Let's start by emphasizing that in Monster Hunter Wilds, there isn't a definitive "best" weapon type. If you're seeking a weapon that guarantees the fastest hunt times due to sheer power, you won't find one. The key is to choose a weapon that feels enjoyable and effective for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and having fun, that's what truly matters.
Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves numerous factors, including armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon for the specific monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're interested in weapons that might help reduce your hunt times, consider trying the following. This tier list for Monster Hunter Wilds was compiled by combining IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, personal opinions based on difficulty to master, and current speedrun time averages.
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 in no particular order. These weapons stand out due to their versatility, damage output, and ease of use, but remember, all weapons are viable. Below, we'll explore why these weapons are highly regarded.
S-tier: These are the cream of the crop, offering high damage output and relative ease of use. 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 and dedication. They may be more technical or less forgiving but offer great potential. The Hunting Horn excels in co-op settings.
- Insect Glaive
- Charge Blade
- Dual Blades
- Hunting Horn
- Heavy Bowgun
- Switch Axe
B-tier: These weapons might require more effort and fine-tuned builds to achieve the results of higher-tier weapons, but they are still excellent choices.
- Lance
- Hammer
- Light Bowgun
Why only three tiers?: As mentioned, there's no definitive "best" weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, and every weapon is viable. Your tier list could vary based on the monster you're hunting. Don't let tier lists discourage you from using your favorite weapon; even B-tier weapons are great on the IGN scale!
Best Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Explained
Sword and Shield
The Sword and Shield is a powerhouse in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as a beginner's weapon, it's incredibly versatile and consistent, capable of delivering significant damage with mastered combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stick to monsters, and it can guard and counterattack effectively. The Sword and Shield can also perform perfect guards easily, enabling quick, powerful counter slashes and procuring an Offensive Guard buff with the right Equipment Skill. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it allows item use without sheathing, making it perfect for quick healing and buffs. Whether you prefer evasion, blocking, or attacking from various angles, the Sword and Shield offers it all—except an Offset attack.
See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds
Great Sword
The Great Sword is the first weapon crafted by developers in new Monster Hunter games, reflecting its quintessential role. It excels with Wilds' new Power Clashes and Offset attacks, delivering immense satisfaction with every hit. Though slower and punishing on mishits, the introduction of Focus Mode makes aiming easier. If you're after the highest single-strike damage, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with its True Charged Slash hits being particularly satisfying.
See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds
Long Sword
The Long Sword remains a fan favorite in Monster Hunter for its speed, ease of use, and satisfying playstyle. It relies on the powerful perfect-evading counterattack, the Foresight Slash, to build up the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. With excellent reach, it's perfect 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 flow.
See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds
Gunlance
While I'm less familiar with the Gunlance, it's highly praised by the IGN community, speedrunners, and online enthusiasts in Monster Hunter Wilds. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons but offers incredible defense with its large shield capable of Perfect Guards and explosive power, albeit 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 is incredibly powerful.
See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds
Bow
Despite not excelling in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely considered a top choice in Monster Hunter Wilds. It feels powerful, even with a minor Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta Test. The Bow's new Tracer Ammo guarantees hits and crits, and it never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings, enhancing its damage potential. With perfect dodge timing, the Bow's Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing near-continuous attacks. It's mobile, strong, and visually striking—what more could you want?
See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds
Remember, this tier list is just a reference. Stick with your preferred weapon; for instance, if you're skilled with the Light Bowgun, knowing exactly where to aim and dodging every attack, you'll achieve better times than with the Great Sword if you struggle with timing your True Charged Slashes and Offset attacks. Mastery takes time, so choose what you enjoy and excel at.
What do you think is the best weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds? Contribute to our Community Tier List at the top of this article. We might update this article with new ratings! And for more, don't miss our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.
