CS2 welcomed the Nova | Mandrel on September 3, 2018. This skin debuted alongside the "FACEIT 2018 – Ways to Watch" update as part of the Budapest 2025 Nuke Souvenir Package.
Origin
Players can acquire the Nova | Mandrel by opening any of the 11 containers that feature this skin. It can be found in the London 2018 Nuke Souvenir Package, Katowice 2019 Nuke Souvenir Package, and Berlin 2019 Nuke Souvenir Package containers. Additionally, it belongs to the 2018 Nuke Collection.
Popularity
Currently, the Nova | Mandrel enjoys a 75% popularity, placing it within the top 25% of CS2's most favored items.
Rarity
Among the collection of 161 Shotgun skins, the Nova | Mandrel holds a rarity classification of Consumer Grade, indicating its frequent appearance in gameplay.
Availability
Selling at a price range from $0.03 to $0.87, the Nova | Mandrel stands out as an affordable skin option.
Versions
Float values for the Nova | Mandrel range from 0.00 to 0.50, allowing its availability across all exterior conditions. A Souvenir variant also exists for each exterior.
Finish Style
The Nova features a "Hydrographic" finish with the Mandrel design. This process involves submerging disassembled weapon parts in a floating hydrographic film within a water tank. As the film adheres to the primed surfaces, it creates a patterned covering, primarily in shades of gray. The appearance of the Mandrel finish is influenced by its pattern index. This skin utilizes the old legacy model.
Community Sentiment
With over 29 votes, the Nova | Mandrel has garnered an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Current ownership includes professional CS2 players flusha, guardian, and s1mple.