Breech-loading grenade launchers, aka Special ammo Grenade launchers, have been at the top of the meta for years now. Buffs and nerfs have come and gone, but Special ammo GLs remain stronger than ever, especially in PvE.
This guide covers every Breech Grenade launcher (GL) in Destiny 2, including Exotic and Legendaries, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Updated as of Season of the Wish (S23). See Updates.
Destiny 2 Best Breech-Loading Grenade Launchers: Top-tier Options
This Tier list features the Top-tier Exotic and Legendary breech loading GLs in the game:
Item | Weapons | Type | Archetype | Ammo? | Element? | Requirements | In loot pool? | Rank | Source | Available? | Tier rank | Source ❘ DLC | Final Verdict | Released | Perks | Best of? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Witherhoard | Witherhoard | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | S › Best | Exotic Kiosk | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk Shadowkeep | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Projectiles fired blight the target or nearby area on impact. Blighted targets take damage over time and blight the nearby area on death." ► Even a few nerfs to this GL couldn't knock it out of the top spot. A true fire-and-forget weapon, Witherhoard can deal with all manner of enemies in just a few shots. Whether it is used as part of a damage rotation, or just to lock an area down, Witherhoard reigns supreme. | Season 11 | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Projectiles fired blight the target or nearby area on impact. Blighted targets take damage over time and blight the nearby area on death." | Top-tier | |
Salvager's Salvo | Salvager's Salvo | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Exotic Kiosk | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Exotic Kiosk Free-to-Play | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Demolitionist) + Chain Reaction ► Salvager's Salvo is incredibly easy to obtain and is still an extremely powerful option. This is a versatile weapon with its set rolls, allowing for some backup boss damage or some of the best add clear in the game. It is perhaps slightly outmatched by Forbearance but remains close due to how easy it is to get. | Season 13 | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Demolitionist) + Chain Reaction | Top-tier | |
Ignition Code | Ignition Code | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | World loot pool | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | World loot pool Free-to-Play | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Slideshot (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Frenzy ► Breech-Loaded Grenade Launchers are very strong right now, and Ignition Code is no exception. Being the first Grenade Launcher to roll with Slideshot, it lands some points for uniqueness, but with Slideshot, you can deal high DPS or constantly blind enemies over and over. | Season 14 | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Slideshot (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Frenzy | Top-tier | |
Forbearance | Forbearance | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | S › Best | Vow of the Disciple Raid | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Vow of the Disciple Raid Witch Queen | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Unrelenting) + Chain Reaction ► Forbearance is widely regarded as the best Wave Frame in the entire game. With the ability to roll the combo that made Salvager's Salvo famous, this weapon is an ad-clear machine. Not to mention, Wave Frames are extremely fun to use, and the Origin Trait is a nice cherry on top! | Season 16 | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Unrelenting) + Chain Reaction | Top-tier | |
Harsh Language | Harsh Language | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Lost Sector | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Lost Sector Free-to-Play | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Threat Detector) +Destabilizing Rounds (also good: Repulsor Brace) ► Harsh Language is, arguably, one of the best non-exotic greande launchers to date. The god roll of Envious Assassin and Destabilizing Rounds means this is functionally a Void Forbearance, perfect for build synergy. It's only downside? World Loot Drop. | Season 20 | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Threat Detector) +Destabilizing Rounds (also good: Repulsor Brace) | Top-tier | |
Prodigal Return | Prodigal Return | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Arc | Season 20 | Yes | S › Best | Seasonal activity | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Seasonal activity Season 20 | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Rolls: Field Prep (also good: Envious Assassin) + Voltshot (also good: Demolitionist) ► The first GL to roll with Voltshot, Prodigal Return is an Arc main's dream come true. Field Prep will help keep Voltshot going on longer, while Envious will help you take down larger targets when paired with Adrenaline Junkie. Oh, and did I mention it is craftable? | Season 20 | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Rolls: Field Prep (also good: Envious Assassin) + Voltshot (also good: Demolitionist) | Top-tier | |
