Updated at: 09-03-2023 - By: Leo Hall
Make quick work of monsters by equipping yourself with the game’s best weapons. Both single-player and multiplayer Monster Hunter: World tier lists have been compiled.

Throughout its history, Monster Hunter has been lauded for its thrilling monster-slaying combat.

The in-depth crafting and weapon system that makes this possible also provides tangible benefits to those who put in the effort to become proficient with it.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on the weapons in Monster Hunter World and giving you our honest opinion on how effective they are in both solo and multiplayer.

Please take note that both lists reflect the changes made in the most recent patch for Monster Hunter World.

Gameplay

In Monster Hunter: World, players assume the roles of a hunter and their trusty Palico companion in an open world RPG setting. The Research Commission, based in Astera, sends the Fifth Fleet, which includes the Hunter, to the New World to conduct scientific research. For scientific study, the Research Commission sends out the Hunters on missions to track down and kill or capture monsters. Monster materials are obtained through the killing or capturing of monsters and can be used to create tools and weapons based on the slain or captured monsters.

The MOST Accurate Monster Hunter Weapon Tier List - YouTube

Changes to the core hunting system in Monster Hunter: World are among the game’s many new additions. Players can use the natural world and its inhabitants to their advantage by luring monsters to specific areas, trapping them in environmental hazards, and even turning them against each other. With the dynamic riding mechanic, players can mount the monsters and move along their bodies, dealing damage at specific points. Due to the elimination of loading screens, it is now much simpler to keep track of both monsters and players as they travel from one part of the map to another. Every large monster in a given region claims a specific chunk of land as its own. To get their prey to show itself, hunters sometimes have to bring in a second, less dangerous, threat. Attacks from monsters can now damage nearby objects and alter the terrain. The day and night cycle in Monster Hunter: World is dynamic.

Features

Cloak items with useful effects, called Mantles, have recently been added to Monster Hunter: World. Hunters can temporarily hide from their enemies by donning a Ghillie Mantle. Initiating an attack or taking damage will cancel the effect. The Glider Mantle improves your jumping height, gives you the ability to ride the wind, and makes it simpler to mount monsters. The Rocksteady Mantle provides the wearer with immunity to tremors, protection from damage reactions and wind effects, and enhanced hearing. Because of the shielding effects of the Rocksteady Mantle, hunters take less damage. The Challenger Mantle makes monsters more receptive to the hunter’s lures and makes them more likely to attack, but the effect fades after an attack.

Hunters now have access to an offensive tool called the Slinger. This slingshot is worn on the wrist, and it can be used to launch a grappling hook, giving hunters a new way to overcome or work with the terrain. You can use the Slinger to hurl rocks and other objects at foes.

The process of acquiring and employing items has been simplified in Monster Hunter: World, making it easier for Hunters to do so while out in the field. The Vigorwasp can be used to restore health, and the Paratoad will produce a toxin that paralyzes the hunter if they get too close. Using innovative new guides called Scoutflies, monsters can be located and retraced. Scoutflies pinpoint the precise location of monsters by collecting samples of monster feces, such as drool, mucus, or footprints, in the field. Players can use scoutflies as a means of navigation to specific locations on the map, such as flora and fauna of interest. Game developers have removed the need for a linear quest structure, allowing hunters to pursue their interests wherever they may lead them. When a Hunter finishes a quest, he or she has the option to return to the area in Expedition Mode and continue exploring.

The Palico, the Hunter’s felyne companion, can communicate with members of other felyne clans, including the Grimalkynes. This allows the Palico to communicate with and make friends with smaller monsters like Jagras and Kestodon. As the Palico goes on his or her hunts, he or she may make friends with a critter that ends up helping the protagonist out.

Using the Wishlist, hunters can keep track of which pieces of gear they’d like to learn how to make. The materials needed for the equipment are listed on a wishlist that can be accessed at any time, and when the hunter has gathered all the necessary components, they will receive a notification. You can make and improve your charm collection by using various components. Some sets of armor have a special ability that can only be unlocked by wearing all of the pieces of that set. The hunter can eat at the Base Camp if the Handler brings food items like Raw Meat. She might also include a bonus gift, such as Rations. This is related to the gear the hunter uses.

Setting

There are many large biomes in the New World, each with its own unique climate. Astera is the main city and home base for the fleets of new Hunters and researchers. In the north of the New World is a massive mountain range that extends into the center of the continent, while the south is defined by lowlands and coastlines. An annual migration known as the Elder Crossing sees the world’s oldest dragons make the long journey across the ocean to the New World. The following categories are used to organize quests and other tasks. Some monsters are restricted to very particular geographical areas.

Monsters

Twenty monsters from previous Monster Hunter games return, and another 31 are brand new to this installment. Nergigante is the game’s main attraction monster.

