Best Auto Rifles in Destiny 2: Tier List & God Rolls

by | Jul 4, 2026

Auto rifles are slowly making a comeback. They may not be as dominant as they once were, but the top Auto Rifles are still considered to be among the best weapons in Destiny 2. This guide covers all Auto Rifles in Destiny 2 and their best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2 Updated as of the Monument of Triumph update.

Chapters

Top Tier Auto Rifles for PvE & PvP

These are the best Exotic and Legendary Auto rifles right now (those we consider S-Tier or better):

WeaponTier RankSource ❘ DLCVerdictArchetypeAmmoElement
Khvostov 7G-0X art Destiny 2
Khvostov 7G-0X
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Exotic Quest
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Every seventh bullet from this weapon deals additional damage and ricochets to nearby targets. Features the Shoot to Loot perk."

► Khvostov may not be the go-to option it once was, but that doesn't mean it's fallen off the meta. Khvostov is not only an ad-clearing monster, but it also has the unique benefit of being able to 'tag' many enemies, allowing you to get assists and progress your ammo bar. This may sound gimmicky, but give it a try and notice your ammo economy improve.
ExoticPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Gnawing Hunger art
Gnawing Hunger
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Gambit Ops
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace or Demolitionist + Destabilizing Rounds or Rampage
PvP God Roll: Tap the Trigger or Withering Gaze + Dynamic Sway Reduction or Rampage

► Back and better than ever, Gnawing Hunger’s reprisal lets it reclaim its legendary status as best Adaptive auto. Now sporting Void perks alongside its old god rolls, this is but one reason to hop back into Gambit.
AdaptivePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Positive Outlook art Destiny 2
Positive Outlook
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Fireteam Ops
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Rolls: Repulsor Brace (also good: Withering Gaze) + Destabilizing Rounds (also good: Mega Kill clip)
PvP God Rolls: Zen Moment (also good: Dynamic Sway Reduction) + Target Lock (also good: Mega Kill Clip)

► Positive Outlook received a highly positive refresh, now holding itself as one of the best Precision Frames in-game for PvE and a solid offering in PvP. Great Void perks and added utility make this a standout Auto Rifle in the current sandbox
PrecisionPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Choir of One art Destiny 2
Choir of One
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE
Exotic Quest
EP1 Echoes Icon (final) Destiny 2
Episode 1: Echoes
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Fires extended-range, heavy-caliber projectiles at a reduced rate of fire. Deals increased precision damage when aiming down sights. Rapid final blows cause targets to explode into a pool of radiolarian fluid. Hip firing launches multiple projectiles."

► Choir of One retains its spot in the S+ tier. It is the 'do everything' gun. It has incredible ammo economy, particularly with the new ammo generation system; it pumps out respectable damage, and can burst down beefy targets if needed. It is the definition of an all-rounder, and it hits home on every single front.
ExoticSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialVoid Void
Cusp Sempiternal art Destiny 2
Cusp Sempiternal
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE
The Desert Perpetual Epic Raid
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Edge of Fate
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Support

PvE God Roll: Reciprocity (also good: Attrition Orbs or Repulsor Brace) + Destabilizing Rounds or Master of Arms

► Cusp Sempiternal comes with a variety of solid Void-based perks, but the main trick up its sleeve is the fact ithat t can grant Void Overshields to allies, making it remarkably strong.
SupportPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Reckless Oracle Destiny 2
Reckless Oracle
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE
Garden of Salvation Raid
Shadowkeep Icon (final) Destiny 2
Shadowkeep Pack
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Destabilizing Rounds + One for All or Repulsor Brace

► Reprised for a second time, Reckless Oracle continues to show us why it’s the king of rapid-fire autos. Now sporting one of the game’s best damage perks for non-boss enemies, there’s no reason not to have one in your arsenal.
Rapid-FirePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
 class=
Arctic Haze
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE
Europa Destination
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Incandescent or Heal Clip + Burning Ambition or Frenzy

