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 one. The key is to choose a weapon that feels right for you. If you're not carting, consistently hitting the monster, and enjoying the experience, that's what truly matters.

Crafting a successful build for any weapon involves numerous factors, including armor, decorations, and selecting the right Artian weapon for the specific monster you're facing. These elements are crucial, but if you're looking to reduce your hunt times, certain weapon types might help. This tier list of the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds is compiled from IGN's community tier list, online sentiment, my own assessment based on difficulty to master, 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 include Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow, listed in no particular order. While these weapons stand out, the rest are still highly viable. Here's 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 can match S-tier performance with the right skills, though they may be more technical or slightly less effective. The Hunting Horn shines in co-op settings.

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

B-tier: These weapons may require more effort and fine-tuned builds to match the performance of higher tiers, but they are still effective.

• Lance
• Hammer
• Light Bowgun

Why only three tiers?: As mentioned, no single weapon is definitively the best in Monster Hunter Wilds, and all are viable. Your tier list might vary depending on the monster you're hunting. Don't let tier lists deter you from using your favorite weapon; even B-tier weapons are 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" weapon, it's incredibly versatile and consistent, capable of delivering high damage once you master its combos and movements. Its mobility allows you to stick to monsters like mud on a Jyuratodos, and it can guard and deal punishing damage. It can also perform perfect guards easily, enabling quick, powerful counter slashes and activating an Offensive Guard buff with the right Equipment Skill. For support hunters, it's invaluable as it allows item use without sheathing, enabling quick administration of Lifepowders and buffs. Whether you prefer evasion or blocking, slashing or blunt damage, or even attacking from above, the Sword and Shield offers it all—except an Offset attack.

Great Sword

The Great Sword is the first weapon developed for new Monster Hunter games, and it shows. It excels with Wilds' new Power Clashes and satisfying Offset attacks, encapsulating the quintessential Monster Hunter experience. While slower and more punishing on mishits than the Sword and Shield, the introduction of Focus Mode makes aiming easier. If you're after the highest damage output in a single strike, the Great Sword is an excellent choice, with True Charged Slash hits that are incredibly satisfying.

Long Sword

The Long Sword remains one of Monster Hunter's most popular weapons for good reason. It's fast, easy to pick up, and offers a fun, flashy playstyle that relies on the powerful perfect-evading counterattack, the Foresight Slash, to build up the Spirit Gauge for maximum damage. With excellent reach for its size, it's perfect for slicing off tails. Maintaining a maxed Spirit Gauge requires some management, but the payoff is immense damage when you're in the flow.

Gunlance

While I'm less familiar with the Gunlance, it's highly regarded by IGN's community, speedrunners, and online enthusiasts in Monster Hunter Wilds. It's more challenging to master than other S-tier weapons, but offers great defense with its large shield capable of Perfect Guards and explosive power at the cost of some mobility. In Wilds, it can fire two Wyvern's Fire shots with increased range, and its new Wyrmstake Full Blast attack is incredibly powerful.

Bow

Despite not excelling in Tempered Arkveld speedruns, the Bow is widely considered a top choice in Monster Hunter Wilds. It feels powerful, even with a minor Focus Strike nerf since the Open Beta Test. The Bow's new Tracer Ammo guarantees hits and crits, and it never runs out of damage-boosting or ailment-inflicting coatings, enhancing its damage potential. With perfect dodge timing, the Bow's Discerning Dodge replenishes stamina, allowing near-constant attacks. It's mobile, strong, and visually striking—what more could you ask for?

Remember, this tier list is just a reference. Stick with your preferred weapon. For instance, if you're skilled with the Light Bowgun, knowing exactly where to aim and dodging every attack, you'll achieve better times than with the Great Sword if you're missing True Charged Slashes and struggling with Offset attacks. Mastery takes time!

What do you think is the best weapon 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, don't miss our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide.