Shotguns have been through a lot lately, especially in PvP. Several nerfs & buffs to specific archetypes, traits, and even exotics, have completely changed the shotgun meta. But now that the dust has settled, Shotguns remain extremely lethal and continue to sit among the best Special weapons, especially for PvP.
This guide covers every Shotgun in Destiny 2, including Exotic and Legendary shottys, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Destiny 2 Shotguns Tier List: Top-tier Options
This Tier list features the Top-tier Exotic and Legendary Shotguns in the game and covers both PvE and PvP:
Destiny 2 Shotguns: The complete list
This database includes every viable Shotguns currently 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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Conditional Finality | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Stasis | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 20 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Duality | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Solar | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 12 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Legend of Acrius | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Heavy | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Heavy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Lord of Wolves | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 4 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | The Chaperone | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Exotic Quest | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 4 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | The Fourth Horseman | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Solar | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 10 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Tractor Cannon | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Heavy | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Heavy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | A Sudden Death | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Prophecy Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Astral Horizon | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 10 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Basso Ostinato | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Void | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Terminal Overload | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 20 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Blasphemer | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Moon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Bonechiller | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Europa | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Compass Rose | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Seasonal | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Event: Solstice | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | Top-tier | Incandescent |
![]() | Dead Weight | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Worst ❘ D | - | Playlist: Gambit | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 17 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Deadpan Delivery | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | Recovered Red War | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Energy | No | |||
![]() | Felwinter's Lie | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 10 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | First In, Last Out | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Fortissimo-11 | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Vanguard Focusing | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Found Verdict | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Vault of Glass Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Fractethyst | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Gunnora's Axe | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 19 | Energy | No | Top-tier | Voltshot |
![]() | Hand in Hand | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 20 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Heritage | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | Deep Stone Crypt Raid | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 12 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | Reconstruction |
![]() | IKELOS_SG_v1.0.3 | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Operation: Seraph Shield | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 19 | Energy | Craftable | Incandescent | |
![]() | Imperial Decree | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Engram Focusing | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 20 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | Last Man Standing | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Solar | Season 21 | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | Fishing | ![]() | ![]() Season 21 | Season 21 | Energy | No | |||
![]() | Matador 64 | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Arc | 30th Anniversary | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Grasp of Avarice Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() 30th Anniversary | 30th Anniversary event | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Mindbender's Ambition | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | - | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Energy | No | Incandescent | |
![]() | Nessa's Oblation | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Void | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 20 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Destabilizing Rounds,Repulsor Brace,Reconstruction |
![]() | No Reprieve | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | - | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||
![]() | One Small Step | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Moon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Prophet of Doom | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Arc | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Garden of Salvation Raid | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 8 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Ragnhild-D | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||
![]() | Reckless Endangerment | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Retold Tale | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Shattered Throne | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Retrofuturist | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Riiswalker | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | No | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Seventh Seraph CQC-12 | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | PvP | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 10 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Sojourner's Tale | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Swordbreaker | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||||
![]() | The Comedian | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Worst ❘ D | - | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | The Deicide | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | The Inquisitor | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Arc | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvP | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 18 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Toil and Trouble | Shotgun | Aggressive | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Until Its Return | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Strand | Season 21 | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | - | Seasonal activity | ![]() | ![]() Season 21 | Season 21 | Kinetic | Craftable | |||
![]() | Wastelander M5 | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Dares of Eternity | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | 30th Anniversary event | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | Wishbringer | Shotgun | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Special | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Worst ❘ D | - | Playlist: Crucible | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Without Remorse | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Solar | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Presage | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 17 | Energy | Craftable | Incandescent | |
![]() | Xenoclast IV | Shotgun | Lightweight | Legendary | Special | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Average ❘ B | PvP | Vanguard Focusing | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Energy | No |
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 Shotguns in 2023
Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best Shotguns in Destiny 2 right now? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):
5. Conditional Finality
Excels in PvE
Conditional Finality, the latest Raid Exotic, is a quirky but powerful option in PvE and PvP. It can be a part of numerous damage rotations in a DPS loadout, and its Champion-stunning potential makes it a viable choice in content that features Champions like Nightfalls or Master Raids.