Weapons

Eleven Blademaster weapons and three Gunner weapons make up Monster Hunter: World’s total weapon count of 14. While Gunner weapons are used at a distance, Blademaster weapons are designed for close quarters combat. There are unique abilities for each weapon, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Each weapon has its own unique progression based on the parts of various monsters.

Monster Hunter: World Weapon Tier List (+opinions) by kaijuking2000 on DeviantArt

Monster Hunter World Weapons Tier List

S-Tier (Cooperative)

Weapon The Pros The Cons Description
Hammer Exceptional KO damage for all types of stuns
Affects well when charged; deals a lot of damage
The blunt nature of the weapon reduces its usefulness. When played properly, Hammer shines despite the fact that it can be tricky to aim for monster heads in a multiplayer setting. Everyone in the group will look for someone who has used this weapon before.
Bowgun with a Heavy Caliber Superior ability to inflict harm
Advantages • Usability
– Maintain a Secure Distancing
You and your group will find this to be an extremely useful resource.
Fewer bullets The heavy bowgun is, without a doubt, the game’s most potent weapon. It’s already formidable in single-player games, and it’s a whole different beast when played with others.

You can maximize your damage output and status effects while other players divert their attention elsewhere. The heavy bowgun’s shield is a solid secondary line of defense in case the monster manages to get close. Regardless of your strategy, you won’t find any holes in its defenses.

Hound Call Reconciles broken alliances
• Provides the group with benefits.
Possible to inflict fatal damage on target.
• Extended visuals accompanying songs. In competitive multiplayer, the hunting horn is a must-have for any team. Although its primary function is to heal and buff your allies, its knockout and exhaust damage give it additional applications.

A-Tier (Cooperative)

Weapon The Pros The Cons Description
Bring Out The Knife! Superb one-time impact damage • Attacking in axe mode can harm other members of your party Axe mode on the charge blade causes problems for your party members because of its sweeping attacks. Even now, skilled parties look for charge blade players primarily for the insane damage potential that is useful for speed-running content.
Bow • Exceptionally far reaching
• Reasonable loss
Possessing a high degree of mobility
• Keeping up with your stamina requirements can slow you down. The bow’s ability to inflict status effects makes it a powerful tool for use in multiplayer settings. Aim carefully, though, as hitting teammates requires pinpoint accuracy.
Gunlance It’s worth noting that explosions can cause significant damage. Companions are not immune to explosions. The gun lance is annoying in multiplayer because of the massive explosions it produces. The upside is the massive amount of damage it deals if played properly.
Superb Blade Superior damage dealt to a single target.
Excellent choices in defense
Lacks utility outside of dealing damage for the team. The greatsword deals a lot of raw damage in multiplayer. The lack of originality and the game’s inherent linearity are the only factors keeping it from being higher on the list.
Lance Long-range effectiveness
Fantastic Selection in Defensive Measures
• Not disruptive to the rest of the gathering
• Motion in a number of directions at once The lance’s ability to both cut tails and charge the enemy gives it good utility for your party. Many of the other players in the party would rather have a lance main than a hammer main because the lance’s thrusts are less likely to cause damage to other members of the party.

B-Tier (Cooperative)

Weapon The Pros The Cons Description
Blade Length A lot of potential for harm There aren’t many chances to make a comeback in a multiplayer setting. The very qualities that make the long sword so effective when used solo also work against it when fighting other players. Due to the reduced attention the enemy pays to you, counters are no longer effective.
Lightweight Archery Weapon Excellent portability
• Improves social gatherings by means of kudos effects
Its destructive potential is amplified by mines.
Concealable weapons • Insufficient ammunition As a group weapon, the light bowgun shines more brightly than it does on its own. Trading off mobility for increased damage is where the Heavy Bowgun truly shines.

C-Tier (Cooperative)

Weapon The Pros The Cons Description
A Glaive for Insects • Simple installation
Aerodynamic flexibility
Inadequate damage
Heavy-Duty Essence Control
The insect glaive is more effective when used in a group of hunters. With its help, you and your team can sneak up on the competition and gain the upper hand quickly.
Twin Swords • Simple controls and single-minded multiplayer focus. • Completely useless Only in multiplayer do you use the dual blades to strike with pinpoint accuracy at the back or flank of an opponent.

D-Tier (Cooperative)

Weapon The Pros The Cons Description
Blade Changer Multiple distinct play styles available With drawn-out animations during attacks
There is a steep learning curve.
You can’t go wrong with this weapon if your party is only using melee attacks. However, as the only short-ranged weapon in the squad, it struggles due to its limited mobility.
Armor and weaponry • Quick access to tools after unsheathing Inadequate damage While effective, this weapon could be swapped out for something more suitable. In the long run, your party will benefit more from increased damage.

