Auto rifles are not as dominant as they once were, and while most Guardians have moved on to more popular options, the top Auto rifles are still considered to be some of the best weapons in Destiny 2.
This guide covers every Auto rifle in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendary auto rifles, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Destiny 2 Auto Rifles Tier List: Top-tier Options
This Tier list features the Top-tier Exotic and Legendary auto rifles in the game and covers both PvE and PvP:
Name | Weapons | Type | Archetype | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Rank | Source | Available? | Tier rank | Source ❘ DLC | Final Verdict | Released | Perks | Best of? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gnawing Hunger | ![]() Gnawing Hunger | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | World loot pool | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage (also good: Rampage PvP God Roll: Tap the Trigger + Kill Clip (also good: Rampage) ► Gnawing Hunger is still one of the best Auto Rifles in the game. It is a part of the Adaptive archetype and comes with a host of solid PvP and PvE perks. Gnawing has taken us through the most endgame pieces of content, and will therefore always be on-hand to use. | Season 11 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage (also good: Rampage PvP God Roll: Tap the Trigger + Kill Clip (also good: Rampage) | Top-tier |
Chroma Rush | ![]() Chroma Rush | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | World loot pool | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Feeding Frenzy (also good: Subsistence) + Rampage Adrenaline Junkie PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Tunnel Vision) + Tap the Trigger (also good: Kill Clip) ► Chroma Rush has it all. Good base stats, good perks, and is part of a decent archetype. In PvE, it has a menagerie of perks to pick from, including Rampage, Adrenaline Junkie, and Kill Clip. In PvP, it can either be a consistent laser beam, or a lethal beast with different rolls. | Season 14 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Feeding Frenzy (also good: Subsistence) + Rampage Adrenaline Junkie PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Tunnel Vision) + Tap the Trigger (also good: Kill Clip) | Top-tier |
Rufus's Fury | ![]() Rufus's Fury | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | S › Best | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Root of Nightmares Raid![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Demolitionist (also good: Reconstruction) + Hatchling (also good: Target Lock) ► With the ability to roll with some outstanding perk combinations, Rufus's Fury is the best Strand primary weapon we’ve seen thus far. And compared to Perpetualis, the other Strand Auto, Rufus’s has better rolls and is part of what most consider a superior frame (720 RPM). | Season 20 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Demolitionist (also good: Reconstruction) + Hatchling (also good: Target Lock) | Top-tier |
Necrochasm | ![]() Necrochasm | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Crota's End Raid![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Precision final blows with this weapon trigger a Cursed Thrall explosion. Final blows with Cursed Thrall explosions refill the magazine." ► Necrochasm is back and is stronger than ever. With the ability to trigger Cursed Thrall explosions with ease, Necrochasm is one of the best (and most fun) ad clear weapons in Destiny 2 right now. | Season 22 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Precision final blows with this weapon trigger a Cursed Thrall explosion. Final blows with Cursed Thrall explosions refill the magazine." | Top-tier |
The Summoner | ![]() The Summoner | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Primary | Solar | Lightfall | No | S › Best | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP | Trials of Osiris![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Overflow (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Multikill Clip PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Rangefinder) + Multikill Clip (also good: Rampage) ► The Summoner has a lot going for it: Good base stats, a good archetype, and really solid perks. Overall, The Summoner can succeed everywhere in the game and it will never let you down. | Season 10 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Overflow (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Multikill Clip PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Rangefinder) + Multikill Clip (also good: Rampage) | Top-tier |
Scathelocke | ![]() Scathelocke | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Adrenaline Junkie (also good: Osmosis) PvP God Roll: Tunnel Vision (also good: Heating Up) + Eye of the Storm (also good: Multikill Clip) ► A returning favorite from Year 1, Scathelocke brings some solid stats and good perks to the table. Osmosis gives it versatility, while perks such as Adrenaline Junkie or Rampage can provide lethality. Scathelocke just 'feels' powerful. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Adrenaline Junkie (also good: Osmosis) PvP God Roll: Tunnel Vision (also good: Heating Up) + Eye of the Storm (also good: Multikill Clip) | Top-tier |
The Last Breath | ![]() The Last Breath | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Prophecy Dungeon | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Prophecy Dungeon![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence (also good: Demolitionist) + Frenzy (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Dynamic Sway Reduction) + Rangefinder ► The Last Breath is a must-have auto rifle for PVE. It has all the right perks to excel and can compete in most pieces of content. It also offers lots of versatility. Damage perks, utility perks, the Last Breath has it all. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence (also good: Demolitionist) + Frenzy (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Dynamic Sway Reduction) + Rangefinder | Top-tier |
