CS2 spray patterns explained – what are spray patterns?

If you’re new to Valve’s latest FPS installment, you may ask: what are spray patterns in CS2? Worry not because we’ll be covering what you need to know here. Like every other shoot ’em up in the market, Counter-Strike 2 is filled with various guns you can use throughout a match. Some, like pistols and sniper rifles, can simply be used by pointing and shooting at an enemy once. However, the most popular ones, such as fully automatic assault rifles, require a bit more practice to operate effectively.

This is mainly due to each weapon’s erratic and unique spray patterns that make controlling a sustained stream of bullets difficult. Fortunately, we’re here to shed some light on what these are so you can have an easier time understanding and, eventually, mastering them. If you want to progress even more in the game, though, our comprehensive collection of CS2 tips should also help.

What are spray patterns in CS2?

A spray pattern in CS2 is a movement that a weapon makes when fired for a prolonged period. You’ll be able to learn what a gun’s spray pattern is by aiming at a wall, holding down the trigger, and letting the weapon fire freely. The gun you’re using will then make a specific motion that seems erratic at first but can be learned with some practice.

Naturally, popular spray patterns people attempt to learn quickly are those of the AK-47, the M4A4, and the M4A1-S. Since these are some of the most frequently used weapons in each CS2 match, players often gravitate toward these guns when practicing against bots, playing in casual modes, or participating in competitive lobbies. Of course, mastering a gun’s spray pattern is easier said than done. So, to make it easier, we’ll show you a few tips on how you can practice it.

How to practice spray control in CS2

To practice spray control in CS2, create a bot lobby, purchase the weapon you want to practice with, aim at a wall, and let the weapon fire freely. The movement that it makes will follow a specific pattern, which you’ll need to study first. Once you’ve memorized it, counter the weapon’s motion by moving your mouse in the opposite direction. If done successfully, this will stabilize the normally unpredictable spray pattern, allowing you to pepper your enemies with a painful stream of bullets.

That covers all you need to know about spray patterns in CS2. If you want to learn more, check out our guides on CS2 tips, the best terrorist loadout in CS2, and how to play workshop maps in CS2.