Forbearance (Brave) | Forbearance (Brave) | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Onslaught Activity | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Onslaught Activity Free-to-Play | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Unrelenting) + Chain Reaction ► Forbearance is widely regarded as the best Wave Frame in the entire game. With the ability to roll the combo that made Salvager's Salvo famous, this weapon is an ad-clear machine. Not to mention, Wave Frames are extremely fun to use, and the Origin Trait is a nice cherry on top! | Into the Light | Slot: Arc | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Unrelenting) + Chain Reaction | Top-tier | |
Lingering Dread | Lingering Dread | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Stasis | Deluxe Edition | Yes | A › Strong | Duality Dungeon | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Duality Dungeon Deluxe Edition | Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE/PvP God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Chill Clip ► Lingering Dread is the first of its kind. It's the first Special Stasis Grenade Launcher, and it comes with one of the newer Stasis perks, Chill Clip. However, despite the potential nuance that Chill Clip may bring, Lingering Dread doesn't shake up the meta. It is merely another 'pretty good' option. | Season 17 | Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE/PvP God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Chill Clip | Top-tier | |
Truthteller | Truthteller | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | World loot pool Free-to-Play | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Field Prep) + Demolitionist ► To this day, Truthteller remains a solid pick for any PvE content. While better void GLs have come into the mix, Truthteller's staying power lies within its perks. Whether it is Auto-Loading Holster + Demo or Field Prep + Swashbuckler, this GL will get the job done. | Season 11 | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Field Prep) + Demolitionist | Top-tier | |
Deafening Whisper | Deafening Whisper | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | World loot pool Free-to-Play | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Lead From Gold) + Auto-Loading Holster ► Now heavily overshadowed by Harsh Language, Deafening Whisper is still a solid pick in the event its usurper eludes you. While it might lack any direct synergy, the old standby of Ambitious Assassin and Auto-Loading means that you'll always have a shot ready to go. | Season 12 | Slot: Void | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Ambitious Assassin (also good: Lead From Gold) + Auto-Loading Holster | Top-tier | |
Empty Vessel | Empty Vessel | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Vanguard Focusing | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Vanguard Focusing Free-to-Play | Slot: Solar | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Demolitionist ► Thanks to both Vanguard Focusing and Origin Traits, Empty Vessel is now one of the best GLs out there. While it still slightly suffers from its rather large perk pool, the aforementioned focusing and extra perks on reset mean a god roll can be yours in no time. | Season 14 | Slot: Solar | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Demolitionist | Top-tier | |
Pardon Our Dust | Pardon Our Dust | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Dares of Eternity | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Dares of Eternity Free-to-Play | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Vorpal Weapon ► Now craftable, Pardon Our Dust is as potent as ever. The old god rolls still work here, though you might be slightly disappointed to find out Danger Zone was removed from the pool. If you happen to have one with this perk, keep it! | 30th Anniversary event | Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Lightweight PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Vorpal Weapon | Top-tier | |
Explosive Personality | Explosive Personality | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Solar | The Witch Queen | Yes | A › Strong | Vox Obscura | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Vox Obscura Witch Queen | Slot: Solar | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Feeding Frenzy (also good: Auto-Loading Holster) + Frenzy (also good: One For All) ► There's a lot to love about Explosive Personality. With a solid PVE-oriented perk pool and the Land Tank Origin Trait, which gives you damage resist on kill, you can't go wrong with this amazing Wave Frame Grenade Launcher. | Season 16 | Slot: Solar | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Feeding Frenzy (also good: Auto-Loading Holster) + Frenzy (also good: One For All) | Top-tier | |
New Pacific Epitaph | New Pacific Epitaph | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Special | Stasis | Deluxe Edition | Yes | A › Strong | Ghost of the Deep Dungeon | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Ghost of the Deep Dungeon Deluxe Edition | Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Demolitionist (also good: Lead from Gold) + Redirection (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) ► New Pacific Epitaph is our first handheld Stasis Waveframe. What it lacks in traditional rolls, it makes up for in uniqueness, as it is the only wave frame available to get Demolitionist. Paired with Redirection, and you'll find a GL that could slowly become a top pick. | Season 21 | Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Special | Archetype: Wave PvE God Roll: Demolitionist (also good: Lead from Gold) + Redirection (also good: Adrenaline Junkie) | Top-tier |