S-Tier (Solo)

Weapon The Pros The Cons
Extremely Powerful Blade Exceptional potential for harm thanks to the charge mechanic
Shoulder Charge has the added benefit of being able to stun an opponent.
• The animations for guarding and dodging can be learned quickly.
Reduced attack frequency The great sword is so long that it can reach ridiculous distances.

If you’re the type who likes to charge at monsters and annihilate them with a barrage of blows, this is the weapon for you. When hunting alone, the great sword can be a lifesaver thanks to its emergency defensive options.

Attack with Knife Incredible short-term damage
• A wide array of combat animations and special moves
Unfortunately, defensive measures are insufficient. There are many ways in which the charge blade is analogous to the switch axe. Another requirement is that damage be accumulated during one phase before being unleashed during the next. While the charge blade’s burst mode does more damage, it is somewhat limited in its defenses.

Learning to use this weapon will give you a significant advantage and allow you to deal a lot of damage. The game’s only real drawback disappears when played solo.

A-Tier (Solo)

Weapon The Pros The Cons
Blade Length: Large destructive potential
Both defensively and offensively, Counter is a respectable option.
Whiffing counters are notorious for being extremely difficult to deal with.
Effective placement is crucial.
The longsword’s counter and Swordsman Spirit bars make for decent gameplay. The weapon’s damage output can be increased by charging this bar. Playing in a way that requires a high degree of precision and few mistakes is the key to overcoming this.

When you first start out, you won’t be very good at defending yourself from enemies. However, keep in mind that the long sword is one of the most enjoyable weapons to wield, so it is well worth your time to train with it.

Hammer • The undisputed king of knockout damage.
Excellent bridge builders
Since you need to use your head to hit, the hitbox of your weapon is relatively small.
Lackluster Defense
We have no means of severing enemy flesh.
It’s easy to understand hammer tactics. When an enemy is knocked down, the accumulated KO damage is released as raw damage.

Although it deals a lot of damage, the hammer is only useful if it hits the monster directly in the head. This leaves the player open to being attacked. Since the hammer has subpar dodging animations, the issue is exacerbated. However, if you’re going at it alone, the hammer is the best tool for the job.

B-Tier (Solo)

Weapon The Pros The Cons
Twin Swords • Rapid animations during attacks
The most sophisticated dodging techniques among all available weapons
Status effects infliction increases its usefulness.
• Requires careful energy regulation.
• Very limited in scope
No counterattacks allowed, only dodging
The dual blades are your best bet if a quick playing style is a priority. Being the quickest weapons here, they allow you to quickly enter and exit combat to deal damage to your foes. The dual blades’ Demon Mode is another fantastic feature; when activated, it allows the user to charge up a meter and significantly increase their damage output.

However, the dual blades have a high skill cap, so you’ll need to be vigilant about conserving your stamina. Since dual blades lack reliable defensive options, your movements must be pinpoint accurate.

Flip the Axe Powerful attacks with respectable range
• Flexible in its use, offering a number of useful features
• Being exposed for long periods of time is a risk in animations
• Requires a lot of time and effort to learn and master
The Switch Axe appears to be a simple tool for killing. When you switch to your sword, you can let loose all the power you stored up while using your axe. It ought to be simple, but the weapon’s sluggish animations and clumsy dodging techniques make it frustrating to use.

Further, the Switch Axe’s damage output is dependent on knocking down enemies first, which is a difficult task if you aren’t experienced.

Termite Glaive Battles fought in the air
• Large monsters can be mounted more quickly and easily.
Possessing high degrees of mobility
Protection from harm is minimal.
• Requires a lot of stamina, especially in aerial combat
The insect glaive is undeniably one of the most beautiful weapons in Monster Hunter World. The game’s aerial mechanics allow for a wide variety of strategies during combat. It’s highly maneuverable, so it’s simple to roll back and start over if necessary.

The glaive can still come off as a gimmick, even in Iceborne. Reduced firepower reduces the appeal of aerial combat. Another aspect of resource management to keep in mind is essence collection.

C-Tier (Solo)

Weapon The Pros The Cons
Gunlance Effective harm
Excellent defense
Violence • Bombs
Very limited ability to move around
Sharpness of weapon is greatly diminished by explosions.
The weapon’s explosions set it apart from the lance and can deal a lot of damage to the right kinds of monsters. This thing still has a solid defense and effective shielding mechanisms, but dodging its attacks is difficult.
Lance Reaching far and wide
Strong Defensive Choices
* Hesitant course corrections/dodging
Animations that attack slowly
Those who place a premium on strategy can benefit from using the lance. You can’t let up on attacking the enemy’s weak spot in this strategy.

The lance also comes with a variety of defensive maneuvers and counters to help keep the user safe during intense battles. It’s a harmless weapon, but it won’t do much damage.

