If you’re aiming for the butterfly knife – one of the most visually impressive and sought after knives in CS2 – it’s not worth opening random cases. This knife is only available in select cases, namely: Operation Breakout, Spectrum, Spectrum 2, Operation Riptide, and Dreams & Nightmares. Each case offers different finishes and has varying market availability, but they all share one thing in common – the iconic “butterfly knife” can drop from them.
Operation Breakout Weapon Case
This is the case where the butterfly knife made its debut – and it still remains the most classic way to acquire the “butterfly knife.” The case contains basic yet still desirable finishes: Fade, Crimson Web, Case Hardened, Slaughter, and Safari Mesh. Due to its age, the Breakout Case is no longer available in the current drop pool – meaning it can only be obtained on the market or through trade. Its price is significantly higher than newer cases, but this also makes getting a knife from this case a collector’s item. For many players, it’s the most “authentic” butterfly knife drop.
- Case price: $11.66
- Key price: $2.49
Spectrum Case
The Spectrum Case brought a breath of fresh air – both in terms of the skins and the available knives. In its pool, you’ll find modern finishes for the butterfly knife, including Doppler, Tiger Tooth, Marble Fade, Damascus Steel, Ultraviolet, and Rust Coat. Importantly, these versions are much more colorful and “eye-catching” than the classic ones. The Spectrum Case remains very popular today, not only because it contains the “butterfly knife” but also due to the many attractive weapon skins it holds. It’s also relatively easy to obtain and not too expensive, making it a popular choice for those who want to focus on aesthetics and visual effect.
- Case price: $6.15
- Key price: $2.49
Spectrum 2 Case
This is the continuation of the original Spectrum case, with the same set of possible knives. Once again, you have access to Doppler, Marble Fade, Tiger Tooth, and other modern finishes. The main difference? The Spectrum 2 is generally cheaper and more accessible on the market – especially for players who don’t want to spend too much on the cases themselves. It’s an ideal option if you’re after a nice butterfly knife in a Doppler style but don’t necessarily want to invest in more expensive cases. Nevertheless, the chances of getting one are still very low – as with any case that contains knives.
- Case price: $4.22
- Key price: $2.49
Operation Riptide Case
Released in 2021, this case was part of a larger operation and is still considered valuable – both in terms of its contents and the potential to drop a butterfly knife. In the Riptide case, you’ll find finishes from the Gamma series, including Gamma Doppler, Lore, Autotronic, Freehand, and other interesting versions. An additional advantage is that some of these finishes are not found in older cases, which increases their collector’s value. Currently, the Riptide Case is not in the active drop pool, but it can still be purchased on the market. Its price has been increasing over time, making it not only a source for the “butterfly knife” but also a potential investment.
- Case price: $15.06
- Key price: $2.49
Dreams & Nightmares Case
This relatively new case introduced, among other things, an original collection of skins with a dream-nightmare theme. Notably, it also contains the butterfly knife with a set of modern finishes known from Riptide, including Gamma Doppler, Lore, Bright Water, Black Laminate, and others. Its advantage is that it was in the active drop pool for an extended period, making it widely available and not yet commanding exorbitant prices. It’s a great option for players who want to obtain a butterfly knife with an interesting look without having to reach for older and more expensive cases. However, as with any case, the chances of getting a knife are still very low.
- Case price: $2.33
- Key price: $2.49
The butterfly knife is an icon of Counter-Strike – its dynamic animation, elegant motion, and wide range of finishes have made players dream of its drop for years. If you’re aiming to get this knife, you should target only five selected cases: Operation Breakout, Spectrum, Spectrum 2, Operation Riptide, and Dreams & Nightmares. Each of these cases offers different versions of the “butterfly knife,” so the choice depends on what appeals to you – classic or modern. However, remember that getting the knife is still a lottery – even from the right case, the chances are very low. If you’re set on a specific model, consider purchasing it directly from the market.