Special Grenade Launchers: The complete list
This database includes every viable Special GL in the game:
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Witherhoard | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk | No | Shadowkeep | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | ||
Dead Messenger | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Void | The Witch Queen | Yes | Special | Void | Weak ❘ C | - | Vox Obscura | Yes | Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | |||
Ex Diris | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Arc | Season 22 | Yes | Special | Arc | Weak ❘ C | - | Season Pass | No | Season 22 | Season 22 | Energy | No | |||
Ignition Code | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Best ❘ S | PvE | World loot pool | No | Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | ||
Pardon Our Dust | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Dares of Eternity | Yes | Free-to-Play | 30th Anniversary event | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | ||
Lingering Dread | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Stasis | Deluxe Edition | Yes | Special | Stasis | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Duality Dungeon | No | Deluxe Edition | Season 17 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | ||
The Militia's Birthright | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Average ❘ B | PvE | Nightfall: The Ordeals | No | Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Kinetic | No | |||
New Pacific Epitaph | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Stasis | Deluxe Edition | Yes | Special | Stasis | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Ghost of the Deep Dungeon | No | Deluxe Edition | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | ||
Tusk of the Boar | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Strand | Ongoing... | - | Iron Banner | No | Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Kinetic | No | |||
The Mountaintop | Grenade Launcher | Micro-Missile | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Ongoing... | - | Onslaught Activity | No | Free-to-Play | Into the Light | Kinetic | No | |||
Truthteller | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Void | Strong ❘ A | PvE | World loot pool | No | Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | Top-tier | ||
Orewing's Maul | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | No | Special | Void | Average ❘ B | PvP | Iron Banner | No | Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | |||
Deafening Whisper | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Void | Strong ❘ A | PvE | World loot pool | No | Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Energy | No | Top-tier | ||
Salvager's Salvo | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | No | Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | Top-tier | ||
Empty Vessel | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Solar | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Vanguard Focusing | No | Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | Top-tier | ||
Explosive Personality | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Solar | The Witch Queen | Yes | Special | Solar | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Vox Obscura | Yes | Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | ||
Forbearance | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Vow of the Disciple Raid | Yes | Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Bait and Switch | |
Wilderflight | Grenade Launcher | Double Fire | Legendary | Special | Void | Deluxe Edition | Yes | Special | Void | Average ❘ B | PvE | Spire of the Watcher Dungeon | No | Deluxe Edition | Season 19 | Energy | No | Repulsor Brace | ||
Harsh Language | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Void | Best ❘ S | PvE | Lost Sector | No | Free-to-Play | Season 20 | Energy | No | Top-tier | Repulsor Brace | |
Prodigal Return | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Arc | Season 20 | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Seasonal activity | Yes | Season 20 | Season 20 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Voltshot | |
Undercurrent | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Arc | Average ❘ B | PvE | Nightfall: The Ordeals | No | Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Energy | No | Voltshot,Bait and Switch | ||
Wild Style | Grenade Launcher | Double Fire | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Solar | Ongoing... | - | Nightfall: The Ordeals | No | Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Energy | No | |||
Forbearance (Brave) | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Onslaught Activity | No | Free-to-Play | Into the Light | Energy | No | Top-tier | Bait and Switch |
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 Special Ammo Grenade Launchers in 2024
Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best GLs in Destiny 2 right now? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):
5. Witherhoard
Excels in PVE and PVP
This wouldn’t be a proper Top 5 without the king, would it?
