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Best Swords in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP and PvE

by | May 10, 2023

While not suited for all situations, swords can deal unparallel damage as long as you can get close enough. And that is the entire deal with swords. They can be extremely lethal, provided you take risks and get up close and personal. Still, the right sword with the right perks can be considered a top-tier option, no matter the situation.

This guide covers every Sword in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendaries, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Checkmark icon V3 Updated as of Season of Defiance (S20). See Updates.

Destiny 2 Swords Tier List: Top-tier Options

This Tier list features the Top-tier Exotic and Legendary Swords in the game and covers both PvE and PvP:

NameWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier rankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
Falling GuillotineFalling Guillotine art
Falling Guillotine
SwordVortexHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesS › BestWorld loot poolCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
World loot pool
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade

► Falling Guillotine is still one of the best Legendary Swords in the entire game. ITs strong Vortex Frame archetype, solid perk pool, and good stats make it a top-tier option.
Season 11
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade
Top-tier
The LamentThe Lament Destiny 2
The Lament
SwordExoticHeavySolarBeyond LightYesS › BestExotic QuestCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Exotic Quest
Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Revving the blade increases damage, shield bypass, and adds Shield Piercing rounds shield piercing to all attacks. You also gain stacks when dealing damage with revved attacks. Additional stacks increase the damage and damage resistance of heavy attacks."

► Despite some of its targeting issues, the Lament remains one of the best swords in the game. Its Lifesteal perk is a powerful tool, and its ability to shred through high-health targets or Barrier Champions makes it a fun and powerful weapon.
Season 12
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Revving the blade increases damage, shield bypass, and adds Shield Piercing rounds shield piercing to all attacks. You also gain stacks when dealing damage with revved attacks. Additional stacks increase the damage and damage resistance of heavy attacks."
Top-tier
Crown-SplitterCrown-Splitter art
Crown-Splitter
SwordAggressiveHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesS › BestWorld loot poolCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
World loot pool
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade (also good: Vorpal Weapon)

► The Titan-exclusive Crown-Splitter is a beast when it comes to DPS. Chain light attacks on a single target to see what we mean. Able to roll with Relentless Strikes and Whirlwind Blade too, Crownsplitter is a standout pick.
Season 14
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade (also good: Vorpal Weapon)
Top-tier
Death's RazorDeath's Razor art
Death's Razor
SwordVortexHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesS › BestEngram FocusingCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Engram Focusing
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade (also good: Valiant Charge)

► Death's Razor is part of a strong archetype, is craftable, and comes with many solid perks. Classics such as Relentless Strikes and Whirlwind Blade are present, but niche perks like Valiant Charge, Surrounded, and Demolitionist are also available.
Season 20
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Whirlwind Blade (also good: Valiant Charge)
Top-tier
Sola's ScarSola's Scar art
Sola's Scar
SwordCasterHeavySolarLightfallNoA › StrongTrials of OsirisError icon V2
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Trials of Osiris
Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Caster

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Chain Reaction (also good: Vorpal Weapon)

► Sola's Scar can be a fun option, especially with Chain Reaction. It also features top-tier base stats. Having that, there is little reason to ever use it, as Swords are not meant to do ad clear...
Season 13
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Caster

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Chain Reaction (also good: Vorpal Weapon)
Top-tier
Half-TruthsHalf-Truths art
Half-Truths
SwordAdaptiveHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongDares of EternityCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Dares of Eternity
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Eager Edge (also good: Tireless Blade)

► Half-Truths is one of two swords that can roll with the perk Eager Edge. This perk alone sets it above the rest as it is incredibly fun and allows you to travel at outrageous speeds with specific abilities, such as Icarus Dash.
30th Anniversary event
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Eager Edge (also good: Tireless Blade)
Top-tier
Eternity's EdgeEternity's Edge art
Eternity's Edge
SwordVortexHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongWorld loot poolCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
World loot pool
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Surrounded

