Counter-Strike 2
Valorant
What Is Prefiring in CS2 and Valorant?
Shooting at a common enemy position just before you can see it, so the first bullets arrive as the enemy appears.
What does prefire mean?
To prefire is to start shooting at a spot where an enemy usually stands slightly before it comes into view. As you clear the angle, your bullets are already flying, so you win the duel even if the enemy reacts perfectly. It is the aggressive next step after pre-aiming, where you only place your crosshair on that spot.
Pre-aim vs. prefire
| Technique | What you do | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-aim | Keep the crosshair on the spot where an enemy might be, at head height | Every time you clear an angle |
| Prefire | Fire before seeing the enemy, as the angle opens | Common spots where an enemy is likely, especially when time is short |
Why prefiring works
Human reaction time is the slowest part of any duel. Prefiring removes it: you have already decided to shoot, so the only thing left is whether the enemy is there. Combined with peeker’s advantage, a good prefire can kill a defender before they even see you on their screen.
How to prefire well
- Know the common spots. Prefiring only works on positions defenders actually use; learn them in practice maps and demos.
- Stop before shooting. In CS2, use counter-strafing so the first bullets are accurate.
- Keep it short. Two or three bullets per spot are enough; then move to the next angle.
- Clear angles one by one. Slice the corner in pieces instead of showing yourself to several spots at once.
- Mind your ammo and sound. Prefiring empty spots wastes bullets and gives your position away.
Example
On Mirage, you push through Palace onto A. Defenders often hold the corner at the end of Palace, so as the angle opens you fire a short burst at head height. The enemy steps out at the same moment and is hit before he can shoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prefiring a cheat or an exploit?
No. It is a standard skill based on map knowledge. It only looks suspicious because the shot starts before the enemy is visible.
Should I prefire in every round?
No. Prefire likely spots when you have little information or little time. With information, use pre-aim, utility or a wallbang instead.