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Monster Hunter Wilds: Best Weapons for Beginners

Author:Kristen Update:Feb 28,2025

This guide helps new Monster Hunter Wilds players choose beginner-friendly weapons. While the game offers a starting weapon suggestion, it may not be optimal. This guide provides five excellent choices, explaining their strengths and weaknesses.

Beginner-Friendly Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons

Hammer

A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds, using a stun hammer to attack a Lala Barina

The hammer boasts high damage output with simple combos. Its straightforward moveset—an overhead smash, a spinning attack, a charged attack, and a powerful "Big Bang" combo—makes it ideal for newcomers. Even weaker hammer variants still deliver significant damage, minimizing the need for complex strategies.

Dual Blades

A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds using the dual blades against a sand leviathan

Dual blades offer a slightly more involved but still accessible gameplay experience. Their agility surpasses other weapons, enhancing dodging and attack precision. Basic combos are complemented by "Demon Mode," which unleashes powerful blade dance attacks but consumes stamina. Remember to consume stamina-boosting meals before hunting with dual blades.

Sword and Shield

A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds performing a downward thrust attack with the sword and shield

The sword and shield provides a balanced approach with a high skill ceiling for later mastery. The shield allows blocking without significant movement penalties, seamlessly integrating defense into combat. While complex combos exist, basic attacks are sufficient for early hunts. A key advantage is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon, a significant tactical benefit.

Light Bowgun

A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds using normal ammo with the light bowgun against a Lala Barina

The Light Bowgun encourages strategic distance and observation. It offers unlimited basic ammo and various special ammo types (elemental, etc.), providing versatility. While hunts may take longer, it's a safer option for learning monster behaviors. Its ease of use in applying status ailments and exploiting weaknesses makes it a valuable secondary weapon even for experienced hunters.

Long Sword

A hunter in Monster Hunter Wilds using a long sword

The Long Sword presents a steeper learning curve than the other options. Its effectiveness relies on precise timing and positioning for optimal combo execution. While basic attacks exist, its true potential lies in "Spirit Slash" attacks, requiring meter buildup. Mastering these powerful, yet demanding, attacks requires practice, but rewards skilled players with high damage output.