► Eternity’s Edge, a Warlock-specific sword, is the Solar equivalent to Falling Guillotine but without Whirlwind Blade. As a Vortex sword, it ranks higher than most other Legendary swords due to its superior ammo efficiency and high DPS.
Season 14
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Surrounded
Top-tier
CaretakerCaretaker art
Caretaker
SwordAdaptiveHeavySolarSeason 20YesA › StrongSeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Seasonal activity
Lightfall Preorder icon
Season 20
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Rolls: Relentless Strikes + Surrounded (also good: Valiant Charge)

► Caretaker comes with the sidegrade to Eager Edge, Valiant Charge. This perk is super fun and grants 16% extra lunge distance over Eager Edge, but it does have a prerequisite. As for its other perks, they can act as decent damage perks but are too niche to excel.
Season 20
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Rolls: Relentless Strikes + Surrounded (also good: Valiant Charge)
Top-tier
Black TalonDestiny 2 Black Talon
Black Talon
SwordExoticHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongExotic EngramCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvP
Exotic Engram
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Can fire heavy projectile attacks. Heavy attacks are stronger with full energy. Most attacks partially bypass elemental shields."

► With the ability to one-shot enemies at range in PvP and decent burst damage in PvE, Black Talon is strong Exotic. There are other best-in-class alternatives, but Black Talon remains viable.
Season 4
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Can fire heavy projectile attacks. Heavy attacks are stronger with full energy. Most attacks partially bypass elemental shields."
Top-tier
Razor's EdgeRazor's Edge art
Razor's Edge
SwordVortexHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongIron BannerCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Iron Banner
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Chain Reaction (also good: Frenzy)

► Razor's Edge is the first-ever Iron Banner sword. It looks cool, it is part of the Vortex archetype, immediately placing it above many other swords. Furthermore, it can roll with a couple of interesting perks and features the Skulking Frenzy Origin trait.
Season 16
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Vortex

PvE God Roll: Relentless Strikes + Chain Reaction (also good: Frenzy)
Top-tier

Destiny 2 Swords: The complete list

This database includes every viable Sword currently in the game:

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Abide the Return artAbide the ReturnSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Weak

C

-Dreaming CityError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Bequest Destiny 2 artBequestSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

-Deep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyCraftable
Destiny 2 Black TalonBlack TalonSwordExoticExoticHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Strong

A

PvPExotic EngramError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 4HeavyNoTop-tier
Caretaker artCaretakerSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarSeason 20YesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Strong

A

PvESeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Lightfall Preorder icon
Season 20
Season 20HeavyCraftableTop-tier
Crown-Splitter artCrown-SplitterSwordAggressiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier
Death's Razor artDeath's RazorSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEEngram FocusingCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 20HeavyCraftableTop-tierDestabilizing Rounds
Eternity's Edge artEternity's EdgeSwordVortexLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Strong

A

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier
Falling Guillotine artFalling GuillotineSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNoTop-tier
Goldtusk artGoldtuskSwordLightweightLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

-Engram FocusingCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 20HeavyCraftable
Half-Truths artHalf-TruthsSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Strong

A

PvE + PvPDares of EternityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
30th Anniversary eventHeavyCraftableTop-tier
HeartartHeartshadowSwordExoticExoticHeavyVoidDeluxe EditionYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Average

B

PvEDuality DungeonError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 17HeavyNo
Hero of Ages artHero of AgesSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyArc30th AnniversaryYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

PvEGrasp of Avarice DungeonError icon V2Destiny 2 30th anniversary icon
30th Anniversary
30th Anniversary eventHeavyNo
Honors Edge Destiny 2 artHonor's EdgeSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Weak

C

-XûrError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 10HeavyNo
Just in Case art Destiny 2Just in CaseSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarSeason 21YesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar SolarFishingError icon V2Season of the Deep Icon
Season 21
Season 21HeavyNo
Nasreddin artNasreddinSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 20HeavyNo
Negative Space Destiny 2 artNegative SpaceSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Weak

C

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
Night Terror artNight TerrorSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

-MoonError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Quickfang artQuickfangSwordLightweightLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Worst

D

PvPWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Razor's Edge artRazor's EdgeSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Strong

