Counter-Strafing
Stop instantly and shoot accurately by counter-strafing movement keys.
Video Tutorial
Mechanic Overview
What is Counter-Strafing?
Counter-strafing is the technique of instantly stopping your movement by briefly tapping the opposite movement key, allowing you to achieve perfect accuracy immediately.
Why It's Important
In CS2, moving while shooting drastically reduces accuracy. Counter-strafing allows you to stop instantly and fire accurately, giving you a massive advantage in duels.
When to Use
Use counter-strafing when peeking angles, during duels, and any time you need to transition from movement to accurate shooting quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step Guide
While moving left (A key), briefly tap D to instantly stop
While moving right (D key), briefly tap A to instantly stop
Release both keys simultaneously for immediate accuracy
Fire immediately after the counter-strafe input
Pro Tips
Practice the timing in aim training maps
Watch your velocity in net_graph 1 - it should hit 0
Combine with pre-aiming for maximum effectiveness
Use in combination with jiggle peeking for information gathering
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Holding the counter-strafe key too long
Not releasing the original movement key
Shooting before the character has fully stopped
Over-thinking the timing instead of building muscle memory
Practice Methods
Warmup Drills
Strafe left and right while counter-strafing repeatedly
Practice counter-strafing while shooting at static targets
Combine counter-strafing with crosshair placement drills
Training Maps
aim_botz - Practice counter-strafing while shooting bots
yprac maps - Use the counter-strafe practice modes
Fast aim/reflex trainer - Combine movement with target shooting
Real Game Practice
Peek common angles on dust2 long
Practice wide peeking with counter-strafing on mirage palace
Use in pistol round duels for maximum accuracy
Advanced Techniques
Advanced Techniques
Pre-fire counter-strafing: Start the counter-strafe before you see the enemy
Diagonal counter-strafing: Counter diagonal movement (W+A with S+D)
Micro counter-strafing: Extremely brief taps for minimal movement adjustment
Situational Usage
Counter-strafing while climbing ladders
Using counter-strafing during jump shots
Combining with crouch peeking for unpredictable movement
Performance Statistics
Master Counter-Strafing
Consistent practice of this mechanic will significantly improve your overall gameplay. Focus on building muscle memory through regular training sessions.