In PvP, it has a unique pellet spread depending on the element the gun is firing, which is beneficial to the one-hit-kill range of the Shotgun. It can also deal with Supers if you freeze and ignite them, making it a top pick across the entire game.
Exotic Perk: “Dual barrels split into Stasis and Solar damage. Landing nearly all Stasis pellets will freeze targets; landing nearly all Solar pellets will ignite targets.”
How to get it: Conditional Finality can be acquired from the Root of Nightmares raid.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Conditional Finality | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Stasis | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 20 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
4. The Chaperone
Excels in PVP
The Chaperone, known by some in the community as the ‘Maperone,’ can kill from absolutely ridiculous ranges when it gets going. With its ‘Roadborn’ perk, the Chaperone can begin killing in SMG territory; it can get really oppressive and brutal to fight.
While the Chaperone is a little harder to master than some other Shotguns like Duality, its undeniable strength makes up for its lack of ease of use. Even before you manage to get the ‘Roadborn’ perk going, you can still kill at ranges higher than the regular Slug Shotgun, and with the constant nerfs to pellet-based shotguns, it may be well worth your time to begin learning the Chaperone playstyle.
Exotic Perk: “Fires a single-slug precision round. Precision kills briefly grant bonus handling, range, and precision damage with this weapon.”
How to get it: The Chaperone can be acquired by completing an Exotic quest.
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 Chaperone | Shotgun | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Exotic Quest | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 4 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
3. Fractethyst
Excels in PVP
Fractethyst is the best option if you are looking for a good Kinetic Shotgun. It doesn’t take up your exotic slot, has excellent base stats, and is also a Precision Frame Shotgun, meaning that it is naturally better than the competition due to its favorable pellet spread.
The perks that Fractethyst comes with are also best-in-class, Quickdraw and Slideshot are both brilliant perks in the first column, and Opening Shot is arguably the best Shotgun perk in the entire game, making Fractethyst lose out in practically no areas.
Overall, Fractethyst is a real contender for the top spot in terms of PvP Shotguns, and based on what primary ammo weapon you like to use, you may prefer to use the Fractethyst over some of the competition.
PVP God roll:
- Perk 1: Quickdraw (also good: Slideshot)
- Perk 2: Opening Shot
How to get it: Fractethyst is hard to acquire these days. Xûr may randomly sell it on weekends from time to time.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Fractethyst | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
2. Matador 64
Excels in PVP
Matador 64 is the strongest Shotgun for several reasons. It is a part of the Precision Frame, granting it better pellet spread and, thus, more consistent one-hit-kills, it has some of the best base stats on a Precision Frame Shotgun, and it also comes with the best perks that can come on a Shotgun. Perpetual Motion, Threat Detector, and Pulse Monitor are all excellent options in the first column, and it comes with the staple perk that is Opening Shot, too, instantly putting it in contention for the top spot.
While others may prefer the Fractethyst over Matador, Matador does come with slightly better base stats than the Fractethyst, and it can also be target-farmed in the Grasp of Avarice Dungeon, making it more accessible than the Fractethyst. It can also be paired with some of the best PvP weapons in the game, like No Time to Explain, The Immortal, Ace of Spades, and more.
PVP God roll: Matador 64 can be acquired by completing the Grasp of Avarice dungeon.
- Perk 1: Threat Detector
- Perk 2: Elemental Capacitor (also good: Well Rounded)
How to get it: Matador 64
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Matador 64 | Shotgun | Precision | Legendary | Special | Arc | 30th Anniversary | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Grasp of Avarice Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() 30th Anniversary | 30th Anniversary event | Energy | No | Top-tier |
1. Heritage
Excels in PVE and PVP
In PvE, Heritage is simply a cut above the rest. One of my favorite weapons, the Heritage, can come with Reconstruction and Recombination, an exclusive Deep Stone Crypt perk combination, or more standard perks like Focused Fury. With these perks, Heritage can pump out some serious damage against very tanky enemies and is my go-to if I need a high-damage legendary special weapon.
Heritage is also quite powerful in PvP. Slideshot and Offhand Strike or Moving Target, combined with a clean scope, make Heritage quite a menace in PvP. Heritage can be crafted too, meaning that, eventually, you will be able to craft your god roll of this gun.
Overall, the Heritage should always be ready to go in your Kinetic slot for practically all types of content.