A

-Iron BannerError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 16HeavyNoTop-tier
Sola's Scar artSola's ScarSwordCasterLegendaryHeavySolarLightfallNoHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Strong

A

PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 13HeavyNoTop-tier
Steel Sybil Z 14 Destiny 2 artSteel Sybil Z-14SwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Weak

C

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
Temptations Hook Destiny 2 artTemptation's HookSwordCasterLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Weak

C

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
The Lament Destiny 2The LamentSwordExoticExoticHeavySolarBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Best

S

PvEExotic QuestError icon V2Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyNoTop-tier
The Other Half artThe Other HalfSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Average

B

PvPDares of EternityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
30th Anniversary eventHeavyCraftable
Thin Precipice art Destiny 2Thin PrecipiceSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyStrandSeason 21YesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element StrandSeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Season of the Deep Icon
Season 21
Season 21HeavyCraftable
Throne-Cleaver artThrone-CleaverSwordAggressiveLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Average

B

-Engram FocusingCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 20HeavyCraftable
Destiny 2 Worldline Zero artWorldline ZeroSwordExoticExoticHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Worst

D

-Exotic KioskError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 3HeavyNo
Zephyr artZephyrSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStasisFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
Average

B

PvEEvent: DawningError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
30th Anniversary eventHeavyNo

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 Destiny 2 Swords in 2023

Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best Swords in Destiny 2 right now? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):

 

Falling Guillotine Sword Destiny 2 featured

5. Falling Guillotine

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Fallen Guillotine remains a brilliant option for any Sword enjoyer out there. While it does not have the utility of something like Eager Edge, it does come with the strongest Sword archetype, as well as some of the top damage perks on a sword like Whirlwind Blade, Relentless Strikes, and Surrounded.

Falling Guillotine can be quite the hassle to farm for, though. Thankfully, it has a very small perk pool making it quite likely that you will get your favoured perks quite quickly.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Relentless Strikes
  • Perk 2: Whirlwind Blade

How to get it: Falling Guillotine can be randomly acquired as end-of-match activities or via the Gunsmith, Legendary engrams, and Prime engrams.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Falling Guillotine artFalling GuillotineSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNoTop-tier

 

The Other Half Swords Destiny 2 featured

4. The Other Half

Crucible logo Destiny 2Best PVP Sword in Destiny 2

A community favorite, The Other Half isn’t overly different from its Arc counterpart. However, where it does differ is in its second perk column. Half-Truths does not come with a damage perk, while the Other Half comes with three; Frenzy, Whirlwind Blade, and Vorpal Weapon.

The Other Half also comes with the widely popular Eager Edge perk, which is incredibly fun to use and can be used for incredibly fast movement with certain techs with Shatterdive and Well of Radiance, as well as some other options too.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Eager Edge
  • Perk 2: Whirlwind Blade (also good: Frenzy)

How to get it: The Other Half can be acquired by completing Dares of Eternity runs or turning in Treasure keys at Xûr’s in Eternity.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
The Other Half artThe Other HalfSwordAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Average

B

PvPDares of EternityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
30th Anniversary eventHeavyCraftable

 

Death's Razor Sword

3. Death’s Razor

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Death’s Razor does what Falling Guillotine does, but better, more easily, and in different ways. Coming with classic damage perks like Relentless Strikes, Whirlwind Blade, and Surrounded Death’s Razor is already a Vortex Frame powerhouse. However, it can also come with options like Valiant Charge or the new Void perk, Destabilizing Rounds.

Death’s Razor is also craftable, meaning it can get Enhanced perks, furthering the edge that this Sword has over the competition.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Relentless Strikes
  • Perk 2: Whirlwind Blade (also good: Valiant Charge or Surrounded)

How to get it: Death’s Razor can be focused with seasonal engrams at the War Table in the H.E.L.M.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Crown-Splitter artCrown-SplitterSwordAggressiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier

 

Crown-Splitter Sword Destiny 2 featured

2. Crown-Splitter

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Titans are still in luck with the Crownsplitter. Still boasting some excellent numbers in the Sword category, Crownsplitter remains one of the top dogs when it comes to Swords. While they may not be in the meta right now, if Swords ever make a return, Crownsplitter will be a very popular pick.

