Difference between revisions of "Basic Scout strategy"

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The [[Scout]] is a short range, high speed and fragile class with the ability to [[double jump]]. He captures [[Control Points]] and [[Payload]] carts at double speed.
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{{hatnote|This page contains basic strategy for the Scout. For more advanced strategies, see [[Community Scout strategy]]. For how to play against the Scout, see [[Anti-Scout strategy]].}}
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{{Quotation|'''The Scout''' |Say goodbye to ya kneecaps, chucklehead!|sound=Scout_taunts08.wav}}
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[[File:Scouttaunt2.PNG|350px|right]]
  
His role is to flank rapidly, dodge wildly, and kill enemies with his high damage [[Scattergun]].
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The [[Scout]] is the fastest and arguably one of the most mobile classes in the game. His speed and ability to [[Jumping#Double Jump|double jump]] lets him access ambushing routes and get to places before most other classes. Combine this mobility with his Scattergun's high damage output, and he is one of the best at picking and winning duels. The Scout can ideally control the outskirts of the battlefield by picking off important or damaged enemy targets, then support his team at objectives with his increased capture rate.
  
==General==
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The Scout has a low health pool and relies on completely avoiding damage to survive; his double jump lets him escape [[knockback]], [[fall damage]], and explosions. Dodging becomes harder when being attacked by multiple enemies at once, generally dissuading the Scout from the frontlines. Additionally, not everything can be dodged; weaponry that can [[Slowdown|slow]] or track players, such as [[Natascha]] or the [[Sentry Gun]], are deadly to the Scout.
  
* You are the fastest class in the game, and double-jumping allows you to cross complex terrain in unusual and confusing ways. Don't be predictable, and stay on the move.
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== Primary weapons ==
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When fighting, don't rely on your mouse alone to track foes. Use your movement to keep the opponent centered on your screen, firing whenever your cross-hairs and opponent match up. This allows you to focus on moving efficiently and erratically, making you harder to hit, while at the same time making your aim smoother and more accurate via prediction. Find what distance you operate at best and use your speed to maintain it; extremely close-range combat favors quick jumping to avoid enemy shots fired downward, while more moderate distances allow you to stay grounded and continuously strafe from side to side.  
  
* The Scout excels at single combat.  If you find players alone, pick them off.
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===[[Scattergun]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Scattergun|100px}} {{icon item|Festive Scattergun|100px|link=Festive weapons}} {{icon item|Silver Botkiller Scattergun|100px|link=Botkiller weapons}} {{icon item|Australium Scattergun|100px|link=Australium weapons}}
  
* Stay on the ground while fighting classes with hitscan weapons such as [[Shotgun]]s.  Jumping makes you somewhat predictable.  However, against foes with constantly firing weapons or high explosives, jump often and rapidly change directions.
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At point-blank range, your Scattergun kills most classes with just two well-placed shots. Use your speed to avoid attacks and get in close range to deal maximum damage. The Scattergun runs out of ammunition quickly and you are fragile, so take cover or run circles around your enemies while reloading. When fighting distant enemies, switch to your [[Pistol]], as the Scattergun's wide bullet spread means it deals minimal damage at long range.
  
* If a foe is using [[knock back]] to trap you, double jump immediately after they've pushed you.  If done right, you can pass over their heads or to one side and escape.
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===[[Force-A-Nature]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Force-A-Nature|100px}} {{icon item|Australium Force-A-Nature|100px|link=Australium weapons}} {{icon item|Festive Force-A-Nature|100px|link=Festive weapons}}
  
* [[Sentry Gun]]s are your most dangerous foes. Destroy them by [[cornering]] or firing from a distance, but don't be surprised if you must avoid them until teammates can assist you.
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The Force-A-Nature deals heavy burst damage but must be reloaded often, so it is best used as a hit-and-run weapon. Its shots inflict [[knockback]] on both you and your target, leading to some interesting applications. Your enemy is launched backwards proportionally to the damage dealt, allowing you to land easy follow-up shots or launch them into map hazards. The self-inflicted knockback allows you to [[Jumping#Force Jump|Force jump]] to even more locations. If you actively jump while in combat, save your extra jump until after you've fired the Force-A-Nature; the knockback will leave you suspended in midair and vulnerable. For efficient ammo usage, always fire your two shots before reloading; reloading with one shot in the barrel will discard that shot.
  