Tigerspite | ![]() Tigerspite | Auto Rifle | Precision | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Shattered Throne | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Shattered Throne![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Subsistence (also good: Outlaw) + Frenzy (also good: Kill Clip) ► For some reason, Tigerspite just feels great to use. It also comes with solid damage perks that scale nicely into endgame content. While it is part of the weaker 450 RPM archetype, Tigerspite can still hold its own. | Season 14 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Subsistence (also good: Outlaw) + Frenzy (also good: Kill Clip) | Top-tier |
Duty Bound | ![]() Duty Bound | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Nightfall: The Ordeals![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Stats for All Perpetual Motion + Frenzy Rampage ► Duty Bound is a decent all-around weapon. It comes with solid perks and can be used effectively pretty much anywhere in the game. 600 RPM Auto Rifles have always had a decent spot in PvE, and Duty Bound does not break this trend. | Season 16 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Stats for All Perpetual Motion + Frenzy Rampage | Top-tier |
Quicksilver Storm | ![]() Quicksilver Storm | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Exotic Kiosk![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Landing multiple hits turns your next shot into a homing micro-rocket. Landing multiple rockets loads a grenade." ► Quicksilver Storm is a fun and unique weapon. Combining an Auto Rifle with a Rocket Launcher and a Grenade Launcher, Quicksilver Storm is quite the all-rounder; however, it's missing something to be one of the greats. | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Landing multiple hits turns your next shot into a homing micro-rocket. Landing multiple rockets loads a grenade." | Top-tier |
Ammit AR2 | ![]() Ammit AR2 | Auto Rifle | Precision | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Stats For All + Incandescent (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) ► We love the Ammit. It has a decent number of good perks and feels nice to use. The only thing going against the Ammit is its Precision Frame archetype which isn't the worst but certainly isn't the best. | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Stats For All + Incandescent (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) | Top-tier |
Sweet Sorrow | ![]() Sweet Sorrow | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | A › Strong | Vox Obscura | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Vox Obscura![]() The Witch Queen | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Perpetual Motion (also good: Killing Wind) + Tap the Trigger ► Sweet Sorrow feels extremely nice to fire and comes with the deadly perk combo of Perpetual Motion + Tap the Trigger. Plus, it's craftable! Sweet Sorrow can be a dueling beast, but unfortunately, the current long-range meta doesn't allow it to shine. | Season 16 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Perpetual Motion (also good: Killing Wind) + Tap the Trigger | Top-tier |
Lodbrok-C | ![]() Lodbrok-C | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Rolls: Perpetual Motion (also good: Dynamic Sway Reduction) + Tap the Trigger (also good: Kill Clip) ► There's something about the Lodbrok that makes it special. It has extremely clean sights, and with Perpetual Motion + Tap the Trigger, you get a very consistent dueling weapon on your hands. Lodbrok can contest excellent ranges and surprise enemies, but it will still get beaten by superior long-range weapons. | Season 19 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Rolls: Perpetual Motion (also good: Dynamic Sway Reduction) + Tap the Trigger (also good: Kill Clip) | Top-tier |
Auto rifles in Destiny 2: The complete list
This database includes every viable Auto rifle currently in the game, including the Necrochasm raid exotic:
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Centrifuse | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | PvE | Season Pass | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Cerberus+1 | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 4 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Hard Light | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Monte Carlo | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE + PvP | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 8 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Necrochasm | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Quicksilver Storm | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 18 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | SUROS Regime | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 3 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Sweet Business | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Exotic Quest | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Tommy's Matchbook | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Solar | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 10 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Abyss Defiant | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Energy | Craftable | ||||
![]() | Age-Old Bond | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Void | Forsaken Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Last Wish Raid | ![]() | ![]() Forsaken Pack | Season 4 | Energy | Craftable | Repulsor Brace | |
![]() | Ammit AR2 | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Incandescent |
