Monster Hunter Wilds Weapon Tier List: Explained

With 14 different weapons to choose from, we’ve put together a Monster Hunter Wilds weapon tier list to help you out. Each weapon has unique combos and mechanics that players have to learn in the Training Area. The weapons are ranked based on their overall effectiveness, ease of use, and how well they perform in various situations. However, remember that the best weapon for you is the one you enjoy using the most. Some players might excel with a weapon that others find challenging.

Without further ado, here is our Monster Hunter Wilds weapon tier list, breaking down each weapon’s strengths and weaknesses to help you find the ideal weapon that suits your playstyle best.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapon Tier List

S-Tier	A-Tier	B-Tier	C-Tier
Long Sword	Great Sword	Switch Axe	Lance
Sword and Shield	Insect Glaive	Gunlance	Hunting Horn
Bow	Hammer	Charge Blade
Dual Blades	Heavy Bowgun	Light Bowgun

C-Tier Weapons

Lance

The Lance is a classic weapon known for its strong defensive capabilities. It can deal significant damage and has a unique countering mechanic. However, its reliance on counters can make gameplay feel stale. While it has received some new moves in MHW that make it feel a bit faster, it still doesn’t compare to the more engaging options available.

Hunting Horn

The Hunting Horn is primarily a support weapon. While it can deal damage, its true strength lies in buffing teammates. Players can hit monsters with musical notes, which can be satisfying, but solo players may struggle to find success with this weapon.

B-Tier Weapons

Switch Axe

The Switch Axe is a versatile weapon that combines a powerful axe with a fast sword. Players can switch between the two forms, allowing for a mix of slow, heavy hits and quick, agile attacks. While the new improvements in MHW make it easier to perform combos, mastering the Switch Axe can be challenging. The complexity of switching between modes while managing monster attacks can be overwhelming for beginners.

Gunlance

The Gunlance is one of the most unique weapons in the game, combining a lance with a built-in gun. This weapon offers a mix of melee and ranged attacks, making it versatile. However, the micromanagement of various gauges can be daunting for new players.

Charge Blade

The Charge Blade is another complex weapon that offers a lot of potential. It can switch between sword and shield mode and a powerful axe mode. While it has some of the coolest combos in the game, it requires a lot of practice to master.

A-Tier Weapons

Great Sword

The Great Sword is a flagship weapon in the Monster Hunter series. It requires skill to use effectively, especially with its new counter-slash move introduced in MHW. The Great Sword excels in dealing heavy damage but requires precise timing and positioning.

Insect Glaive

The Insect Glaive is a fun weapon that allows for fast combos and aerial attacks. It has a unique Kinsect mechanic that lets players gather extracts to buff their hunter. While the Glaive can be incredibly powerful in skilled hands, the Kinsect mechanic can be confusing for new players.

Hammer

It’s a straightforward weapon that can take down monsters with powerful “bonks.” However, the Hammer requires precise timing for its attacks, which can be challenging for some players. While it’s a destructive weapon, mastering the timing can take practice.

Heavy Bowgun

The Heavy Bowgun has become more accessible in MHW, thanks to changes that make it easier to use. Some ammo types are now unlimited, and the new counter mechanic adds a satisfying layer to gameplay. While it may not be as dynamic as other ranged options, the Heavy Bowgun can deal significant damage and is a solid choice for players who enjoy ranged combat.

Light Bowgun

The Light Bowgun offers a mobile ranged option that is easy to use. It remains a great choice for players who want to stay agile while dealing damage. The Light Bowgun is a good option for those who prefer a fast-paced playstyle, but it may not have the same impact as other ranged weapons.

S-Tier Weapons

Long Sword

The Long Sword is a fan favorite and stands at the top of the tier list for a reason. Its gameplay is smooth and engaging. The Long Sword allows for powerful combos and has new finisher moves called the Crimson combo, which are easy to execute.

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield combination is often seen as the “easy mode” of Monster Hunter Wilds, and for good reason. This weapon provides both slashing and blunt damage, allowing players to cut off monster parts and stun enemies. The responsive combos and new moves make the Sword and Shield feel satisfying to use.

Bow

The Bow remains the top choice for ranged weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds. The new Tracer mechanic helps players with aiming, allowing shots to home in on targets. This is especially useful for hitting weak spots on monsters. The Bow also features new Focus attacks that can lead to devastating combos.

Dual Blades

Dual Blades are known for their fast attack speed and ability to apply status effects. The new moveset in Wilds makes them even more enjoyable to use. The spinning move has been simplified into the Focus Strike, making it easier to perform.

S-Tier	A-Tier	B-Tier	C-Tier
Long Sword	Great Sword	Switch Axe	Lance
Sword and Shield	Insect Glaive	Gunlance	Hunting Horn
Bow	Hammer	Charge Blade
Dual Blades	Heavy Bowgun	Light Bowgun

And that’s our Monster Hunter Wilds weapon tier list. For more MHW content, stay tuned to RetroNoob.