* The double jump can save you from [[fall damage]]. Simply jump just before you hit the ground, or jump to a ledge nearby as you're falling.
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===[[Shortstop]]===
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{{icon item|Shortstop|100px}}
  
* If you have caught an enemy off guard, wait until you are next to him to start shooting. At very short ranges, the Scattergun does well over a hundred damage, and two shots can kill an opponent before they can react.
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The Shortstop is a cross between your Scattergun and Pistol, holding 4 shots that all reload in a single clip. While it deals less damage than the Scattergun, its narrow bullet spread and fast reload time make it reliable at longer ranges. While the Shortstop is deployed, you receive 20% greater [[knockback]]; explosions will throw you around and disrupt aiming, but can be used to escape a losing fight easier. Alternate fire is a melee shove, which is best for keeping enemies at optimal mid-range firing distance or throwing them into [[environmental hazards]].
  
* If you a meet a slower team-mate who has taken the enemy [[Intelligence]], consider asking him to drop the Intelligence (Default key: 'L') because you can carry it faster.
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===[[Soda Popper]]===
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{{icon item|Soda Popper|100px}}
  
* You deal excellent damage. With enough practice, you are one of the best combat classes.
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The Soda Popper is similar to the [[Force-A-Nature]], but does not have its knockback effects. Like the Force-A-Nature, it is best used as a hit-and-run weapon, although its faster reloading speed makes it more useful in prolonged combat. Damaging enemies builds a "Hype" meter. When the Hype meter is full, alternate-fire will put you into Hype mode, allowing you to jump up to five times in midair for 10 seconds. Hype mode is incredibly useful for accessing routes that normally require another class's [[explosive jump]], and staying in the air to dodge attacks when dueling. However, Hype mode is not usable as often as your other mobility options.
  
* The Scout can "heckle" enemies.  Stay at range when foes use weapons that are good at close range, and then approach when enemies use weapons that are good at long range.
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===[[Baby Face's Blaster]]===
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{{icon item|Baby Face's Blaster|100px}}
  
==Weapon Specific Tips==
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The Baby Face's Blaster has a clip of only 4 bullets and initially reduces your movement speed by 10%. Dealing damage with any weapon charges a Boost meter, which increases your speed by up to 30% at 100 damage dealt. Taking damage lowers Boost, while double jumping costs 75% Boost. Overall, first build Boost via ambushes or at a distance with the help of weapons like the [[Winger]], [[Flying Guillotine]], and [[Wrap Assassin]]. Then, use the speed increase to completely avoid taking damage. Keep in mind that you will sometimes need to sacrifice your speed to access a side route or dodge enemy attacks that would remove your Boost anyway.
  
===[[Scattergun]]===
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===[[Back Scatter]]===
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Scattergun|icon-size=100x100px}}  
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{{icon item|Back Scatter|100px}}
* While using your Scattergun, don't rely on your mouse alone to track foes.  Use your movement to keep the opponent centered on your screen, firing when your cross-hairs and opponent match up.  This allows you to focus on moving efficiently and erratically, making you harder to hit, while at the same time making your 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 your presence. Two point blank shots will normally kill him, while 3-4 at medium range will do the same job.
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The Back Scatter deals Mini-Crits when fired at the backs of enemies in close range, but has a reduced clip size and is less accurate. The Mini-Crits now allow you to kill the weaker classes with just one well-placed shot. However, the reduced accuracy may be a problem when you can't get close to your target. Overall, this weapon is best for flanking or punishing fleeing enemies, but not for dueling.
  
*Over time, the Scattergun has much higher damage potential than the [[Force-A-Nature]].  In short bursts, the [[Force-A-Nature]] beats the Scattergun.
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== Secondary weapons ==
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===[[Pistol]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Pistol|100px}} {{icon item|Lugermorph|100px}} {{icon item|C.A.P.P.E.R|100px}}
  
===[[Force-A-Nature]]===
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The Pistol is a backup weapon that is accurate at medium range, primarily used for finishing off wounded targets or fighting at range. It reloads quickly and can be used to harass enemies, cover a retreat, and take out [[Sentry Gun]]s from afar. Keep track of the Pistol's ammunition, as your three extra magazines can run out surprisingly quickly.
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Force-A-Nature|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
*The Force-A-Nature has very high burst damage but can't sustain that damage over time.  Engage foes in shorter fights, so that your constant reloading doesn't place you at a disadvantage.
 
