CS2 weapon tier list: All guns ranked (March 2025)

Knowing about the CS2 weapon tier list is key if you want to understand how the meta is currently being driven in the game. CS2 recently received its very first seasonal update, and some aspects of weapons had been changed with the latest update. This has naturally shifted the meta a little bit, and if you want to climb the Premier ladder effectively, it's essential for you to know which weapons are currently dominating the meta in the game.

This article will provide you with a detailed brief on the CS2 weapon list in consideration with the ongoing weapon meta. We have curated this list to feature the best weapons to the worst after making careful considerations about a number of factors, such as the weapon's cost, vesratility, damage output, and much 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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CS2 weapon tier list: Guns ranked from best to worst

Valve has introduced 35 weapons in Counter-Strike 2. Some of these weapons are exceptionally good, while others lack in crucial departments.

This CS2 weapon tier list seeks to evaluate these weapons based on the following factors:

Cost
Damage output
Recoil
Pick rate
Rate of fire
Situational effectiveness

This tier list will divide the weapons into five distinct categories, namely, S, A, B, C, and D. S refers to the weapons that are absolutely meta, and serve well in all scenarios. D-tier weapons can be referred to as the 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.
C tier: This category of weapons isn't typically a go-to choice. However, their limitations can be worked around if desired.
D tier: These are the worst-performing weapons in the entire game. Swap to other weapons whenever possible.

S tier

The AWP Gugnir (Image via Valve || YouTube/covernant)

The S tier comprises weapons that are very effective in almost every in-game situation and have a high picking rate in the current meta. These weapons can turn the tide of a match and are often used by high-ranked or professional players.

In this CS2 weapon tier list, the S-tier options are:

AWP
AK-47
M4A4
M4A1-S
Desert Eagle
USP-S

This section will barely surprise anyone as these guns have been the distinct meta weapons for ages. The AWP features a single-shot kill potential making it the deadliest weapon for both factions.

As for the AK-47, it is the only rifle capable of hitting a one-shot headshot from any range. Its the best AR in the game, reserved for the terrorists. Next up, we have the counter-terrorist counterparts of the AK-47, i.e., the M4A4, and the M4A1-S, both of which are excellent rifles.

Lastly, the Desert Eagle and the USP-S also top this list on account of being some of the most effective pistols in the game.