Top Weapons Ranked for Monster Hunter Wilds

Let's start by emphasizing this: there is no definitive "best" weapon type in Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're searching for a weapon that guarantees the fastest hunt times every single time due to its overwhelming power, you won't find it. The key is to select a weapon that feels right for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and enjoying the gameplay, that's what truly matters.

Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves multiple factors such as armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon for the monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're looking to reduce your hunt times, certain weapon types stand out. This tier list for the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds is compiled from IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, personal experience regarding difficulty to master, and current speedrun 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 in no particular order. While all weapons are viable, these stand out due to their performance and versatility, which we'll explore below.

S-tier: These weapons are top-tier for both their damage output and ease of use. The Gunlance, though technical, offers significant advantages according to the community.

• Sword and Shield
• Great Sword
• Long Sword
• Gunlance
• Bow

A-tier: A-tier weapons can match S-tier performance with the right skills, but they are more technical and less forgiving. The Hunting Horn shines in co-op scenarios.

• Insect Glaive
• Charge Blade
• Dual Blades
• Hunting Horn
• Heavy Bowgun
• Switch Axe

B-tier: These weapons may require more effort and fine-tuned builds to match the performance of higher tiers, but they're still highly effective.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers? As mentioned, there's no definitive best weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, and all weapons are viable. Tier lists can vary by monster, so don't let them deter you from using your favorite weapon. Even B-tier is 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 a "beginner" weapon, it's incredibly versatile and consistent, capable of dealing significant damage once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stick to monsters effectively, and it can guard and deliver powerful counterattacks. The Sword and Shield can easily perform perfect guards, triggering an Offensive Guard buff with the right equipment skill. For support hunters, it allows item use without sheathing, making it ideal for quick team support. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, slashing or blunt damage, or even aerial attacks, the Sword and Shield covers it all, except for an Offset attack.

See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds

Great Sword

The Great Sword is the first weapon the Monster Hunter developers refine in new games, and its prowess in Wilds is evident. It excels with Power Clashes and Offset attacks, offering quintessential Monster Hunter satisfaction. Although slower and more punishing with mishits, Focus Mode makes aiming easier. For the highest single-strike damage, the Great Sword is unparalleled, and its True Charged Slash hits are visually satisfying.

See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Long Sword

The Long Sword remains one of the most popular weapons in Monster Hunter for its speed, ease of use, and engaging playstyle. It relies on the Foresight Slash to build the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. Its reach makes it excellent for severing tails, and maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge is rewarding for its high damage output when in the flow of combat.

See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Gunlance

The Gunlance, while more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, offers immense defensive capabilities with its large shield and explosive power. In Wilds, it can fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast is incredibly potent.

See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds

Bow

Despite a slight Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta Test, the Bow remains a top choice in Monster Hunter Wilds. It features Tracer Ammo, ensuring hits and crits, and never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings. With perfect dodge timing, Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing continuous attacks. The Bow's mobility, strength, and stylish Focus Strike make it a formidable weapon.

See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds

Remember, this tier list is for reference only. Stick with your preferred weapon, as proficiency can lead to better results than switching to a supposedly superior weapon. For instance, if you're adept with the Light Bowgun, knowing where to aim and dodging effectively can yield better times than struggling with a Great Sword.

What weapon do you think is the best in Monster Hunter Wilds? Contribute to our Community Tier List and help us refine our ratings. For more detailed information, explore our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.