How to use Valorant’s newest gun, the Bandit

Valorant surprised many players by introducing a brand-new weapon called the Bandit. Acting as a stronger version of the Classic, Ghost, and similar sidearms, the weapon has quickly become a fan-favorite.

Like with every other weapon in the game, players must know how to properly utilize the Bandit. This includes knowing its strengths and limitations, as well as learning which maps it really shines in.

So, if you want to master the Bandit in Valorant ^[1], keep reading because we have you covered!

How to use the Bandit effectively in Valorant

The Bandit is a new sidearm introduced in Valorant, which costs 600 credits. It features an 8-round magazine and excels in short to medium ranges. Moreover, it offers higher damage and accuracy than the Ghost, but is easier to handle and less expensive than the Sheriff.

The Bandit rewards one-shot headshots. Against light or no armor, a single headshot can kill an enemy easily at close or mid-range. To unlock the Bandit’s full potential, practice snap aiming to improve your aim accuracy. Avoid “spraying” as it only has 8 rounds per magazine and is best utilized when players focus on precise shots. The Bandit really shines in rounds where the economy is tight. Use it on pistol rounds, economy rounds, half-buys, or in post-plan defense when opponents have light armor. 

Best maps to use Bandit in Valorant

When using Bandit, it’s important to play in tight angles and chokepoints. In more open areas, its one-shot range is not usually held, giving rifles the upper hand. It performs best in close-quarter fights, so tight maps with short sightlines are ideal. Compact maps best complement the Bandit’s damage, such as:

• Ascent
• Sunset
• Bind
• Fracture

On the other hand, open maps like Breeze, Lotus, or the Abyss tend to have frequent, long duels that ruin the Bandit’s one-shot headshot range. Therefore, consider the map you’re playing on, since players can get kills and fall back safely on maps with shorter angles with the Bandit. However, if you’re playing in long-range environments, it might be safer to use the Ghost.

How is the Bandit different from Ghost and Sheriff?

The Bandit enjoys a spot between the Ghost and the Sheriff. It basically offers a compromise, with faster firing and lower cost than the Sheriff, but more damage and better range than the Ghost. Compared to the Ghost, the Bandit costs 100 more credits, with fewer bullets, but significantly higher headshot power. However, the Ghost is quieter and slightly more accurate at longer distances, so some players may still choose Ghost if they prefer stealth and strafing over raw power.

Compared to the Sheriff, Bandit is far cheaper and easier to control, with less recoil and reloads faster. It has a slightly higher fire rate and shorter equip time than the Sheriff, making it better for switching between weapons quickly. Although the Bandit can’t eliminate a fully-armored enemy with one shot at a long range, while the Sheriff can one-shot any armor at any range, 

Best agents to pair with the Bandit in Valorant

The Bandit works best with Agents that are aggressive and entry-oriented. Duelists like Jett or Neon, who dash into combat, can use the Bandit’s shot power to get rid of close-range enemies quickly. On the other hand, lurker-style agents who engage at long range, such as Reyna or Chamber, may still prefer the range of a Sheriff.

Initiators and controllers such as Breach, KAY/O, and Omen can purchase The Bandit without giving up their utility, as it is cheaper than a Sheriff. The weapon is designed to help players balance ability usage with effective gunplay. As a result, agents that rely heavily on abilities benefit the most because the Bandit leaves more room in the budget for utility. Overall, the Bandit shines best in team fights and quick duels.

FAQs

What is the Bandit in Valorant?

The Bandit is a new sidearm in Valorant. It costs 600 credits and is designed for close to mid-range fights. It sits between the Ghost and the Sheriff in power and price.

How much does the Bandit cost?

The Bandit costs 600 credits, making it more expensive than the Ghost but cheaper than the Sheriff.

How many bullets does the Bandit have?

The Bandit has an 8-round magazine. This means accuracy matters more than spraying.

References

1. [1] "official Valorant homepage". playvalorant.com. Retrieved January 15, 2026