Riot Games’ tactical first-person shooter, Valorant, has become a global sensation thanks to its blend of refined gunplay, strategic team play, and diverse character abilities. At the heart of any winning strategy is the effective use of weapons. From budget pistols to high-powered rifles, each gun plays a pivotal role in shaping the fast-paced combat scenarios of Valorant. For a full list and breakdown of all in-game firearms, check out the complete catalog of Valorant weapons . Weapon Categories in Valorant Valorant classifies its weapons into several categories based on their function, cost, and strength. Understanding these categories helps players make informed decisions during buy rounds. Pistols Pistols are lightweight and ideal for pistol rounds or tight economy situations. Despite their lower price, some pistols can be extremely lethal in the right hands. Classic - The standard sidearm for all players, offering a burst-fire mode. Shorty - A cheap sawed-off shotgun with deadly close-range potency. Frenzy - A rapid-fire pistol ideal for aggressive players. Ghost - Features high accuracy and silenced fire, ideal for headshots. Sheriff - A heavy revolver that deals significant damage with each shot. SMGs Submachine guns are a step up from pistols in performance. They offer increased rate of fire and damage output, often favored during force-buy rounds. Stinger - A compact SMG with strong burst potential at close range. Spectre - A reliable silenced SMG with balanced stats for early rounds. Rifles Rifles are the most versatile and commonly used weapon class. They are effective at most ranges and often form the backbone of a team's arsenal. Bulldog - A burst-fire rifle that shines in mid-range engagements. Guardian - A semi-automatic DMR with high damage per shot and accuracy. Phantom - A silenced automatic rifle, popular for its accuracy and control. Vandal - Deals consistent damage at all ranges, favored for its raw power. Sniper Rifles Sniper rifles in Valorant are elite tools for long-range engagements. When handled skillfully, they can secure instant kills. Marshal - A cost-effective sniper with quick handling and high aim reward. Operator - The most intimidating sniper rifle with one-shot kill potential. Machine Guns Machine guns offer high ammo capacity and suppression potential. Though rarely used in higher-level play, they entertain niche strategies. Ares - A budget-friendly weapon with a large magazine and steady fire. Odin - Massive damage output and intimidating presence when holding angles. Choosing the Right Weapon Success in Valorant depends on selecting weapons that complement your playstyle, role, and the map layout. Rifles like the Phantom and Vandal are popular due to their flexibility, while pistols and SMGs serve as economic choices during early or force-buy rounds. Snipers can dominate long sightlines, especially in maps like Breeze, where range advantage is key. Economic Strategy Understanding the economy of Valorant is vital. Players must balance spending on weapons, armor, and abilities. Strategic buy rounds, eco rounds, and force buys often dictate the overall flow of a match, and weapon choice must reflect those decisions. Conclusion Whether you're a clutch king with a Sheriff or a site anchor controlling space with an Odin, Valorant's arsenal offers something for every tactical situation. Mastery of weapon choice, economy management, and map control is essential for climbing the ranks. To explore all of these weapons in greater detail and get updated stats, visit the complete Valorant weapons guide.