Let's start by emphasizing this key point: there is no definitive "best" weapon type in Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're seeking a weapon that guarantees the fastest hunt times every time due to sheer overpowered performance, you won't find it. The essence of choosing a weapon lies in finding what feels enjoyable and effective for you personally. If you're not carting, consistently landing hits on monsters, and having fun in the process, that's what truly matters.
Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves a myriad of factors, including armor, decorations, and selecting a particular Artian weapon tailored to the monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're interested in weapons that can potentially reduce your hunt times, here are some top choices to consider. This tier list for the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds has been compiled by integrating IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, my personal insights based on difficulty to master, and current speedrun time averages.
Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Tier List
Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List
The "best" weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds include Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed without a specific ranking order. While these weapons stand out for various reasons, which we'll explore below, the remaining weapons are still highly viable.
S-tier: These are considered the cream of the crop, offering top-tier damage output while being relatively user-friendly. The Gunlance, though more technical, is highly valued by the community for its benefits.
- Sword and Shield
- Great Sword
- Long Sword
- Gunlance
- Bow
A-tier: These weapons can match S-tier performance with the right skill level, often requiring more precision or slightly less forgiving mechanics. The Hunting Horn, while not ideal for solo play, excels in cooperative settings.
- Insect Glaive
- Charge Blade
- Dual Blades
- Hunting Horn
- Heavy Bowgun
- Switch Axe
B-tier: These weapons might not reach the heights of S- and A-tier weapons even with expert handling, but they are by no means ineffective. They may require more effort and finely tuned builds to achieve comparable results.
- Lance
- Hammer
- Light Bowgun
Why only three tiers? As mentioned earlier, no single weapon reigns supreme in Monster Hunter Wilds, and all are viable choices. Your tier list could vary significantly depending on the monster you're hunting. Don't let tier lists deter you from using your favorite weapon; even B-tier weapons are considered great on the IGN scale!
Best Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Explained
Sword and Shield
The Sword and Shield is exceptional in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as merely a "beginner" weapon, it's easy to pick up but also incredibly versatile and capable of delivering substantial damage once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility during attacks allows you to stick close to monsters, while its ability to guard and counter with powerful slashes, including perfect guards, adds significant offensive potential. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it enables item use without sheathing. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, dealing slashing or blunt damage, or even attacking from above, the Sword and Shield offers a comprehensive toolkit—lacking only an Offset attack.
Great Sword
The Great Sword is the first weapon crafted in new Monster Hunter games, and its design reflects this priority. It excels with Wilds' new Power Clashes and satisfying Offset attacks, encapsulating the quintessential Monster Hunter experience. While slower and punishing for mishits, the addition of Focus Mode enhances its usability. If you're after the highest single-strike damage, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with its True Charged Slash delivering visually and mechanically satisfying results.
Long Sword
The Long Sword remains one of Monster Hunter's most popular weapons due to its fast, engaging, and visually appealing playstyle. It's relatively easy to start with, relying heavily on the Foresight Slash for perfect evades and quickly building the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. Its impressive reach makes it ideal for slicing off tails. Maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge requires some management, but the payoff in damage output is well worth it when you're in the zone.
Gunlance
While I'm less familiar with the Gunlance, it's highly praised by IGN's community, speedrunners, and online enthusiasts in Monster Hunter Wilds. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons but offers remarkable defense through its large shield and explosive power at the cost of some mobility. In Wilds, the Gunlance can fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast attack packs a serious punch.
Bow
Despite not topping speedrun charts in Tempered Arkveld hunts, the Bow is widely regarded as a top-tier weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, often favored in community polls. Its power is tangible, even with a minor Focus Strike nerf post-Open Beta Test. The Bow's new Tracer Ammo ensures shots hit and crit their target, and Wilds ensures coatings never run out, boosting its damage potential. Mastering the Bow's Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing for near-continuous attacks. Its mobility, strength, and stylish Focus Strike make it a formidable choice.
Remember, this tier list serves as a reference. We encourage sticking with your preferred weapon. For instance, if you're skilled with the Light Bowgun, knowing precisely where to aim with specific ammo and dodging every monster attack, you'll outperform a Great Sword user who struggles with timing their True Charged Slashes and Offset attacks. Mastery of any weapon takes time and practice!
What weapon do you believe is the best in Monster Hunter Wilds? Contribute to our Community Tier List at the top of this article, and we might update our ratings. For more in-depth information, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.