While it may not have Eager Edge of Valiant Charge, it is the powerhouse of Legendary Swords, and god rolls of it should be saved in case it returns to power.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Relentless Strikes
  • Perk 2: Whirlwind Blade (also good: Vorpal Weapon 

How to get it: Crown-Splitter can be randomly acquired as end-of-match activities or via the Gunsmith, Legendary engrams, and Prime engrams.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Crown-Splitter artCrown-SplitterSwordAggressiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier

 

The Lament Destiny 2 featured sword

1. The Lament

Vanguard logo Destiny 2Best PvE Sword in Destiny 2

The Lament has always been a powerful pick, and this fact hasn’t changed. It simply has so much going for it. Solid burst damage with the right combos, life steal, and anti-champion capabilities. It also looks pretty cool, which is always a bonus.

While The Lament has had its issues with tracking and FPS, it has always been the go-to Sword for any player wanting to wield one for a while now, and it looks to remain that way for a long time.

Exotic Perk: “Revving the blade increases damage, shield bypass, and adds Shield Piercing rounds shield piercing to all attacks. You also gain stacks when dealing damage with revved attacks. Additional stacks increase the damage and damage resistance of heavy attacks.”

How to get it: The Lament can be acquired by completing an Exotic quest.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
The Lament Destiny 2The LamentSwordExoticExoticHeavySolarBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Best

S

PvEExotic QuestError icon V2Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyNoTop-tier

Swords and the PvP Meta: TTK

Remember 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.

Having said that, TTK figures rarely apply to Heavy weapons. When choosing a Heavy weapon for PVP, you want something reliable and able to consistently deliver one-hit-kills. Swords can certainly do that but require you to get up close and personal. This carries a lot of risks, which is why you’ll rarely see a Sword user in endgame PVP content.

You can still choose one and have fun with it in 6v6 matches, but you’ll be better off with other weapon types. So, how do they compare to other primary weapons in PvP?

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Rocket launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Rocket Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

-► Rocket Launchers remain a staple in many players' loadouts. They can provide high-range one-shot kills, and can also do AoE damage which can potentially allow you to clear teams if they are close enough together.

► Best Archetype: Precision (15 RPM) - Example: Gjallarhorn
PVP Heavies
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2
Machine Guns
A › Strong
Strong

A

-► Machine Guns are still an incredible option for Control as they can provide many kills. However, they do require multiple shots to kill which can lead to you potentially being Sniped or peak-shot by a Primary Weapon.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (450 RPM) - Example: Corrective Measure
PVP Heavies
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

Trend up► Heavy Grenade Launchers are an incredible option for those who are confident in landing their direct hits. They can functionally serve as a Rocket Launcher, but instead of coming with only a single shot, Grenade Launchers can bring 3, which, of course, means more potential kills.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Memory Interdict
PVP Heavies
Sword weapon type Destiny 2
Swords
C › Weak
Weak

C

-► Swords are perhaps the most fun option (especially with Eager Edge), however, they are too inconsistent to warrant any competitive use. Furthermore, benefitting from third-person view is no longer possible without Heavy ammo, making the only niche usage swords had now redundant.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive/Lightweight- Examples: Half-Truths/Quickfang
PVP Heavies
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
C › Weak
Weak

C

Linear fusion rifles are in the middle of an identity crisis. They are stronger than sniper rifles and have more aim assistance, but they still require Heavy ammo and a headshot to one-shot an enemy.

On top of that, they also have a charge time to take into account. Compared to a sniper rifle that fires immediately and only uses Special ammo, Linear Fusion rifles make little sense for the Crucible. In PVP, you want a Heavy weapon that can either easily down several guardians or guarantee a kill in a high-stakes match. It isn't impossible to do with a linear fusion rifle, but other weapon types can accomplish that more easily.
PVP Heavies

Swords and the PvE Meta: DPS

How do Swords compare to other primary weapons in PvE?

