Difference between revisions of "Basic Scout strategy"

From Team Fortress Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
m (Started major tweaking. Rewording page to use the third-person, corrections and rewording for clarity, etc.)
m (Tweaked and corrected the rest of the article. Made some additions, switched from the mixture of the second-person to the third-person, etc.)
Line 43: Line 43:
 
===[[Force-A-Nature]]===
 
===[[Force-A-Nature]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Force-A-Nature|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Force-A-Nature|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*The Force-A-Nature deals excellent burst damage but can't sustain it over time. It's better used as a hit-and-run weapon.
+
*The Force-A-Nature deals excellent burst-damage but can't sustain a high level of damage over time. As such, it works better as a hit-and-run weapon.
  
*If you plan on using the Force-A-Nature, you should probably bring the [[Pistol]] as well. The Force-A-Nature's small clip size means that without the Pistol, you will be essentially weaponless for two seconds after you fire both shots.
+
*If players plan on using the Force-A-Nature, the [[Pistol]] is an effective counterpart. The Force-A-Nature's small clip size means that without the Pistol, players will be essentially weaponless for two seconds after firing both shots.
  
*[[Force Jumps]] and [[Triple Jumps]] allow you to reach unusual positions and dodge even more erratically than double jumping allows.
+
*[[Force Jumps]] and [[Triple Jumps]] allow players to reach unusual positions and dodge even more erratically than double jumping alone.
  
*Use the Force-A-Nature's [[Knock back]] ability to your advantage. An enemy launched into the air is generally predictable, so your second shot can reliably hit your target.  Fire the second shot as soon as possible to deal maximum damage.
+
*The Force-A-Nature's [[Knock back]] ability should be used by players to their advantage. As the movement of an enemy launched into the air is generally predictable, a follow-up shot should be easy to acquire. Players should approach the target and fire the second shot as soon as possible in order to deal maximum damage.
  
*It's sometimes better to fire the remaining shot in a half-empty Force-A-Nature rather than reload manually, as the shell is lost either way. You may hit something.
+
*It's sometimes better to fire the remaining shot in a half-empty Force-A-Nature rather than reload manually, as the shell is lost either way.  
  
 
===[[Shortstop]]===
 
===[[Shortstop]]===
Line 57: Line 57:
 
*Halfway between a [[Pistol]] and a [[Shotgun]], the Shortstop deals less damage up close, but it reliably deals excellent damage at range.
 
*Halfway between a [[Pistol]] and a [[Shotgun]], the Shortstop deals less damage up close, but it reliably deals excellent damage at range.
  
*The [[Critical hits]] from this weapon are devastating. It generates them like a [[Pistol]], so if you fire one critical in a clip, the rest of the clip is guaranteed to Crit as well.
+
*The [[Critical hits]] from this weapon are devastating. Critical hits are generated like a [[Pistol]], so if players fire one critical in a clip, the rest of the clip is guaranteed to Crit as well.
  
*The Shortstop draws from the same ammunition reserve as the Pistol. Pairing these two weapons will drain your ammo reserve quickly. Instead, consider using [[Bonk! Atomic Punch]], [[Mad Milk]] or [[Crit-a-Cola]] with it.
+
*The Shortstop draws from the same ammunition as the Pistol, and therefore pairing these two weapons may drain a player's ammo reserve quickly. Instead, players should consider using [[Bonk! Atomic Punch]], [[Mad Milk]] or [[Crit-a-Cola]].
  
 
*The Shortstop reloads rapidly, allowing consistent damage over time.
 
*The Shortstop reloads rapidly, allowing consistent damage over time.
Line 67: Line 67:
 
*One of the Pistol's primary uses is to finish off wounded targets.
 
*One of the Pistol's primary uses is to finish off wounded targets.
  
*The Pistol reloads much faster than the [[Scattergun]]. When both weapons are empty, reloading the Pistol first will have you firing much sooner.
+
*The Pistol reloads much faster than the [[Scattergun]]. When both weapons are empty, reloading the Pistol first will allow players to fire much sooner.
  
