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Monster Hunter Wilds: Best Weapons for Beginners

by Nicholas Apr 24,2025

Choosing the best weapons in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be daunting for beginners, especially since the game's initial weapon selection based on a quiz might not be ideal for everyone. Despite the improved onboarding in *Wilds*, the game takes its time explaining weapon mechanics. Our guide on *Monster Hunter Wilds* beginner weapons simplifies this process, highlighting five straightforward weapons and providing insights into their mechanics.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons for Beginners

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  • Hammer
  • Dual Blades
  • Sword and Shield
  • Light Bowgun
  • Long Sword

Hammer

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A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds, using a stun hammer to attack a Lala Barina

The hammer is an ideal choice for newcomers or those needing a refresher. It delivers high damage with simple moves, including an overhead smash, a whirling hit, a powerful charged attack, and the Big Bang combo that can knock down large monsters. With higher attack power than most weapons, the hammer allows you to deal significant damage without complex button combinations, even with weaker variants that apply status ailments.

Dual Blades

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A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds using the dual blades against a sand leviathan

Dual blades offer a gentle learning curve with a few basic combos, yet provide more engagement than the hammer. Their mobility enhances dodging and precise attacks. Standard combos include basic chains, but the real power lies in Demon Mode, enabling high-damage blade dance skills. Managing stamina is crucial, as Demon Mode consumes it, so prepare with stamina-boosting meals before hunts.

Sword and Shield

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A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds performing a downward thrust attack with the sword and shield

The sword and shield are versatile, offering a high skill ceiling for advanced players while being accessible for beginners. The shield's ability to block incoming attacks without hampering movement is a significant advantage. Combos range from simple slashes to complex maneuvers, but even basic attacks can lead to successful hunts. The ability to use items without sheathing the weapon is a game-changer, often deciding the outcome of battles.

Light Bowgun

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A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds using normal ammo with the light bowgun against a Lala Barina

The Light Bowgun suits those who prefer to analyze monster behavior while maintaining distance. It offers unlimited basic ammo and the ability to switch to special types, including elemental-infused ammo. While hunts may take longer and require more preparation, it's a safer choice for learning encounter dynamics. Keeping the bowgun upgraded as a secondary weapon is advisable, as it's effective for applying status ailments or exploiting weaknesses without dedicating your primary weapon to these tasks.

Long Sword

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The Long Sword is the most complex weapon in our beginner's guide, requiring precise timing and positioning for its best combos. Basic attacks include a strike-and-retreat move and a sheathe skill for quick movement. The weapon's strength lies in its spirit slash attacks, which become more potent as you build the spirit meter. The most powerful combo is a three-part sequence involving a slash, an aerial launch, and a downward thrust. Mastering this weapon takes practice, but it's a rewarding choice for those ready for a challenge.