Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

Let's be clear: there's no single "best" weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. Forget the idea of a universally overpowered option guaranteeing the fastest hunt times every single time. Weapon choice is deeply personal. Success hinges on your comfort and skill with a particular weapon, consistent hits, and avoiding carts – fun is paramount!

Building a successful weapon loadout involves much more than just the weapon itself. Armor, decorations, and choosing the right Artian weapon for each monster are crucial. However, if you're aiming for faster hunt times, certain weapon types stand out. This tier list combines insights from IGN's community, online sentiment, my own experience (considering difficulty to master), and current speedrun data.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Tier List

Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

The "best" weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds are arguably the Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, though the ranking is subjective. All other weapons remain entirely viable; these simply excel for various reasons, detailed below.

S-tier: These weapons offer top-tier damage output and are relatively easy to master for that damage. The Gunlance is the most technically demanding here, but the community considers its rewards well worth the effort.

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

A-tier:

A-tier weapons have S-tier potential in skilled hands but might be more technically challenging, less forgiving, or slightly less effective overall. The Hunting Horn, while potentially less effective solo, shines in cooperative play.

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

B-tier:

These weapons might fall short of S and A-tier even with expert players, but this doesn't imply inferiority. They may simply require more refined builds and practice to reach the same level of effectiveness.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers? As stated earlier, Monster Hunter Wilds lacks a definitively "best" weapon; every weapon is viable. Your ideal tier list might differ based on the monster you're hunting. Don't let tier lists limit your weapon choices. Even B-tier weapons are strong contenders!

Best Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Explained

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield is often underestimated, wrongly labeled as a "beginner" weapon. Its ease of use belies its versatility and high damage potential once combos and movement are mastered. High mobility during attacks, guarding capabilities, punishing counterattacks, and the ability to use items without sheathing make it exceptionally strong. Whether you prefer evasive or defensive playstyles, the Sword and Shield offers diverse attack options, including a Power Clash (lacking only an Offset attack).

See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds

Great Sword

A developer favorite, the Great Sword exemplifies Monster Hunter's core appeal. It leverages Power Clashes and Offset attacks effectively. While slower and less forgiving than the Sword and Shield, Focus Mode improves aiming precision. If you seek maximum single-hit damage, the Great Sword, with its satisfying True Charged Slash, is a powerful choice.

See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Long Sword

The Long Sword's popularity is well-deserved. Its fast pace, flashy moves, and satisfying playstyle are built around the Foresight Slash counterattack for maximizing damage via the Spirit Gauge. Its reach is surprisingly impressive for its size, making tail cuts easy. Managing the Spirit Gauge is key to unleashing its full destructive potential.

See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Gunlance

While personally less familiar with the Gunlance, its high praise from the IGN community, speedrunners, and online discussions is undeniable. It’s more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, but its powerful shield (allowing Perfect Guards) and explosive attacks compensate for its lower mobility. Wilds enhances the Gunlance with dual Wyvern's Fire shots (increased range) and the devastating Wyrmstake Full Blast.

See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Bow

Despite a minor Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta, the Bow remains a top contender. Its new Tracer Ammo guarantees critical hits, while unlimited coatings further boost its damage. Mastering the Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, enabling near-constant attacks. The Bow combines mobility, power, and visually striking attacks.

See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Ultimately, weapon mastery is key. A skilled Light Bowgun user can outperform a Great Sword wielder struggling with True Charged Slashes and Offset attacks. Dedication to any weapon will yield results.

What's your favorite weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds? Share your thoughts! And for more in-depth information, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.