► The best Solar Rapid Frame in D2 will have Guardians flocking back to Europa to hunt down this treasure. Great utility across its perks, it feeds Solar or keeps ability recharges high with great efficiency. A must-have, especially for Solar-focused builds.
Rapid-FirePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
No Hesitation art Destiny 2
No Hesitation
Auto Rifle

S



Excels in:
PvE
The Pale Heart Destination
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Support

PvE God Roll: Physic (also good: Demolitionist, Burning Ambition) + Chaos Reshaped (also good: Incandescent, Attrition Orbs)

► The first Support Frame auto rifle to enter the game, No Hesitation set an extremely high bar. Able to put out both substantial damage and healing (with perks to assist with each), there's very little to hate about this weapon.
SupportPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar

Tier Ranks used for our list:

  • S+ Tier – Meta: Weapons so good they singlehandedly shifted the current meta
  • S Tier – Best: Highest ranking weapons.
  • A Tier – Strong: Very strong weapons, but not on the same level as S Tier Choices.
  • B Tier – Average: Either decent weapons or weapons that fit a very specific niche/use case.
  • C Tier – Weak: Mediocre weapons that are easily outclassed by the competition.
  • D Tier – Worst: Weapons that don’t have much to offer and don’t deserve your attention.

Destiny 2 Auto Rifles: Complete List

Auto Rifles Database

ArtNameTypeAmmoElementTierExcelsSourceLast Update
Centrifuse art Destiny 2CentrifuseAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Exotic KioskSeason 21
Destiny 2 Cerberus+1 artCerberus+1Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-Exotic EngramForsaken DLC
Choir of One art Destiny 2Choir of OneAuto RifleSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialVoid Void
S+ > Meta
PvEExotic QuestThe Final Shape DLC
Destiny 2 Hard LightHard LightAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
B › Average
-Exotic EngramSeason 1
Khvostov 7G-0X art Destiny 2Khvostov 7G-0XAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvE + PvPExotic QuestThe Final Shape DLC
Destiny 2 Monte CarloMonte CarloAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvEExotic EngramShadowkeep DLC
Necrochasm art Destiny 2NecrochasmAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvECrota's End RaidMonument of Triumph
Quicksilver Storm artQuicksilver StormAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
C › Weak
-Exotic KioskLightfall DLC
Destiny 2 SUROS RegimeSUROS RegimeAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvPExotic EngramSeason 3
Destiny 2 Sweet Business artSweet BusinessAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-Exotic QuestSeason 1
Destiny 2 Tommy's Matchbook artTommy's MatchbookAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
B › Average
PvE + PvPExotic KioskSeason 10
Abyss Defiant artAbyss DefiantAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvECrota's End RaidMonument of Triumph
Adamantite art 2 Destiny 2AdamantiteAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEPit of Heresy DungeonMonument of Triumph
Age-Old Bond art Destiny 2Age-Old BondAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvELast Wish RaidMonument of Triumph
 class=Ahab CharAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvPSeasonal EngramEdge of Fate DLC
Ammit AR2 artAmmit AR2Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvE + PvPGunsmithSeason 18
Arc Logic artArc LogicAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
B › Average
PvEMoon DestinationMonument of Triumph
 class=Arctic HazeAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
S › Best
PvEEuropa DestinationMonument of Triumph
 class=Auric DisablerAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPTrials of Osiris - Week 3Edge of Fate DLC
 class=Braytech WerewolfAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvE + PvPTo be confirmed...Episode 2
Breakneck art Destiny 2BreakneckAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvE + PvPGambit FocusingMonument of Triumph
Chroma Rush artChroma RushAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvEWorld DropsMonument of Triumph
Chrysura Melo artChrysura MeloAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
B › Average
PvEShattered Throne DungeonMonument of Triumph
Come to Pass artCome to PassAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Throne World DestinationMonument of Triumph
Coronach-22 artCoronach-22Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
B › Average
-Lost SectorLightfall DLC
Cusp Sempiternal art Destiny 2Cusp SempiternalAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
S › Best
PvEThe Desert Perpetual Epic RaidEdge of Fate DLC
Dark Decider artDark DeciderAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Iron Banner LegacySeason 19
Decatur 02 art Destiny 2DECATUR 02Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
A › Strong
PvEDistortionsMonument of Triumph (new)
Duty Bound artDuty BoundAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvPPinnacle Ops EngramRenegades DLC
Eidolon Ally artEidolon AllyAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-Crota's End RaidMonument of Triumph
Everburning Glitz art Destiny 2Everburning GlitzAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvE + PvPTrials of Osiris - Week 3Ash & Iron