*Pistol criticals are deadly. If you happen to get [[first blood]] in [[Arena]], switch to your Pistol as it can take any class down in one clip, including most overhealed enemies.
+
*Pistol criticals are deadly. If a player happens to get [[first blood]] in [[Arena]], switching to the Pistol should allow the player to eliminate any class in one clip, including most overhealed enemies.
  
*Though the [[Scattergun]] trumps it at short ranges, at medium to long ranges your Pistol is an excellent option for dealing consistent damage.
+
*Though the [[Scattergun]] trumps it at close combat, at medium- to long-range the Pistol is an excellent option for dealing consistent damage.
  
*The Pistol is recommended for players who want to deal as much damage as possible, before having to retreat. Being the only secondary weapon that does this, the Pistol is the perfect choice.
+
*The Pistol is recommended for players that wish to deal as much damage as possible before having to retreat. Being the only secondary weapon that does this, the Pistol is the perfect choice.
 
 
*After using your primary weapon, while retreating to get health, ammo, backup, reload, or whatever it may be, turn around and use your Pistol to possibly get a few kills or assists.
 
  
 
===[[Bonk! Atomic Punch]]===
 
===[[Bonk! Atomic Punch]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bonk! Atomic Punch|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bonk! Atomic Punch|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*Bonk! is a situational but effective utility item.
+
*Bonk! is a situational, but effective, utility item.
  
*Use Bonk! for dodging around things you would normally run away from, such as [[Sentry Gun]]s, [[Heavy]]-[[Medic]] pairs, or large groups of enemies.
+
*Bonk! should be used for dodging around things players would normally run away from, such as [[Sentry Gun]]s, [[Heavy]]-[[Medic]] pairs, [[stickybombs]] or large groups of enemies.
  
*Bonk! is useful to push through sticky traps to attack the [[Demoman]].
+
*Bonk! is useful when pushing through sticky traps in order to attack [[Demoman|Demomen]] as close-range.
  
 
*Bonk! can be used as a temporary [[ÜberCharge]] for distracting Sentry Guns.
 
*Bonk! can be used as a temporary [[ÜberCharge]] for distracting Sentry Guns.
  
*Use Bonk! for passing through the enemy team to reach the enemy spawn. You can then destroy [[Teleporter]] entrances and pick off fragile foes.
+
*Bonk! can be used when passing through the enemy team in order to reach the enemy spawn. This allows the Scout to destroy [[Teleporter]] entrances and pick off fragile foes.
  
*Bonk! can be used to easily pick up intelligence in the field, or to keep a Payload cart from moving backwards if it's being heavily defended.
+
*Bonk! can be used to easily pick up the Intelligence in the field (once the effect wears off), or to keep a Payload cart from moving backwards if it's being heavily defended.
  
*Use Bonk! to escape otherwise lethal situations.
+
*Bonk! can be used to escape otherwise-lethal situations.
  
*Bonk! can also be used sometimes to block enemies from passing through small openings or navigating tight hallways.
+
*Bonk! can also be used to block enemies from passing through small openings or navigating tight hallways.
  
*Bonk! is excellent for getting away with as much health left as possible, and is perfect at this if on fire or bleeding, giving you enough time to get to a health kit or find a nearby Medic.
+
*Bonk! is excellent for escaping with as much health as possible, and is very useful if the Scout is on fire or is bleeding, as it allows the player to locate a health kit or find a nearby Medic.
  
 
===[[Crit-a-Cola]]===
 
===[[Crit-a-Cola]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Crit-a-Cola|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Crit-a-Cola|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*At point-blank range, one mini-crit from the [[Scattergun]] or [[Force-A-Nature]] will kill any low health class. Drink it when you can surprise your foes.
+
*At point-blank range, one mini-crit from the [[Scattergun]] or [[Force-A-Nature]] will kill any low-health class. Players should use the weapon when they are in a position to ambush their foes.
 +
 
 +
*Because all damage delivered both to and from the Scout will be mini-crits, players will be far more vulnerable when under the effects Crit-a-Cola. Therefore, the weapon should not ordinarily be used in open combat against enemies that are aware of the Scout's location. Hence, ambushing enemies is often the most effective tactic.
  
*Mini-Crits don't suffer from damage falloff, so your primary weapon can deal fair damage at range.
+
*Mini-Crits don't suffer from damage falloff, so any of the Scout's primary weapons can deal decent damage at range.
  