![]() | Arc Logic | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Moon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Arctic Haze | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Worst ❘ D | - | Europa | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Braytech Werewolf | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Seasonal | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Event: Festival of the Lost | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Chroma Rush | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Chrysura Melo | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Come to Pass | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Wellspring | ![]() | ![]() The Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | ||
![]() | Coronach-22 | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 20 | Energy | No | Incandescent | |
![]() | Dark Decider | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 19 | Energy | No | Voltshot | |
![]() | Duty Bound | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Eidolon Ally | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Kinetic | No | ||||
![]() | False Promises | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Firefright | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Worst ❘ D | - | Presage | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 17 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||
![]() | Gnawing Hunger | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Herod-C | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Playlist: Gambit | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Horror Story | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Seasonal | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Event: Festival of the Lost | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Krait | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Lodbrok-C | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 19 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Old Sterling | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | |||
![]() | Perpetualis | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Season 20 | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | Seasonal activity | ![]() | ![]() Season 20 | Season 20 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||
![]() | Positive Outlook | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | Playlist: Vanguard | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Energy | No | Repulsor Brace | ||
![]() | Reckless Oracle | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Void | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Garden of Salvation Raid | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 8 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Rufus's Fury | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 20 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | Reconstruction |
![]() | Scathelocke | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Seventh Seraph Carbine | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 10 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Shadow Price | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | No | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Sorrow's Verse | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Playlist: Crucible | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Sweet Sorrow | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Vox Obscura | ![]() | ![]() The Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | The Forward Path | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | No | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | The Last Breath | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Prophecy Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | The Number | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | The Summoner | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Lightfall | No | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 10 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Tigerspite | Auto Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Shattered Throne | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
These are the different Tier levels used for our list:
- S Tier – Best: Highest ranking weapons in our Tier List.
- A Tier – Strong: Very strong weapons, but not on the same level as S Tier Choices.
- B Tier – Average: Decent choices that can be lethal in the hands of a skilled player.
- C Tier – Weak: The middle of the pack, somewhat mediocre.
- D Tier – Worst: Lagging behind the competition, these don’t have much to offer.
Best Auto Rifles in Destiny 2: Top 5
Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best Auto rifles in Destiny 2 right now? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):
5. Sweet Sorrow
Excels in PvP
Sweet Sorrow really has that special something. It feels great to fire and has an amazing PvP perk combo which can outduel even some of the deadliest mid-range duelling options. Mastering the feeling behind this Auto Rifle feels very rewarding to do, and succeeding with it really is enjoyable. It is, ironically, a ‘sweet sorrow’ to use. You can feel the potential, but more lethal, long range options cut it down, but it will still serve you nicely.
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Perpetual Motion (also good: Killing Wind)
- Perk 2: Tap the Trigger
How to get it: Sweet Sorrow drops from the PsiOps Battleground Seasonal activity. It can also be crafted at the Enclave on the Throne World.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Sweet Sorrow | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Vox Obscura | ![]() | ![]() The Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier |
4. Quicksilver Storm
Excels in PvE
Quicksilver Storm really is unique. It is a 3-in-1 weapon making it quite the all-rounder. The base auto rifle form is decent and has the characteristics of a Rapid-Fire frame at 720 RPM, but the additional rockets and Grenade Launcher form are what help it stand out.
The Grenade Launcher can dispatch higher health Elite enemies with relative ease, and simply having that burst damage versatility is always nice on a primary ammo weapon these days.
Quicksilver Storm is a solid pick, and no matter what content you throw at it, it will put in a solid shift for you.
