In the vast universe of Destiny 2, hand cannons reign supreme for Guardians who crave precision and power. Whether you’re headshotting foes in the Crucible or blasting through PvE content, finding the best hand cannon can feel like searching for the last slice of pizza at a party—everyone wants it, but only a few know where to find it.
Overview Of Hand Cannons In Destiny 2
Hand cannons represent a core weapon class in Destiny 2, favored for their balance of power and precision. These weapons excel in both player vs. player and player vs. environment activities, making them versatile choices for Guardians. Players often look for hand cannons that deliver high damage per shot and quick handling.
Not all hand cannons are created equal. Some models specialize in rapid-fire capabilities, while others focus on delivering critical hits. This range allows players to choose a hand cannon that complements their playstyle. Popular choices among the community include the Thorn, known for its damage over time effect, and the Dire Promise, praised for its stability and handling.
The best hand cannons often feature unique perks that enhance their performance. For example, the Explosive Payload perk provides greater damage output while allowing precision shots to deal extra damage. Many players appreciate the strategic advantage that these perks offer, particularly in high-stakes encounters.
In addition to perks, players frequently consider the weapon’s archetype, which affects fire rate, stability, and recoil. Hand cannons such as the 140 RPM and 120 RPM archetypes appeal to different player preferences. While some prefer fast-firing models for aggressive play, others gravitate towards slower, harder-hitting options.
Ultimately, the quest for the best hand cannon involves testing various options and discovering which weapon fits best within individual loadouts. The hand cannon selection impacts the gameplay experience significantly, allowing players to personalize their approach to challenges in Destiny 2.
Top Hand Cannons Ranked
This section ranks some of the best hand cannons available, showcasing their unique characteristics and advantages.
Hand Cannon 1: Thorn Overview
Thorn stands out with its unique damage-over-time effects. Players appreciate its ability to inflict extra damage through lingering poison on opponents. The weapon’s aesthetic and lore add to its allure, making it a favorite among Guardians. With a high impact and a slower rate of fire, it rewards precision shots. Using Thorn in PvP provides an edge, as its effects force opponents to think strategically about their health management.
Hand Cannon 2: Dire Promise Overview
Dire Promise excels in stability and handling, making it a versatile choice for various gameplay scenarios. Players often choose this weapon for its balanced characteristics, which promote accuracy without sacrificing damage. With manageable recoil, it allows for rapid follow-up shots, further enhancing effectiveness in both PvP and PvE. Its unique perks contribute to impressive performance, ensuring that players can depend on it in tight situations.
Hand Cannon 3: Last Word Overview
Last Word offers a unique playstyle centered around aggressive engagement. This hand cannon boasts a high fire rate, rewarding players who can consistently land their shots. With its distinctive hip-fire accuracy, it shines in close-quarters combat where precision matters most. Players find excitement in its fast-paced nature, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more offensive strategy. Unique perks like the “Fan Fire” increase its effectiveness, allowing for a dynamic gameplay experience.
How To Choose The Best Hand Cannon
Selecting the right hand cannon in Destiny 2 requires careful consideration of several factors. Players should prioritize weapon attributes that align with their gameplay objectives.
Factors To Consider
Weapon archetype plays a crucial role in determining performance. Players encounter various hand cannon models, each offering unique characteristics like rate of fire, stability, and recoil. Damage output depends significantly on perks. Notable perks, like Explosive Payload, enhance effectiveness by delivering extra damage. Additionally, ammunition size influences play style; higher magazine counts benefit aggressive players. Range can impact accuracy, especially in PvP scenarios, making long-range options worthwhile. Always factor in how these elements contribute to personal excellence in different gameplay situations.
Personal Playstyle
Understanding personal playstyle shapes the choice of hand cannon. Aggressive players find value in rapid-fire models that allow for quick engagements. Precision-focused players gravitate towards weapons like Thorn, which emphasize accuracy. Comfort with weapon recoil is another aspect; stable options simplify handling during intense encounters. Players should also consider preferred game modes alongside their hand cannon selection. Casual players might enjoy the versatility of a weapon like Dire Promise, while competitive players seek those with higher damage potential. Testing multiple hand cannons ultimately leads to finding the ideal fit for one’s approach to challenges encountered in the game.
Recommended Builds For Hand Cannons
Hand cannons offer diverse builds tailored to different gameplay styles. Players optimize their loadouts based on activity preferences and playstyles.
PvE Builds
In PvE, hand cannons shine with builds focusing on high damage output and sustained fire. One effective choice involves the Thorn, which deals ongoing damage, hurting enemies over time. Explosive Payload significantly boosts damage, making it ideal for bosses and tougher foes. Incorporating mods that enhance reload speed or increase damage after precision hits elevates performance further. Another strong option, the Dire Promise, provides excellent stability for consistent shots against waves of enemies. Prioritizing perks such as Rampage can maximize damage during encounters. Combining these elements ensures a powerful and reliable weapon for PvE scenarios where high DPS is paramount.
PvP Builds
In PvP, players prioritize agility and rapid engagements. The Last Word stands out due to its fast-firing capabilities, allowing for aggressive playstyles. Players often pair it with perks like Quickdraw, enabling swift draws and fast shots in tight situations. Another viable choice, the Ace of Spades, excels with its unique perks promoting precision and critical hit bonuses. Utilizing flinch-reducing mods enhances performance by improving reliability during firefights. Experienced Guardians tailor their hand cannon builds to complement their movement and execution strategies, ensuring optimal performance in competitive environments. This customization provides the edge needed in battles where every shot counts.
Conclusion
Finding the best hand cannon in Destiny 2 is a rewarding journey that enhances gameplay. With a variety of options to choose from players can tailor their weapon selection to suit their unique playstyle. Whether it’s the damage-over-time effects of Thorn or the rapid-fire capabilities of the Last Word each hand cannon offers distinct advantages.
Understanding the nuances of each weapon allows Guardians to make informed choices that can significantly impact their performance in both PvP and PvE. Experimentation and customization play crucial roles in this process. Ultimately the right hand cannon can elevate a player’s experience and effectiveness in the game.
