Valorant players, the pistol meta just shifted! Riot’s newest weapon—the Bandit—bridges the gap between Ghost and Sheriff, offering one-tap headshot power at 600 credits. This precision sidearm could revolutionize eco rounds in 2026.
Table of Contents
Valorant’s Bandit Complete Stats Breakdown
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | 600 Credits |
| Weapon Class | Sidearm |
| Magazine Size | 8 bullets |
| Reserve Ammo | 24 bullets |
| Reload Time | 1.5 seconds |
| Equip Time | 0.75 seconds |
| Wall Penetration | Medium |
| One-Tap Range | 0-10m (light armor) |
What Makes Bandit Special?
Introduced in Patch 12.00, the Bandit fills a crucial niche at 600 credits. It provides one-tap headshot capability against light armor within 10 meters—deadlier than Ghost, more forgiving than Sheriff.
Damage Profile:
- 0-10m: Instant headshot kill (even with light armor)
- 10-30m: One-tap only on unarmored enemies
- Beyond 30m: Damage falloff increases
Bandit vs. Ghost vs. Sheriff
Ghost (500 Credits): Better magazine (13 rounds) and fire rate, but loses one-tap potential beyond 30m or against armor.
Bandit (600 Credits): Balanced magazine (8 rounds), faster equip time (0.75s), and one-tap power within 10m against light armor. Saves credits for abilities.
Sheriff (800 Credits): Devastating at all ranges but slower equip, longer reload, and higher price—punishes misses severely.
Strategic Impact on Eco Rounds
Riot designed Bandit to “offer more diversity in light rounds.” The 100-credit savings versus Sheriff lets you buy extra abilities, creating flexible loadouts during thrifty rounds.
However, GE’s head coach Frost warns it may make eco rounds too easy to swing. The medium wall penetration adds wallbang utility, potentially making certain positions overpowered.
When to Buy Bandit
- Eco rounds: When you need firepower but want to save for abilities
- Anti-eco: Against opponents on light buys where one-tap potential shines
- Save rounds: Better than Ghost when facing armored enemies at close range
- Post-plant: Fast equip time helps defenders retake sites quickly
Looking to dominate Valorant? Check out our complete agent tier list and advanced aiming guide. For weapon mastery tips, explore our best Valorant loadouts.
For official updates, visit the Valorant Patch 12.00 notes and the Riot Games Support page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Bandit one-shot through walls?
A: Yes, Bandit features medium wall penetration, allowing headshot kills through wooden panels and thin walls—useful for wallbangs and spam spots.
Q: Is Bandit better than Sheriff for eco rounds?
A: Depends on your playstyle. Bandit offers faster equip/reload, more forgiving magazine, and lower cost, making it ideal for ability-focused rounds or less confident aimers.
