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 time due to its sheer power, you won't find one. The key is to choose a weapon that feels enjoyable and comfortable for you to use. As long as you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and having fun, that's what truly matters.
Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves many factors, such as armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon for the specific monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're looking to reduce your hunt times, certain weapon types may offer an edge. This tier list of the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds is a blend of IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, my own expertise 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, in no particular order, include Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow. These weapons stand out due to their versatility, damage output, and ease of use. However, all weapons in the game are viable and can be effective in the right hands.
S-tier: These weapons are considered the best of the best, offering high damage output and relative ease of use. The Gunlance stands out as the most technical weapon in this tier, but its benefits are well worth the effort, according to the community.
- Sword and Shield
- Great Sword
- Long Sword
- Gunlance
- Bow
A-tier: A-tier weapons have the potential to match S-tier weapons when mastered, but they may require more skill and precision. They are slightly less forgiving but can be incredibly effective.
- Insect Glaive
- Charge Blade
- Dual Blades
- Hunting Horn
- Heavy Bowgun
- Switch Axe
B-tier: While these weapons may not match the performance of S- and A-tier weapons even in the hands of experienced players, they are by no means "bad." They just might require more effort and finely-tuned builds to achieve similar results.
- Lance
- Hammer
- Light Bowgun
Why only three tiers?: As mentioned earlier, there isn't a single best weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, and every weapon is viable. Your preferred weapon might depend 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 a powerhouse 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 like mud on a Jyuratodos, and it can guard and deliver punishing counterattacks. With the ability to perform perfect guards easily, you can execute quick, powerful counter slashes and activate an Offensive Guard buff if equipped with the right skill. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it allows item use without sheathing, enabling quick administration of life-saving Lifepowders and buffs. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, slashing or blunt damage, or even attacking from above, the Sword and Shield offers it all—except an Offset attack.
Great Sword
The Great Sword is a staple in Monster Hunter games, and its design in Wilds reflects that. It benefits from the new Power Clashes and satisfying Offset attacks, encapsulating the quintessential Monster Hunter experience. While it's slower and requires more practice than the Sword and Shield, the introduction of Focus Mode makes aiming easier. If you're aiming for the highest damage output in a single strike, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with its True Charged Slash hits being particularly satisfying.
Long Sword
The Long Sword remains one of the most popular weapons in Monster Hunter for good reason. It's fast, relatively easy to pick up, and offers a fun, flashy playstyle centered around the powerful Foresight Slash, which helps build the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. Its impressive reach makes slicing off tails effortless. 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 regarded by the IGN community, speedrunners, and online enthusiasts in Monster Hunter Wilds. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, but its defensive capabilities with a large shield and Perfect Guards, combined with explosive power, make it a formidable choice. In Wilds, the Gunlance can now fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast attack is incredibly powerful.
Bow
Despite not excelling in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely considered an excellent choice in Monster Hunter Wilds, often topping community polls. 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?
Remember, this tier list is just a reference. We recommend sticking with your preferred weapon. For instance, if you're skilled with the Light Bowgun, knowing exactly where to aim with the right ammo and dodging every monster attack, you'll likely achieve better times than with the Great Sword if you struggle with timing your True Charged Slashes and Offset attacks. Mastery of any weapon takes time and practice!
What weapon do you think is the best 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 detailed information, don't miss our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.
