CS2 Knives
Rifles are the backbone of competitive CS2. From the one-tap AK-47 to the devastating AWP, rifle selection defines round outcomes more than any other weapon class. Understanding each rifle's strengths, weaknesses, and optimal use cases is fundamental to climbing the ranks.
Bayonet
BothA classic military knife with a clip-point blade. The Bayonet is one of the original CS knife models, featuring clean lines and a timeless design.
Bowie Knife
BothA large fixed-blade knife with an imposing profile. The Bowie Knife features a distinctive clip-point blade and heavy-duty construction.
Butterfly Knife
BothA folding knife with two counter-rotating handles. Known for its iconic flipping animation, the Butterfly Knife is one of the most sought-after knife types in CS2.
Classic Knife
BothThe original Counter-Strike knife design. A nostalgic callback to the classic 1.6 knife model with a straightforward design.
Falchion Knife
BothA curved blade knife with a single-edged design. The Falchion Knife features a distinctive swooping blade shape and spring-assisted deployment.
Flip Knife
BothA folding knife with a simple and clean flipping mechanism. The Flip Knife is an entry-level knife option with a satisfying deploy animation.
Gut Knife
BothA tactical knife with a short, wide blade featuring a gut hook. Usually the most budget-friendly knife option in CS2.
Huntsman Knife
BothA full-tang fixed-blade knife with a large clip-point blade. The Huntsman Knife offers an aggressive profile and satisfying animations.
Karambit
BothA curved claw-like knife originating from Southeast Asia. The Karambit is consistently one of the most popular and expensive knife types due to its iconic spinning animation.
Kukri Knife
BothA Nepalese knife with a distinctive inward-curving blade. The Kukri Knife was added with CS2 and features a unique heavy chopping animation.
M9 Bayonet
BothA military combat knife modeled after the M9 bayonet. Features a clean straight-back blade design and is highly popular in the trading community.
Navaja Knife
BothA folding knife with a ring-lock mechanism and distinctive curved blade. The Navaja is typically one of the more affordable knife options.
Nomad Knife
BothA full-tang fixed-blade knife with a straight-back design. The Nomad Knife features a practical, no-frills look and sturdy build.
Paracord Knife
BothA survival knife with a paracord-wrapped handle. Features a simple, utilitarian design popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Shadow Daggers
BothTwin push daggers — the only dual-wielded knife type in CS2. Shadow Daggers feature a unique deployment and attack animation with both hands.
Skeleton Knife
BothA minimalist knife with a skeletonized handle design. The Skeleton Knife features a clean, lightweight aesthetic and unique deploy animation.
Stiletto Knife
BothAn Italian-style switchblade with a slender, needle-point blade. The Stiletto features a satisfying spring-loaded deployment mechanism.
Survival Knife
BothA rugged fixed-blade survival knife with a sawback spine. Built for tough conditions with a no-nonsense military design.
Talon Knife
BothA curved folding knife with a hawkbill blade design. The Talon Knife features a unique assisted-opening mechanism and aggressive blade profile.
Ursus Knife
BothA large fixed-blade knife with a heavy, broad blade. The Ursus Knife draws inspiration from traditional European hunting knives.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best rifle in CS2?
- The AK-47 is widely considered the best rifle due to its one-shot headshot capability against armored opponents. However, the AWP is the most impactful weapon in skilled hands. For CT-side, the M4A1-S is currently favored in professional play for its accuracy and silenced shots.
- AK-47 or M4A4 — which does more damage?
- The AK-47 deals 36 base damage with 77.5% armor penetration, while the M4A4 deals 33 damage with 70% armor penetration. Critically, the AK-47 can one-shot headshot through helmets (36 × 4 = 144 damage), while the M4A4 cannot (33 × 4 = 132, leaving enemies alive at ~8 HP).
- When should I buy the AWP vs a rifle?
- Buy the AWP when your team economy can sustain the $4,750 cost, when you have a dedicated AWP player, and when the map favors long-range engagements. Never sacrifice your team's utility budget for an AWP, and always have a rifle backup plan.
- Is the SG 553 worth buying?
- The SG 553 costs $3,000 (only $300 more than AK-47) and offers a scope, better armor penetration (100%), and one-shot headshot capability. Its scoped accuracy makes it excellent for long-range duels, though many players prefer the AK-47's spray pattern.