Fair Judgment art Destiny 2Fair JudgmentAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
B › Average
PvE + PvPSolo OpsMonument of Triumph
 class=False PromisesAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-XûrEpisode 3
Firefright artFirefrightAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-Presage MissionSeason 17
 class=Giver's BlessingAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
-Kepler DestinationEdge of Fate DLC
Gnawing Hunger artGnawing HungerAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
S › Best
PvE + PvPGambit OpsMonument of Triumph
Herod-C artHerod-CAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-Gambit FocusingMonument of Triumph
Horror Story new art Destiny 2Horror StoryAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-Eerie EngramMonument of Triumph
 class=IntercalaryAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
A › Strong
PvEThe Desert Perpetual RaidEdge of Fate DLC
Khvostov 7G-02 art Destiny 2Khvostov 7G-02Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvEExotic QuestThe Final Shape DLC
Krait artKraitAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-GunsmithWitch Queen DLC
Lethal Abundance art Destiny 2Lethal AbundanceAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPIron BannerMonument of Triumph
Lodbrok-C art Lodbrok-CAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-GunsmithSeason 19
No Hesitation art Destiny 2No HesitationAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
S › Best
PvEThe Pale Heart DestinationMonument of Triumph
Old Sterling art Destiny 2Old SterlingAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
C › Weak
-Lost SectorSeason 21
Origin StoryAuto RifleKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvEVanguard FocusingMonument of Triumph (new)
Perpetualis artPerpetualisAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
D › Worst
PvEAvalon MissionLightfall DLC
Pluperfect art Destiny 2PluperfectAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvENessus DestinationMonument of Triumph (new)
Positive Outlook art Destiny 2Positive OutlookAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
S › Best
PvE + PvPFireteam OpsMonument of Triumph
Prosecutor art Destiny 2ProsecutorAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
B › Average
PvE + PvPProphecy DungeonMonument of Triumph
Reckless Oracle Destiny 2Reckless OracleAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
S › Best
PvEGarden of Salvation RaidMonument of Triumph
Reghusk's Pledge art Destiny 2Reghusk's PledgeAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvEIron Banner FocusingRenegades DLC
Ros Arago IV art Destiny 2Ros Arago IVAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
C › Weak
-XûrSeason 23
Rufus's Fury artRufus's FuryAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvE + PvPRoot of Nightmares RaidMonument of Triumph
Scathelocke artScathelockeAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvEEDZ DestinationMonument of Triumph
 class=Seventh Seraph CarbineAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvECosmodrome DestinationMonument of Triumph
Shadow Price art Destiny 2Shadow PriceAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
B › Average
PvEVanguard FocusingMonument of Triumph
Snipehunt MK. 47 art Destiny 2Snipehunt Mk. 47Auto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvESparrow Racing LeagueMonument of Triumph (new)
Sorrow's Verse artSorrow's VerseAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Crucible OpsMonument of Triumph
Steelfeather Repeater art Destiny 2Steelfeather RepeaterAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvEWorld DropsMonument of Triumph (new)
Sweet Sorrow artSweet SorrowAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Vox Obscura MissionWitch Queen DLC
 class=The Forward PathAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvPIron BannerMonument of Triumph
The Last Breath artThe Last BreathAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-XûrSeason 15
The Number artThe NumberAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
D › Worst
-XûrSeason 14
The Ringing Nail art Destiny 2The Ringing NailAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvEArena OpsMonument of Triumph (new)
The Riposte art Destiny 2The RiposteAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvE + PvPCrucible CompetitiveMonument of Triumph
The Summoner artThe SummonerAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvE + PvPTrials of Osiris - LighthouseMonument of Triumph
Tigerspite artTigerspiteAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvEDreaming City DestinationMonument of Triumph
Trendsetter art Destiny 2TrendsetterAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
B › Average
PvEWorld DropsMonument of Triumph (new)
Veiled Threat art Destiny 2Veiled ThreatAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
B › Average
PvEEncore MissionThe Final Shape DLC
VS Pyroelectric Propellant art Destiny 2VS Pyroelectric PropellantAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvE + PvPVesper's Host DungeonMonument of Triumph
Zealous Ideal art v3 Destiny 2Zealous IdealAuto RiflePrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvEEquilibrium DungeonMonument of Triumph