  
*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 the two seconds after you fire both shots.
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===[[Bonk! Atomic Punch]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Bonk! Atomic Punch|100px}} {{icon item|Festive Bonk! Atomic Punch|100px|link=Festive weapons}}
  
*[[Force Jumps]] and [[Triple Jumps]] allow you to reach unusual positions and dodge even more erratically than the double jump allows.
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Bonk! Atomic Punch is a utility item that, when consumed, grants invulnerability to all enemy attacks. Its main use is to dodge or draw enemy fire. For example, you can use it to get past [[Sentry Gun]]s, retreat safely, bait [[Demoman|Demomen]] into detonating their sticky traps, or block choke points. Outside of combat, it can also be used to negate [[Fire|afterburn]] or [[bleeding]]. Even though you are temporarily immune to damage, you can still be pinned down by [[knockback]], so be careful to not get cornered. You are encouraged to retreat as the effect wears off, as you are [[Slow]]ed for 5 seconds based on the damage you negated, up to 50% for absorbing 200 damage.
  
*Use the Force-A-Nature's [[knock back]] ability to your advantage.  A foe 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!
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===[[Crit-a-Cola]]===
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{{icon item|Crit-a-Cola|100px}}
  
===[[Shortstop]]===
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Crit-a-Cola is a utility item that rewards you for taking risks. When consumed, it grants you guaranteed Mini-Crits for eight seconds. However, firing any gun or swinging your melee weapon will cause you to also take Mini-Crits for five seconds. Crit-a-Cola is best used before an ambush or other situations where your opponent can't see you coming. Alternatively, pair Crit-a-Cola with the [[Shortstop]] for ranged harassment, as Mini-Crits don't have damage fall-off. The Crit-a-Cola boost does not stack with the boosts of other items, such as the [[Buff Banner]] or [[Jarate]].
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Shortstop|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
*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.
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===[[Mad Milk]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Mad Milk|100px}} {{icon item|Mutated Milk|100px}}
  
*The Shortstop draws from the same ammunition reserve as the Pistol. Pairing these two weapons will drain your ammo reserve quickly.
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Mad Milk is thrown like a grenade and inflicts a temporary debuff upon its victims, allowing any member on your team to heal by damaging an opponent under its effects. It can be used in single combat for yourself or large firefights for your team, especially if you lack a Medic. Additionally, Mad Milk can be used to extinguish teammates and reveal cloaked or disguised [[Spy|Spies]].
  
*The Shortstop reloads rapidly, allowing consistent damage over time.
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===[[Winger]]===
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{{icon item|Winger|100px}}
  
===[[Pistol]] / [[Lugermorph]]===
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Like the Pistol, the Winger can be used to harass enemies or cover a retreat. When compared to the Pistol, the Winger's increased damage is best for short encounters; it deals less damage over long periods of time due to its reduced magazine size. The 25% added jump height lets you evade attacks and access alternate routes easier.
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Pistol|icon-size=100x100px}} {{Icon weapon|weapon=Lugermorph|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
* One of the Pistol's primary uses is to finish off wounded targets.
 
  
* The Pistol reloads much faster than the [[Scattergun]].  When both are empty, reloading the Pistol first will have you firing much sooner.
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===[[Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol]]===
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{{icon item|Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol|100px}}
  
* 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.
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The Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol recovers three health per hit, but expends its 25% reduced magazine quickly. The Pocket Pistol can be used mid-combat to quickly recover some health, but you should switch back to your primary weapon for finishing fights.
  
* Though the [[Scattergun]] trumps it at short ranges, at medium to long ranges your Pistol is an excellent option for dealing consistent damage.
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===[[Flying Guillotine]]===
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{{icon item|Flying Guillotine|100px}}
  
===[[Bonk! Atomic Punch]]===
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The Flying Guillotine can be thrown every six seconds to deal moderate damage and cause [[bleeding]], making it decent for mid-range harassment. Overall, the Flying Guillotine rewards you greatly for landing that one single hit; a cleaver is equivalent to several Pistol shots. The Flying Guillotine deals no damage to buildings, leaving you very disadvantaged against Sentry Guns.
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bonk! Atomic Punch|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
*Use Bonk! Atomic Punch for dodging around things you would normally run away from, such as [[Sentry Gun]]s, [[Heavy]]-[[Medic]] pairs, or large groups of enemies.
 