 
*Crit-a-Cola meshes well with the [[Shortstop]], as it is made for longer-range engagements.
 
*Crit-a-Cola meshes well with the [[Shortstop]], as it is made for longer-range engagements.
  
*Don't drink [[Crit-a-Cola]] while under the effects of a friendly Buff Banner, a [[Crit#Crit boost|Critical hit Boost]] or when facing an enemy covered in Jarate. Your Mini-Crits do not stack with Critical hits or other Mini-Crits.
+
*Players should not drink [[Crit-a-Cola]] while under the effects of a friendly Buff Banner, a [[Crit#Crit boost|Critical hit Boost]] or when facing an enemy covered in Jarate; Mini-Crits do not stack with Critical hits or other Mini-Crits.
  
*For the same reason, it won't hurt to use it when the enemy already has a Crit or Mini-Crit buff against you.  The penalties can't stack.
+
*For the same reason, players will not be disadvantaged if the use weapon when the enemy already has a Crit or Mini-Crit buff as the penalties do not stack.
  
*Be careful when going up against Snipers with the [[Bushwacka]] equipped, as they can Crit you outright due to the effect of Mini-Crits becoming full on Critical Hits.
+
*Players should be wary when facing Snipers who have the [[Bushwacka]] equipped, as one hit will when under the effects of Crit-a-Cola will be a critical hit rather than a mini-crit, and will therefore kill the Scout instantly.
  
 
===[[Mad Milk]]===
 
===[[Mad Milk]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Mad Milk|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Mad Milk|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*Mad Milk makes fighting bulky classes such as [[Heavy|Heavies]] easier, as your continuous damage will help you tank some of their firepower.
+
*Mad Milk makes fighting stronger classes such as [[Heavy|Heavies]] easier, as the player's continuous damage will help them withstand the enemy's greater firepower.
  
 
*Mad Milk is also a great supplement for an offensive (or defensive) push, allowing attackers to replenish their health quickly.
 
*Mad Milk is also a great supplement for an offensive (or defensive) push, allowing attackers to replenish their health quickly.
  
*It also gives you some of the benefits of [[Jarate]]: extinguishing teammates or yourself, or revealing a cloaked [[Spy]].
+
*The weapon also gives players some of the benefits of [[Jarate]], such the ability to extinguishing teammates and reveal cloaked [[Spy|Spies]].
  
*Mad Milk is hard to notice on an affected person's HUD (a small white drop next to the health icon). If you can cover someone in milk in the middle of an assault or push, it is unlikely they will notice and could put themselves into a situation that will greatly benefit your teammates in their assault.
+
*The Mad Milk effect may be hard to notice on a player's HUD, as it simply appears as a small white drop next to their health icon. As such, if a player covers an enemy with Milk during an assault or push, it is unlikely they will notice and could put themselves into a situation that will greatly benefit the Scout's team.
  
 
===[[Bat]]===
 
===[[Bat]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bat|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bat|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*Use the Bat to finish off a player that has been weakened by your [[Scattergun]].
+
*The Bat should be used to finish off a player that has been weakened by the [[Scattergun]] or [[Pistol]].
  
*Track your enemy as if you were using a regular melee weapon. The Bat's rapid swings won't make up for poor play.
+
*Players should track enemies as if they were using a regular melee weapon. This is especially important as the the Bat's rapid swings require the player to hit more frequently in order to deal the same amount of damage.
  
*The [[Holy Mackerel]] has the exact same stats as the Bat. Use the Bat if you want to get through the enemies without being detected and remain off the board.
+
*The [[Holy Mackerel]] has the same stats as the Bat. The Bat should be used by players that wish to pass through enemies without being detected and/or remain less obvious on the kill feed.
  
*Being a Scout, you can catch up to any class. Use this to your advantage if an enemy is running away. This usually means they are low on health or have run out of ammo, and can not easily defend themselves.
+
*As Scouts are the fastest class and can therefore can catch up to any slower enemy. This can be used to the player's advantage if an enemy is running away. This usually means they are low on health or have run out of ammo, and cannot easily defend themselves.
  
