All 14 Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons: Guide + Tier List

Monster Hunter Wilds weapons range from those designed for close-combat encounters to ones that help create distance between you and your enemy. As exciting as it is to dive into powerful role-playing games (RPG) like the Monster Hunter franchise without much thought, the combat system can feel a bit challenging if you’re unaware of what you’re doing.

This holds especially true for Monster Hunter Wilds, considering how weapons may function like RPG classes — each trait changes the tide of battle, affecting your performance against an ongoing threat. From agile and combo-driven weapons to massive powerhouses, there’s a weapon for each playstyle, and this article will help you focus on picking and wielding one.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Tier List

In Monster Hunter Wilds, there’s no single best weapon. Each weapon’s performance depends on how you wish to play the game, but certain weapons can give you an advantage over others when used correctly.

• S-tier: These are top-tier weapons that offer exceptional damage output and versatility. They excel in several combat scenarios and keep a strong balance between efficiency and reliability. 
• A-tier: These are strong contenders, even though they may not match the prowess of an S-tier weapon. These can be handled well in most hunting situations.
• B-tier: These are mediocre weapons that get the job done, suitable for very specific playstyles. Unless you know exactly what you’re doing with these, it’s best to avoid them.

C-tier: These are below-average weapons, often hindered by technical drawbacks and steep learning curves. They are meant for those who want a more challenging approach.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons at a Glance

Weapon	Tier	Beginner-Friendly	Guarding	Mobility	Unique Mechanics
Great Sword	S	Yes	Yes	Low	Charged attacks and high raw damage
Bow	S	Yes	No	High	Coating available for elemental and status effects
Long Sword	S	Yes	No	High	Spirit Gauge and counterattacks
Sword and Shield	S	Yes	Yes	High	Use items without putting the weapon away
Charge Blade	S	Yes	Yes	Moderate	Switches between a sword/shield and axe, features energy management
Gunlance	A	Moderate	Yes	Low	Shelling attacks and Wyvern’s Fire
Switch Axe	A	Moderate	No	Moderate	Able to switch between an axe and a sword
Lance	A	Yes	Yes	Low	Strong guarding and counterattacks
Dual Blades	B	Yes	No	Very high	Demon and Archdemon Modes, stamina-intensive
Hammer	B	Yes	No	Moderate	High stun potential, charge attacks
Hunting Horn	B	Moderate	Yes	Moderate	Plays certain melodies to buff allies
Heavy Bowgun	C	Moderate	Yes	Low	High damage with limited mobility, ammo management
Insect Glaive	C	Moderate	No	Very high	Kinsect buffs, aerial combat moves
Light Bowgun	C	Yes	No	High	Ammo types, rapid-fire ranged attacks

1. Great Sword (S-Tier)

Monster Hunter weapons may vary in size and functionality, but the Great Sword remains a signature weapon, just like in most RPG games. Even massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) feature this one. It embodies raw power, with each swing capable of dishing out a high-risk, high-reward gameplay loop.

Using a Great Sword in a player-versus-player (PvP) scenario can yield strong damage output, but just like other Monster Hunter weapons, this will feel unique to each player and how they choose to play. The Great Sword is best for newcomers who enjoy a slower yet heavier combat style. 

2. Bow (S-Tier)

Some of history’s best video game characters have wielded a bow, so why should your Monster Hunter character be any different? This one offers a dynamic and highly mobile combat option, with long-ranged hits being your primary way of dealing damage. Getting good with it lets you dodge, dash, and even aim mid-air. The sky’s practically the limit here.

However, there’s more of a learning curve than melee weapons because it requires you to keep an eye on your movement as you choose your next target. Understanding shot types and charge levels is also important to excel with the bow. It’s a graceful yet deadly pick!

 3. Long Sword (S-Tier)

The Long Sword is one of Monster Hunter Wilds’ best weapons, allowing you to deal fast-paced melee damage and look extremely stylish while doing so. The katana-esque strikes and the signature Spirit Gauge make it a powerful weapon that can unleash increasingly strong attacks once you get the momentum going.

However, this requires skill, and overcommitting to flashy combos can get you into trouble. This can leave you vulnerable, so it’s important to time your moves correctly and only engage when there’s a safe opening. Remember, Long Sword users excel when they can balance rhythm and flow.

