Before Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the USP pistol used by the Counter-Terrorist faction was the K&M .45 Tactical. However, in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the default pistol has been upgraded to the USP-S. This weapon has been updated in the game since 2013.
What’s New About the USP-S?
Similar to the USP .45 Tactical, the USP-S is a semi-automatic pistol developed by Heckler & Koch GmbH (H&K) of Germany in Oberndorf am Neckar to replace the P7 series. In CS:GO, just like its predecessor the USP .45 Tactical, the USP-S is the default USP pistol, equipped with a suppressor.
Additionally, players have the option of using the P2000, which is also regarded as one of the pistols available for the Counter-Terrorist faction. If equipped in the inventory menu before the match, CT players will receive a USP-S right from the first round under the following circumstances: half of the players in the team are in the first round; a player died in the previous round; or the previous round ended without a sidearm (e.g., dropped the weapon). If a CT player drops the pistol in the first round, they may need to buy another one from the store menu for $200.
The USP-S was released in the Arms Deal update, alongside the M4A1-S – a weapon with different kill features. Both weapons were introduced as weapons from previous Counter-Strike games and were removed from CS:GO in its early stages. In this case, the USP-S is a counterpart of the P2000.
USP-S and Its Great Advantages for Players
The USP-S comes equipped with a suppressor as a default part of the weapon, though players can detach or reattach this component as desired. However, the best advice shared by many players is to keep the suppressor as it helps reduce recoil and increase accuracy. Therefore, to maximize the weapon’s effectiveness, players should ideally choose to retain the suppressor, even though it increases the weapon’s size and makes hiding in corners more challenging.
With the suppressor, the USP-S has very decent accuracy, even when players are running. Although the damage of the USP-S is relatively high, its armor penetration damage is low, making this weapon more suitable for shorter gunfight rounds rather than later rounds.
Some Tips for Using the USP-S
Due to its limited magazine capacity, USP-S users should avoid spraying bullets. The most effective way to conserve ammo is to aim for the opponent’s head and avoid engaging multiple opponents at once. Reload frequently to avoid running out of ammo.
Always keep the suppressor attached. Removing this component will lead to increased recoil, decreased accuracy, louder shots, and less effectiveness compared to the P2000.
Alongside the M4A1-S, the USP-S is recommended to enhance stealth capabilities. However, players need to strategize each shot to maximize effectiveness, as neither weapon is designed for spraying.
As a default free weapon, the USP-S is an excellent choice for teams facing financial difficulties.
Due to the suppressor making the weapon somewhat bulky, players are advised to be cautious when hiding in corners, as the suppressor may protrude. Instead, players should move and take cover behind walls to conceal the suppressor and maintain a good line of sight.
The USP-S is quite ideal for use in mid-late game eco rounds, as it is similar to the M4, at least in its ability to take down opponents equipped with helmets.