  
*Bonk! Atomic Punch is useful to push through sticky traps to attack the [[Demoman]].
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== Melee weapons ==
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==={{anchor|Bat}}[[Bat]] + [[reskins]] ===
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{{icon item|Bat|100px}} {{icon item|Frying Pan|100px}} {{icon item|Saxxy|100px}} {{icon item|Conscientious Objector|100px}} {{icon item|Festive Bat|100px|link=Festive weapons}} {{icon item|Freedom Staff|100px}} {{icon item|Bat Outta Hell|100px}} {{icon item|Memory Maker|100px}} {{icon item|Ham Shank|100px}} {{icon item|Golden Frying Pan|100px}} {{icon item|Necro Smasher|100px}} {{icon item|Crossing Guard|100px}} {{icon item|Batsaber|100px}} {{icon item|Prinny Machete|100px}}
  
*Bonk! Atomic Punch can be used as a temporary [[ÜberCharge]] for taking out Sentry Guns, providing a distraction while your teammates attack. This tactic is of particular use on low population servers or on Arena, where ÜberCharges can be quite rare or lengthy to build up.
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The Bat swings rapidly but deals less damage than your Scattergun. The Bat is best used to finish off dodgy enemies or other easy targets when you run out of ammo in your primary and secondary weapons.
  
*Use Bonk! Atomic Punch for passing through the enemy team to reach the enemy spawn.  You can then destroy [[teleporter]] entrances and pick off fragile foes.
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===[[Sandman]]===
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{{icon item|Sandman|100px}}
  
*Bonk! Atomic Punch can be used to reset an intelligence return countdown, or to keep a Payload cart from moving backwards if it's being heavily defended.
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The Sandman slightly lowers your maximum health but grants an alternate fire that launches a baseball capable of [[Slowdown|slowing]] enemies. The baseball's slow duration starts at 1 second, but can reach up to 7 seconds depending on how far the ball travels. Slowing an enemy will give you a chance to move in for the kill or retreat safely. Additionally, you can use it to provide support in large firefights by slowing certain enemies to separate them from teammates, such as Medics and [[Critical hits#Crit Boost|Crit-boosted]] enemies. Your low health pool makes the small health penalty significant, so make sure you actually use the baseball.
  
===[[Crit-a-Cola]]===
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===[[Holy Mackerel]] + [[reskins]]===
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Crit-a-Cola|icon-size=100x100px}}  
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{{icon item|Holy Mackerel|100px}} {{icon item|Unarmed Combat|100px}} {{icon item|Festive Holy Mackerel|100px|link=Festive weapons}}
* At point-blank range, one blast from the [[Scattergun]] or [[Force-A-Nature]], with the Mini-Crit buff, is capable of killing any low health class.
 
  
* Mini-Crits don't suffer from damage falloff, so your primary weapon can remain useful at a longer range.
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The Holy Mackerel functions identically to the Bat but announces each hit in the kill feed, allowing for humiliating kills and sometimes detecting Dead Ringer Spies due to the lack of "FISH KILL!". Like with the default Bat, other melee weapons with more useful effects are recommended for serious combat.
  
* Crit-a-Cola is a good partner for the [[Shortstop]] because you can deal excellent damage at range, enough to often kill a [[Heavy]] outright.
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===[[Candy Cane]]===
 
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{{icon item|Candy Cane|100px}}
* 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, and weakening yourself with a Mini-Crit debuff is detrimental.
 
 
 
*Be careful when going up against Snipers with the [[Bushwacka]] equipped, as they will Crit you during the effect of the [[Crit-a-Cola]].
 
 
 
===[[Mad Milk]]===
 
{{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 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, and shorting out nearby [[Spy]] cloaking devices.
 
 
 
*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.
 
 
 
* Mad Milk does not wash off in water unlike [[Jarate]].
 
