Figuring out how the Monster Hunter Now weapons unlock can be difficult to figure out if you’re new to the game. The sword and shield is the default weapon that you receive at the beginning of the game, but there are five other weapons that you can obtain. This includes the greatsword, hammer, bow, long sword, and light bowgun. Some of these become available to you as you progress through the main quests, while others are tied to your overall Hunter Rank. Here’s how to unlock every weapon in MH Now.
How to unlock all Monster Hunter Now weapons
To unlock the other five weapons in Monster Hunter Now, you need to do the following:
- Sword & Shield – This unlocks as the starting weapon.
- Greatsword – You need to complete Chapter 1 Part 2 before you get access to this weapon type.
- Hammer, Bow, Long Sword, Light Bowgun – You have to reach Hunter Rank 15 to unlock the remaining four weapon types.
The sword and shield combo serves as a strong all-around choice for a weapon, but like other melee options, you need to make sure that are up close and ready to dodge enemy attacks. You can also guard using the shield and pull off a charged slash combo. However, the short reach and low damage of the sword are are not as solid near the end of the game.
The greatsword is extremely slow with its windup, but its charged attack deals heavy damage if it manages to hit. The same can be said with the hammer, except that this weapon can stun enemies as well if you manage to hit the monster’s head with it. As for the long sword, this lacks a guard, though it boosts your evasion and gives you a Spirit Gauge for stronger attacks when it’s full. Meanwhile, the bow and light bowgun are strong long-range weapons that allow you to stay out of harm’s way most of the time.
You need to reach at least Hunter Rank 11 before you are allowed to upgrade weapons from Grade 1 to Grade 2 using the various materials from killing large monsters and finding resources from Gathering Points.
Monster Hunter Now Weapon Unlock FAQ
A: In Monster Hunter Now, you start with the Sword & Shield. To unlock the Greatsword, complete Chapter 1 Part 2. For the Hammer, Bow, Long Sword, and Light Bowgun, you need to achieve Hunter Rank 15.
A: The Sword & Shield combo is a balanced weapon with guarding capability and charged slash combo. However, its short reach and lower damage may not be as effective in the game’s later stages. The Greatsword is slow but deals significant damage with its charged attack, and the Hammer can stun enemies if you hit a monster’s head. The Long Sword lacks a guard but enhances evasion and has a Spirit Gauge for powerful attacks. The Bow and Light Bowgun are long-range weapons that help you avoid direct combat.
A: You can start upgrading weapons from Grade 1 to Grade 2 once you reach Hunter Rank 11, utilizing materials from defeated large monsters and resources from Gathering Points.