 
===[[Sandman]]===
 
===[[Sandman]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Sandman|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Sandman|icon-size=100x100px}}  
*The Sandman's stun ball slows the target and prevents them from using their weapons. The duration of the effect increases with the distance between you and your target.
+
*The Sandman's stun ball slows the target and prevents them from using their weapons. The duration of the effect increases with the distance between the player and their target.
  
*The [[Heavy]] is one of your best targets for the ball. He's slow and easy to hit, and the stun stops his incredibly high damage. Remember, his [[Minigun]] will remain spun up while stunned, so be prepared when the stun wears off.
+
*The [[Heavy]] is one of the best targets for the ball. He's slow and easy to hit, and the stun stops his incredibly high damage. Players should bear in mind that his [[Minigun]] will remain spun up while stunned, so they should be prepared to retreat when the stun effect wears off.
  
*The Sandman's ball fires with an arc similar to the [[Flare Gun]]'s, however, the ball launches slightly above the crosshair - take this into account.
+
*The Sandman's ball launches in an arc similar to the [[Flare Gun]]'s projectile, however the ball launches slightly above the crosshair. Players should take this into consideration before attacking.
  
*The Sandman reduces your Health by 15. Play to your strengths and work with your teammates, or switch away from the weapon.
+
*The Sandman reduces the Scout's Health by 15. As such, players should pay attention to their strengths and work with their teammates in order to improve their odds of survival.
  
*Be aware that enemy Pyros can use their compression blast to reflect your baseball. It can even stun you or your teammates.
+
*Be aware that enemy [[Pyro|Pyros]] can use their compression blast to reflect the Sandman's ball. It can even stun the player that launched it, or their teammates.
  
 
===[[Holy Mackerel]]===
 
===[[Holy Mackerel]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Holy Mackerel|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Holy Mackerel|icon-size=100x100px}}  
* The Holy Mackerel is exactly like the [[Bat]], except it announces each blow in the kill feed. Use the Bat if you want to remain off the board. Use the Holy Mackerel if you want the attention.
+
* The Holy Mackerel is exactly like the [[Bat]], except it announces each blow in the kill feed. This can be be beneficial, but can also draw more attention to a Scout that is behind enemy lines. If discretion is a priority, the Bat may be a better option.
  
 
* Hits on disguised Spies do not display in the kill feed.
 
* Hits on disguised Spies do not display in the kill feed.
  
* A hit that triggers a [[feign death]] will be displayed as a hit, instead of a kill.  This is a good way to know if a [[Spy]] was using the [[Dead Ringer]].
+
* A hit that triggers a [[feign death]] will be displayed as a hit, instead of a kill.  This is a good way to know if a [[Spy]] is using the [[Dead Ringer]].
  
 
===[[Candy Cane]]===
 
===[[Candy Cane]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Candy Cane|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Candy Cane|icon-size=100x100px}}
  
*You don't need to kill the enemy with the Candy Cane to get the health pack. So long as you're carrying it, any kill or assist you score will cause the health pack to drop.
+
*Players do not need to kill the enemy with the Candy Cane in order to acquire the bonus health pack. So long as the player has the weapon equipped, any kill or assist will cause the health pack to drop.
  
*The health pack dropped from the Candy Cane can be a lifesaver after beating an enemy Pyro, since packs extinguish flames instantly.
+
*The health pack dropped from the Candy Cane can be a lifesaver after beating an enemy Pyro, since health packs extinguish flames instantly.
  
*If there are [[Spy|Spies]] lurking, the Candy Cane can be great for detecting [[Dead Ringer]]s. A Spy who fakes death with the Dead Ringer will not drop a health pack. However, this is a harder way of detecting Spies, but can still be effective if used correctly.
+
*If there are [[Spy|Spies]] lurking nearby, the Candy Cane can be great for detecting [[Dead Ringer]]s as a Spy who fakes death with the Dead Ringer will not drop a health pack. There are other, more effective methods of [[spychecking]], but can still be effective if used correctly.
  
*Great for [[Medieval Mode]] as two small health kits will be dropped after ever kill.
+
*The Candy Can is very effective in [[Medieval Mode]], as two small health kits will be dropped after ever kill instead of only one.
  
