Top Weapons Ranked for Monster Hunter Wilds

Let's start by saying this: there is no definitive "best" weapon type in Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're seeking a weapon that will guarantee the fastest hunt times every time due to being overpowered, you won't find it here. The key is to select a weapon that feels right for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and enjoying the experience, that's what matters most.

Creating a successful build for any weapon involves a combination of factors such as armor, decorations, and choosing 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, here are some weapon types worth trying. This tier list of the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds is a blend of IGN's community tier list, general online sentiment, my personal opinion on ease of mastery, 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 are Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed without specific order. These stand out for various reasons, which we'll detail below. However, all weapons in the game are viable, and these just happen to be particularly effective.

S-tier: These weapons are top-tier in terms of both damage output and ease of use. The Gunlance is more technical but offers substantial benefits.

• 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 excels in co-op settings.

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

B-tier: These may require more effort and optimized builds to compete with S- and A-tier weapons, but they're still effective.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers?: As mentioned earlier, there's no definitive best weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, and every weapon is viable. Your tier list might differ based 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 a powerhouse in Monster Hunter Wilds. Often underestimated as a beginner's weapon, it's incredibly versatile and can deliver high damage once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stay close to monsters, and it can guard and deal punishing damage. With the ability to perfect guard easily, you can execute quick, powerful counter slashes and activate an Offensive Guard buff if equipped. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it allows item use without sheathing, enabling quick healing and buffs for your team. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, slashing or blunt damage, or even aerial attacks, the Sword and Shield has you covered—except for an Offset attack.

See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds.

Great Sword

The Great Sword is a staple of the Monster Hunter series, and it's clear why it's a favorite. It leverages Wilds' new Power Clashes and satisfying Offset attacks, encapsulating the essence of Monster Hunter. Though slower and punishing on mishits, the introduction of Focus Mode makes it easier to aim. If you're after the highest damage per hit, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, especially with those satisfying True Charged Slash hits.

See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Long Sword

The Long Sword remains a fan favorite due to its speed, ease of use, and satisfying playstyle. It excels with its perfect-evading counterattack, the Foresight Slash, which builds up the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. Its reach makes tail-cutting easy, and maintaining the Spirit Gauge is key to maximizing its damage output.

See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Gunlance

While the Gunlance is more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, it offers unparalleled defense with its large shield capable of Perfect Guards and explosive power, albeit at the cost of some mobility. In Wilds, it can now fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast is incredibly powerful.

See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Bow

Despite not excelling in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely praised for its effectiveness in Monster Hunter Wilds. It feels powerful, even with a minor Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta Test. The new Tracer Ammo guarantees hits and criticals, and the Bow never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings. Perfecting your dodge timing activates the Bow's Discerning Dodge, replenishing stamina and allowing nearly non-stop attacks. The Bow is mobile, strong, and visually striking.

See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Remember, this tier list is just a guide. Stick with the weapon you enjoy the most. For instance, if you're skilled with the Light Bow Gun, knowing exactly where to aim and dodging every attack, you'll likely outperform someone struggling with the Great Sword. Mastery takes time, so choose what suits you best!

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