Following the release of Counter-Strike 2, Valve completely reimagined the weapon selection system during a round. The so-called Loadout, accessible from the game's main menu, was also revamped, offering players more freedom. Now, any weapon can be placed in any slot, and this can be done in any order. Moreover, players on the defensive side are now allowed to carry both the M4A4 and the M4A1-S.

This development has led players to reconsider the appropriateness of their weapon selections in their Loadout, as it can now be tailored to individual preferences. Specifically for this reason, we have written this piece, in which you can discover the best Loadout in Counter-Strike 2 for the defensive side.

Understanding the Loadout Basics

Before discussing the best version of the Loadout in Counter-Strike 2, it's crucial to understand the structure of the Loadout itself. What does the game offer, and where can we have the most impact? It's important to note that this article will only cover the Loadout for the CT side, although the T side's Loadout differs only in weapon choice.

In general, we have 15 slots for weapons, 5 slots for grenades, 4 slots for additional equipment, and another 6 slots for customising your gameplay. Let's delve into the details.

• 15 weapon slots — there are 3 columns where different types of weapons can be inserted. Notably, only pistols fit into the first column. The second is for submachine guns, and the third is for assault rifles.
• 5 grenade slots — all currently available grenades in the game are here. It's not possible to swap their positions yet, but Valve hints at the potential for grenade skins in the future.
  
• 4 slots for additional equipment — swapping is not an option here, but you will find standard armour, helmet armour, a bomb defusal kit, and a Zeus. Interestingly, the Zeus already has its first skin; perhaps armour skins are on the horizon?
  
• 6 slots for customisation — this section contains all things beautiful and expensive. Here, you can find character models, gloves, a knife, a music kit, and even choose a medal to highlight in your profile, as well as graffiti.
  

It's also worth noting that for items you have skins for, you need to set the desired skin in your Loadout before the match starts, as changing your Loadout during a competitive game will be impossible, even if you disconnect and return to the main menu.

After examining the Loadout from all angles, let's have a look at the best Loadout in Counter-Strike 2 for the defensive side.

Pistol Choices

The 5 pistol slots include:

• USP-S — A primary choice for defenders in CS:GO, the USP-S has become a true symbol of counter-terrorist forces. It's more popular among players compared to the P2000.
• Dual Berettas — These cowboy pistols are an excellent choice for those looking to aggressively attack bomb sites. With large magazines and high damage potential, they excel at close distances.
  
• P250 — Known as one of the most powerful pistols in the game, the "pocket Deagle" can completely change the course of a disadvantageous round for just $350.
  
• Five-SeveN — Similar to the P250, the Five-SeveN is a powerful option among pistols, especially suitable as a secondary weapon for sniper rifle users and in eco rounds.
  
• Desert Eagle (Deagle) — A favourite among players, the Deagle is capable of one-shot kills across the map for $700. Mastery of this weapon is essential for its effective use in budget rounds.
  

SMG Selection

Included in our Loadout in this category are:

• MP9 — Stands out as the most affordable and profitable SMG for counter-terrorists in CS2.
• UMP-45 — Often overlooked, it excels at medium-range combat and is the top choice for controlling narrow map passages.
  
• MP7 — Positioned between the MP9 and UMP-45 in terms of price, it's known for its high accuracy and control.
  
• MAG-7 — A powerful close-quarters combat shotgun with a $900 kill reward.
  
• XM1014 — The only shotgun in the game, known for its high rate of fire and impressive damage.
  

Assault Rifles

For assault rifles in your Loadout:

• FAMAS — The most economical choice for counter-terrorists, effective against eco strategies.
• M4A4 — Stands as the leader among rifles for counter-terrorists in CS2, notable for its high rate of fire and damage.
  
• M4A1-S — A superb alternative to the M4A4, offering economic savings and precision.
  
• AWP — Remains the unmatched choice for snipers, capable of one-shot kills.
  
• SSG 08 — Known for its mobility and lethal headshots, suitable for aggressive sniping.
  

Conclusion

We've discussed key aspects of weaponry in CS2, exploring various weapon classes including pistols, SMGs, rifles, and sniper rifles, highlighting their unique characteristics and tactical applications. Weapons such as the FAMAS, M4A4, M4A1-S, AWP, and SSG 08 stood out for their effectiveness and role in gameplay strategy. The importance of weapon choice in CS2 and its impact on match outcomes cannot be overstated, underscoring the role of knowledge and skilful weapon use.