The Bucky is Valorant’s iconic pump-action shotgun, beloved by thrifty players for its devastating potential in close-quarters battles and unique tactical options. Affordable, versatile, and sometimes underestimated, it’s a weapon that rewards smart engagement and creative play.

Mastering the Bucky: Key Features and Performance

The Bucky costs just 900 credits, making it the most budget-friendly primary weapon in Valorant. Manufactured by Captain Industries, its real-world inspiration is the Benelli Nova. With a magazine size of five shells and a semi-automatic firing mechanism, the Bucky fills a unique niche among Valorant’s arsenal for economical round strategies and aggressive defensive play.

Damage Output and Range

  • 0-8 meters: 22 body damage, 44 headshot damage, 19 leg damage per pellet
  • 8-12 meters: 17 body, 34 head, 14 leg per pellet
  • 12+ meters: 9 body, 18 head, 8 leg per pellet

Each Bucky shot fires 15 pellets in a spread. Its overwhelming damage potential at close range makes it lethal in tight spaces. A single blast at point-blank can secure a kill, even through light armor.

Dual Firing Modes: Primary and Alternate Strategies

What sets the Bucky apart from other shotguns in Valorant is its alternate right-click firing mode:

  • Primary: Fires a standard, wide-spread shotgun blast.
  • Alternate: Launches a tight canister, which detonates after 7.5 meters, releasing all pellets in a dense pattern. This can surprise foes at mid-range with highly concentrated damage.

Bucky in Action: Best Scenarios and Playstyles

Dominating in Close Quarters

The Bucky is unrivaled when used defensively on sites with narrow corridors, corners, and chokes. Defenders hiding in tight spaces can punish unsuspecting attackers with a quick blast.

Economy Rounds and Ambush Tactics

For eco or force-buy rounds, the Bucky’s value is hard to beat. It forces enemies to respect close angles and can easily swing rounds in your favor with well-timed peeks and ambushes.

Learn more about creative shotgun play in Valorant with this in-depth Bucky guide on Inven Global.

Alternate Fire: Surprising with Versatility

Mastering the alternate fire gives the Bucky surprising reach, allowing you to tag enemies hiding a few extra meters away. If you know common angles and anticipate enemy movement, you can maximize your lethality even at mid-range.

For comparison with other guns and more weapon stats, check out TheGamer’s full Valorant weapon guide.

Strengths and Weaknesses to Consider

Why Choose Bucky?

  • High Close-Range Burst: Often secures kills with one well-placed shot at close quarters.
  • Affordability: Ideal for eco rounds or force buys.
  • Versatility: Dual modes offer tools for both short and medium distances.
  • Area Control: Punishes rushes and controls chokepoints effectively.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Long Reload: Reloading one shell at a time leaves you exposed between fights.
  • Low Fire Rate: Missing a shot can be costly in close fights.
  • Ineffective at Range: Drastic damage fall-off outside close distances.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Bucky Game

  • Use sound cues: Ambush enemies by listening for footsteps and popping out of unexpected spots.
  • Positioning is key: Stay near corners or tight areas, forcing opponents into Bucky’s optimal range.
  • Alternate fire mid-range: Catch foes off-guard who think they’re at a safe distance.
  • Pair with utility: Work with teammates to blind or slow enemies entering your area, making them easier Bucky targets.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Valorant Weapon Bucky

What is the Bucky in Valorant?

The Bucky is a pump-action shotgun in Valorant, known for its low price and lethal close-range power. It has two firing modes and is commonly used in eco rounds or for defensive holds.

How much does the Bucky cost?

The Bucky costs 900 credits, making it the most affordable primary weapon in Valorant.

What are the Bucky’s firing modes?

The Bucky features a primary fire for a standard shotgun spread and an alternate fire (right-click) that launches a pellet canister, which detonates at 7.5 meters for a denser shot pattern effective at medium range.

How much damage does the Bucky do at close range?

At 0-8 meters, each of the Bucky’s 15 pellets deals 22 body, 44 head, and 19 leg damage. A full hit at this range is almost always a one-shot kill to unshielded or lightly-armored opponents.

How does the alternate fire work on the Bucky?

The alternate fire shoots a canister which travels a short distance and bursts into a tight cluster of pellets, great for catching enemies just outside of Melee range. However, it deals minimal damage if the canister itself directly hits before detonating.

When should I use the Bucky in Valorant?

The Bucky excels in eco rounds, when holding tight angles, or on maps with lots of close-quarters spaces. It’s best for defenders or attackers anticipating close-range engagements.

What are the weaknesses of the Bucky?

Its main weaknesses are slow reload speed, poor long-range performance, and a low fire rate. The Bucky is also unforgiving if you miss your first shot in a fight.

Can the Bucky wallbang or penetrate surfaces?

Yes, the Bucky can penetrate some thin surfaces, but its damage through walls is quite limited compared to rifles or heavy weapons.

How does the Bucky compare to the Judge?

The Judge is fully automatic and better for sustained close-range defense, but it is more expensive. The Bucky offers better budget flexibility and versatility due to its alternate fire and lower price.

Where can I learn advanced Bucky strategies?

You can explore expert guides on sites like Inven Global and IBTimes, or watch Bucky gameplay tutorials such as this YouTube Short: Bucky in action.