CS2 shotgun tier list: All Counter-Strike 2 shotguns ranked from best to worst (March 2025)

The CS2 shotgun tier list will come in handy for those that like to push the game's boundaries and use unorthodox weapons to dominate over their opponents. Most players from the Counter-Strike community refrain from pushing the meta boundary and generally resort to using the same combination of SMGs, Assault Rifles, and Sniper Rifles in the game.

However, Shotguns are quite an underrated pick in CS2. These weapons are extremely powerful, and when used right, can not only net you easy wins in a given round but provide you an extremely powerful economical benefit. Each shotgun kill in CS2 racks up $900, which is significantly more than the money you receive for earning kills with SMGs, Assault Rifles, and Sniper Rifles.

That said, this article will provide you with a detailed overview of the CS2 shotgun tier list. We have curated it to feature all Counter-Strike 2 shotguns ranked from best to worst. Read below to know more.

Editor's note: The contents of this article are subjective and solely feature the writer's own opinion. Furthermore, the article has been updated to feature the latest information in accordance with the balance patch deployed by Valve on February 6, 2025.

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The best Shotguns in Counter-Strike 2 tier, ranked

Despite their lack of popularity, Counter-Strike 2 shotguns should not be underestimated. Even the most modest shotgun offers a larger kill reward than the much more costlier weapons.

In addition, shotguns excel in close-quarter combat due to their wide spread and high damage output. Their ability to quickly eliminate multiple enemies in confined spaces makes them a valuable asset for defending objectives or clearing out tight areas.

Furthermore, shotguns can catch opponents off guard with their devastating stopping power, making them a formidable choice for aggressive playstyles and surprise attacks.

This tier list will divide the assault rifles into four categories:

• S tier: The S tier represents the best weapons in the current meta. These are ahead of the curve and will dominate in every match.
• A tier: These weapons are the second-best ground loot available in the game. Whether you have the Tier 4 attachments or basic ones, they will perform better than the weapons of other classes.
• B tier: While not as dominant as the former tier, B-tier weapons can hold their own in gunfights. For optimal results, you need great attachments to go along with them.
• C tier: This category of weapons isn't typically a go-to choice. However, their limitations can be worked around if desired.

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S tier: XM1014

The XM1014, or the automatic shotgun, stands out in the S tier of close-quarter efficiency. Its semi-automatic firing mechanism delivers a relentless barrage with a single trigger pull, making it the top choice for dominating opponents in aggressive engagements.

While it might lack firepower on paper, the XM1014 can shred through an entire squad with a single magazine. Its effective range is quite high, and you can easily destroy players in close-mid-range combat without breaking a single drop of sweat. Paired with a flashbang to stun your foes, you're all set to dominate your game using this shotgun.

Ideal for players who adopt an assertive playstyle and seek to dominate in confined spaces, the XM1014 remains a trusty option for those who understand the value of controlled aggression.

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A tier: MAG-7

The MAG-7, a pump-action shotgun, is a great choice for players who favor methodical and calculated engagements. Despite its pump-action mechanism introducing a brief delay, the weapon makes up for it with its heightened damage output, making it ideal for holding strategic positions and securing one-shot kills at close range.

Exclusive to the CT side and priced at $1300, the MAG-7 boasts the highest armor penetration and damage among shotguns, positioning it as a high-risk, high-reward option.

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B tier: Nova

Nestled in the middle of the shotgun tiers, the Nova offers a balance between firing speed and power in Counter-Strike 2. Priced at $1050, it is the early-game choice for economic efficiency and is great in the short-to-medium range.

While lacking armor penetration, the Nova excels in early rounds, particularly in tight corridors and areas that can catch opponents off-guard.

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C tier: Sawed-Off

Concluding the shotgun tier list is the Sawed-Off, a compact weapon demanding a calculated approach for unparalleled close-quarter effectiveness in Counter-Strike 2.

Sacrificing range for devastating impact at point-blank proximity, the Sawed-Off transforms tight corridors into lethal hunting grounds. Though its application is niche, requiring strategic positioning and an audacious approach, its potential to turn the tide in an instant makes it a weapon of choice for those who thrive on chaos.

Priced at $1100, the Sawed-Off offers a T-side alternative to the MAG-7. Despite challenges like inaccuracy and long reload time, its potential for single-hit kills makes it a viable option for terrorist players aiming to create early-game disruptions.

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Ambushing expectations in rank mode

Even in the top CS2 ranks, the element of surprise is a strategic advantage while using shotguns. Players sometimes underestimate the unexpected presence of a good soldier armed with a shotgun.

The inherent kill rewards and cost-effectiveness of shotguns also offer a lifeline in eco rounds, presenting a strategic advantage for players navigating economy crunches in Counter-Strike 2.

The XM1014 and MAG-7 emerge as heavy hitters, each catering to distinct styles of engagement. The Nova, a reliable all-rounder, offers adaptability without compromising budget constraints. The Sawed-Off, a wildcard, stands as a calculated risk for those seeking to redefine the narrative at point-blank range.