Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

Let's be clear: there's no single "best" weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. Forget the idea of a universally overpowered option guaranteeing the fastest hunt times every single time. Weapon choice boils down to personal preference. If you're consistently hitting the monster, avoiding carts, and having fun, you're doing it right.

Successful builds depend heavily on armor, decorations, and the right Artian weapon for each monster—these are far more impactful than the weapon type itself. However, some weapon types tend to yield faster hunt times. This tier list combines IGN community rankings, online sentiment, my own assessment (considering mastery difficulty), and current speedrun data.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Tier List

Monster Hunter Wilds Best Weapons Tier List

The "best" weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds, in no particular order, are Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow. However, all weapons are viable; these simply stand out for various reasons detailed below.

S-tier: These offer top-tier damage output and relatively easy mastery. The Gunlance is the most technically demanding here, but the community considers its advantages well worth the effort.

Sword and Shield
Great Sword
Long Sword
Gunlance
Bow

A-tier:

A-tier weapons can rival S-tier with skilled players. They tend to be more technically challenging or slightly less forgiving. The Hunting Horn, while perhaps not optimal solo, excels in cooperative play.

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

B-tier:

Even in expert hands, these may fall short of S and A-tier weapons. This doesn't mean they're "bad"—they might simply require more refined builds and practice to achieve comparable results.

Lance
Hammer
Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers? As stated earlier, there's no single "best" weapon. Weapon effectiveness varies greatly depending on the target monster. Don't let tier lists discourage you from using your favorite weapon; B-tier is still highly effective.

Best Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Explained

Sword and Shield

Often underestimated as a "beginner" weapon, the Sword and Shield is surprisingly versatile and powerful in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. Its high mobility lets you stay glued to monsters, while its guard capabilities deliver punishing counterattacks. The ability to perfect guard easily, triggering Offensive Guard buffs, adds another layer of effectiveness. Support hunters can even use items mid-combat, providing crucial buffs and healing. It excels at slashing and blunt damage, offering aerial attacks and a Power Clash, making it a truly well-rounded option.

See all Sword and Shields in MH Wilds

Great Sword

A favorite among developers, the Great Sword embodies quintessential *Monster Hunter* satisfaction. Its slow, powerful attacks, enhanced by Power Clashes and Offset attacks, deliver immense single-hit damage. Focus Mode improves aiming, mitigating the risk of missed attacks. Mastering its slower pace is key, but the reward is incredibly satisfying.

See all Great Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Long Sword

The Long Sword's popularity stems from its fast-paced, flashy combat. Its powerful Foresight Slash counterattack fuels the Spirit Gauge, enabling devastating attacks. Its reach makes tail cutting a breeze. Managing the Spirit Gauge is crucial for maximizing damage output.

See all Long Swords in Monster Hunter Wilds

Gunlance

While personally less familiar with it, community feedback consistently highlights the Gunlance's strength. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, but its powerful shield, Perfect Guard capabilities, and explosive attacks make it a formidable choice. *Wilds* enhancements include dual Wyvern's Fire shots and the devastating Wyrmstake Full Blast.

See all Gunlances in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Bow

Despite a minor Focus Strike nerf, the Bow remains a strong contender. Tracer Ammo guarantees hits and critical hits, while unlimited coatings boost damage potential. Mastering the Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing near-constant attacks. Its mobility, power, and stylish Focus Strike make it a compelling option.

See all Bows in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Ultimately, weapon choice is personal. A skilled Light Bowgun user can outperform a Great Sword player struggling with True Charged Slashes. Mastery takes time with any weapon.

What's *your* favorite weapon in *Monster Hunter Wilds*? Share your thoughts! And for more, check out our comprehensive *Monster Hunter Wilds* guide.