 
 
===[[Bat]]===
 
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Bat|icon-size=100x100px}}  
 
*A swing of the Bat can often kill a player that has been weakened by your [[Scattergun]].
 
  
===[[Sandman]]===
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When you have the Candy Cane equipped, any kill will cause your victims to drop health packs that can be used to heal your team. The Candy Cane does not need to be the active weapon for this bonus to occur. Ensure that enemies don't reach the health kit first and be wary that approaching the health kit may draw attention. The Candy Cane also increases your vulnerability to explosive damage, meaning that a direct hit from a [[Projectiles|rocket]] or [[Projectiles|grenade]] can now kill you in one hit. A Spy who uses the Dead Ringer to trigger a feign death will not drop a health pack and is easier to discern.
{{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 [[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.
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===[[Boston Basher]] + [[reskins]]===
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{{icon item|Boston Basher|100px}}{{icon item|Three-Rune Blade|100px}}
  
*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 while aiming with the Sandman.
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When striking an enemy, the Boston Basher inflicts the [[bleeding|bleed]] status in addition to the standard Bat damage. However, any missed melee attacks will cause you to damage and bleed yourself instead; try to attack only if you're sure the strike will connect. Striking an environmental object results in no self-damage, so the weapon is slightly less risky to use in enclosed areas.
  
===[[Holy Mackerel]]===
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You can use the self-damage to help a [[Medic]] fill his [[ÜberCharge]] meter and the bleed effect to track down [[cloaked]] Spies. Damaging yourself will inflict a small amount of self-[[knockback]] that can be used as an additional jump in order to reach higher areas, albeit at the cost of a significant portion of health.
{{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.
 
  
*Hits on disguised Spies do not display in the kill feed.
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===[[Sun-on-a-Stick]]===
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{{item icon|Sun-on-a-Stick|100px}}
  
===[[Candy Cane]]===
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The Sun-on-a-Stick's main draw is the 25% fire resistance while deployed. It deals 25% less damage, so don't actually fight with it. As the Scout, your low health pool is quickly chipped away by the Pyro's [[Fire|afterburn]]. If you are set on fire, deploy the Sun-on-a-Stick while searching for healing to survive longer. Against ignited foes, the Sun-on-a-Stick deals guaranteed Critical hits and is one of your best damage options. However, you and the Pyro excel at close-range duels and can often finish off an enemy without help, so you might not be able to use this combo frequently.
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Candy Cane|icon-size=100x100px}}
 
*The Candy Cane is most appropriate for [[Medieval Mode]], where explosives are rare. In standard games, there are many explosions.
 
  
*You don't need to kill with the Candy Cane to get the health pack.  So long as you have it, any weapon (Assists included) will cause an enemy to drop a health pack upon death.
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===[[Fan O'War]]===
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{{item icon|Fan O'War|100px}}
  
*The Candy Cane makes you much more vulnerable against the [[Soldier]] and the [[Demoman]].
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The Fan O'War deals little damage but can [[Marked for death|mark victims for death]], causing all damage taken to be Mini-Crits. Tag an enemy with it, then either switch to another weapon or have your team finish the job. Weave into melee range of groups carefully, as the Mark of Death can only be inflicted on one enemy at a time.
  
===[[Boston Basher]]===
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===[[Atomizer]]===
{{Icon weapon|weapon=Boston Basher|icon-size=100x100px}}
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{{icon item|Atomizer|100px}}
*Hit an unaware opponent once and then use ranged weapons to best avoid damaging yourself.
 
  
*Swinging the Basher around wildly is extremely hazardous to your health. Don't use it against opponents who are aware of you.
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When the Atomizer is your active weapon, you have access to a triple jump, which opens up more routes of travel. In combat, the Atomizer is useful for engaging foes from odd angles, as its melee attacks also Mini-Crit while you're airborne. The Atomizer deploys 50% slower, a significant delay when trying to escape instead.
  
*You can use the Basher to easily charge a [[Medic]]'s übercharge.
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===[[Wrap Assassin]]===
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{{icon item|Wrap Assassin|100px}}
  
*Make sure you're 100% guaranteed a hit on the enemy before taking a swing. It could be vital if you're low on health.
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Similarly to the [[Sandman]], the Wrap Assassin launches a weak projectile that inflicts a [[bleeding]] effect on struck enemies. Use the projectile to weaken stronger enemies before moving in with the [[Scattergun]]. Keep using your primary weapon at close range to negate this weapon's extremely low melee damage.
  