Witherhoard needs no introduction. This exotic GL has been a staple of the game since its release back in Season of Arrivals, and for very good reason. The damage over time effect makes this a monster in all modes, letting you take down larger targets in one or two shots, or locking down an area in PvP. It’s even used as part of many of the top DPS builds, solidifying its position as #1.
If there was ever an exotic worth the spoils and catalyst grind, it is Witherhoard.
Exotic Perk: “Projectiles fired blight the target or nearby area on impact. Blighted targets take damage over time and blight the nearby area on death.”
How to get it: Witherhoard can be purchased at the Monument to Lost Lights in the Tower.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Witherhoard | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk | No | Shadowkeep | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
4. Prodigal Return
Excels in PvE
Prodigal Return answers the question: “What if Salvager’s Salvo, but better?”
Dropping the same season as Harsh Language, Prodigal Return made waves thanks to having the coveted Voltshot perk. While not as instantly powerful as Chain Reaction, Voltshot synergizes with Arc 3.0, allowing for hefty ability uptime via Ionic Traces. Even outside of this, Voltshot makes for an excellent room-clearing perk in and of itself.
Better get it while the getting’s good. That is to say, craft it before the next DLC, or you might regret it.
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Field Prep
- Perk 2: Voltshot
How to get it: Prodigal Return can be acquired by completing Seasonal activities and focusing 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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Prodigal Return | Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Arc | Season 20 | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Seasonal activity | Yes | Season 20 | Season 20 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Voltshot |
3. The Mountaintop
Excels in PvE
Despite nerfs to it before it was sunset with Beyond Light, The Mountaintop continues to dominate the current meta.
While the micro missile frame was heavily nerfed in The Crucible, it retained its potency in PvE, allowing it to excel past most competition right out of the gate. This, in addition to its absolutely stacked perk pool (Lead from Gold, Auto-Loading Holster, Recombination, Frenzy, Vorpal Weapon, etc.), makes for a weapon that’s almost guaranteed to be the star of the show in PvE.
In comparison, The Mountaintop isn’t as exciting in PvP. While it does retain some of its power (mostly in the form of ease of use), there are still other options that seem to out-compete it. These are the top The Mountaintop God Rolls:
- PvE God roll: Auto-Loading Holster + Frenzy or Recombination
How to get it: The Mountaintop is a Brave weapon from the Onslaught activity.
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 Mountaintop | Grenade Launcher | Micro-Missile | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Kinetic | Ongoing... | - | Onslaught Activity | No | Free-to-Play | Into the Light | Kinetic | No |
2. Tusk of the Boar
Excels in PvE
Waveframes are arguably some of the strongest ad-clear weapons in the game. Their ability to hit multiple targets, along with their damage, lets you clear rooms like no tomorrow, and that’s before you consider the perks.
Tusk of the Boar is no different, offering several ways to approach ad-clearing. And considering it is Strand, you’ll even be able to sever several targets at once thanks to it rolling with Slice, which is a huge boon in higher-level content. These are the top Tusk of the Boar God Rolls:
- PvE God roll: Envious Assassin + Chain Reaction
How to get it: Tusk of the Boar can be acquired from Iron Banner.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tusk of the Boar | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | Special | Strand | Ongoing... | - | Iron Banner | No | Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Kinetic | No |
1. Forbearance (Brave)
Excels in PvE
Forbearance is returning with many of the same perks, which immediately makes it one of the best weapons in the entire game. However, somehow, Forbearance has reached another level as it has come with Demolitionist, a brilliant perk for builds involving Grenades.
In PvP, Forbearance isn’t too good, as it comes with hardly any PvP-focused perks. While certain Wave Frames are decent in PvP, like Explosive Personality, Forbearance doesn’t really follow this trend.