Top 5 Autos: Deep Dive

Gnawing Hunger Destiny 2 featured auto rifle

5. Gnawing Hunger

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2Excels in PvE and PvP

Gnawing Hunger, even before this reprisal, is arguably the best Adaptive Auto to ever grace us, and now that it has new perks, it’s back to claim its rightful spot as top dog. It has some very solid base stats that make it a monster in PvP, and the inclusion of perks like Destabilizing Rounds or Master of Arms means it’ll shred through whatever comes your way in PvE. These are the top Gnawing Hunger God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Reciprocity + Circle of Life

 

Arctic Haze preview Destiny 2

4. Arctic Haze

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

The best Solar Rapid Frame in D2 will have Guardians flocking back to Europa to hunt down this treasure. Great utility across its perks, it feeds Solar or keeps ability recharges high with great efficiency. A must-have, especially for Solar-focused builds.

  • PvE God roll: Incandescent or Heal Clip + Burning Ambition or Frenzy

 

Reckless Oracle preview Destiny 2

3. Reckless Oracle (Pantheon)

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

Reckless Oracle remains one of the best auto rifles in the game, especially with this reprisal. The updated perk pool includes heavy hitters like Chaos Reshaped to deal even more damage, and new additions like Dimensional Shift that let it lean even further into its already amazing Void synergy. These are the top Reckless Oracle God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Destabilizing Rounds (also good: Dimensional Shift) + Chaos Reshaped or Repulsor Brace

 

No Hesitation preview Destiny 2

2. No Hesitation

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

The first Support Frame auto rifle to enter the game, No Hesitation set an extremely high bar. Able to deal both substantial damage and heal (with perks to assist with each), there’s very little to hate about this weapon. These are the top No Hesitation God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Physic (also good: Demolitionist) + Circle of Life (Also good: Incandescent)

 

Raised Voice Choir of One Ornament screen Destiny 2

1. Choir of One

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

As a Special ammo Auto Rifle, Choir of One is the first of its kind. In Wyvern hip-fire mode, this weapon does incredibly serious damage for a Special Weapon, making it not only a good weapon to deal with chunking beefy targets but also capable of boss DPS as a backup option, something that Rocket Sidearms and Wave-Frame Grenade Launchers can’t do. We cover how to get the Choir of One here.

Exotic Perk: “Fires extended-range, heavy-caliber projectiles at a reduced rate of fire. Deals increased precision damage when aiming down sights. Rapid final blows cause targets to explode into a pool of radiolarian fluid. Hip firing launches multiple projectiles.”

Auto Rifles in the Meta

We covered which 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?

