Monster Hunter World: Ranking Every Weapon From Worst To Best

14. Sword & Shield

Pros: Can use items while guarding, fast and evasive

Cons: Low damage, blocking is only situationally effective, weapon sharpness decays rapidly

As always, the modest sword and shield is a great jumping off point for Monster Hunter newcomers, but that description only tells a half-truth. Yes, the archetype has a series of unique abilities designed to be more forgiving than others - chugging potions without having to sheathe your weapon is a definite plus - but that accessibility comes at a cost.

Officially, the offensive part of the pair may be deemed worthy of sword status, but in comparison to the rest of World's armoury, its size is more comparable to a dagger, meaning you'll need to be within spitting distance of a monster to so much as scratch it. That's a risk your Hunter's able to take, given that they'll be holding a shield in the other hand, but don't expect to deflect the furious charge of a Diablos with that meagre buckler - it'll barge through it like a steam train.

Fulfill its role as a suitable starting weapon the combo does, but it'll swiftly be outclassed by others as World's wildlife grows bigger and meaner.