Cheapest CS2 Knives in July 2026 — Budget Knife Guide
Getting your first knife in CS2 is a major milestone. If you're looking for the most affordable options in July 2026, we track the cheapest CS2 knives on the market in real-time. From the Navaja Knife to the Gut Knife, explore the best entry-level knives available today.
Market Analysis & Budget Guide
In July 2026, the entry-level CS2 knife market presents exciting opportunities for budget-conscious players. As the most prestigious slot in any Counter-Strike loadout, owning a knife is a major milestone. Based on real-time database analysis of the cheapest 25 knives currently available, we have compiled this comprehensive market summary and buying guide.
According to our live market data, the absolute cheapest knife in CS2 today is the Shadow Daggers | Bright Water (field-tested), priced at an incredibly accessible $39.59. Compared to last month's absolute floor price of $41.37, the entry barrier has decreased by approximately 4.5%, making it the perfect time for beginners to purchase their first blade.
Entry-Level Knife Distribution:
- Shadow Daggers: 13 models listed. Taking up a massive portion of the budget tier, the "Butt Plugs" offer a unique dual-wield aesthetic. With Valve having fixed the screen-shake animation bug in CS2, their popularity and in-game feel have significantly improved.
- Navaja Knife: 11 models listed. The Navaja is the most affordable folding knife on the market. While its small blade is polarizing in the community, its ultra-low price makes it the perfect canvas for budget finishes like Safari Mesh and Scorched.
- Gut Knife: 0 models listed. Featuring a massive blade and a signature gut hook, this knife offers huge visual presence. Its large surface area makes it excellent for showcasing skin patterns like Crimson Web or Damascus Steel.
- Other Styles: 1 models listed. Includes budget options for Falchion Knives, Bowie Knives, and others that occasionally dip into the sub-$120 range.
The overall average price of the cheapest knives this month sits at $NaN, down from last month's average of $NaN. This steady decline is driven by seasonal market adjustments and stable case drop rates, which have kept the supply of low-tier finishes high and squeezed out unnecessary speculative premiums.
For players with a strict sub-$100 budget, we highly recommend Shadow Daggers. They offer a highly distinct dual-wield look, and under CS2's Source 2 lighting, even low-tier finishes like Rust Coat look incredibly metallic and satisfying. If you can stretch your budget to $120+, the Falchion Knife is a fantastic upgrade, offering a rare balancing inspect animation that adds great playability.
Curated List & Live Prices

Shadow Daggers | Bright Water (field-tested)

Navaja Knife | Rust Coat (battle-scarred)

Shadow Daggers | Forest Ddpat (field-tested)

Shadow Daggers | Rust Coat (battle-scarred)

Shadow Daggers | Boreal Forest (field-tested)

Navaja Knife | Safari Mesh (field-tested)

Shadow Daggers | Black Laminate (field-tested)

Shadow Daggers | Black Laminate (battle-scarred)

Shadow Daggers | Safari Mesh (field-tested)

Navaja Knife | Boreal Forest (field-tested)

Shadow Daggers | Black Laminate (well-worn)

Navaja Knife | Forest Ddpat (field-tested)

Shadow Daggers | Forest Ddpat (battle-scarred)

Navaja Knife | Safari Mesh (well-worn)

Shadow Daggers | Safari Mesh (battle-scarred)

Navaja Knife | Scorched (field-tested)

Navaja Knife | Boreal Forest (battle-scarred)

Shadow Daggers | Safari Mesh (well-worn)

Navaja Knife | Urban Masked (battle-scarred)

Navaja Knife | Night Stripe (battle-scarred)

Shadow Daggers | Bright Water (minimal wear)

Navaja Knife | Boreal Forest (well-worn)

Shadow Daggers | Boreal Forest (well-worn)

Kukri Knife | Boreal Forest (field-tested)

Navaja Knife | Vanilla (normal)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the absolute cheapest knife in CS2?
Typically, the Navaja Knife | Safari Mesh or Shadow Daggers | Rust Coat are among the cheapest knives available in CS2.
Q:Should I buy a cheap knife or save up?
It depends on your preference. Cheap knives are a great entry point, but if you have a specific dream knife (like a Karambit or Butterfly), it might be better to save up.
Q:Where does this cheap knife list come from?
Prices and order are from the Steam Market and updated regularly. Use the list to compare current prices and find the best budget option.