Sidearms are some of the most slept on weapons in Destiny 2. Many Guardians are convinced that sidearms have low range and limited range and they see no reason to use one instead of a hand cannon or Pulse rifle.
But the truth is, Sidearms may have limited range but they generally have the highest damage output in the entire game, and that applies to PvP and PvE.
This guide covers every Sidearm in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendary snipers, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Destiny 2 Sidearms Tier list
The Tier list below includes every Exotic and non-sunset legendary Sidearm in the game. It starts with the S Tier weapons and moves down from there. It also covers both PvE and PvP, with the “Excels in” column clearly identifying in what area each weapon shines:
Name | Weapons | Type | Archetype | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Rank | Source | Available? | Tier rank | Source ❘ DLC | Final Verdict | Released | Perks | Best of? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Drang (Baroque) | ![]() Drang (Baroque) | Sidearm | Together Forever | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Derelict Leviathan | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | Derelict Leviathan![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Wellspring + Incandescent PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Swashbuckler) + Rampage ► One of the strongest sidearms in the game, Drang (Baroque), is back and has excellent rolls for every part of the game. Incandescent alone makes it great for PvE (although not as good as CALUS Mini-Tool), and its high zoom stat and well-rounded first column make it a good PvP pick too. | Season 17 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Wellspring + Incandescent PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Swashbuckler) + Rampage | Top-tier |
Forerunner | ![]() Forerunner | Sidearm | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Exotic Quest | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP | Exotic Quest![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Fires full auto with increased rate of fire. Deals increased precision damage to unshielded targets. Tapping the trigger gives it less recoil and improves accuracy." ► Forerunner is a true menace in the right hands. While it may take some time to get used to, there is little you can do against a Forerunner player who is hitting their shots. Boasting a 0.60s time-to-kill at practically infinite range, Forerunner is an incredible pick inside of PvP | 30th Anniversary event | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Fires full auto with increased rate of fire. Deals increased precision damage to unshielded targets. Tapping the trigger gives it less recoil and improves accuracy." | Top-tier |
Traveler's Chosen | ![]() Traveler's Chosen | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk![]() Shadowkeep | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Final blows grant stacks of Gathering Light. Consuming stacks, grant melee, grenade, and class ability energy based on the number of stacks. Each stack of Gathering Light improves this weapon's reload, handling, and target acquisition." ► Capable of inflicting some of the best time-to-kill numbers, sidearms are considered a safe bet in PVP. And Traveler's Chosen is perhaps one of the best all-around sidearms in Destiny 2. It has the best base stats ever seen on a sidearm AND it features an extremely useful and consistent exotic perk. | Season 11 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Final blows grant stacks of Gathering Light. Consuming stacks, grant melee, grenade, and class ability energy based on the number of stacks. Each stack of Gathering Light improves this weapon's reload, handling, and target acquisition." | Top-tier |
Peacebond | ![]() Peacebond | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | No | A › Strong | Iron Banner | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Iron Banner![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Rangefinder (also good: Killing Wind) + Swashbuckler PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Headstone ► With good base stats that match those of the fan-favorite High Albedo, Peacebond also happens to offer several top-tier perks for both PVE and PVP. Peacebond was one of the few weapons to offer Headstone and that made it very special. That isn't any longer the case, as many other weapons can roll with Headstone these days. Still, Peacebond remains a solid sidearm. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Rangefinder (also good: Killing Wind) + Swashbuckler PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Headstone | Top-tier |
Trespasser | ![]() Trespasser | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Arc | The Witch Queen | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk![]() The Witch Queen | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Reloading after defeating a target causes the next burst to be a longer, more powerful superburst. Final blows with Unrepentant superbursts automatically reload your weapon and provide an Unrepentant superburst." ► Our favorite sidearm in the game, Trespasser is a monster with its exotic perk active. While it won't be the best choice in Master or Grandmaster content, it's exceptionally powerful and fun everywhere else, including PvE and PvP. | Season 17 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Reloading after defeating a target causes the next burst to be a longer, more powerful superburst. Final blows with Unrepentant superbursts automatically reload your weapon and provide an Unrepentant superburst." | Top-tier |
Allied Demand | ![]() Allied Demand | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Iron Banner | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Iron Banner![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Subsistence) + Multikill Clip (also good: Frenzy) PvP God Roll:Rangefinder + Iron Reach ► Allied Demand's reissued version offers some pretty good perk combinations. With tons of damage and reload traits for PvE and the rare combination of two range perks for PvP, this sidearm has what's needed to help Guardians succeed anywhere. | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Subsistence) + Multikill Clip (also good: Frenzy) PvP God Roll:Rangefinder + Iron Reach | Top-tier |
