The Best Pistol for the CT Side: Which Pistol to Buy in the First Round?

The CT Pistol in CS2 is the starting point for the entire defenders’ economy. The pistol round sets the pace of the match, affects buys in subsequent rounds, and often decides the outcome of the half. After the release of Counter-Strike 2, the shooting mechanics, weapon behavior, and even the role of some pistols have changed noticeably. Therefore, the question of choosing the optimal weapon has become even more relevant.

In this article, we’ll break down which pistol is best suited for Counter-Terrorists in the first round, why the standard choice isn’t always ideal, and how to choose a weapon that fits your playstyle. We’ll look at every available option and evaluate its practical value under the new subtick system, reworked recoil, and improved sound system of CS2.

Standard Choice: USP-S or P2000?

Most players default to starting with the USP-S. It’s a convenient, accurate, and familiar pistol that has been a symbol of the CT side for decades. But is it really the best choice in CS2?

USP-S — Still Meta, But with Nuances

The USP-S remains a great option thanks to its high first-shot accuracy, the ability to play quietly with the suppressor, and comfortable control at a distance. It’s perfect for holding long angles and making quick peeks.

• Pros:

  • High accuracy at range;

  • Minimal recoil;

  • Quiet shots make counter-attacking harder for the enemy.

• Cons:

  • Small magazine and ammo reserve;

  • Loses in close-range duels;

  • Requires stable aim.

If you play from a position, don’t push, and control long lanes — the USP-S works excellently.

P2000 — The Underrated Competitor

The P2000 is often ignored, even though it has become noticeably stronger thanks to the changed shooting physics in CS2. It has a larger magazine and increased fire density at close and medium ranges.

• Pros:

  • More bullets — an important bonus in prolonged firefights;

  • Convenient for multi-kills;

  • Works confidently in close combat.

• Cons:

  • No suppressor;

  • Recoil is more noticeable.

If your style is fast peeks, retakes, or aggressive defense, the P2000 can give you an advantage.

Alternatives That Can Win the Round

Despite the popularity of the USP-S, high-level players are increasingly considering alternatives. This is where it’s decided which CT Pistol in CS2 can actually provide an advantage.

Five-Seven — The King of Close Combat

The Five-Seven is a powerful choice for those who like to accept pushes and play on the site. Due to its high armor penetration and accuracy, it can take out a group of opponents, even when they buy armor.

• Pros:

  • Excellent armor penetration;

  • Large magazine;

  • Strong against group rushes.

• Cons:

  • More expensive than standard pistols;

  • Performs worse at long distances.

If the map involves frequent close-range engagements (Inferno, Mirage, Ancient), this is one of the best options.

P250 — The Cheap “Mini-Deagle”

The P250 is an excellent, budget-friendly, but dangerous choice. For a small price, it offers high damage and the ability to outshoot armored opponents.

• Pros:

  • Excellent price/quality ratio;

  • Penetrates armor at close range;

  • Fast bursts give a chance for a surprise frag.

• Cons:

  • Small ammo reserve;

  • Loses in long-range fights.

Suitable for aggressive players who like to peek and force duels.

Dual Berettas — Stronger Than You Think

After the rebalance, the Duals have become truly dangerous in the pistol round. Their high DPS and huge magazine allow you to hold against an entire team’s rush.

• Pros:

  • Best damage per second among CT pistols;

  • Stable at close range;

  • Ideal for defending tight spots (A on Mirage, B on Overpass).

• Cons:

  • Recoil requires getting used to;

  • Weaker at long distances.

For a player who likes to actively engage in close combat — the number one choice.

Desert Eagle — A Risk That Rarely Pays Off

The Deagle is a legendary pistol, but in the CT pistol round, it’s too expensive and unstable. The first round is not the place for stylish headshots.

• Pros:

  • Can decide a round with one shot;

  • Gives chances in 1vX situations.

• Cons:

  • Weak in burst fire;

  • Low stability;

  • High price.

A choice for players who land 80% of their headshots. If that’s not you — better to avoid it.

So, Which Pistol Should a CT Choose in the First Round?

The best choice depends on playstyle and map, but the overall picture looks like this:

TOP 1: USP-S
Universal, reliable, suits most players. The best “all-around” CT Pistol in CS2 that consistently delivers results.

TOP 2: Five-Seven
Ideal for close combat. If you know the terrorists like to push — this is your choice.

TOP 3: Dual Berettas
Extremely strong in dynamic duels. Especially on maps with narrow chokepoints.

TOP 4: P250
A cheap but dangerous option for aggression.

TOP 5: P2000
An alternative for those who find the USP-S magazine too small.

Conclusion

Choosing the best pistol isn’t just a preference, but part of the strategy. It’s in the first round that the pace of the match, the economy, and the team’s confidence are determined. Most players choose the USP-S, but alternatives like the Five-Seven or Duals in some situations turn out to be even more effective.

Experiment, try different options, adapt to the map and playstyle. And then any CT Pistol in CS2 will become a tool for victory — the main thing is that it suits your tasks and role in the team.

Which pistol to choose for the T side? We told in our other article! [Read…]