Forbearance, especially the BRAVE variant, is a game-changer in PvE. Packed with a plethora of powerful perks, both old and new, Forbearance can single-handedly take care of your add-clearing needs. It’s a must-have for any player serious about PvE in Destiny 2. These are the top Forbearance God Rolls:
- PvE God roll: Demolitionist (also good: Ambitious Assassin) + Chain Reaction
How to get it: Forbearance is a Brave weapon from the Onslaught activity.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Forbearance | Grenade Launcher | Wave | Legendary | Special | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | Special | Arc | Best ❘ S | PvE | Vow of the Disciple Raid | Yes | Witch Queen | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Bait and Switch |
Special GLs and the PvP Meta: TTK
We covered in detail which grenade launchers are considered top-tier (and should be farmed) and which can be safely ignored. But how do they compare to other Special weapons in PvP?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shotguns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► With the introduction of fixed (and consistent) pellet spread patterns per archetype and the reversal of some widely disliked nerfs, Shotguns are finally back. With consistent changes in the right direction, Shotguns are once more a staple pick among many PvP players. ► Best Archetype: Precision (65 RPM) - Example: Matador 64 | PVP Specials |
Sniper Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Sniper Rifles are in an excellent spot right now. After the nerfs to Linear Fusion Rifles, it only makes sense that Sniper usage picked up. And with weapons that come stacked with aim assist and excellent perks, such as the Defiance of Yasmin or Beloved, it's easy to see why Snipers have risen up the ranks. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (90 RPM) - Example: Beloved | PVP Specials |
Fusion Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ► Fusion Rifles have been at the top of the meta for a while now, and it doesn't seem to be changing. Fusions can cover the close to medium ranges excellently, and a good Fusion Rifle player can be incredibly frustrating to play against, no matter the range of the engagement. ► Best Archetype: Precision (780ms Charge Time) - Example: Main Ingredient | PVP Specials | |
Linear Fusion Rifles | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | - | ► The special ammo Linear Fusion category of weapon is rather barren, but the two weapons that occupy it, Arbalest and Lorentz Driver, are both forces to be reckoned with. While they have received some deserved nerfs throughout Seasons 17-19, they remain a solid choice for many players wanting a long range option. | PVP Specials |
Trace Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Trace Rifles are quite a niche pick and will fall short as a competitive option in most players' hands. Even once you learn to master Trace Rifles, you'll be better off with a Special weapon that can provide a one-hit-kill t rather than one that can be out-dueled by a Primary weapon. ► All Archetypes are 1000 RPM - Best Option: Coldheart | PVP Specials |
Glaives | B › Average | Average ❘ B | ► With their buffs in Season 19 and the hit registration improvements they've seen, Glaives can be quite annoying to play against. That said, they are outclassed by other mid/long range options and can't compete at close range due to their lackluster melee. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (55 RPM)- Example: The Enigma | PVP Specials | |
Grenade Launchers | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | ► Grenade Launchers are annoying to play against, and that's about it. They can be used in a hot-swap loadout, but you'll be better served by a Bow like Le Monarque. Grenade launchers can put pressure on your enemies, but they can't bring the heat like some other Special Weapons can. ► Best Archetype: Lightweight - Example: Truthteller | PVP Specials |
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. We have a TTK guide/chart that includes TTK figures, but that mostly applies to Primary weapons, not Specials.
For PvP, you want a Special weapon that can consistently get you a one-hit kill. Special ammo Grenade launchers are not always the best on that front, but they are great at dealing enough damage with one shot so that its user can quickly swap weapons and get an easy cleanup kill.