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Sword weapon type Destiny 2
Swords
B › Average
Average

B

Trend downMain roles: Add Clear & Single Target damage (i.e. Boss damage).

► Swords have fallen slightly out of the meta since the days of Falling Guillotine, however, they are still a solid pick. Swords like The Lament and Heartshadow are both solid options for slaying majors and dealing good boss damage. They are unfortunately very risky, though, and when Linear Fusion Rifles deal the incredible amount of damage they do right now, it is difficult to recommend Swords.

► Best Archetype: Exotics - Example: The Lament
PVE Heavies
Rocket launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Rocket Launchers
A › Strong
Strong

A

-Main role: Burst Damage (Secondary role: Add Clear)

► Rocket Launchers are solid options. They deal good burst damage and are effective for killing high-health targets like Majors quickly. Their ammo economy is poor, unfortunately, meaning that you will need to be conservative with how you use your rockets.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (20 RPM) - Example: The Hothead
PVE Heavies
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
S › Best
Best

S

Trend upMain role: Single Target damage (Secondary role: Burst Damage)

► Linear Fusion Rifles are the cream of the crop. They can deal very high damage consistently. They have solid DPS and incredible total damage, making them amazing for Raids and other high-level pieces of content. There are also plenty of strong options right now, including the Taipan-4FR or Cataclysmic, which both come with excellent perks and have good damage.

► Best Archetype: Precision (533 RPM) - Example: Reed's Regret
PVE Heavies
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2
Machine Guns
B › Average
Average

B

-Main role: Add Clear

► Machine Guns are a different kind of Power weapon. Instead of focusing on boss damage (outside of Xenophage), Machine Guns focus on ad clear. And they are excellent at ad clear, especially Thunderlord; however, given that abilities and primary weapons are excellent at add clear, Machine Guns are currently mediocre options for your Heavy slot.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example:
PVE Heavies
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
D › Worst
Worst

D

Trend downMain role: Add Clear (Secondary role: Single Target Damage).

► Grenade Launchers are in a very sad state right now. Outside of maybe Typhon GL5, Heavy Grenade Launchers are in a terrible spot. They do not have great boss damage and also do not have good add clear, making them very, very pointless in all content.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Typhon GL5
PVE Heavies
Sniper rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Exotic Sniper Rifles
C › Weak
Weak

C

-Main role: Single Target damage

► Exotic Snipers are very niche. They are far from the top of the meta right now as they are simply harder to use and in many ways inferior to Linear Fusion Rifles.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Whisper of the Worm
PVE Heavies

According to Bungie, these are the different roles for Heavy weapons:

Role Explanation Target Weapon types
Add Clear Clearing weaker enemies faster than you could with a primary ammo weapon. For most content, primaries do the add clear job perfectly well, so this is most useful in high-difficulty PvE. Main: Machine Guns, Grenade Launchers, Swords

Secondary: Rocket Launchers

Single Target Damage Burning down a boss. Main: Linear Fusion Rifles, Exotic Snipers, Swords

Secondary: Grenade Launchers, Machine Guns

Burst Damage Burning down a champion quickly, or for bosses with multiple damage phases, clearing a phase quickly. Main: Rocket Launchers

Secondary: Linear Fusion Rifles

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, Swords are top-tier:

-Weapon TypeArchetypeAverage DPSBurst DPSTotal DamageSpecs---Best in ClassChange?Ammo

Your turn

You now know everything there is to know about swords in Destiny 2, whether that is for PVP or PVE content.

See latest Updates

We keep our content up to date! These are the latest changes made to this guide:
  • May 10, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of all the new swords released up to Season 20.
  • April 13, 2022: General updates and the inclusion of all the new swords released up to Season 16.
  • July 5, 2021: The guide is published for the first time.

Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!

About The Author

Matthew Evans
Matthew Evans
Games have been a part of my life for the better part of my age, I've been hooked on them for years, and Destiny 2 is no exception. I've racked up countless hours and plenty of experience, which I hope to share with Blueberries who want to get involved with Destiny.
More from Matthew Evans
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