured damage stats for the SG are identical. However, it has the lowest fire rate out of any assault rifle, and it errs on the expensive side. It’s a good gun that gives you more long-range viability.
AUG
STATS
Cost = $3300
Firing mode = full-auto
Clip size = 30
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 221 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 110, 100
Chest & Arm = 27, 25
Stomach = 34, 31
Leg = 20, 20
The AUG is the CT counterpart to the SG, and is the most expensive assault rifle in the game. It’s less damaging than the SG or the M4, and has a long reload time. This is balanced by its incredible accuracy, low spread, and its headshooting-viability. It’s a very popular weapon (our good mate Zen here loves the AUG) and is a good choice if you’re looking to fight at longer ranges.
[/collapse]
[collapse=Sniper Rifles]
SSG 08
STATS
Cost = $2000
Firing mode = bolt-action
Clip size = 10
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.9 sec
Movement speed = 230 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 351, 298
Chest & Arm = 87, 74
Stomach = 109, 93
Leg = 65, 65
Better known as the Scout, the SSG 08 is the cheapest sniper rifle in the game (and is as cheap as the cheapest assault rifle). Right-click to aim down the scope, click again to zoom in more, and click again to zoom out. It’s a very accessible weapon – it’s the lightest and fastest-handling sniper rifle, and it carries a ridiculous amount of reserve ammo. On paper, it’s seemingly great – high relative damage, good movement speed, and a naturally quiet gun. However, it can’t match the damage that the other sniper rifles deal out, and is less accurate than other sniper rifles. It’s hard to use in regular gameplay, especially if your foes are using one of the more expensive sniper rifles. The Scout reaps rewards in the hands of skilled players. Note that like all sniper rifles, it’s very inaccurate whilst unscoped - a lack of crosshairs when unscoped means that you really need to scope in to kill people.
AWP
STATS
Cost = $4750
Firing mode = bolt-action
Clip size = 10
Ammo in reserve = 30
Reload time = 3.8 sec
Movement speed = 200 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $50
DAMAGE
Headshot = 456, 448
Chest & Arm = 114, 111
Stomach = 143, 140
Leg = 86, 84
The infamous AWP! This rifle is notorious within the Counter-Strike franchise. It’s perennially popular and incredibly powerful. The AWP is a one-shot kill on every part of the body except the legs. It’s very accurate and its scope has a hugely magnified zoom level. As of such, it’s the perfect long-range weapon. However, its immense power is balanced by its awful fire rate, huge weight, exorbitant price tag and scoped sensitivity. It’s not good at taking out groups of enemies, and unless you’re standing still, you’re at a huge loss. Additionally, a kill from the AWP will only award you $50 – a third of the default amount. The AWP excels at killing people, but unless you can reliably kill a number of people, it’s not a very cash-wise choice. The AWP’s firepower is unsurpassed and is a great choice of sniper rifle. However, it’s often safer to buy one of the scoped assault rifles or one of the semi-auto rifles instead.
Personally, I think the AWP is overpowered, and it often ruins gameplay. Because one bullet is enough to kill someone, you’ll find campers everywhere taking potshots with AWPs, despite its low kill reward. While it’s not too hard to combat an AWP user, it’s frustrating when you’ll be 5 seconds into a game and you’re already dead because someone got a lucky hit with an AWP.
G3SG1
STATS
Cost = $5000
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 5 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Headshot = 319, 263
Chest & Arm = 79, 65
Stomach = 99, 82
Leg = 59, 59
The G3 is an exceptionally powerful sniper rifle available to Terrorists. It and its CT counterpart, the SCAR-20, are known as the “dak dak”, a reference to its firing sound. The G3, whilst being more expensive and less damaging than the AWP, is semi-automatic. This means you don’t need to mess around chambering shots – if you miss, just take another few shots! It’s still very damaging and two shots are enough to kill any target. The G3 does suffer high recoil, and it has a very slow reload, but it is a very good weapon. If you have the cash and you know you’ll be fighting at longer ranges, buy a dak dak and dak dak away.
SCAR-20
STATS
Cost = $5000
Firing mode = semi-auto
Clip size = 20
Ammo in reserve = 90
Reload time = 3.4 sec
Movement speed = 215 / 250 units/sec
Kill reward = $150
DAMAGE
Headshot = 319, 263
Chest & Arm = 79, 65
Stomach = 99, 82
Leg = 59, 59
The SCAR-20 is the CT version of the G3. In terms of damage and cost, the guns are identical. However, the SCAR-20 has a faster reload and less recoil than the G3, but has slightly worse accuracy. Personally, I find the SCAR to be an easier weapon to use – it’s arguably the easiest sniper rifle to use. As a Terrorist, you’re not disadvantaged by the difference between the G3 and the SCAR, though. Like the G3, the SCAR is a more versatile sniper rifle than the AWP. It’s still very expensive, so don’t buy it for the sake of it.[/collapse]
[collapse=Knife Slot]
Knife
STATS
Cost = $0
Firing mode = slash / stab
Movement speed = 250 / 250 units/sec (maximum possible speed)
Kill reward = $750
DAMAGE
Fast attack = 34-21 (consecutive attacks do less damage)
Fast attack – back = 90
Slow attack = 55
Slow attack – back = 180
By default, you’re given a knife. Unlike other weapons, you can’t drop or pick up knifes. You’ll always have a knife. When you’re holding the knife, you’ll move at the fastest possible speed you can. It’s good, then, to hold your knife if you need to travel quickly. The knife on its own isn’t a very good weapon – obviously, it has very limited range, and it doesn’t do a lot of damage. However, it’s quiet and it doesn’t use ammo. Left-clicking with the knife will perform a fast, low-damage slash which can be spammed by holding down left-click. Right-clicking will perform a slow, high-damage stab. A stab to the back is an instant death, making it an effective and stealthy attack. Knifing someone to death also gives you a huge cash reward, so if you can sneak up on someone, try knifing them. Lastly, use the knife to destroy objects like windowpanes or debris – why make a noise and waste ammo?
Zeus x27
STATS
Cost = $1000
Firing mode = single-shot
Clip size = 1
Ammo in reserve = 0
Movement speed = 250 / 250 units/sec (maximum possible speed)
Kill reward = $150 (default)
DAMAGE
Instant kill to any part of the body
The Zeus x27 taser is a bit of a joke weapon. It’s very expensive, carries only one ammo, and has a tiny functional range. However, it’s a one-shot kill to any part of an enemy’s body. It’s largely useless – you may as well just knife someone. Strangely, it shares the same slot as the knife, meaning you can carry the taser as well as another two weapons, your knife and some grenades. If you’ve got cash to waste, you may as well buy one for a laugh. The Zeus is only available in Casual mode, but honestly, it doesn’t affect the game at all. It’s a rarely-seen, rarely used gimmick that’s only worthwhile for humiliation value.[/collapse]
I hope that helps a few of you kids. Now, the best way to see how these guns work is to test them out
in-game. CS:GO is a truly great game and if you don’t already have it, buy it. It’s not too expensive and it’s a very barebones shooter. No CoD rubbish, no TF2 bullshit – just good ol’ kebab removal.
I’m keen to get a few CS:GO gamenights going. Let’s reinstate the T9K tradition of tooling around on Counter-Strike servers whilst discussing the subtleties of pineapple preparation.
Hint: you peel pineapples like a banana.
Love,
Vorsprung
