The Monster Hunter series is known for its wide range of weapons, and Monster Hunter Wilds keeps this tradition alive with 14 unique weapon types to fit different playstyles and skill levels. Based on open beta testing and in-depth analysis, this tier list covers each weapon’s strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases.
Here is the complete Monster Hunter Wilds weapons tier list to help you pick which weapon is the best to use:
These weapons are top choices for any serious hunter. They might take some skill to master, but their damage and versatility make them highly effective in combat.
Weapon | Description | Pros and Cons |
Great Sword | A massive blade that emphasizes positioning and timing. | Pros: – Highest single-hit damage potential. – Excellent guard capabilities. Cons: – Slow movement speed. – Requires precise positioning. |
Bow | A versatile ranged weapon with impressive damage potential. | Pros: – Strong Focus Fire: Hailstorm ability. – Excellent mobility while attacking. Cons: – Stamina management is required. – Distance management is crucial. |
Long Sword | The popular katana-style weapon known for fluid combos. | Pros: – Powerful Spirit Gauge system. – Excellent reach and mobility. Cons: – Requires gauge management. – Complex combo system. |
These weapons are reliable and powerful, performing well in most situations. They strike a good balance between damage, utility, and ease of use.
Weapon | Description | Pros and Cons |
Dual Blades | Twin blades that excel at rapid attacks. | Pros: – Fast attack speed. – Superior mobility. Cons: – Short range. – High stamina consumption. |
Charge Blade | A transforming weapon that combines sword and shield with axe form. | Pros: – Versatile moveset. – Strong defensive options. Cons: – Complex mechanics. – Requires phial management |
Heavy Bowgun | A powerful ranged weapon focused on high damage output. | Pros: – Excellent damage potential. – Various ammo types Cons: – Limited mobility. – Slow reload times. |
Hammer | A brutal impact weapon that excels at stunning monsters. | Pros: – High stun potential. – Strong charged attacks. Cons: – Short range. – Limited defensive options. |
Insect Glaive | An acrobatic weapon paired with a Kinsect companion. | Pros: – Excellent aerial mobility. – Unique buff system. Cons: – Complex extract management. – Requires constant maintenance. |
These weapons aren’t the best, but they’re still solid choices. They might need more skill or certain situations to work well against the monsters, but they can be just as effective when used right.
Weapon | Description | Pros and Cons |
Switch Axe | A transforming weapon that switches between axe and sword modes. | Pros: – Good reach. – Powerful burst damage. Cons: – Limited defensive options. – Complex gauge system. |
Gunlance | A defensive weapon with explosive capabilities. | Pros: – Strong guard options. – Unique shelling attacks. Cons: – Poor mobility. – Shell reload management. |
These weapons have specific uses or need a lot of skill to work well. They can still perform, but they often need extra support or certain setups to show their full strength.
Weapon | Description | Pros and Cons |
Lance | The ultimate defensive weapon with precise strikes. | Pros: – Best blocking capabilities. – Consistent damage output. Cons: – Limited mobility. – Positioning dependent. |
Hunting Horn | A support weapon that provides buffs through musical notes. | Pros: – Team buff capabilities. – Unique gameplay style. Cons: – Lower solo damage. – Complex melody system. |
Light Bowgun | A mobile ranged weapon focusing on rapid fire and status effects. | Pros: – High mobility. – Status effect application. Cons: – Lower raw damage. – Ammo management required. |
Sword & Shield | The most balanced weapon suitable for beginners. | Pros: – Can use items while drawn. – Good mobility. Cons: – Short reach. – Lower damage output |
When choosing a weapon consider these key factors:
The weapon tier list serves as a general guide but mastery and personal preference often matter more than theoretical rankings. Even C-tier weapons can perform exceptionally well when used skillfully.
Monster Hunter Wilds launches on February 28th, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam.