Home > News > Top Beginner Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds

Top Beginner Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds

Author:Kristen Update:Apr 18,2025

Choosing the best weapons in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can feel daunting for beginners. Even though the game assigns you a weapon after a short quiz, it might not be the perfect fit for new hunters. Despite the improved onboarding process, *Wilds* doesn't rush to explain its weapon mechanics in detail. That's where our *Monster Hunter Wilds* beginner weapons guide comes in handy, spotlighting five of the most user-friendly weapons and providing a quick overview of what to expect from each.

Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons for Beginners

------------------------------------------
  • Hammer
  • Dual Blades
  • Sword and Shield
  • Light Bowgun
  • Long Sword

Hammer

------

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

The hammer is an ideal choice for those new to the series or looking to refresh their skills. It delivers high damage without requiring complex moves. The hammer's combos are straightforward: an overhead smash, a whirling hit, a powerful charged attack, and the Big Bang, which can end with a strong charged hit capable of knocking down even large monsters.

Its simplicity is its strength. Hammers boast higher attack power than many other weapons, so even a weaker hammer with status ailments can still deal significant damage without needing intricate button combinations.

Dual Blades

-----------

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

Dual blades offer a gentle learning curve with a limited set of combos, yet they provide more versatility than the hammer. With dual blades, you're notably more mobile, making it easier to dodge and aim your attacks.

The standard form includes basic combo chains, but the real power lies in Demon Mode, which allows you to chain blade dance skills for high damage output. However, staying in Demon Mode consumes stamina, so timing is crucial to maximize your burst window. Remember to eat stamina-boosting meals before a hunt to get the most out of your 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 offer versatility and a high skill ceiling for those who master the basics. The shield's biggest advantage is its ability to block incoming attacks without the bulkiness of a lance, allowing you to weave blocking into your combat routine seamlessly.

The weapon's combos range from simple upward slashes and spins to more complex maneuvers. However, the real game-changer is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon, which can be the difference between triumph and defeat.

Light Bowgun

------------

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

The Light Bowgun is perfect for those who prefer to keep their distance and study monster behavior while still contributing to the fight. It comes with unlimited basic ammo and the option to use special types, such as elemental-infused ammo. It's more versatile than the bow and easier to handle than the heavy bowgun.

While hunts may take longer and require more preparation, the Light Bowgun is a safer choice and excellent for learning monster patterns. It's also wise to keep it upgraded as a secondary weapon, as it's effective for applying status ailments or exploiting weaknesses without dedicating your entire arsenal to that purpose.

Long Sword

----------

The Long Sword is the most complex weapon in our beginner's guide, requiring good timing and positioning for its best combos. It offers basic attacks, including a strike-and-retreat move and a sheathe skill for quick movement. The weapon's true power comes from its spirit slash attacks and their enhanced versions, activated by building up the spirit meter.

From basic slashes and feints to more intricate moves, the Long Sword's most powerful ability is a three-part combo starting with a slash, followed by an aerial launch, and ending with a downward thrust. However, if the initial slash misses or the monster moves, the combo fails. It requires practice, but it's a rewarding choice for those ready to engage with a more complex weapon.