CS2 Slaughter Patterns Guide
The complete reference for understanding CS2 Slaughter knife patterns. Learn to identify all recognizable shapes including diamonds, hearts, phoenixes, and angels. Understand how pattern centering and float value affect prices, and make informed trading decisions based on pattern values.
What Is the Slaughter Finish?
Slaughter is one of the original and most iconic knife finishes in CS2, first introduced with the very first weapon cases in the game's history. The finish features a distinctive blood-red metallic pattern with darker streaks that can form recognizable shapes across the blade. These patterns vary based on the knife's pattern seed, making each Slaughter knife potentially unique in its appearance.
What makes Slaughter particularly interesting to collectors and traders is the shape recognition system. Unlike finishes such as Doppler where value is determined by color phases, Slaughter value depends on whether recognizable shapes appear in the metallic pattern and where those shapes are positioned on the blade.
Key Slaughter Facts
- Drop Rate: ~0.26% from cases containing Slaughter knives (same as all rare special items)
- First Appearance: Original CS:GO cases (2013), one of the oldest knife finishes
- Pattern System: 1000 possible patterns (seeds 0-999), some forming recognizable shapes
- StatTrak Available: Yes, adds ~10-15% premium
- Cases: Available in most knife-containing cases throughout CS2's history
- Color Palette: Blood red with dark red/maroon streaks forming the pattern
According to CSGOStash, Slaughter remains a classic and sought-after finish, with pattern-based pricing creating significant value variations between individual knives.
Slaughter Pattern Shapes
Slaughter knives can display various recognizable shapes within their metallic patterns. These shapes are formed by the dark streaks against the red background. Not all Slaughters have clear shapes - many have random patterns without recognizable forms. Here are the main patterns collectors look for:
Diamond Most Valuable
The diamond pattern appears as an elongated diamond or rhombus shape on the blade. When centered on the playside, it's the most sought-after Slaughter pattern.
- Elongated diamond/rhombus shape
- Most valuable when centered on playside
- ~25-50% premium when centered
- Can appear full, half, or partial
Heart High Value
The heart pattern forms a recognizable heart shape. Popular with collectors and often commands premiums, especially when well-centered.
- Heart-shaped pattern visible
- Second most valuable pattern
- ~15-35% premium when centered
- Often found paired with other shapes
Phoenix / Angel Wings High Value
The phoenix (also called "fiery" or "angel wings") appears as a bird or wing-like shape rising from the blade. Highly valued by collectors.
- Bird/wing shape visible
- Sometimes called "fiery" pattern
- ~15-30% premium when visible
- Best seen on larger blade surfaces
White Angel Moderate Value
The white angel (or full angel) shows a symmetrical winged figure, appearing brighter/lighter than surrounding pattern areas.
- Symmetrical winged figure
- Lighter appearance in pattern
- ~10-25% premium
- Rarer than other shapes
Dog Bone Moderate Value
The dog bone pattern forms a bone-like shape with two bulbous ends connected by a narrow center. A recognized pattern among collectors.
- Bone-shaped pattern
- Two wider ends, narrow middle
- ~5-15% premium
- Less common than diamond/heart
Zebra / Tiger Stripes Standard Value
Zebra patterns show parallel stripe patterns without forming distinct shapes. While visually interesting, they don't command significant premiums.
- Parallel stripe pattern
- No recognizable shapes
- Minimal to no premium
- Most common Slaughter appearance
Double Patterns
Some Slaughter knives display multiple recognizable shapes - for example, a diamond combined with a heart, or a phoenix with a partial diamond. These "double pattern" knives can command higher premiums than single-shape patterns, especially when both shapes are well-positioned on the playside.
How to Identify Slaughter Patterns
Identifying Slaughter patterns requires careful inspection of the knife's playside (the side visible during gameplay). Here are methods and tips for pattern identification:
Identifying Diamonds
Look for an elongated diamond or rhombus shape. The diamond should have four distinct points forming a symmetrical shape. A "full diamond" shows the complete shape, while "half diamond" shows only part of the pattern.
- Four-pointed elongated shape
- Usually appears near blade center
- Can be full, half, or partial
Identifying Hearts
Hearts appear as the classic heart shape with two rounded lobes at the top meeting at a point at the bottom. The shape should be clearly defined against the red background.
- Classic heart silhouette
- Two lobes meeting at a point
- Often found on blade spine
Identifying Phoenix/Wings
The phoenix appears as an upward-spreading wing or bird shape. Look for patterns that suggest flames or feathers rising from a central point.
- Wing-like spreading shape
- Appears to rise upward
- Fiery/feathered appearance
Identifying Angels
The angel pattern shows a symmetrical figure with wings on both sides. It often appears lighter or brighter than surrounding pattern areas, giving it the "white angel" name.