4. Sword and Shield (S-Tier)

The Sword and Shield is a balanced and beginner-friendly approach to combat, the design of which may seem similar to some of the iconic Viking weapons in history. It provides solid defense and utility, as you can dodge, block, and perform combos without worrying too much. Its unique trait allows you to use potions or bombs without sheathing your weapon.

Its easy-to-approach design shouldn’t be seen as a weakness, since advanced users can execute some of the most powerful combos in the game. However, the weapon still lacks strong raw damage and will require you to be a bit flexible with your approach to combat in hopes of keeping the damage output high.

5. Charge Blade (S-Tier)

The Charge Blade is perhaps one of the most complex weapons in the game, as it offers a hybrid style that combines defense and precision with every passing moment in battle. It requires you to charge energy, time your sword attacks, and then unleash the axe mode that lands devastating burst damage. 

Mastery of this weapon requires careful management of these abilities and is best suited for skilled players. However, once you’ve gotten used to these mechanics, the weapon can land impressive hits that provide a lot of depth to Monster Hunter Wilds’ combat system. It also makes for some excellent moments that are nothing short of cinematic surprises.

6. Gunlance (A-Tier)

The Gunlance excels at controlled aggression, combining defensive prowess with explosive gunfire. It’s nothing short of a powerhouse, letting you fire explosive shells and unleash artillery attacks. This leads to powerful burst damage without relying on a monster’s weak point for promising damage output.

As appealing as this may be, the weapon requires you to carefully manage your stamina. You need to take note of the enemy’s cooldown and attack patterns. The moment there’s an opening, strike! Making a habit out of this is what makes the Gunlance the perfect weapon for those who can practice patience. 

7. Switch Axe (A-Tier)

Dynamic and flashy, the Switch Axe is a formidable part of the Monster Hunter Wilds’ weapons tier list. It has two distinct modes — an agile axe form with wide-reaching swings, and a powerful sword that unleashes elemental attacks. Switching between the two allows you to adapt to the flow of battle, making it a versatile choice.

Mastering a weapon like this takes time and practice, since you’ll need to manage the Switch Gauge — a special mechanic that limits the length of time you can stay in sword mode. This allows you to position yourself well and plan slower, hard-hitting moves. This one’s certainly not for every hunter, but a powerful and versatile weapon nonetheless.

8. Lance (A-Tier)

The Lance thrives on defense and precision, urging you to perform measured attacks. Its powerful shield and long-reaching thrusts help you hold your position and guard through even the most punishing attacks. It’s a weapon for those who enjoy learning a monster’s movesets, and aren’t afraid of standing their ground when all else fails.

However, this weapon is recommended for those who are patient. If you’re into an aggressive and fast-paced playstyle, maybe this isn’t for you. The Lance becomes an unshakable force of nature in the hands of those who can practice defense, discipline, and timing. 

9. Dual Blades (B-Tier)

Most Monster Hunter weapon lists are incomplete without the mention of Dual Blades, and Wilds is no different. It’s perfect for those who adore an aggressive and rapid playstyle. Using this weapon well can have you dancing around your opponents while delivering a flurry of hard-hitting slashes. 

Its playstyle is similar to Metroidvania games, where your character keeps moving through an environment while taking out enemies in quick succession. In Monster Hunter Wilds, the Dual Blades ask you to manage your stamina well since your mobility is part of your arsenal. This also means you’ll need to perform close combat with a monster frequently. 

10. Hammer (B-Tier)

The Hammer is a blunt and bulky weapon that feels a little different compared to several Monster Hunter weapon types. It has incredible stun potential and delivers mighty blows when timed correctly. However, this weapon lacks reach and puts you in danger when you’re in the process of charging your attacks.

If you’re an RPG fan and have played other games with heavy build mechanics, it will feel similar to leveling up in Elden Ring, where your character’s movements feel rewarding once you’ve reached weapon mastery. Otherwise, the experience may not feel as heavy as intended. After all, the Hammer requires a strong understanding of a monster’s attack patterns.

11. Hunting Horn (B-Tier)

The Hunting Horn is one of the most unique weapons in the game, as it is highly team-oriented and functions similarly to the Hammer. Except, it has a musical mechanic where each attack plays a note. Once you weave these notes together, you can perform Melodies that grant a buff to your allies. 