 
===[[Boston Basher]]===
 
===[[Boston Basher]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Boston Basher|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Boston Basher|icon-size=100x100px}}
*Hit an unaware opponent once and then use ranged weapons. Trying to finish them off with the Basher is a surefire way to accidentally hit yourself and risk death.
+
*The Boston Basher can be effective if used against an unaware opponent once, and then followed up with a ranged weapon. Trying to finish an enemy off with the weapon may very well result in players accidentally hitting themselves and risking death due to the bleed damage.
  
*Swinging the Basher around wildly is extremely hazardous to your health. Do not attack with the Boston Basher unless you are sure that you will strike an enemy, a single miss will damage and disorient you, presenting the risk of imminent death at the hands of your foes.
+
*Swinging the Boston Basher around wildly is extremely hazardous to a player's health. As such, players should not attack using the Boston Basher unless they are sure that they will strike an enemy. A single miss will damage and disorient the Scout, increasing the risk of imminent death at the hands of enemies.
  
*You can use the Basher to damage yourself and help a [[Medic]] fill their [[ÜberCharge]] more quickly if the two of you are alone.
+
*Players can use the Boston Basher to damage themselves and help a [[Medic]] fill their [[ÜberCharge]] more quickly.
  
*The Basher can be an effective tool for tracking down [[Dead Ringer]] Spies, especially in [[Medieval Mode]].
+
*The Boston Basher can be an effective tool for tracking down [[Dead Ringer]] Spies, especially in [[Medieval Mode]].
  
*The Basher's self-damage can knock you higher into the air at the cost of roughly 1/4 your health.
+
*The weapon's self-damage can knock players higher into the air at the cost of roughly 1/4 of their health.
  
*Be prepared to find a Health pack or Medic if you hit yourself.  Sticking to the fight while bleeding is often suicide.
+
*Players should always be prepared to find a health pack or Medic if they hit themselves, as continuing to fight an opponent while bleeding is often suicidal.
  
 
===[[Sun-on-a-Stick]]===
 
===[[Sun-on-a-Stick]]===
 
{{item icon|Sun-On-A-Stick|100px}}
 
{{item icon|Sun-On-A-Stick|100px}}
*Work with a friendly Pyro to hit enemies after they are ignited.
+
*Players should work with a friendly Pyro in order to hit enemies after they are ignited.
  
*In Medieval mode, team up with a Pyro carrying the [[Sharpened Volcano Fragment]].  Your one-two punch will be very effective.
+
*In Medieval mode, players should team up with [[Pyro|Pyros]] carrying the [[Sharpened Volcano Fragment]], as a one-two punch will be very effective.
  
*Similarly, be alert for Snipers using ignited arrows with their [[Huntsman]]. Your Sun-on-a-Stick can easily provide the death-blow to a damaged, burning adversary.
+
*Similarly, players should be alert for Snipers using ignited arrows with their [[Huntsman]]. The Sun-on-a-Stick can easily provide the death-blow to a burning adversary.
  
 
===[[Item sets#Scout|The Special Delivery]]===
 
===[[Item sets#Scout|The Special Delivery]]===
Line 190: Line 190:
 
{{item icon|Milkman|100px}}
 
{{item icon|Milkman|100px}}
  
*The +25 health this loadout gives you is helpful against other Scouts, afterburn, and wayward explosives.
+
*The +25 health this set provides can be helpful against other Scouts, afterburn and wayward explosives.
  
*Remember that your only ranged weapon will be the [[Shortstop]].
+
*Players should remember that their only ranged weapon will be the [[Shortstop]].
  
*Before running into a large group of enemies, throw your [[Mad Milk]] on them and quickly switch to your [[Shortstop]], this is very effective when matched with the extra 25 max health you receive from wearing [[The Special Delivery]].
+
*Before running into a large group of enemies, players should throw their [[Mad Milk]] and quickly switch to their [[Shortstop]]. This is very effective when matched with the extra 25 max health received by wearing [[The Special Delivery]].
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==

Revision as of 23:59, 23 February 2011

The Scout is a short-range, high-speed fragile class with the ability to double jump. He counts as two players while capturing Control Points and Payload carts.

His role is to flank rapidly, dodge wildly, and use hit-and-run tactics in order to eliminate enemies with his deadly Scattergun.

