In Dauntless, mastering your weapon choice can mean the difference between a clean Behemoth kill and a frustrating defeat. Each weapon type brings its own mechanics, combos, and optimal use cases. Whether you’re playing solo or in a coordinated team, selecting the best weapon in Dauntless comes down to your playstyle, preferred speed, and synergy with gear and perks. While all weapons are viable with enough skill, some consistently stand out for their balance of damage, utility, and survivability.
Understanding Weapon Roles in Dauntless
Before diving into which weapon is best, it’s essential to understand how Dauntless categorizes its arsenal. Every weapon type is crafted to suit a specific combat role. Some are built for heavy-hitting, others for crowd control, and a few excel in speed and combo chaining. Here are the main weapon categories:
- Swords: Balanced weapons with good speed and special gauge-based abilities.
- Chain Blades: Fast dual weapons ideal for dodging and combo-heavy attacks.
- Axes: High-damage, slow-swinging weapons built for charge attacks.
- Hammers: Blunt weapons with stagger potential and built-in ranged attack via blasts.
- Repeaters: Dual pistols that provide long-range damage and customizable parts.
- War Pike: Spear-like weapon that balances piercing attacks with part damage and ranged blasts.
- Aether Strikers: Fist weapons that focus on speed, combos, and managing mantras for power boosts.
Top Weapon Choices Ranked
1. Aether Strikers – Best for High DPS and Speed
Among the strongest contenders for the best weapon in Dauntless, Aether Strikers are unmatched when it comes to fast-paced combo potential. They reward aggressive play and excellent timing. Players who master the mantra system can unleash devastating special attacks while maintaining mobility.
- Strengths: High burst damage, excellent mobility, combo chaining
- Best Use: Speed-focused players who want to stay close and apply constant pressure
- Best Build Tip: Focus on perk synergy like Predator, Overpower, and Evasive Fury
The Aether Strikers excel in nearly all situations. With a skilled player behind them, they can down even the toughest Behemoths in record time.
2. Repeaters – Best Ranged Weapon
If you prefer to fight from a distance, the Ostian Repeaters are a top-tier option. Unlike other ranged weapons in similar games, the Repeaters in Dauntless require strategic positioning to maximize damage. Their modular nature allows for custom builds that fit many different situations.
- Strengths: Range safety, customizable loadout, solid DPS with proper positioning
- Best Use: Players who want to avoid close-quarter combat and prefer support roles
- Best Build Tip: Pair with perks like Sharpened, Cunning, and Discipline
Repeaters shine when you learn how to dash in for Empowered reloads and then back out to unload your attacks. They’re incredibly powerful for players who prioritize precision and positioning.
3. Sword – Most Balanced Weapon
The sword remains one of the most versatile and user-friendly weapons in the game. It’s perfect for beginners and veterans alike. The weapon has a good balance between speed and power, and its Valour system allows for more advanced combos and finishers.
- Strengths: Easy to use, good balance of speed and damage, accessible learning curve
- Best Use: General-purpose gameplay across all Behemoths
- Best Build Tip: Use perks like Energized, Predator, and Technique Cell bonuses
What makes the sword one of the best weapons in Dauntless is its adaptability. Whether you’re focusing on part-breaking, pure damage, or interrupting, the sword has a tool for the job.
4. Chain Blades – Best for Mobility
If agility is your priority, Chain Blades are the weapon of choice. Their rapid attacks, dodge-focused gameplay, and unique pull-in and retreat mechanics let players dance around Behemoth attacks with style.
- Strengths: Extreme mobility, fast attacks, low commitment strikes
- Best Use: Evade-heavy players and solo runners
- Best Build Tip: Stack perks like Evasive Fury, Predator, and Berserker
Chain Blades do require a higher level of situational awareness, but in skilled hands, they can easily become one of the top DPS weapons in the game.
5. Hammer – Best for Stagger and Crowd Control
The hammer is a slow, deliberate weapon but when used properly, it’s a powerhouse. It’s especially effective in team settings where you can focus on staggering Behemoths to create openings for allies. The hammer’s built-in ammo mechanic allows for ranged detonations that add a layer of strategy.
- Strengths: High stagger potential, great for breaking Behemoth parts
- Best Use: Team support and crowd control
- Best Build Tip: Combine with Knockout King and Pulse for efficient stuns
The hammer isn’t the best solo weapon due to its slow pace, but when coordinated with a team, it becomes a vital tool for control and disruption.
Choosing the Best Weapon for Your Playstyle
Solo Players
For solo play, weapons that offer mobility and self-sufficiency are ideal. Aether Strikers and Chain Blades let you dodge effectively while dishing out steady damage. Swords are also a great pick due to their adaptability and ease of use.
Team Players
If you’re part of a group, consider weapons that complement your squad. Hammers are fantastic for setting up combos, while Repeaters can safely apply damage without disrupting your teammates. War Pikes can also be helpful for focusing on part damage and applying wound status effects.
Beginner-Friendly Options
New to Dauntless? Start with the sword. Its straightforward move set and reliable performance make it a perfect entry point. Once you’re comfortable, experiment with Aether Strikers or Chain Blades for more complex and rewarding play.
Current Meta Considerations
The meta in Dauntless continues to evolve with patches and balance updates. As of the latest updates, Aether Strikers and Repeaters remain top-tier due to their high damage output and synergy with popular builds. Keep in mind that even lower-ranked weapons can excel when supported by optimized gear and skillful play.
Weapon Perks and Modifiers
The best weapon in Dauntless isn’t just about type it’s about how you build it. Choose weapons that support your chosen perks, and don’t overlook weapon mods and specials:
- Overpower: Boosts damage against staggered Behemoths
- Predator: Increases damage if you avoid getting hit
- Cunning: Adds critical hit chance and damage
- Pulse: Guarantees critical hits every few strikes
Combining your weapon with the right armor and cell setup can dramatically enhance its effectiveness.
While every weapon in Dauntless has its strengths, the Aether Strikers currently stand out as the best all-around weapon for high-level play. Their speed, versatility, and potential for massive burst damage make them a top pick for both solo and team hunters. However, the Repeaters and Sword also hold strong positions, especially when tailored with the right build. Ultimately, the best weapon is the one that fits your combat style and keeps you coming back for more Behemoth hunts. Experiment, adapt, and find your perfect match in the Shattered Isles.