===[[Item sets#Scout|The Special Delivery]]===
 
[[File:Backpack Scout Bundle.png|100px|The Special Delivery Set]]
 
*The +25 health this loadout gives you is helpful against other Scouts, afterburn, and wayward explosives.
 
  
*Remember that your only ranged weapon will be the [[Shortstop]].
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{{Class Strategy Nav}}
 
 
== See also ==
 
*[[Community Scout strategy]]
 
*[[Scout match-ups]]
 
*[[Double jump]]
 
 
 
 
 
{{Class strategy}}
 
 
{{Scout Nav}}
 
{{Scout Nav}}
  
 
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[[Category:Scout]]
 
[[Category:Strategy]]
 
[[Category:Strategy]]
[[Category:Scout]]
 

Latest revision as of 15:00, 4 September 2024

This page contains basic strategy for the Scout. For more advanced strategies, see Community Scout strategy. For how to play against the Scout, see Anti-Scout strategy.
Say goodbye to ya kneecaps, chucklehead!
The Scout
Scouttaunt2.PNG

The Scout is the fastest and arguably one of the most mobile classes in the game. His speed and ability to double jump lets him access ambushing routes and get to places before most other classes. Combine this mobility with his Scattergun's high damage output, and he is one of the best at picking and winning duels. The Scout can ideally control the outskirts of the battlefield by picking off important or damaged enemy targets, then support his team at objectives with his increased capture rate.

The Scout has a low health pool and relies on completely avoiding damage to survive; his double jump lets him escape knockback, fall damage, and explosions. Dodging becomes harder when being attacked by multiple enemies at once, generally dissuading the Scout from the frontlines. Additionally, not everything can be dodged; weaponry that can slow or track players, such as Natascha or the Sentry Gun, are deadly to the Scout.

Primary weapons

When fighting, don't rely on your mouse alone to track foes. Use your movement to keep the opponent centered on your screen, firing whenever your cross-hairs and opponent match up. This allows you to focus on moving efficiently and erratically, making you harder to hit, while at the same time making your aim smoother and more accurate via prediction. Find what distance you operate at best and use your speed to maintain it; extremely close-range combat favors quick jumping to avoid enemy shots fired downward, while more moderate distances allow you to stay grounded and continuously strafe from side to side.

Scattergun + reskins

Scattergun Festive Scattergun Silver Botkiller Scattergun Australium Scattergun

At point-blank range, your Scattergun kills most classes with just two well-placed shots. Use your speed to avoid attacks and get in close range to deal maximum damage. The Scattergun runs out of ammunition quickly and you are fragile, so take cover or run circles around your enemies while reloading. When fighting distant enemies, switch to your Pistol, as the Scattergun's wide bullet spread means it deals minimal damage at long range.

Force-A-Nature + reskins

Force-A-Nature Australium Force-A-Nature Festive Force-A-Nature

The Force-A-Nature deals heavy burst damage but must be reloaded often, so it is best used as a hit-and-run weapon. Its shots inflict knockback on both you and your target, leading to some interesting applications. Your enemy is launched backwards proportionally to the damage dealt, allowing you to land easy follow-up shots or launch them into map hazards. The self-inflicted knockback allows you to Force jump to even more locations. If you actively jump while in combat, save your extra jump until after you've fired the Force-A-Nature; the knockback will leave you suspended in midair and vulnerable. For efficient ammo usage, always fire your two shots before reloading; reloading with one shot in the barrel will discard that shot.

Shortstop

Shortstop

The Shortstop is a cross between your Scattergun and Pistol, holding 4 shots that all reload in a single clip. While it deals less damage than the Scattergun, its narrow bullet spread and fast reload time make it reliable at longer ranges. While the Shortstop is deployed, you receive 20% greater knockback; explosions will throw you around and disrupt aiming, but can be used to escape a losing fight easier. Alternate fire is a melee shove, which is best for keeping enemies at optimal mid-range firing distance or throwing them into environmental hazards.

