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

The CS2 sniper tier list will provide you with a detailed understanding of how each sniper rifle functions in the game. CS2 has recently got a major seasonal overhaul in February, and the latest update has made quite a few changes to the gun meta in the game. Sniper Rifles in CS2 are undoubtedly the strongest guns in the weapon. The possess extremely high damage potential, and can easily wreak havoc against enemy squads when used right.

The CS2 sniper rifle tier list will address the weapons that have been meta since their release and, alongside it, provide you with other options to choose from, should you feel uncomfortable with them or cannot afford them in a certain round.

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.

---

Tier list of the best snipers in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)

Valve has introduced a total of four snipers in their latest iteration, Counter-Strike 2. Among those, two are bolt actions, whereas the other two are automatic. In the following list, we will specify the tiers of the sniper rifles based on these parameters:

• Pick rate
• Recoil, handling, and damage
• Cost

Considering the parameters stated above, we have curated a tier list to feature three different tiers, namely, S, A, and B. We believe none of the weapons are worse than B-tier, and like we stated above, the sniper rifles in CS2 are undoubtedly some of the strongest weapons in the game.

• 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.

That said, here's a detailed brief on the Sniper Rifle tier list for CS2:

---

S-Tier

1) AWP

AWP in CS2 (Image via Valve)

The AWP is perhaps the most famous sniper rifle not only in CS2 but within the entire gaming community. It's one of the most picked weapons alongside AK47, the Desert Eagle, and M4A4. Priced at $4750, you can always see some players save money specifically so they can purchase the AWP. Perhaps its high scoped-in accuracy is its biggest asset.

Or maybe its biggest asset is the raw power that it offers. The AWP is incredibly stable and fairly light for a sniper rifle its size. And on top of that, it can one-shot kill any enemy at any distance, making it a killing-machine like no other. Of course, getting the kills requires skill and timing.

No armor can protect enemies from the gun, and even shots to the legs cause great damage. Because of its sheer power, accuracy, and value for money, AWP sits at the top of the list. When in the right hands, the value delivered from an AWP is simply unparalleled, and its stats, which are discussed below, will shine a light on why we have placed in S-tier of our list.

• Cost: $4750
• Bullets per Magazine: 5
• Bullets (Reserve): 30
• Damage: 115
• Rate of Fire: 41 Rounds Per Minute
• Accurate Range: 69 meters
• Reload Time: 3.7 seconds

---

A-tier

1) SSG-08

SSG-08 in CS2 (Image via Valve)

The lower-cost alternative to the AWP, SSG-08 is yet another bolt action sniper rifle and the only other one in the game. Perhaps its biggest asset is its smooth and light mobility. It offers players a two-body shot kill, incredible accuracy, and movement speed that none of the other snipers in the game can offer.

A headshot naturally destroys the enemy instantly in-spite of having armor on. Armor piercing for the gun stands at 85% which is impressive at a price point of $1700. The perfect eco round weapon if you’re trying to take down enemies at a longer range and hold angles. Popularly also known as Scout, it has a 10 bullet magazine capacity and is used by many snipers when running low on that economy front.

• Cost: $1700
• Bullets per Magazine: 10
• Bullets (Reserve): 90
• Damage: 88
• Rate of Fire: 48 Rounds Per Minute
• Accurate Range: 47 meters
• Reload Time: 3.7 seconds

---

B-tier

1) SCAR-20

SCAR-20 in CS2 (Image via Valve)

The SCAR-20 is an automatic sniper rifle that’s exclusive to the CT-side players. Its key components include great stability while firing, a large magazine thanks to it being an auto-rifle and high damage. However, it’s very important to keep in mind that the gun costs $5000 inside the game. This makes it more expensive than the AWP but it has its benefits.

Since it’s an auto rifle, it is capable of mowing down an enemy team. It may take a couple shots as it cannot one-shot enemies but its accuracy will be rewarding. Hip firing at close ranges is also rewarding. It could be suited to some players but for most, it may not be the right choice because the AWP costs less than the SCAR-20. And comparatively, the former is a much safer and more effective option especially during competitive matches.

• Cost: $5000
• Bullets per Magazine: 20
• Bullets (Reserve): 90
• Damage: 80
• Rate of Fire: 240 Rounds Per Minute
• Accurate Range: 66 meters
• Reload Time: 3.1 seconds

---

2) G3SG1

G3SG1 in CS2 (Image via Valve)

Finally, the last sniper on the list is the G3SG1 which is the SCAR-20 counterpart on the T-side. It is also an automatic sniper, but it is much heavier than the other guns in the list. Its hip fire is not great even though it is just as accurate as the SCAR 20 at 66 meters. Yet again, the auto sniper costs $5000 and may be suited to a very specific playstyle only.

It also has a reload time of 4.7 seconds ,which is longer than any other sniper on the list. Because of these drawbacks, it isn’t a popular choice among Terrorists who would also much rather go for the AWP with the given funds.

• Cost: $5000
• Bullets per Magazine: 20
• Bullets (Reserve): 90
• Damage: 80
• Rate of Fire: 240 Rounds Per Minute
• Accurate Range: 66 meters
• Reload Time: 4.7 seconds

---

This sums up the tier list for all the snipers available in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2). Now, depending on the nuances, players have to decide which will be the suitable one that helps them master the art of long-range fights.

For more news related to CS2, stay tuned to Sportskeeda.