Table of Contents
Introduction
The ability to switch the weapon side in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) can provide some advantages for players. Switching which hand holds your weapon changes the position of the weapon model on screen. For some players, having their weapon on a particular side helps with visibility when peeking corners or aiming. This article will explain multiple methods for changing your weapon side in CSGO.
Using Console Commands
The easiest way to switch weapon sides in CSGO is by using console commands. Here are the steps:
- Enable developer console in CSGO settings if you haven’t already
- Press the
~key to open console during a game - Type
cl_righthand 0and press enter to switch to left-handed models - Type
cl_righthand 1and press enter to switch back to right-handed models
You can bind a key to toggle between left and right weapon sides:
bind "L" "toggle cl_righthand 0 1"Now pressing the L key will swap which hand holds your weapon.
Creating an Autoexec File
Rather than entering console commands each time you launch CSGO, you can create an autoexec file to execute commands automatically.
- Navigate to
\Steam\userdata\<YOURID>\730\local\cfg - Create a new text document called
autoexec.cfg - Add your console commands and key binds to the file
- Save the file
Whenever you launch CSGO now, your autoexec file will run and change the weapon side automatically.
Using Third-Party Tools
Some players use third-party CSGO configuration editors like CFGS.gg to modify their settings. These tools provide user-friendly interfaces for customizing all aspects of CSGO, including changing weapon side. After configuring your settings on sites like CFGS.gg, you can download the autoexec file to use in-game.
Comparing Weapon Sides
Here is an overview of potential benefits for each weapon side:
Left-Handed Models
- Clearer view when peeking right-side corners
- Better visibility for left-eye dominant players
Right-Handed Models
- Clearer view when peeking left-side corners
- Better visibility for right-eye dominant players
- Default setting that most players use
In the end, choosing a weapon side comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable. Many pros switch between left and right-handed models depending on the map and side they are playing.
Switching Sides in Competitive Matches
During competitive matches, you can change your weapon side at any time by opening the console and entering commands:
cl_righthand 0
cl_righthand 1Keep in mind that these changes only apply to your viewmodel. Other players will still see the default weapon model.
Some tournaments restrict console command usage, so make sure to check rules before changing weapon sides during competitions.
Practicing with Each Side
If you cannot decide which weapon side works best, try practicing with each one. Play deathmatch using left-handed models for 30 minutes, then switch to right for 30 minutes. See if you notice differences in aim, visibility, or comfort.
Also pay attention to particular maps and sites. For example, left-handed models might give better visibility when playing Counter-Terrorist on Inferno B site. Find the weapon side that works best for your playstyle.
Switching Sides in Other Counter-Strike Games
The cl_righthand command only exists in CSGO. Changing weapon sides is not possible in earlier Counter-Strike games or Counter-Strike 2 using console commands.
However, some third-party clients and plugins enabled viewmodel switching in previous CS games. This functionality has not yet been replicated in CS2. Players must adapt to the default right-handed models for now.
Conclusion
Switching the weapon side in your viewmodel can provide small advantages in CSGO. Test both left and right-handed models to find your preference. Use console commands and autoexec files to change sides whenever needed. Keep in mind that viewmodels are client-side only. Understanding the nuances of changing weapon sides can help take your CSGO gameplay to the next level.
