Top Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds: Tier List

Let's start by saying 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 overwhelming power, you won't find one. The key is to choose a weapon that feels good to play with for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and enjoying yourself, that's what matters most.

Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves a lot, including armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon tailored to the monster you're facing. These factors are crucial, but if you're looking to improve your hunt times, certain weapon types might help. This tier list of the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds is a blend of IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, my own opinion 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 include Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed without a specific order. These weapons stand out for various reasons, which we'll explore below. However, the rest of the weapons are still highly viable.

S-tier: These are the top-tier weapons, known for high damage output and ease of use. The Gunlance, while more technical, is highly valued by the community.

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

A-tier: These weapons can match S-tier performance in skilled hands but may be more challenging or slightly less effective. The Hunting Horn, for instance, excels in co-op settings.

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

B-tier: These weapons may require more effort and fine-tuned builds to match the performance of higher tiers, but they are by no means "bad."

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers?: As mentioned earlier, no single weapon reigns supreme in Monster Hunter Wilds, and every weapon is 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 standout in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as a "beginner" weapon, it's incredibly versatile and can deliver substantial damage with mastered combos and movements. Its mobility is unmatched, allowing you to stick to monsters effortlessly. It can guard and deal punishing damage, and with the right skills, perform perfect guards to counter-attack swiftly. For support hunters, it's a boon as it allows item use without sheathing. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, slashing or blunt damage, or even aerial attacks, the Sword and Shield offers it all—except an Offset attack.

Great Sword

The Great Sword is the first weapon typically developed for new Monster Hunter games, reflecting its importance. It excels with Wilds' new Power Clashes and Offset attacks, offering immense satisfaction with each hit. Though slower and requiring more practice than the Sword and Shield, the introduction of Focus Mode makes aiming easier. If you're after the highest damage per strike, the Great Sword is a top choice, with its True Charged Slash being particularly gratifying.

Long Sword

The Long Sword remains a fan favorite due to its speed, ease of use, and engaging playstyle. It relies on the Foresight Slash to build up the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage output. With its impressive reach, it's ideal for slicing off tails. Maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge requires some management, but the payoff in damage is well worth it.

Gunlance

While I'm less familiar with the Gunlance, it's highly praised by the community and speedrunners. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons but offers exceptional defense with its large shield and explosive power, 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 incredibly potent.

Bow

Despite not shining in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely considered strong in Monster Hunter Wilds. It feels powerful, even with a minor Focus Strike nerf. The new Tracer Ammo ensures hits and critical strikes, while unlimited coatings boost damage. The Bow's Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing nearly uninterrupted attacks. It's mobile, strong, and visually striking.

Remember, this tier list is just a guide. Stick with your preferred weapon; for instance, if you're adept with the Light Bowgun, you'll likely outperform someone struggling with the Great Sword. Every weapon requires time to master!

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 may update this article with new ratings! And for more in-depth information, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.