General

  • The Scout is the fastest class in the game, and double-jumping allows players to cross complex terrain in unusual and confusing ways. Scouts should always be unpredictable, and should stay on the move at all times.
  • The Scout excels in one-on-one combat. With practice, his natural fragility can be mitigated, and his extreme damage and mobility give him the edge over most enemies.
  • Unlike the majority of classes, players are easily able to escape from knock back. The most effective technique is to double jump immediately after being pushed in order to pass over an opponent's head or change direction completely.
  • The Sentry Gun is one of the Scout's most dangerous foes. Sentry Guns can be destroyed by cornering, firing from a distance, or by using Bonk! Atomic Punch in order to pass by safely. Well-placed Sentry Guns may require the assistance of a teammate, and as will Sentry Guns protected by an Engineer.
  • Double jumping can prevent fall damage. Jumping just before hitting the ground, or jumping to a nearby ledge when falling will mitigate any damage when falling from a significant height.
  • Scouts can also double jump in order to change direction of travel in mid-air, making it harder for enemies to predict the Scout's movement pattern. Players should use this to their advantage, especially against Snipers and Soldiers.
  • If an enemy has been caught off-guard, Scouts should move as close as possible before firing. At very short range, the Scattergun can inflict over one hundred damage. This means that two shots can often kill an opponent before he has time to react.
  • If a slower teammate has taken the enemy Intelligence, players should consider asking their teammate to drop it (Default key: 'L'). This will allow the Scout can capture the Intelligence more quickly, and keep the stronger classes on the frontlines.
  • The Scout's fast speed allows him to provoke enemies. Scouts should keep their distance when an opponent uses close-range weapons, and then charge in for the kill when the enemy switches to long-range alternatives.
  • Scouts have low health, and Medics aren't always available. Therefore, it is suggested that players memorise the locations of health packs on each map for future use.
  • Depending upon the situation, Scouts should try to avoid running backwards as it slightly reduces movement speed and could result in a quick death if the Scout accidentally backs into a wall or corner.

Weapon Specific Tips

Scattergun

Item icon Scattergun.png

  • While using the Scattergun, players should not rely on the mouse alone to track foes. Players should use their movement to keep the opponent centered on the screen, and fire whenever the cross-hairs and opponent are synchronised. This allows players to focus on moving efficiently and erratically, making them harder to hit while at the same time making their aim smoother and more accurate via prediction.
  • The Scattergun can be used to kill an enemy Medic with an unactivated ÜberCharge before he is aware of the Scout's presence. Two or three point-blank shots will normally do the job.
  • Over time, the Scattergun has much higher damage potential than the Force-A-Nature. In short bursts however, the Force-A-Nature beats the Scattergun.
  • Like the Shotgun, the Scattergun has a wide spread. Instead of wasting their primary ammunition at range, players should try switching to their Pistol in order to weaken enemies at long-range before moving in for the kill.
  • In order to maximize their efficiency with the Scattergun, players should try to create a rhythmic pattern in their head based upon the the firing speed of the Scattergun. As strange as it sounds, it helps to know exactly when to aim without sacrificing movement control, which can be affected by aiming radically.

Force-A-Nature

Item icon Force-A-Nature.png

  • The Force-A-Nature deals excellent burst-damage but can't sustain a high level of damage over time. As such, it works better as a hit-and-run weapon.
  • If players plan on using the Force-A-Nature, the Pistol is an effective counterpart. The Force-A-Nature's small clip size means that without the Pistol, players will be essentially weaponless for two seconds after firing both shots.
  • Force Jumps and Triple Jumps allow players to reach unusual positions and dodge even more erratically than double jumping alone.
  • The Force-A-Nature's Knock back ability should be used by players to their advantage. As the movement of an enemy launched into the air is generally predictable, a follow-up shot should be easy to acquire. Players should approach the target and fire the second shot as soon as possible in order to deal maximum damage.
  • It's sometimes better to fire the remaining shot in a half-empty Force-A-Nature rather than reload manually, as the shell is lost either way.

