Learn how to dominate pistol rounds and close-quarter duels with the Classic in VALORANT. These five expert tips will help you maximize its power and boost your win rate.

Inthe tactical world of VALORANT, mastering your weapons is just as crucial asunderstanding your Agents or strategies. Among the vast arsenal offered by RiotGames, the Classic stands out, not because it’s the most powerful, but becauseit’s free. While it may be overshadowed by weapons like the Sheriff or Ghost,the Classic holds untapped potential, especially when used with the rightapproach. If you’re looking to sharpen your pistol round performance or justimprove your fundamentals, this guide provides five essential tips for usingthe Classic effectively in VALORANT.

1. Stick withthe Classic in Pistol Rounds if You Use Ability-Heavy Agents

Notevery round in VALORANT is about firepower, especially the first one. Forplayers who rely on Agents such as Skye, KAY/O, Fade, Sova, or controllers likeBrimstone, Viper, and Omen, spending your credits on abilities rather thanpurchasing a new pistol could be the key to victory. These Agents offerimpactful tools that provide utility, map control, and intel, which are oftenmore valuable than the slight upgrade offered by a Sheriff or Ghost.

Inpistol rounds, having your full set of abilities allows for better setups, moreeffective initiations, and overall stronger team coordination. Since theClassic is already serviceable when used correctly, sticking with it allows youto conserve resources while maximizing your Agent’s potential. Alwaysprioritize utility when playing initiators or controllers, Classic is free, andsometimes, that’s all you need.

2. UseAlternate Fire (Right Click) for Close-Range Engagements

Oneof the most overlooked strengths of the Classic is its alternate fire mode. Byright-clicking, the Classic fires three rounds in a spread pattern, mimicking amini-shotgun. This makes it especially dangerous in close quarters, where awell-placed burst can instantly eliminate an enemy.

Theoptimal range for alternate fire is 0–5 meters. In these situations, hiding ina corner and surprising your enemy with a right-click burst can be lethal. Adirect headshot with even one of the three pellets can deal up to 104 damage,potentially enough to secure a kill if the enemy isn’t wearing armor.

Keepin mind: aiming for the head is crucial. If you only connect with body shots,the damage drops to around 78, which may not be enough to secure the kill andcan leave you vulnerable during the cooldown between shots. Avoid usingright-clicks beyond 5 meters, as the pellet spread becomes too wide to landmeaningful damage.

3. Don’t BeAfraid to Jump or Strafe While Using Alternate Fire

Inmost FPS games, jumping or running while shooting is a major no-go due toreduced accuracy. However, the Classic’s alternate fire mechanics offer aunique loophole. Because of its shotgun-like spread, the loss in precisionisn’t as detrimental when you’re firing at close range.

Thistechnique is particularly effective when clearing tight corners or dealing withplayers holding predictable angles. For instance, many defenders will pre-aimhead level during a slow peek. By jumping or running into their angle whileusing the alternate fire, you disrupt their crosshair placement and increaseyour chances of winning the fight.

Justremember: this tactic works best within five meters and requires fast reflexesand precise timing. While not foolproof, it’s a powerful trick to add to yourpistol-round toolbox.

4. AvoidSpraying: Tap for Better Accuracy

TheClassic’s left-click firing mode may tempt players into rapid spraying,especially during high-pressure engagements. However, due to its severe recoiland inaccuracy over distance, spraying can often do more harm than good, especiallybeyond 10 meters.

Instead,opt for controlled tap firing. Leave a short delay (roughly 0.2–0.5 seconds)between each shot to let the weapon reset its accuracy. When paired with propercrosshair placement and good movement tracking, tap firing becomessignificantly more lethal.

Sprayingis only advisable in tight, close-range duels where recoil becomes less of anissue. Otherwise, patient, deliberate shooting will outperform chaotic spraypatterns every time. Mastering this technique will not only improve yourClassic usage but also benefit your aim with other semi-auto weapons.

5. AvoidLong-Range Fights Whenever Possible

Perhapsthe most important tip: don’t engage in long-range duels with the Classicunless absolutely necessary. Among the semi-auto pistols, the Classic has someof the worst bullet inaccuracy and spread at distance. Even with perfect aim,it’s not uncommon for your bullets to completely miss the target due to randomspread.

Atranges beyond 20 meters, Classic shots often feel unreliable, even if yourcrosshair is perfectly placed on the enemy’s head. Unless you’re incrediblylucky or the enemy is already low on health, you’re unlikely to win thesefights.

Ifyou find yourself in a long-range encounter, the smarter play is to repositionor fall back. Use smokes, walls, or movement to close the gap and fight on yourterms. The Classic is a close-range specialist, and knowing when to disengageis just as important as knowing when to attack.

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