- Symmetrical winged figure
- Central body with wings
- Often appears lighter
Inspection Tools
While visual inspection works for obvious patterns, using inspection tools provides more precise identification:
- CSGOFloat: View pattern seed and detailed knife inspection
- CSGOStash: Reference images for pattern types
- In-game inspect: Rotate the knife to view all angles and both sides
- Float Checker: Our tool for analyzing float values
Pattern Seed vs Visual Appearance
The same pattern seed produces the same pattern on the same knife type, but different knife types display patterns differently due to blade shape and size. A pattern seed that shows a clear diamond on a Karambit might not show the same shape on a Flip Knife. Always inspect the specific knife you're considering.
Pattern Centering & Placement
The location of a pattern on the blade significantly affects its value. A centered diamond on the playside is worth much more than the same pattern on the backside or positioned off-center.
Centered Playside
Pattern clearly visible and centered on the side shown during gameplay. Maximum value.
Off-Center Playside
Pattern visible on playside but not perfectly centered. Still commands premium.
Backside Pattern
Pattern only visible on the back of the knife. Lower premium as it's less visible.
No Clear Pattern
Random stripes without recognizable shapes. Standard market price.
Why Centering Matters
During normal gameplay and inspection, players primarily see the playside of their knife. A pattern that's perfectly centered on this visible side provides:
- Maximum visibility: The pattern is always visible during normal use
- Aesthetic appeal: Centered patterns look more intentional and balanced
- Screenshot value: Better for showcasing in inventories and on social media
- Trade desirability: Centered patterns are in higher demand
Knife-Specific Considerations
Different knife types have different "sweet spots" for pattern placement. On a Karambit, the curved blade means patterns near the tip are highly visible. On an M9 Bayonet, the long straight blade makes centered patterns especially striking. Consider how each knife type displays patterns when evaluating value.
Value Ranking by Pattern
Pattern premiums vary based on pattern type, centering, knife type, and market conditions. Here's a general hierarchy of Slaughter pattern values:
Relative Pattern Values (Approximate Premiums)
| Pattern | Centered Premium | Off-Center Premium | Backside Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centered Diamond | +30-50% | +15-25% | +5-10% |
| Centered Heart | +20-35% | +10-20% | +3-8% |
| Phoenix/Wings | +20-30% | +10-18% | +3-7% |
| White Angel | +15-25% | +8-15% | +2-5% |
| Dog Bone | +10-15% | +5-10% | +1-3% |
| Zebra/Stripes | +0-5% | +0-3% | Baseline |
Note: Premiums are approximate and vary based on market conditions, knife type, float value, and demand. Always check current market prices before trading.
Float Value Impact on Slaughter
Float value significantly affects Slaughter appearance and value. Unlike some finishes where wear is barely noticeable, Slaughter patterns become less defined at higher float values.
Wear Condition Ranges
| Condition | Float Range | Pattern Visibility | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factory New (FN) | 0.00 - 0.07 | Maximum clarity, sharp patterns | Premium pricing |
| Minimal Wear (MW) | 0.07 - 0.15 | Clear patterns, minor scratches | ~10-20% below FN |
| Field-Tested (FT) | 0.15 - 0.38 | Visible wear, patterns still clear | ~30-40% below FN |
| Well-Worn (WW) | 0.38 - 0.45 | Significant wear, dulled patterns | ~40-50% below FN |
| Battle-Scarred (BS) | 0.45 - 1.00 | Heavy wear, patterns may be obscured | ~50-60% below FN |
Low Float Premium
For Slaughter knives, very low float values (0.00x-0.01x) can command additional premiums beyond standard Factory New pricing. A 0.00x Slaughter with a centered diamond will be worth more than a 0.06x with the same pattern. Learn more in our Low Float Ranking Guide.
Float Value Tips
- Pattern collectors: Prioritize FN or low-float MW for best pattern visibility
- Budget buyers: FT Slaughters still show patterns clearly at lower prices
- Investment: Low-float FN with good patterns hold value best
- Avoid BS: Battle-Scarred Slaughters often have obscured patterns
Best Knives for Slaughter Patterns
Different knife types display Slaughter patterns differently due to blade shape, size, and surface area. Some knives showcase patterns better than others:
Karambit
Curved blade shows patterns uniquely. Diamond near tip very popular.
M9 Bayonet
Large flat surface displays patterns clearly. Best for centered diamonds.
Butterfly Knife
Popular knife type with good pattern display on the blade.
Bayonet
Long blade with serrated edge. Patterns visible on smooth sections.
Talon Knife
Similar curve to Karambit. Good pattern visibility near blade tip.
