Counter-strafing in CS2: how to shoot accurately after moving
What counter-strafing is, why your bullets miss without it and how to practice instant stopping before shooting in CS2.
In CS2 weapons are only accurate when you are standing still or nearly still. If you shoot while running, bullets spray to the sides. Counter-strafing is how you stop instantly.
📌 How it works
If you just release a movement key, your character slides a little due to momentum. If you press the opposite key, it stops almost immediately.
🔧 How to do it
You are moving right holding D.
Release D and immediately tap A.
Shoot the moment you stop.
Same for moving left: release A → tap D.
🎯 How to practice
Load a bot map or Aim Botz from the Workshop.
Strafe out of a corner, counter-strafe and take one headshot.
Repeat both ways for 5–10 minutes before playing.
cl_showpos 1helps: the velocity value (vel) shows how quickly you stopped.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Holding the opposite key too long — the character starts moving the other way.
Shooting before you have fully stopped — especially noticeable with the AK-47 and AWP.
Forward/back counter-strafing (W/S) works the same but is used less often.