Bow Exceptional portability for a long-ranged weapon The lack of raw attack power without relying on elemental weaknesses
• Firing multiple shots quickly requires a lot of stamina.
The bow does its damage by using elemental coatings and trap arrows. The Elder Dragon and other similarly powerful foes render bows useless.

D-Tier (Solo)

Weapon The Pros The Cons
Horn for Use in Hunting Causes knockout and exhaustion
High practicality
Weak Speed of Attack
Discouraging Defensive Choices
Inadequate damage
It’s clear that the horn was designed with multiplayer in mind only. In a solitary playthrough, you have access to far more powerful weapons. Its KO damage, which increases the longer you stay in a fight, is its saving grace for solo play.
Quick-firing Bowgun It’s useful for inflicting status effects on foes quickly and efficiently. Insufficient ammunition
Tolerable loss of property
Exploiting vulnerabilities is key to doing damage.
The light bowgun, in contrast to its heavier counterpart, deals damage in bursts rather than over time. If you’re just starting out, this weapon will help you stay alive through any fight.
Weaponized Bow Using it is risk-free because of its regulated range. Limited ammunition
This severely limits their ability to move around.
Whereas the light bowgun aids in mobility, this one is a devastating weapon. Unfortunately, when facing a swift opponent, the bowguns’ mobility and/or damage become nullified.
Armor and weaponry Adaptable Firearm
Strong portability
With minimal injury,
• Mediocre at everything, top-notch at nothing
This is an extremely weak weapon combination, especially when used alone. While using this, you can’t speed run. It’s inevitable that battles will seem drawn out, despite actually being relatively risk-free. This gun really shines in a multiplayer setting.

Reception

Monster Hunter: World was met with “universal acclaim” from critics, earning a metascore of 90/100 and being labeled a “Must-Play” game for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. On PC, it was rated 88/100 by Metacritic.

Monster Hunter World: The Benefits of Capture versus Carve

Drop Rates

The debate revolves largely around the attrition rates. If there is one technique that consistently gives the best odds of obtaining rare items, then that is the one that hunters should use. Hunters literally carve off pieces of the beast, so it stands to reason that killing would result in better loot. The drop items and their rates are the same, and players’ chances of looting are the same regardless of the strategy they employ, as stated in the official guides. In this case, it’s important to consider the advantages of each option separately.

Carving A Monster

Let’s start with the pros and cons of monster carving in Monster Hunter World. If killing an animal is your plan, you’ll have more downtime to dismantle it. The best way to get rare and specific materials is to break off parts of a monster. Of course, you’ll have to physically break said parts, which can be tricky because it requires some precision.

When on the hunt with a group, it’s possible that everyone is more focused on killing the beast as a whole than collecting its organs. In some cases, this can make it so that hunters have less time overall and fewer chances to zero in on a particular part of the monster. In any case, after killing a monster, hunters have 60 seconds to carve it and collect any parts that may have fallen to the ground. This pause in the action is much appreciated if there is a severed tail to loot, especially if the player has to hoof it back to another part of the map.

The hunters don’t have to be as well-equipped if they kill a monster. Slaying a monster is a singular endeavor, and any means at your disposal are fair game. When hunting, setting traps is not something that needs to slow down the process. Simply remove it. Some hunters may find this approach more appealing due to its apparent ease of use.

MHW】Weapon Speedrunning Tier List - Any% TA (nonTAWiki) - YouTube

Capturing A Monster

A hunter must be well-equipped if he or she intends to capture a monster. This necessitates that they bring along a trap and possibly some other items like tranquilizer bombs. This method, however, is a quicker and more efficient means of farming those monsters.

Once a monster’s health drops to 30% or lower, hunters can capture it, reducing the amount of time they spend tracking down and killing the creature. It takes only 20 seconds to complete the quest once the monster has been captured, as opposed to the usual 60. If time savings is your primary motivation, this is great news; however, if you still have tails to carve and broken pieces to collect, you may find this to be quite frustrating.

The main perk of capturing monsters is that you get more loot than you would from carving them. Instead of the usual three items for carving, hunters will receive four or five for capturing. In addition, hunters may find it easier to avoid a prolonged battle with particularly challenging monsters by simply capturing them. This way, they won’t have to worry about dropping out of a quest at the last minute and missing out on the rewards altogether.

The Verdict

There are benefits to both carving and capturing, but the decision ultimately rests with the hunter. If it’s only certain body parts they want, then eliminating the monster will give them more time to zero in on them. If time is of the essence, capturing can speed up the farming process while also increasing the final reward.

Hunters working together will do better if they share their wants with one another, so that everyone knows what they’re on the lookout for. They may alter their strategy to assist you if they are after the same thing or don’t mind chipping in. Sometimes it’s best to go on a hunt by yourself and take your time.