Soda Popper

Soda Popper

The Soda Popper is similar to the Force-A-Nature, but does not have its knockback effects. Like the Force-A-Nature, it is best used as a hit-and-run weapon, although its faster reloading speed makes it more useful in prolonged combat. Damaging enemies builds a "Hype" meter. When the Hype meter is full, alternate-fire will put you into Hype mode, allowing you to jump up to five times in midair for 10 seconds. Hype mode is incredibly useful for accessing routes that normally require another class's explosive jump, and staying in the air to dodge attacks when dueling. However, Hype mode is not usable as often as your other mobility options.

Baby Face's Blaster

Baby Face's Blaster

The Baby Face's Blaster has a clip of only 4 bullets and initially reduces your movement speed by 10%. Dealing damage with any weapon charges a Boost meter, which increases your speed by up to 30% at 100 damage dealt. Taking damage lowers Boost, while double jumping costs 75% Boost. Overall, first build Boost via ambushes or at a distance with the help of weapons like the Winger, Flying Guillotine, and Wrap Assassin. Then, use the speed increase to completely avoid taking damage. Keep in mind that you will sometimes need to sacrifice your speed to access a side route or dodge enemy attacks that would remove your Boost anyway.

Back Scatter

Back Scatter

The Back Scatter deals Mini-Crits when fired at the backs of enemies in close range, but has a reduced clip size and is less accurate. The Mini-Crits now allow you to kill the weaker classes with just one well-placed shot. However, the reduced accuracy may be a problem when you can't get close to your target. Overall, this weapon is best for flanking or punishing fleeing enemies, but not for dueling.

Secondary weapons

Pistol + reskins

Pistol Lugermorph C.A.P.P.E.R

The Pistol is a backup weapon that is accurate at medium range, primarily used for finishing off wounded targets or fighting at range. It reloads quickly and can be used to harass enemies, cover a retreat, and take out Sentry Guns from afar. Keep track of the Pistol's ammunition, as your three extra magazines can run out surprisingly quickly.

Bonk! Atomic Punch + reskins

Bonk! Atomic Punch Festive Bonk! Atomic Punch

Bonk! Atomic Punch is a utility item that, when consumed, grants invulnerability to all enemy attacks. Its main use is to dodge or draw enemy fire. For example, you can use it to get past Sentry Guns, retreat safely, bait Demomen into detonating their sticky traps, or block choke points. Outside of combat, it can also be used to negate afterburn or bleeding. Even though you are temporarily immune to damage, you can still be pinned down by knockback, so be careful to not get cornered. You are encouraged to retreat as the effect wears off, as you are Slowed for 5 seconds based on the damage you negated, up to 50% for absorbing 200 damage.

Crit-a-Cola

Crit-a-Cola

Crit-a-Cola is a utility item that rewards you for taking risks. When consumed, it grants you guaranteed Mini-Crits for eight seconds. However, firing any gun or swinging your melee weapon will cause you to also take Mini-Crits for five seconds. Crit-a-Cola is best used before an ambush or other situations where your opponent can't see you coming. Alternatively, pair Crit-a-Cola with the Shortstop for ranged harassment, as Mini-Crits don't have damage fall-off. The Crit-a-Cola boost does not stack with the boosts of other items, such as the Buff Banner or Jarate.

Mad Milk + reskins

Mad Milk Mutated Milk

Mad Milk is thrown like a grenade and inflicts a temporary debuff upon its victims, allowing any member on your team to heal by damaging an opponent under its effects. It can be used in single combat for yourself or large firefights for your team, especially if you lack a Medic. Additionally, Mad Milk can be used to extinguish teammates and reveal cloaked or disguised Spies.

Winger

Winger

Like the Pistol, the Winger can be used to harass enemies or cover a retreat. When compared to the Pistol, the Winger's increased damage is best for short encounters; it deals less damage over long periods of time due to its reduced magazine size. The 25% added jump height lets you evade attacks and access alternate routes easier.

Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol

Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol

The Pretty Boy's Pocket Pistol recovers three health per hit, but expends its 25% reduced magazine quickly. The Pocket Pistol can be used mid-combat to quickly recover some health, but you should switch back to your primary weapon for finishing fights.

