Choosing the right weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds can be overwhelming, especially with 14 different options, each offering a unique playstyle. Whether you’re new to the series or a veteran looking for a fresh challenge, understanding how each weapon functions will help you find the best fit for your hunts. This guide breaks down the strengths and playstyles of each weapon to help you make an informed decision.
Melee Weapons
Great Sword
A powerhouse of raw damage, the Great Sword delivers some of the hardest-hitting attacks in the game. It relies on slow, deliberate swings and charged attacks to maximize damage. If you enjoy timing your strikes for maximum impact and don’t mind slower movement, this is the weapon for you.
- Pros: Massive damage output, strong defensive options with shoulder tackles, excels at breaking monster parts.
- Cons: Slow attack speed, requires precise positioning.
Long Sword
A highly mobile weapon with fluid combos, the Long Sword is perfect for those who prefer a more agile approach. It features a Spirit Gauge that enhances attacks when filled, rewarding aggressive, well-timed strikes.
- Pros: High mobility, strong counterattacks, satisfying combo chains.
- Cons: Requires managing the Spirit Gauge, less defensive options.
Sword & Shield
A versatile choice that offers both offense and defense while allowing for quick access to items. It’s one of the more beginner-friendly weapons, making it a great starting point.
- Pros: Fast attacks, can use items without sheathing, solid defensive capabilities.
- Cons: Lower raw damage compared to other melee options.
Dual Blades
This weapon specializes in relentless, high-speed attacks. Activating Demon Mode boosts attack speed and damage, allowing for devastating flurries of strikes.
- Pros: Fastest attack speed, excellent elemental and status buildup, great for aggressive playstyles.
- Cons: Short reach, consumes stamina quickly.
Hammer
A weapon perfect for stunning foes with powerful blunt attacks. The Hammer excels at targeting monster heads to knock them out, making it an excellent choice for team play.
- Pros: High stun potential, strong charge attacks, great for breaking monster parts.
- Cons: Limited reach, requires good positioning.
Hunting Horn
A unique weapon that combines high damage with support capabilities. Playing melodies grants buffs to the team, making it a valuable weapon in multiplayer hunts.
- Pros: Provides party-wide buffs, strong blunt damage, can stun monsters.
- Cons: Requires memorizing melodies, not as straightforward as other weapons.
Lance
The ultimate defensive weapon, the Lance allows for precise attacks while maintaining an impenetrable guard. It’s ideal for methodical players who prefer a steady approach.
- Pros: Best defensive capabilities, consistent damage output, strong counterattacks.
- Cons: Slow movement, requires patience.
Gunlance
A hybrid between a Lance and a cannon, the Gunlance deals explosive damage with shelling attacks. It’s a great choice for those who like a mix of melee and ranged combat.
- Pros: Explosive burst damage, strong defensive options, good reach.
- Cons: Limited mobility, requires managing shelling mechanics.
Switch Axe
A weapon that shifts between an axe and a sword mode, offering a balance of power and mobility. It rewards players who can effectively switch between modes mid-combat.
- Pros: High burst damage, fluid transitions between forms, strong combos.
- Cons: Requires managing the Switch Gauge, lower defense.
Charge Blade
One of the most complex weapons in the game, the Charge Blade alternates between a sword-and-shield mode and a powerful axe. Mastering it allows for devastating attacks.
- Pros: High precision damage, combines offense and defense, strong burst attacks.
- Cons: Steep learning curve, requires managing phials.
Insect Glaive
The most acrobatic weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds, allowing for aerial combat and unique mobility. It’s paired with a Kinsect that gathers buffs from monsters.
- Pros: Excellent mobility, strong aerial attacks, versatile Kinsect abilities.
- Cons: Requires managing Kinsect mechanics, lower raw damage.
Ranged Weapons
Bow
A highly mobile ranged option that offers a mix of rapid fire and charged shots. It allows for precise targeting and status application.
- Pros: High mobility, strong elemental and status damage, versatile coatings.
- Cons: Requires stamina management, lower raw damage.
Light Bowgun
A fast-firing ranged weapon with excellent mobility. It excels at applying status effects and dealing sustained damage.
- Pros: High fire rate, lots of ammo variety, good mobility.
- Cons: Lower single-shot damage, requires ammo management.
Heavy Bowgun
A long-range powerhouse capable of delivering massive damage. It offers defensive capabilities and high burst potential.
- Pros: Highest ranged damage, strong defensive options, wide ammo selection.
- Cons: Slow movement, longer reload times.
Choosing the Right Weapon
If you’re new to Monster Hunter Wilds, the Sword & Shield, Long Sword, or Dual Blades are great starting points due to their ease of use. If you prefer more advanced mechanics, the Charge Blade or Switch Axe provide deep combat systems. For ranged players, the Bow and Light Bowgun offer agility, while the Heavy Bowgun is all about raw power.
Ultimately, the best way to find your weapon is to try them all in the training area and see which one feels best for your playstyle. Happy hunting!