Exotic Perk: “”Landing multiple hits turns your next shot into a homing micro-rocket. Landing multiple rockets loads a grenade.”
How to get it: Quicksilver Storm can be acquired by purchasing Lightfall’s Deluxe edition.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Quicksilver Storm | Auto Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 18 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
3. The Summoner
Excels in PvE and PvP
The Summoner is truly a contender for the top spot, and in some people’s opinion, it will always be the best Auto Rifle in the game.
However, in my experience, it falls short because it sort of ‘requires’ certain perks to truly compete in PvP and has inferior perks than the competition for PvE. It is also currently unobtainable as of writing, and when it is, it is locked behind Trials of Osiris, which can be pretty daunting for some players.
Having said that the Summoner can be an absolute powerhouse in the right hands and with the right perks. It can outduel many other weapons within its effective range thanks to its raw damage output and devastating range with the right perk combo.
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Overflow (also good: Perpetual Motion)
- Perk 2: Multikill Clip (also good: Rampage)
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Moving Target (also good: Rangefinder)
- Perk 2: Multikill Clip (also good: Rampage)
How to get it: The Summoner can be acquired via Trials of Osiris engrams and rank ups.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | The Summoner | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Lightfall | No | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 10 | Energy | No | Top-tier |
2. Chroma Rush
Best PVE Auto Rifle in Destiny 2
Chroma Rush is brilliant. It has a clean scope, excellent perks for PvE and PvP. It barely misses the top spot because it sits in the Kinetic slot, meaning it does not have an element, making it hard to justify in match game content. However, its amazing perks, feel, and solid base stats bring it up the ranks.
There are so many perk combos that work on this gun. You can opt for consistency with Moving Target and Tap the Trigger, or go all in on kill-chaining with Tunnel Vision and Kill Clip.
Overall, Chroma Rush really is special and truly holds its own across the entire game.
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Moving Target (also good: Tunnel Vision)
- Perk 2: Tap the Trigger (also good: Kill Clip)
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Feeding Frenzy (also good: Subsistence)
- Perk 2: Rampage (also good: Adrenaline Junkie)
How to get it: Chroma Rush can be acquired by completing Overrides and focusing Umbral engrams.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Chroma Rush | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
1. Gnawing Hunger
Excels in PvE and PvP
Gnawing Hunger grabs the top spot for a good number of reasons. Firstly, it has extremely solid base stats. Secondly, it has excellent perks. For instance, Subsistence and a damage perk on a 600 RPM elemental Auto Rifle is a killer combo. Finally, Gnawing Hunger is Void, meaning it can do wonders with Volatile Rounds, namely Gyrfalcon’s Hauberk.
Gnawing Hunger really has it all. It has a clean scope, is easy to use, and doesn’t have that many perks, making it easy to get the god roll you want. It holds its own very easily in PvP and cleans house in PvE.
Gnawing Hunger is one of my personal favorite weapons of all time in PvE, and will always be ready for me to break out, no matter the content.
