Our previous skin-themed article covered the most expensive CS2 skins overall. That time, we’ll speak about knives, specifically.
In Counter-Strike 2, knife skins aren't just cosmetic bling—they're a statement of style, a showcase of bragging rights, and sometimes a way to make that final kill feel a bit more satisfying. Some knives shine due to their mesmerizing animations, while others boast sleek, eye-catching designs that make you want to keep inspecting them mid-match. Below is a ranking of the top 10 knife skins in CS2, considering their look and feel. Every entry includes its price, rarity, and a handy link to its CS.MONEY page for easy reference.
Top 10 CS2 Knife Skins
Karambit | Doppler (Phase 2)
The Karambit Doppler (Phase 2) stands out as one of the best due to its brilliant mix of black and purple, making it a go-to choice for players who want something subtle and striking. The blade's curved shape and compact design make every draw and stab feel precise. This knife doesn't just look good—it feels powerful, and its near-flawless patterns vary enough to keep every Doppler unique.
Price: $1,300 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: November 2016
Butterfly Knife | Fade
With its renowned spinning animation, the Butterfly Knife Fade is a staple of style. The blade's surface transitions smoothly through shades of pink, purple, and yellow, creating a vibrant yet balanced look. The knife is all about finesse, with players often spinning it to admire how the light reflects off its edge. This one's for those who like a splash of color without overdoing it.
Price: ~$1,800 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: August 2013
M9 Bayonet | Marble Fade
The M9 Bayonet Marble Fade brings a splash of elegance to an otherwise brutal weapon. The blade's mix of red, yellow, and blue swirls evokes the image of marbled glass, and the longer blade model provides a fantastic canvas for the pattern to shine. The inspect animations emphasize its hefty presence, giving off a sense of authority.
Price: ~$1,700 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: January 2015
Talon Knife | Tiger Tooth
The Talon Knife Tiger Tooth features a fierce blend of yellow and black, mimicking a tiger's stripes. Its claw-like blade shape enhances this ferocity, making it look as dangerous as it feels. The bright, reflective finish makes this knife pop out in any light, and the distinct curvature of the blade gives it an aggressive edge.
Price: ~$1,400 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: March 2017
Huntsman Knife | Crimson
With its heavy-duty frame and sinister design, the Huntsman Knife Crimson Web is a favorite among players who prefer bulkier, more intimidating knives. The deep red blade, covered in web-like patterns, gives the knife a sinister vibe, and each pullout feels like you're wielding a miniature axe rather than a knife. If you're into darker aesthetics, this one's for you.
Price: ~$950 (Minimal Wear)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: May 2014
Shadow Daggers | Damascus Steel
Shadow Daggers provide a distinct dual-wielding experience, and the Damascus Steel variant ups the style quotient. These knives feature intricate metallic patterns along their blades, and their compact design allows quick stabs. Each blade looks like a piece of art, yet the dual-wield nature ensures you're always ready for quick, deadly action.
Price: ~$600 (Factory New)
Shadow Daggers | Damascus Steel
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: December 2015
Skeleton Knife | Slaughter
The Skeleton Knife's distinct, open-handle design gives it a raw, tactical feel. Its Slaughter pattern, deep red tones, and sporadic lines create a chaotic aesthetic. Lightweight and agile, the Skeleton Knife is a favorite for those who like something unconventional yet still visually arresting.
Price: ~$1,100 (Minimal Wear)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: March 2019
Classic Knife | Fade
A tribute to CS veterans, the Classic Knife Fade keeps things simple but stylish. It's designed for those who appreciate nostalgia while wanting a modern twist. The blade's fade pattern transitions smoothly from yellow to pink, and its simplistic design lets the colors speak for themselves.
Price: ~$850 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: November 2019
Navaja Knife | Marble Fade
The Navaja Knife's compact size might not make it everyone's favorite, but its Marble Fade pattern helps it stand out. With a blade that mimics a painter's palette of red, yellow, and blue, this knife feels more like a collector's piece. Perfect for those who want a unique pattern in a smaller form factor.
Price: ~$500 (Factory New)
Rarity: Covert
Date Added: August 2018.