Flip Knife
Smaller blade but patterns still visible. Budget-friendly option.
Huntsman Knife
Large blade provides good canvas for pattern display.
Bowie Knife
Wide blade shows patterns well. Less popular but good value.
Premium Knife Recommendations
For Slaughter pattern collectors, these knife types typically command the highest pattern premiums:
- Karambit: Most popular, curved blade creates unique pattern displays
- M9 Bayonet: Large flat surface ideal for showcasing centered patterns
- Butterfly Knife: High popularity means strong pattern premiums
- Talon Knife: Modern popular knife with good Slaughter display
Learn more about different knife models in our Knife Types Guide and drop rates in our Knife Odds Guide.
Trading & Investment Tips
Slaughter knives with desirable patterns can be profitable to trade, but require knowledge of pattern values and market dynamics. Here are key considerations:
Buying Tips
- Verify patterns yourself: Always inspect knives in-game or via CSGOFloat before purchasing
- Check centering: Sellers may claim "diamond" but it could be on the backside
- Compare prices: Check multiple sources (Steam Market, third-party marketplaces) for fair pricing
- Consider float: Lower float = clearer patterns and higher value
- Watch for overpay claims: Some sellers overstate pattern premiums
Selling Tips
- Document your pattern: Take clear screenshots showing the pattern from multiple angles
- Price accurately: Research similar pattern sales for fair pricing
- Highlight centering: If your pattern is centered, emphasize this in listings
- Be patient: Pattern premiums may take longer to realize than quick sales
- Use appropriate platforms: Pattern knives often sell better on trading forums than Steam Market
Investment Considerations
- Centered diamonds: Most liquid pattern premium, easiest to resell
- Popular knife types: Karambit and M9 patterns have strongest demand
- Low float matters: 0.00x-0.01x floats add investment value
- Market timing: Pattern premiums can fluctuate with overall market conditions
- Diversification: Don't invest everything in a single pattern knife
Scam Awareness
Be wary of sellers who show screenshots of patterns that differ from the actual knife they're selling. Always verify pattern seeds yourself using CSGOFloat or inspect in-game. Read our Scam Prevention Guide for more protection tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different Slaughter patterns in CS2?
Slaughter knives feature metallic patterns that can form recognizable shapes. The main patterns include: Diamond (most valuable), Heart, Phoenix/Fiery, Angel/White Angel, Dog Bone, and Zebra/Tiger stripes. Pattern visibility, centering, and knife type all affect value. A centered diamond on a Karambit can command premiums of 30-50% or more.
How much extra is a Slaughter diamond pattern worth?
A centered diamond on the playside typically commands 25-50% premium over baseline Slaughter prices. The exact premium depends on knife type (Karambit and M9 Bayonet command highest premiums), how well-centered the pattern is, float value, and current market conditions. Off-center or backside diamonds command lower premiums of 5-25%.
How do I identify Slaughter patterns?
Inspect the knife's playside looking for recognizable shapes in the metallic pattern. Diamonds appear as elongated four-pointed shapes, hearts are heart-shaped, phoenixes look like bird/wing shapes rising upward, and angels are symmetrical winged figures. Use CSGOFloat to view pattern seeds, or inspect in-game from multiple angles.
Which Slaughter pattern is most valuable?
The centered diamond pattern is most valuable, followed by centered heart, then phoenix/angel patterns. However, centering matters enormously - a perfectly centered heart can be worth more than an off-center diamond. Double patterns (diamond + heart together) can also command high premiums.
Does float value affect Slaughter pattern visibility?
Yes, significantly. Lower float values (Factory New, 0.00-0.07) show cleaner, sharper patterns with better contrast between the red background and dark pattern streaks. Higher floats can make patterns harder to see and less defined. For maximum pattern visibility and value, aim for low float Factory New Slaughters.
What's the difference between Slaughter and other pattern knives?
Slaughter patterns are shape-based (diamond, heart, phoenix) while Doppler patterns are color-phase based (Phase 1-4, Ruby, Sapphire). Crimson Web is valued by web count and placement. Case Hardened is valued by blue percentage. Each pattern system has different value factors, but centering matters for all of them.
Are Slaughter knives good for investment?
Slaughter knives with desirable patterns (centered diamond, heart) have historically maintained value due to collector demand. However, skin investing carries risk - prices fluctuate with game popularity, new case releases, and market conditions. Pattern premiums can be harder to realize than standard items. Only invest what you can afford to lose.
Responsible Trading
CS2 skin trading involves financial risk. Prices fluctuate and pattern premiums can change with market conditions. Only invest what you can afford to lose, and always verify item details before purchasing high-value skins. If you need help with gambling-related issues, visit BeGambleAware.
Last updated: January 2026