The length of engagement can be kind of controlled. You should practice loading out right away and putting on/switching attachments. You know its a town/door to door use x2 scope or even just take it off altogether. If you crossing a field or in a forest, use the higher sights. Getting your loadout set quickly gives you time to search for people movements. You have to be the attacker to win. Defense is too late to win 1v1 accurately. And pay attention to if they get knocked or die instantly.

Take your shoes off. Also when running croutch run before you get to buildings. As for their footsteps, it's usually just a warning they are close unless you hear them on wood/upstairs. You can dm me for more tips bro. Imma delete this soon