Top Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds: Tier List

Let's start by emphasizing this: there is no definitive "best" weapon type in Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're seeking a weapon that guarantees the fastest hunt times every time due to its overwhelming power, you won't find it. The key is to choose a weapon that feels right for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and enjoying the experience, that's what truly matters.

Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves multiple elements, such as armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon for the specific monster you're facing. These factors are crucial, but if you're interested in weapons that could potentially reduce your hunt times, consider the following options. This tier list of the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds was compiled by combining IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, my own insights based on difficulty to master, and some current speedrun averages.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Tier List

Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

The "best" weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds include Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed in no particular order. While these stand out for various reasons detailed below, all other weapons are still viable and effective.

S-tier: These weapons are considered the best due to their high damage output and relative ease of use. The Gunlance is the most technical weapon in this category, but its benefits are highly valued by the community.

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

A-tier: A-tier weapons can match S-tier performance with the right skills, though they may be more technical and less forgiving. The Hunting Horn, while not ideal for solo play, excels in cooperative settings.

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

B-tier: These weapons may require more effort and finely-tuned builds to compete with higher-tier weapons, but they are still effective.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers?: As mentioned earlier, no single weapon is definitively the best in Monster Hunter Wilds, and all weapons are viable. Your tier list might vary depending 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 versatile and consistent weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as a "beginner" weapon, it's easy to pick up but incredibly powerful once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stick to monsters effectively, and it can both guard and deliver significant damage. It's particularly adept at performing perfect guards, enabling quick counter slashes and activating 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 application of life-saving items 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 for an Offset attack.

Great Sword

The developers at Monster Hunter have traditionally started with the Great Sword when creating new games, and it's evident in its design. It benefits from Wilds' new Power Clashes and Offset attacks, offering quintessential Monster Hunter satisfaction. Although slower and more punishing upon mishits, the introduction of Focus Mode makes it easier to aim. If you're seeking the highest damage in a single strike, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with its True Charged Slash being particularly satisfying.

Long Sword

The Long Sword remains one of the most popular weapons in Monster Hunter due to its speed, ease of use, and satisfying playstyle. It relies on the powerful Foresight Slash for perfect-evading counterattacks, quickly building the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage output. Its reach makes it ideal for slicing off tails. Maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge requires management, but the reward is well worth it for the incredible damage the Long Sword can achieve when you're in the zone.

Gunlance

The Gunlance is more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, but its potential is highly regarded by the community and speedrunners. It offers excellent defense with its large shield capable of Perfect Guards and explosive power, albeit at the cost of some mobility. In Wilds, it can fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast is exceptionally powerful.

Bow

Despite its performance in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is considered a top weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds by many players. Its new Tracer Ammo guarantees hits and crits, and Wilds ensures it never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings. The Bow's Discerning Dodge, when timed perfectly, replenishes stamina, allowing for near-continuous attacks. It's mobile, strong, and visually impressive, making it a top choice.

Remember, this tier list is merely a guide. Stick with your preferred weapon, as skill and familiarity will yield better results than switching to a "higher-tier" weapon you're less comfortable with. For instance, if you're proficient with the Light Bowgun, knowing where to aim and dodging effectively can outperform using the Great Sword if you struggle with timing your attacks.

What do you think is the best weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds? Share your thoughts and contribute to our Community Tier List at the top of this article. We might update this article with new ratings! For more in-depth information, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.