Shortstop

Item icon Shortstop.png

  • Halfway between a Pistol and a Shotgun, the Shortstop deals less damage up close, but it reliably deals excellent damage at range.
  • The Critical hits from this weapon are devastating. Critical hits are generated like a Pistol, so if players fire one critical in a clip, the rest of the clip is guaranteed to Crit as well.
  • The Shortstop draws from the same ammunition as the Pistol, and therefore pairing these two weapons may drain a player's ammo reserve quickly. Instead, players should consider using Bonk! Atomic Punch, Mad Milk or Crit-a-Cola.
  • The Shortstop reloads rapidly, allowing consistent damage over time.

Pistol / Lugermorph

Item icon Pistol.png Item icon Lugermorph.png

  • One of the Pistol's primary uses is to finish off wounded targets.
  • The Pistol reloads much faster than the Scattergun. When both weapons are empty, reloading the Pistol first will allow players to fire much sooner.
  • Pistol criticals are deadly. If a player happens to get first blood in Arena, switching to the Pistol should allow the player to eliminate any class in one clip, including most overhealed enemies.
  • Though the Scattergun trumps it at close combat, at medium- to long-range the Pistol is an excellent option for dealing consistent damage.
  • The Pistol is recommended for players that wish to deal as much damage as possible before having to retreat. Being the only secondary weapon that does this, the Pistol is the perfect choice.

Bonk! Atomic Punch

Item icon Bonk! Atomic Punch.png

  • Bonk! is a situational, but effective, utility item.
  • Bonk! should be used for dodging around things players would normally run away from, such as Sentry Guns, Heavy-Medic pairs, stickybombs or large groups of enemies.
  • Bonk! is useful when pushing through sticky traps in order to attack Demomen as close-range.
  • Bonk! can be used as a temporary ÜberCharge for distracting Sentry Guns.
  • Bonk! can be used when passing through the enemy team in order to reach the enemy spawn. This allows the Scout to destroy Teleporter entrances and pick off fragile foes.
  • Bonk! can be used to easily pick up the Intelligence in the field (once the effect wears off), or to keep a Payload cart from moving backwards if it's being heavily defended.
  • Bonk! can be used to escape otherwise-lethal situations.
  • Bonk! can also be used to block enemies from passing through small openings or navigating tight hallways.
  • Bonk! is excellent for escaping with as much health as possible, and is very useful if the Scout is on fire or is bleeding, as it allows the player to locate a health kit or find a nearby Medic.

Crit-a-Cola

Item icon Crit-a-Cola.png

  • At point-blank range, one mini-crit from the Scattergun or Force-A-Nature will kill any low-health class. Players should use the weapon when they are in a position to ambush their foes.
  • Because all damage delivered both to and from the Scout will be mini-crits, players will be far more vulnerable when under the effects Crit-a-Cola. Therefore, the weapon should not ordinarily be used in open combat against enemies that are aware of the Scout's location. Hence, ambushing enemies is often the most effective tactic.
  • Mini-Crits don't suffer from damage falloff, so any of the Scout's primary weapons can deal decent damage at range.
  • Crit-a-Cola meshes well with the Shortstop, as it is made for longer-range engagements.
  • Players should not drink Crit-a-Cola while under the effects of a friendly Buff Banner, a Critical hit Boost or when facing an enemy covered in Jarate; Mini-Crits do not stack with Critical hits or other Mini-Crits.
  • For the same reason, players will not be disadvantaged if the use weapon when the enemy already has a Crit or Mini-Crit buff as the penalties do not stack.
  • Players should be wary when facing Snipers who have the Bushwacka equipped, as one hit will when under the effects of Crit-a-Cola will be a critical hit rather than a mini-crit, and will therefore kill the Scout instantly.

Mad Milk

Item icon Mad Milk.png

  • Mad Milk makes fighting stronger classes such as Heavies easier, as the player's continuous damage will help them withstand the enemy's greater firepower.
  • Mad Milk is also a great supplement for an offensive (or defensive) push, allowing attackers to replenish their health quickly.
  • The weapon also gives players some of the benefits of Jarate, such the ability to extinguishing teammates and reveal cloaked Spies.
  • The Mad Milk effect may be hard to notice on a player's HUD, as it simply appears as a small white drop next to their health icon. As such, if a player covers an enemy with Milk during an assault or push, it is unlikely they will notice and could put themselves into a situation that will greatly benefit the Scout's team.