PVE God roll:
- Perk 1: Reconstruction (also good: Auto-Loading Holster)
- Perk 2: Recombination
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Slideshot
- Perk 2: Offhand Strike (also good: Moving Target)
How to get it: Heritage can be acquired from the Deep Stone Crypt raid.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Heritage | Shotgun | Pinpoint Slug | Legendary | Special | Kinetic | Beyond Light | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | Deep Stone Crypt Raid | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light | Season 12 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | Reconstruction |
Shotguns and the PvP Meta: TTK
We covered in detail which Shotguns 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. Shotguns are quite consistent and can be easy to use, provided you can get close enough to your opponent. In the grand scheme of things, Shotguns are among the top Special weapons to bring to the Crucible.
Shotguns and the PvE Meta: DPS
How do Shotguns 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.
When it comes to actual DPS, Shotguns are in a good place, but they require you to get up close and personal to enemies:
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Average DPS | Burst DPS | Total Damage | Specs | --- | Best in Class | Change? | Ammo |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 21,799 | 25,351 | 396,792 | With Catalyst | ![]() | Sleeper Simulant | Buffed | Heavy |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Aggressive | 15,559 | 17,367 | 381,218 | - | ![]() | Stormchaser | New | Heavy |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 16,556 | 17,991 | 273,456 | - | ![]() | One Thousand Voices | Same | Heavy |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 15,182 | 17,844 | 389,320 | With Marksman Sights | ![]() | The Queenbreaker | Buffed | Heavy |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Precision | 14,979 | 17,844 | 356,880 | - | ![]() | Reed's Regret | Buffed | Heavy |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 14,699 | 16,216 | 206,880 | - | ![]() | Merciless | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 12,171 | 13,918 | 255,528 | - | ![]() | Bastion | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Rapid-Fire | 11,224 | 12,355 | 161,406 | - | ![]() | Cartesian Coordinate | Same | Special |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 11,325 | 13,412 | 287,500 | - | ![]() | Arbalest | Same | Special |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 11,325 | 13,412 | 287,500 | - | ![]() | Lorentz Driver | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 9,771 | 11,033 | 225,075 | - | ![]() | Jötunn | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Aggressive | 9,677 | 10,774 | 250,236 | - | ![]() | Coriolis Force | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Exotic | 9,675 | 10,532 | 312,963 | With Catalyst | ![]() | Telesto | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Adaptive | 9,109 | 9,881 | 153,552 | - | ![]() | Trinary System | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | Precision | 8,112 | 9,148 | 188,685 | - | ![]() | Deliverance | Same | Special |
![]() | Fusion Rifle | High-Impact | 8,917 | 9,917 | 233,025 | - | ![]() | Glacioclasm | Same | Special |
![]() | Grenade Launcher | Exotic | 3,601 | - | 740,985 | - | ![]() | Witherhoard | Same | Special |
Endgame content
Shotguns certainly offer decent DPS numbers, especially after the buffs to pellet shotguns. But as shotguns can only be effective at close quarters, they remain extremely risky and difficult to use in endgame content (Master and Grandmaster difficulty).
Some players can make it work, but other weapon types will be better suited for the job. On the other hand, shotguns can be very effective (and fun) in casual content to medium content, including dungeons and raids in normal mode.
Your turn
You now know everything there is to know about Shotguns in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.
See latest Updates
- May 23, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Seasons 18, 19, and 20 Shotguns.
- July 24, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Year 3 and 4 shotguns.
- February 17, 2021: The guide is published for the first time.
Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!
Seems solid, just wish blasphemer was a bit higher. As soon as season 13 launched I got a reissued one with hammer-forged accurized rounds quickdraw opening shot with a range mw. The thing slaps in pvp, and in my opinion, a chaperone substitute if you are running an exotic energy primary.
If you take out the exotics and endgame PvE/PvP content rewards, Blasphemer is pretty high on the list, like top 5 😊. Outside of Wastelander, a random Altar PvE is the same amount of effort of Dares, so it’s pretty easy to pick up 👍
*Top 7 👍
I’m pretty sure the Fourth Horseman is arc, not solar.
Yep, that was my bad, little coding error snuck in there… Thank you for the heads up, corrected now!
‘No Reprieve’ has been out for several seasons, needs a rating.