Top Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds: Tier List

Let's start by emphasizing that 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 sheer power, you won't find it. The key is to choose a weapon that feels right for you. If you're not carting, consistently landing hits on the monster, and enjoying the game, that's what truly matters.

Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves several factors, including armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon tailored to the monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're aiming to reduce your hunt times, consider trying the following weapon types. 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 current speedrun time averages.

Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

The "best" weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds are Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed without a specific order. While these weapons stand out, all weapons in the game are viable. Here's a breakdown of why these weapons are considered top-tier.

S-tier: These weapons excel in both damage output and ease of use. The Gunlance, though more technical, offers significant benefits according to the community.

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

A-tier: These weapons have the potential to match S-tier performance in skilled hands but may require more technical proficiency or offer slightly less output.

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

B-tier: These weapons may not reach the heights of S- and A-tier weapons even with expert handling, but they are still highly effective with the right builds.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers?: As mentioned, no single weapon reigns supreme in Monster Hunter Wilds, and every weapon is viable. Your tier list could vary depending on the monster you're hunting. Don't let tier lists deter you from using your favorite weapon; even B-tier is considered great on the IGN scale.

Best Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Explained

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield is an incredibly versatile weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as a "beginner" weapon, it's easy to pick up but also offers high damage output once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stick to monsters like mud on a Jyuratodos, and it can guard effectively while dealing punishing damage. It can perform perfect guards easily, enabling quick, powerful counter slashes and proc an Offensive Guard buff with the right Equipment Skill. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it allows item use without sheathing, making it perfect for quick heals and buffs.

See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds

Great Sword

The Great Sword is the first weapon the Monster Hunter developers typically refine in new games, and it shows. It leverages Wilds' new Power Clashes and satisfying Offset attacks, embodying the quintessential Monster Hunter experience. Though slower and punishing if mishandled, the introduction of Focus Mode makes aiming easier. If you're aiming for the highest single-strike damage, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with its True Charged Slash delivering immensely satisfying hits.

See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Long Sword

The Long Sword is consistently popular in Monster Hunter for its speed, ease of use, and satisfying playstyle. It relies on the powerful perfect-evading counterattack, the Foresight Slash, to build up the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. Its reach makes slicing off tails a breeze. While maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge requires some management, the payoff in damage output is well worth it when you're in the flow.

See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Gunlance

Though I'm less familiar with the Gunlance, it's highly praised by the IGN community, speedrunners, and online enthusiasts in Monster Hunter Wilds. It's challenging to master but offers excellent defense with its shield capable of Perfect Guards and explosive power at the cost of some mobility. In Wilds, the Gunlance can now fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast attack is incredibly potent.

See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds

Bow

Despite its performance in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely regarded as a top weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, often ranking highly in community polls. It feels powerful, even after a minor Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta Test. The Bow's new Tracer Ammo ensures hits and crits, while the game's mechanics ensure it never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings. Perfecting the Discerning Dodge timing replenishes stamina, allowing near-continuous attacks. The Bow is mobile, strong, and visually striking with its Focus Strike.

See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds

Remember, this tier list is a guide, and we encourage you to stick with your preferred weapon. If you're skilled with the Light Bow Gun, knowing where to aim and dodging effectively, you might outperform someone struggling with the Great Sword. Mastery takes time, so choose what you enjoy!

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 in-depth information, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.