Bat

Item icon Bat.png

  • The Bat should be used to finish off a player that has been weakened by the Scattergun or Pistol.
  • Players should track enemies as if they were using a regular melee weapon. This is especially important as the the Bat's rapid swings require the player to hit more frequently in order to deal the same amount of damage.
  • The Holy Mackerel has the same stats as the Bat. The Bat should be used by players that wish to pass through enemies without being detected and/or remain less obvious on the kill feed.
  • As Scouts are the fastest class and can therefore can catch up to any slower enemy. This can be used to the player's advantage if an enemy is running away. This usually means they are low on health or have run out of ammo, and cannot easily defend themselves.

Sandman

Item icon Sandman.png

  • The Sandman's stun ball slows the target and prevents them from using their weapons. The duration of the effect increases with the distance between the player and their target.
  • The Heavy is one of the best targets for the ball. He's slow and easy to hit, and the stun stops his incredibly high damage. Players should bear in mind that his Minigun will remain spun up while stunned, so they should be prepared to retreat when the stun effect wears off.
  • The Sandman's ball launches in an arc similar to the Flare Gun's projectile, however the ball launches slightly above the crosshair. Players should take this into consideration before attacking.
  • The Sandman reduces the Scout's Health by 15. As such, players should pay attention to their strengths and work with their teammates in order to improve their odds of survival.
  • Be aware that enemy Pyros can use their compression blast to reflect the Sandman's ball. It can even stun the player that launched it, or their teammates.

Holy Mackerel

Item icon Holy Mackerel.png

  • The Holy Mackerel is exactly like the Bat, except it announces each blow in the kill feed. This can be be beneficial, but can also draw more attention to a Scout that is behind enemy lines. If discretion is a priority, the Bat may be a better option.
  • Hits on disguised Spies do not display in the kill feed.
  • A hit that triggers a feign death will be displayed as a hit, instead of a kill. This is a good way to know if a Spy is using the Dead Ringer.

Candy Cane

Item icon Candy Cane.png

  • Players do not need to kill the enemy with the Candy Cane in order to acquire the bonus health pack. So long as the player has the weapon equipped, any kill or assist will cause the health pack to drop.
  • The health pack dropped from the Candy Cane can be a lifesaver after beating an enemy Pyro, since health packs extinguish flames instantly.
  • If there are Spies lurking nearby, the Candy Cane can be great for detecting Dead Ringers as a Spy who fakes death with the Dead Ringer will not drop a health pack. There are other, more effective methods of spychecking, but can still be effective if used correctly.
  • The Candy Can is very effective in Medieval Mode, as two small health kits will be dropped after ever kill instead of only one.

Boston Basher

Item icon Boston Basher.png

  • The Boston Basher can be effective if used against an unaware opponent once, and then followed up with a ranged weapon. Trying to finish an enemy off with the weapon may very well result in players accidentally hitting themselves and risking death due to the bleed damage.
  • Swinging the Boston Basher around wildly is extremely hazardous to a player's health. As such, players should not attack using the Boston Basher unless they are sure that they will strike an enemy. A single miss will damage and disorient the Scout, increasing the risk of imminent death at the hands of enemies.
  • Players can use the Boston Basher to damage themselves and help a Medic fill their ÜberCharge more quickly.
  • The weapon's self-damage can knock players higher into the air at the cost of roughly 1/4 of their health.
  • Players should always be prepared to find a health pack or Medic if they hit themselves, as continuing to fight an opponent while bleeding is often suicidal.

Sun-on-a-Stick

Sun-On-A-Stick

  • Players should work with a friendly Pyro in order to hit enemies after they are ignited.
  • Similarly, players should be alert for Snipers using ignited arrows with their Huntsman. The Sun-on-a-Stick can easily provide the death-blow to a burning adversary.

The Special Delivery

Shortstop Mad Milk Holy Mackeral Milkman

  • The +25 health this set provides can be helpful against other Scouts, afterburn and wayward explosives.
  • Players should remember that their only ranged weapon will be the Shortstop.
  • Before running into a large group of enemies, players should throw their Mad Milk and quickly switch to their Shortstop. This is very effective when matched with the extra 25 max health received by wearing The Special Delivery.

See also