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Subsistence
- Perk 2: Swashbuckler (also good: Rampage/Demolitionist)
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Tap the Trigger (also good: Zen Moment)
- Perk 2: Kill Clip (also good: Rampage)
How to get it: Gnawing Hunger can be randomly acquired as end-of-match activities or via Legendary and Prime engrams.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Gnawing Hunger | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | Top-tier |
Auto Rifles and the PvP Meta: TTK
We covered in detail what auto rifles are considered top-tier (and should be farmed) and which ones can be safely ignored. But how do they compare to other primary weapons in PvP?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Hand Cannons | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► Hand Cannons feel great right now and can deal with all the other meta options, provided they are in the hands of a skilled player. They are unbelievably forgiving in terms of aim-assist and can compete at solid ranges. Hand Cannons are the jack of all trades, and while they may not dominate up close or far away, they are incredibly scary to face in a mid-range duel. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer | PVP Primaries |
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Pulse Rifles have seen a resurgence in the past few seasons, with constant buffs to all types of Pulse Rifles. It is hard not to find success with one due to the high-flinch potential of Rapid-Fire Pulses or the lethal time-to-kill of High-Impact Pulses. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (340 RPM) - Example: The Messenger | PVP Primaries |
![]() Submachine Guns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► SMGs remain a staple of the PvP meta. SMGs absolutely shred enemies at close range and as soon as their top option is nerfed, a new top-tier SMG is introduced to replace it. SMGs have been, and seemingly will remain, meta for a long time to come. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: The Immortal | PVP Primaries |
![]() Sidearms | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | - | ► Sidearms have lost their place at the top of the meta, but they remain a solid pick, especially for players using a Controller, as they inherently have manageable stability with a rapid time-to-kill. Honestly, the main reason they've lost their place at the top is due to how powerful SMGs are right now. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (325 RPM) - Example: Forgiveness | PVP Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | ![]() | ► After a couple of recent changes and buffs, Auto Rifles are feeling great to use right now, especially in the more casual Crucible playlists. While they may not have the juice to compete with some of the top dogs, they are still a solid pick and can help you frag out with relative ease. ► Best Archetype: Precision (450 RPM) - Example: Ammit AR2 | PVP Primaries |
![]() Combat Bows | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Bows are incredibly unique. They have a remarkably slow time to kill, however, this isn't where Bows shine. Hotswap builds with bows can be incredibly potent and don't require much learning either. Bows also provide incredible value when teamshooting opponents. Despite this, Bows on their own are quite mediocre and need something behind them to really shine. ► Best Archetype: Precision (Slower Draw Time) - Example: Strident Whistle | PVP Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | ![]() | ► Scout Rifles are struggling right now. In most situations, the maps are too small to benefit the long range of a Scout rifle. An Aggressive or High-Impact Pulse Rifle will better serve your needs. Plus, Scout Rifles are abysmal up close. There are one or two outliers that shine but, on the whole, Scout Rifles are in a weak spot. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (260 RPM) - Example: Fang of Ir Yût | PVP Primaries |
Keep in mind that when it comes to PvP, TTK is perhaps the most important factor. As you know, the lower the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. This TTK guide includes the TTK figures for every weapon in Destiny 2.
When it comes to PvP, top Autos are definitely viable, with more than acceptable TTK numbers:
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Optimal TTK | Optimal Kill | Body Shot TTK | Specs | --- | Best in Class |
That said, it should be obvious by now that the main problem with Auto Rifles is their inability to hold their ground in a peek-shooting duel, which at the higher levels of Destiny 2’s PvP is a huge flaw. This is inherent to the entire auto rifle archetype, and only a few select A and S tier options can hold their own in duels against more Meta choices.
You might think that Tommy’s burn or SUROS’ rate of fire are gimmicks, but these perks allow them to challenge weapons that would otherwise dominate them in a peek shooting battle.
Auto Rifles and the PvE Meta: DPS
How do Auto rifles compare to other primary weapons in PvE?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Submachine Guns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► SMGs are doing very well right now. They have good DPS to tear through ads and beefier orange bar enemies, but also come with excellent perks. There are a plethora of good SMGs you can go for right now, like Funnelweb, Unforgiven, Every Waking Moment, or Extraordinary Rendition, the choice is completely yours. They may struggle slightly in super high-end content, but they are still definitely usable. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven | PVE Primaries |
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious | PVE Primaries |
![]() Hand Cannons | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► Hand Cannons have shot up the rankings thanks to the changes introduced this Season, all the way up to the S tier. They have solid range and can dispatch enemies with complete ease in almost all difficulties. Hand Cannons have truly taken over the spotlight with their most recent buffs, and they shouldn't be leaving it any time soon. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer | PVE Primaries |
![]() Combat Bows | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | - | ► Bows are a high-damage, high-range option for players who prefer to keep their distance. The main issue with bows is that they are slow at clearing ads (outside of Trinity Ghoul). and when you have to deal with ads up close, bows can massively struggle. However, their solid range and excellent damage make them a strong option. ► Best Archetype: Precision - Example: Under Your Skin | PVE Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Auto Rifles currently feel like a worse version of SMGs. They have a bit more range, but outside of the absolute top-shelf content such as Grandmaster Nightfalls, range isn't too much of a factor. And if you are actively tackling difficult content, Auto Rifles aren't exactly the best pick either, making Autos a decent, but outclassed option right now. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (720 RPM)- Example: Quicksilver Storm | PVE Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | ![]() | ► Scout Rifles are the definition of average right now. They can do the job just fine, you can plink away at enemies from a safe distance in high-level content; however, when it comes down to it, most players will prefer to use a Hand Cannon or SMG as they simply do the same job better and faster. Scouts aren't bad at all, but they certainly aren't a go-to ► Best Archetype: Lightweight (200 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle | PVE Primaries |
![]() Sidearms | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | ![]() | ► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo | PVE Primaries |
Keep in mind that when it comes to PvE, DPS is one of the most important factors. As you know, the higher the DPS, the more damage you can deal to a Boss or Major. This DPS chart includes the DPS numbers for every weapon in Destiny 2.