Vanguard logo Destiny 2PvE Meta

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Pulse rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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 cannon weapon type Destiny 2
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
Auto rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Auto Rifles
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend up► Auto Rifles are in a good place right now, options like Khvostov are incredibly potent, and utility picks such as No Hesitation make Auto Rifles a very solid option for those wanting to use a good Primary Weapon.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 76-0X
PVE Primaries
Combat bow weapon type Destiny 2
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
SMG weapon type Destiny 2
Submachine Guns
B › Average
Average

B

Trend down► SMGs are not so hot anymore, due to the buffs to other weapon archetypes, as well as the prevalence of ability usage at close range, there is little space for SMGs to compete these days.

►Best Archetype- Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven
PVE Primaries
Scout rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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
Sidearm weapon type Destiny 2
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.

PvP Crucible logo Destiny 2PvP Meta

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2
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 rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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
Auto rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Auto Rifles
S › Best
Best

S

Trend up► Auto Rifles are remarkably easy to use. Options like Khvostov or The Summoner both excel at medium range, and if you can close the gap on Pulse Rifles, you can easily take advantage of the high flinch factor and solid time-to-kill that Auto Rifles have.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 7G-0X
PVP Primaries
Sidearm weapon type Destiny 2
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
SMG weapon type Destiny 2
Submachine Guns
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend down► SMGs have lost a little bit of power as aggressive play isn't as prevalent as it once was, but you can definitely still succeed with certain SMGs, especially on close-range maps.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: Unending Tempest
PVP Primaries
Combat bow weapon type Destiny 2
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 rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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

Remember that in 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.

Before you go…

Are you looking for a top-tier Special and Heavy weapon to round out your loadout? We cover the Best Destiny 2 Shotguns and Best Destiny 2 Linear Fusion Rifles, too.

See latest Updates

We keep our content up to date! These are the latest changes made to this guide:
  • July 4, 2026: Update based on the changes made with Monument of Triumph.
  • September 19, 2025: Inclusion of Autos from The Edge of Shape and updates based on the current meta.
  • March 17, 2025: Inclusion of Autos from Episodes 2 & 3 and updates based on the Episode: Heresy’s meta.
  • July 29, 2024: General updates according to The Final Shape Meta and the inclusion of Auto Rifles from Episode 1.
  • March 5, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Auto Rifles from Season 23.
  • November 3, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Season 20, 21, and 22 auto rifles.
  • Jan 12, 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!

About The Author

Matthew Evans
Matthew Evans
I've been hooked on Destiny 2 for years now... I've racked up countless hours and plenty of experience, which I hope to share with Blueberries who want to get involved with Destiny. You can find Matthew on Twitter.
More from Matthew Evans
12 Comments
  1. Deividas

    these ratings are good keep up the good work 🙂

    Reply
  2. K

    Chroma Rush is at Xur now

    Reply
  3. Nathanael

    Gnawing Hunger has an error. Rampage is listed twice when it says: “PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage (also good: Rampage)”.

    Reply
  4. Veggies

    Gnawing Hunger says “Rampage (also good: Rampage”.

    Reply
  5. Veggies

    Sweet Sorrow needs to be updated to “Excels in PvE + PvP” on the main list.

    Reply
  6. Veggies

    You list Chroma Rush as S tier here, but B tier on its own page.

    Reply
  7. kitness

    Individual page for Chroma Rush lists it as a ‘B’ weapon, but it’s listed as ‘S’ tier here.

    Reply
  8. Adam

    Thanks for making these lists! one thing i noticed is that you have the element labeled as slot in the top list. Would it be possible to get the slots as well? thanks! Adam

    Reply
  9. Peter Heard

    the Riposte is at Xur now please check your facts before doing these guides

    Reply
    • Ric Molina

      Xur features random weapons every weekend… We can’t update all of our guides every weekend based on his random loot pool, sorry.

      Reply
  10. Castrum

    Missing “Origin Story”.

    Reply
  11. CHAMPS

    I love this page!!!! There is one error/issue though. The filter just below this heading

    Destiny 2 Auto Rifles: Complete List

    If you try and set the element type, it just clears the list.

    You are all amazing! Thanks for all that you do! I live and by by Blueberries!!

    Reply
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