It’s no secret that in VALORANT, the Operator is a weapon that becomes increasingly powerful in the hands of the most skilled players. According to statistics from Blitz.gg, the primary sniper rifle’s kill count rises as players climb the ranks, showcasing the weapon’s skill gap.

At Iron I, the Operator generates a meager 2.2 kills per match during Episode Six, Act One of competitive, ranking 10th compared to other weapons. However, as the rank increases, so does the Operator’s standing.
In Bronze I, the Operator jumps to seventh place with 3.2 kills per match and continues to rise through Silver I and Gold I, where it ranks sixth with 3.7 kills. The Operator takes fifth place in Platinum I and Diamond I and climbs to third place in Ascendant I and Immortal I with over four kills per game.

Even in Radiant, the highest rank, the Operator remains the third most-used weapon, with 7.7 kills per match, three more than the average in Immortal I.

It is uncertain if the Operator is being purchased more at higher ranks or if players are using it more effectively. However, as ranks increase, the triumvirate of Vandal, Phantom, and Operator all see a significant increase in kills per game. Although the Vandal and Phantom consistently rank first and second, respectively, across all ranks, the Operator’s climb in higher ranks is remarkable.
If you aspire to reach the top of the leaderboard, be prepared to encounter more Operators that can take you down.