Flying Guillotine

Flying Guillotine

The Flying Guillotine can be thrown every six seconds to deal moderate damage and cause bleeding, making it decent for mid-range harassment. Overall, the Flying Guillotine rewards you greatly for landing that one single hit; a cleaver is equivalent to several Pistol shots. The Flying Guillotine deals no damage to buildings, leaving you very disadvantaged against Sentry Guns.

Melee weapons

Bat + reskins

Bat Frying Pan Saxxy Conscientious Objector Festive Bat Freedom Staff Bat Outta Hell Memory Maker Ham Shank Golden Frying Pan Necro Smasher Crossing Guard Batsaber Prinny Machete

The Bat swings rapidly but deals less damage than your Scattergun. The Bat is best used to finish off dodgy enemies or other easy targets when you run out of ammo in your primary and secondary weapons.

Sandman

Sandman

The Sandman slightly lowers your maximum health but grants an alternate fire that launches a baseball capable of slowing enemies. The baseball's slow duration starts at 1 second, but can reach up to 7 seconds depending on how far the ball travels. Slowing an enemy will give you a chance to move in for the kill or retreat safely. Additionally, you can use it to provide support in large firefights by slowing certain enemies to separate them from teammates, such as Medics and Crit-boosted enemies. Your low health pool makes the small health penalty significant, so make sure you actually use the baseball.

Holy Mackerel + reskins

Holy Mackerel Unarmed Combat Festive Holy Mackerel

The Holy Mackerel functions identically to the Bat but announces each hit in the kill feed, allowing for humiliating kills and sometimes detecting Dead Ringer Spies due to the lack of "FISH KILL!". Like with the default Bat, other melee weapons with more useful effects are recommended for serious combat.

Candy Cane

Candy Cane

When you have the Candy Cane equipped, any kill will cause your victims to drop health packs that can be used to heal your team. The Candy Cane does not need to be the active weapon for this bonus to occur. Ensure that enemies don't reach the health kit first and be wary that approaching the health kit may draw attention. The Candy Cane also increases your vulnerability to explosive damage, meaning that a direct hit from a rocket or grenade can now kill you in one hit. A Spy who uses the Dead Ringer to trigger a feign death will not drop a health pack and is easier to discern.

Boston Basher + reskins

Boston BasherThree-Rune Blade

When striking an enemy, the Boston Basher inflicts the bleed status in addition to the standard Bat damage. However, any missed melee attacks will cause you to damage and bleed yourself instead; try to attack only if you're sure the strike will connect. Striking an environmental object results in no self-damage, so the weapon is slightly less risky to use in enclosed areas.

You can use the self-damage to help a Medic fill his ÜberCharge meter and the bleed effect to track down cloaked Spies. Damaging yourself will inflict a small amount of self-knockback that can be used as an additional jump in order to reach higher areas, albeit at the cost of a significant portion of health.

Sun-on-a-Stick

Sun-on-a-Stick

The Sun-on-a-Stick's main draw is the 25% fire resistance while deployed. It deals 25% less damage, so don't actually fight with it. As the Scout, your low health pool is quickly chipped away by the Pyro's afterburn. If you are set on fire, deploy the Sun-on-a-Stick while searching for healing to survive longer. Against ignited foes, the Sun-on-a-Stick deals guaranteed Critical hits and is one of your best damage options. However, you and the Pyro excel at close-range duels and can often finish off an enemy without help, so you might not be able to use this combo frequently.

Fan O'War

Fan O'War

The Fan O'War deals little damage but can mark victims for death, causing all damage taken to be Mini-Crits. Tag an enemy with it, then either switch to another weapon or have your team finish the job. Weave into melee range of groups carefully, as the Mark of Death can only be inflicted on one enemy at a time.

Atomizer

Atomizer

When the Atomizer is your active weapon, you have access to a triple jump, which opens up more routes of travel. In combat, the Atomizer is useful for engaging foes from odd angles, as its melee attacks also Mini-Crit while you're airborne. The Atomizer deploys 50% slower, a significant delay when trying to escape instead.

Wrap Assassin

Wrap Assassin

Similarly to the Sandman, the Wrap Assassin launches a weak projectile that inflicts a bleeding effect on struck enemies. Use the projectile to weaken stronger enemies before moving in with the Scattergun. Keep using your primary weapon at close range to negate this weapon's extremely low melee damage.