CS2 features nearly all types of weapons and items found in the real world, which is why some weapons are more popular than others. Weapons like the AK-47, MP9, and AWP, actively used in the real world, have also become player favorites in CS2. Players are constantly looking for ways to customize their items and stand out from others. In this article, we will focus on the AWP, specifically AWP skins, and cover just about everything related to them. Let’s get started!
All You Need to Know About AWP Skins in CS2
There are some essential things to know about skins, and AWP skins are no exception. Let’s get acquainted with the fundamentals to understand what makes them unique.
Rarity
In CS2, skin rarity is a key factor that determines how unique and special a skin is. Rarity levels are essentially categories that indicate how often a skin can be found, with rarer skins being more difficult to obtain. There are typically seven main levels of rarity in CS2:
- Consumer Grade (White) – The most common skins, usually basic in design and widely available.
- Industrial Grade (Light Blue) – Slightly rarer than Consumer Grade, but still relatively easy to find.
- Mil-Spec (Blue) – The first noticeable step up in rarity, these skins are more limited than the previous two.
- Restricted (Purple) – Rarer still, with more distinct and elaborate designs.
- Classified (Pink) – These skins are uncommon and often feature standout aesthetics.
- Covert (Red) – One of the highest levels of rarity, these skins are quite hard to come by and often highly desirable.
- Contraband (Orange) – Extremely rare, often due to being discontinued or limited, making them some of the rarest skins available.
Rarity doesn’t just influence how difficult a skin is to find; it also plays a role in the appeal and prestige of owning certain skins. The rarer the skin, the more unique it feels to have it in your collection.
Price
CS2 skins come in a wide range of prices, and AWP skins are no different—some can be extremely expensive, while others are more reasonably priced. The price of a skin is influenced by several factors, with rarity being one of the main ones. The rarer the skin, the higher the price is likely to be. However, rarity isn’t the only factor. Condition or wear level plays a huge role in pricing as well. Skins come in different conditions, from Factory New to Battle-Scarred, and the closer the skin is to Factory New, the more valuable it becomes. Additionally, the popularity of certain skins among professional players or within the community can also drive up the price. Other factors include the design or pattern of the skin (with some unique patterns being more coveted), how limited the skin is in circulation, and whether it was tied to a special event or promotion.
How to Get AWP Skins
You have several options for getting CS2 skins—some are free, some cost money, some guarantee you’ll get them, and others are all about chance. Either way, we’ve picked out the best methods for you!
Case Openings
Getting skins through case openings in CS2 is a popular method that adds an element of excitement. A case opening involves purchasing or acquiring a case, which contains a random skin, and then using a key to unlock it. Each case has a set of skins with varying rarity levels, and when you open it, you’re randomly assigned one of these skins. Cases themselves are primarily acquired through purchase—either from the Steam Marketplace or trusted third-party platforms. On the Steam Marketplace, you can browse and choose specific cases based on the skins they offer. Additionally, cases can sometimes be included in special promotions or events, providing access to exclusive or limited-time cases. The main advantage of case openings is the chance to obtain rare or valuable skins.
Trading
Trading, in other words CS2 skin exchange, is another popular method for acquiring skins, allowing players to exchange their unwanted skins for those they desire. This process typically takes place through the Steam Trading System, where you can negotiate and make offers with other players. To initiate a trade, you need to find someone willing to exchange their skins. Once both parties agree on the items involved, the trade can be completed instantly through the Steam interface. Trading has several advantages: it allows you to potentially get high-value skins without spending real money, and it fosters a sense of community as players interact and negotiate.
Purchasing
Purchasing skins is one of the most straightforward ways to expand your CS2 collection. You can buy skins directly from the Steam Marketplace, where a vast array of options is available, ranging from affordable items to rare and expensive ones. The marketplace allows you to search for specific skins or browse through categories, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. When purchasing a skin, it’s essential to consider factors such as its condition and rarity, as these will significantly affect the price. Additionally, you can often find better deals during sales or promotions, so keeping an eye on the marketplace can be beneficial. Another option is to buy skins from trusted third-party websites, which may offer lower prices or special promotions.
Top AWP Skins You Should Add to Your Inventory
Now, let’s turn our attention to the skins themselves and explore which AWP skins are the best to add to your inventory.
AWP | Black Nile
True to its name, the AWP | Black Nile boasts an elegant black finish accented with golden lines on the sniper rifle. Despite its eye-catching look, this skin is quite budget-friendly, with the Factory New Souvenir version priced at only $21. Its attractive design and reasonable cost have made the AWP | Black Nile is a favorite among both professional and casual players, often seen in daily matches and international tournaments.
AWP | Chromatic Aberration
Introduced around two years ago, the AWP | Chromatic Aberration skin is priced in the low to mid-range, typically averaging around $10. This skin also offers a StatTrak option, which tracks the number of kills you achieve with the weapon. Remember that the presence of StatTrak, along with the skin’s float value, can influence its price.
AWP | Desert Hydra
The AWP | Desert Hydra is another excellent option to consider for your inventory. Classified as a Covert rarity skin, it also comes in a Souvenir edition. Prices for this skin range between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on its wear condition. As expected, skins in Factory New condition tend to command significantly higher prices than those with battle-scarred wear.
Conclusion
In this article, we talked about AWP skins in CS2, discussed their fundamental features and information, explored the best methods to acquire them, and highlighted some of the best AWP skins available. Now it’s your turn—go get your weapon, apply your skins, and showcase your skills. Good luck!