Special GLS and the PvE Meta: DPS
How do Breech-loading GLs compare to other Special weapons in PvE?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fusion Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ►Fusion Rifles are absolutely insane right now. There were a ton of viable options already and newer options, such as The Eremite, can roll with perk combinations that can turn them into monsters. This, on top of certain Exotic options like Merciless, makes Fusion Rifles a staple option for either backup DPS or just general major clear. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (500ms Charge Time) - Example: Cartesian Coordinate | PVE Specials | |
Shotguns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ► Shotguns are excellent right now. They can be used in traditional hot-swap loadouts when combined with Tractor Cannon in a raid setting, and they remain strong at both major clear and burst damage. However, they can achieve some of the highest damage combos in the game due to their ease of use, high burst damage, and perks like One-Two Punch. ► Best Archetype: Lightweight (90 RPM) - Example: Wastelander M5 | PVE Specials | |
Grenade Launchers | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Grenade Launchers are brilliant right now. They are versatile and are arguably the best pick in almost all areas. They can have excellent add control through Blinding Grenades or the Wave Frame archetype, and they can also deal good boss damage in a 'hotswap' build with Spike Grenades. Simply put, having a strong arsenal of Grenade Launchers is something you should definitely prioritize if you're looking to get into high-level content. ► All Breach Grenade Launchers share the same archetype | PVE Specials |
Sniper Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Sniper Rifles have improved a tad, but not that much. They are still too slow for most players' liking, but they can still be a solid backup DPS option. These are commonly used in many longer-range DPS scenarios, but other than that, they remain mediocre. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (140 RPM) - Example: Supremacy | PVE Specials |
Trace Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► With the nerfs to the double-special ammo economy, Trace Rifles have been knocked down a notch. Using a Primary weapon is just more efficient these days. However, they remain solid utility weapons and a go-to if players still want to run double-special lodouts. They also have a couple of solid Exotic options too, making them a decent pick right now. | PVE Specials |
Glaives | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Glaives require a bit of getting used to, but when you do, they can grant you crazy levels of damage resistance. However, they are quite a risky pick, especially if you haven't learned how to master them first. Glaives are also one-dimensional. There is basically no reason to use their melee attack, which is unfortunate as that is probably the most fun part of the Glaives. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (55 RPM) - Example: The Enigma | PVE Specials |
Linear Fusion Rifles | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | ► Linear Fusion Rifles are difficult to rank as there are only two of them. While Arbalest is definitely a powerful weapon, it is by no means a must-pick anymore. And Lorentz Driver isn't exactly a serious contender for PvE. Overall, this archetype is quite weak, especially now that Arbalest isn't the top-pick it used to be. | PVE Specials |
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 D2 DPS chart includes the DPS numbers for every weapon in Destiny 2.
Breech-loading GLs are extremely good at ad clear, especially those with Chain Reaction. When it comes to actual DPS, Special ammo GLs are in a good place:
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Sustained DPS | Mag DPS | Total Damage | Specs | --- | Best in Class | Change? | Ammo |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grenade Launcher | Exotic | 16027 | 16027 | Max "Enrage" | Ex Diris | Special | ||||
Grenade Launcher | Exotic | 9779 | 9779 | - | Witherhoard | Same | Special | |||
Grenade Launcher | Double Fire | 9490 | 9490 | 322854 | - | Wilderflight | Same | Special | ||
Grenade Launcher | Lightweight | 7757 | 7757 | 289041 | - | Ignition Code | Same | Special | ||
Grenade Launcher | Wave | 6741 | 6741 | 251160 | - | Forbearance | Same | Special | ||
Grenade Launcher | Exotic | 6741 | 6741 | 251160 | - | Dead Messenger | Special |
Before you go…
Are you looking for a top-tier Primary and Heavy weapon to round out your loadout? We cover the Best Destiny 2 Hand Cannons and Best Shotguns in Destiny 2, too.
You now know everything there is to know about breech loaded grenade launchers in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.
See latest Updates
- April 17, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Seasons 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 Special ammo Grenade launcherfs.
- June 19, 2023: The guide is published for the first time.
Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!
Fighting Lion is missing from the list.