When it comes to actual DPS, Auto rifles are right in the middle. Superior to Pulses, for example, but slightly behind closer-range weapons such as sidearms and SMGs:
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Average DPS | Burst DPS | Total Damage | Specs | --- | Best in Class | Change? | Ammo |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Auto Rifle | Exotic | 7,097 | 8,481 | 744,915 | With "perfect" RNG | ![]() | Cerberus+1 | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Exotic | 6,086 | 7,144 | 507,738 | - | ![]() | Vex Mythoclast | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Exotic | 5,430 | 6,280 | 413,550 | At Max rate of fire | ![]() | Sweet Business | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Exotic | 4,391 | 5,513 | 259,200 | At Max rate of fire | ![]() | SUROS Regime | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Rapid-Fire | 3,906 | 4,542 | 280,847 | High aim assist, low range | ![]() | Chroma Rush | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Adaptive | 3,555 | 4,300 | 295,840 | High handling | ![]() | Gnawing Hunger | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | Precision | 3,369 | 4,073 | 225,888 | High range, low aim assist | ![]() | Shadow Price | Same | Primary |
![]() | Auto Rifle | High-Impact | 3,361 | 3,993 | 298,144 | Excellent range, low stability | ![]() | Age-Old Bond | Same | Primary |
Your turn
You now know everything there is to know about Auto Rifles in Destiny 2, whether that is for PVP or PVE content.
Ranking criteria
For the record, as much as we tried to keep this list as objective as possible, it’s still based on our personal experience playing the PC version of the game.
Finally, if you’re wondering what criteria was used to build this Tier list, these are the main factors I took into account:
- Lethality: The higher the effective DPS and usability, the higher the ranking.
- Consistency: Some weapons may not have the highest DPS numbers, but they are so consistent they more than make up for their lower DPS numbers.
- Ease of use: Similar to the point above, some weapons are very effective because they are easy to use and don’t require too much skill or setup. This is also rewarded with higher rankings.
- PVE/PVP Performance: High lethality in either PVE or PVP is equally valuable. However, a weapon that is good at both PVE and PVP should rank higher than one that is slightly better on only PVE or PVP.
- Fun factor: Not the most important factor, but it also helps if the weapon is damn fun to shoot with!
If you strongly disagree with some of the rankings here, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. By the way, what is your personal favorite?
See latest Updates
- 12 Jan, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Season 19 new auto rifles.
- Feb 2, 2022: Inclusion of Season 15 weapons: Sorrow’s Verse, The Last Breath, etc.
- Aug 14, 2021: Guide created with the help of Pattycakes Gaming.
Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!
these ratings are good keep up the good work 🙂
Chroma Rush is at Xur now
Gnawing Hunger has an error. Rampage is listed twice when it says: “PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage (also good: Rampage)”.
Gnawing Hunger says “Rampage (also good: Rampage”.
Sweet Sorrow needs to be updated to “Excels in PvE + PvP” on the main list.