Since the weapon has a steep learning curve, newcomers may have trouble adjusting to its mechanics. Compared to previous iterations, Wilds’ version of the weapon offers a much more fluid and flashier approach to the mechanics. Combined with crowd-controlling buffs and satisfying attacks, this one’s an underrated weapon.

12. Heavy Bowgun (C-Tier)

The Heavy Bowgun is a great pick for hunters who crave ranged power with raw damage output, but its reliance on several ammo types (such as Pierce and Cluster) can make it complicated to use. This complexity can hinder the game’s flow, urging you to switch strategies during the battle. 

That said, it’s also a highly rewarding weapon type if you have the skills to reposition and reload when needed, while wanting to control the battlefield and watch your damage numbers stack up. Its experimental nature leaves little to no room for punishment, making it a niche weapon that’s not for everyone.

13. Insect Glaive (C-Tier)

The Insect Glaive offers an acrobatic approach to combat, letting you stay airborne and in constant motion as you land your attacks. It’s like playing a shooter game where quick actions and reflexes reward every shot. However, its jack-of-all-trades nature and needless micromanagement make it a tough pick for beginners.

As you wield this weapon, you’ll need to stay aware of your buffs and have your Kinsect target the right monster parts during the fight. Monster Hunter Wilds often demands an aggressive playstyle, and the Insect Glaive air-play risks aren’t the most reliable method to combat. Yet, it’s ideal for hunters who enjoy vertical gameplay and stylish executions.

14. Light Bowgun (C-Tier)

The Light Bowgun is a beginner-friendly, agile weapon that simply lacks the raw burst damage needed for many fights. It requires you to constantly manage your ammo and position yourself in a way that avoids incoming attacks and lets you plan your next hit, which can be annoying during intense battles.

It can be a decent pick if you’re not taking things seriously and simply wish to practice your aim and movement, especially if you’re playing offline in single-player. However, Monster Hunter Wilds’ terrain and unpredictability of monsters make this weapon too weak when things are under pressure. 

How To Choose the Right Monster Hunter Weapon for You

Once you’ve mastered the basics of different weapon types, or even crafted your favourite Monster Hunter Wilds Artian Weapons, it may be time to stick to one and build your playstyle around it. 

• Consider your playstyle: Whether you want to play fast and aggressive or slow and tactical, pick a style like you would in some of the best MMORPGs. Monster Hunter Wilds is no different and asks you to choose your own path.
  
• Consider damage type: Certain weapons deal high raw (physical) damage, while others blend elemental or status effects. Since each monster’s parts have various weaknesses, it’s essential to make sure you’re aware of the kind of damage your weapon deals.
  
• Evaluate complexity: If you’re new to the series, something like the Sword and Shield can provide a balanced gameplay, while Switch Axes and Charge Blades are more challenging.
  
• Decide on range preference: Melee weapons like Great Swords or Lances keep you close to the enemy, while weapons like Bows and Bowguns let you keep some distance. Pick a style that feels comfortable for you.
  
• Assess team role: Assign yourself (or your teammates) a role, and stick to it. You can be the group’s tank, support, damage dealer, or someone looking to keep a flexible gameplay style.
  
• Factor in defense needs: Weapons like Charge Blades and Lances allow you to keep your guard up, while others require you to dodge and reposition constantly. Choose a combat style that suits your offensive and defensive strategies.
  
• Consider weapon speed: Agile hunters may prefer Dual Blades, while calculating playstyles require something like a Great Sword or Hammer. Think about how fast or slow you want your combat to be.
  
• Think about aerial combat: If you’re looking for some verticality, Insect Glave is a great weapon to master. Other weapons have limited aerial potential and focus more on a grounded approach.
  
• Assess sharpness management: Some weapons, like Gunlances and Dual Blades, require a lot of sharpening, as they quickly burn out after dealing damage. Others let you stay in the fight for longer. 

Explore More Fighting Games

Exploring Monster Hunter Wilds’ weapons will give you a deeper look at how versatile weapon mechanics can feel in an expansive RPG. Whether it’s a PC, console, or a mobile RPG, it’s always good to check out new games and genres that may appeal to you.

Browsing through a vast collection of games unique to your playstyle can help you master movement and combat in several RPG titles. Above all, feel free to experiment with different playstyles and build a character you can resonate with.