Last Dance | ![]() Last Dance | Sidearm | Omolon Adaptive | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | World loot pool | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Full Auto + Rangefinder ► Last Dance still packs a punch all these seasons later! Be on the lookout for a Full Auto + Rangefinder drop! | Season 11 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Full Auto + Rangefinder | Top-tier |
High Albedo | ![]() High Albedo | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Europa | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Europa![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Killing Wind + Wellspring ► High Albedo is a good sidearm that features both strong base stats and perks. This Sidearm can truly excel with a Killing Wind + Wellspring combination of perks paired with a Full Auto Retrofit Mod. | Season 12 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Killing Wind + Wellspring | Top-tier |
Punching Out | ![]() Punching Out | Sidearm | SUROS Rapid-Fire | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Vanguard Focusing | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Vanguard Focusing![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Over Flow + Kill Clip Punching Out is a strong sidearm that can truly excel with the right roll. For instance, Over Flow + Kill Clip on this full Auto Suros Sidearm can make it a beast in PvE (and PvP to some extend). | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Over Flow + Kill Clip | Top-tier |
Devil's Ruin | ![]() Devil's Ruin | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Solar | Shadowkeep | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | Exotic Kiosk![]() Shadowkeep | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Variable trigger. Press and release to fire individual shots. Hold to charge up a high-powered, ![]() ► Able to deal with Unstoppable Champions, this is a fun weapon that does decent damage and melts shotgun apes in PVP when in laser mode. You will rarely see it in the wild, but this weapon deserves more attention, especially now that primary ammo is unlimited. | Season 9 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Variable trigger. Press and release to fire individual shots. Hold to charge up a high-powered, ![]() | Top-tier |
Drang | ![]() Drang | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | The Gunsmith | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | The Gunsmith![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP Roll: Moving Target + Rangefinder ► Drang (Baroque) features some of the best stats and range amongst Sidearms. Plus, it comes with many top-tier perks for both PvE and PvP. For PvP, you can't go wrong with perks that vastly improves this weapon's consistency and ease of use. Rangefinder is the first to come to mind. | Season 12 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP Roll: Moving Target + Rangefinder | Top-tier |
Empirical Evidence | ![]() Empirical Evidence | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Throne World | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | Throne World![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Compulsive Reloader + Swashbuckler ► Ever since Breachlight debuted in Season of Dawn, there have been tons of fans of Aggressive Burst Sidearms. Empirical Evidence, however, quickly falls flat on its face with barely any good PVE-oriented perks. | Season 16 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Compulsive Reloader + Swashbuckler | Top-tier |
Forgiveness | ![]() Forgiveness | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | Primary | Arc | Lightfall | Yes | A › Strong | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | Trials of Osiris![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Adrenaline Junkie PvE God Roll: Moving Target + Adrenaline Junkie ► The first sidearm with an Adept variant, many have been waiting for something like it. Sadly, it only partially lived up to expectations. Its base stats are easily best in class and can benefit even more from Adept mods, giving it a great feel at base. However, its perks are fairly niche for PvP, making a lot of players pass on this weapon for now. | Season 17 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Adrenaline Junkie PvE God Roll: Moving Target + Adrenaline Junkie | Top-tier |
Brass Attacks | ![]() Brass Attacks | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Xûr | ![]() | Average ❘ B Excels in: PvE | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Frenzy + Rampage ► Look out for Feeding Frenzy + Rampage for a nice PVE build on this Sidearm. | Season 13 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Frenzy + Rampage | |
The Keening | ![]() The Keening | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Playlist: Crucible | ![]() | Average ❘ B Excels in: PvE | Playlist: Crucible![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Multikill Clip ► The Keening is a mid-tier sidearm that can really shine with the right perks. If you like sidearms, keeping one of these around might come in handy if you want to run an Arc build without using an Exotic in this slot. | Season 13 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Multikill Clip | |
Buzzard | ![]() Buzzard | Sidearm | Adaptive | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Nightfall: The Ordeals | ![]() | Average ❘ B Excels in: PvE | Nightfall: The Ordeals![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Perpetual Motion + Multikill Clip (also good: Kinetic Tremors) | Season 20 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Perpetual Motion + Multikill Clip (also good: Kinetic Tremors) | |
Final Warning | ![]() Final Warning | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | B › Average | Exotic Quest | ![]() | Average ❘ B Excels in: PvP | Exotic Quest![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Holding down the trigger marks targets and loads multiple bullets, which fire in a burst with increased stability on trigger release. Hitting a marked target with a fully charged burst will unravel them. Hipfiring Projectiles will track marked targets and deal increased body shot damage. Aiming Projectiles have greatly increased velocity and deal extra critical hit damage." ► While Final Warning may be a fun option inside of the Crubile, it isn't meta-defining and doesn't change the game too much. There are better options that don't take up your exotic slot. | Season 20 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Holding down the trigger marks targets and loads multiple bullets, which fire in a burst with increased stability on trigger release. Hitting a marked target with a fully charged burst will unravel them. Hipfiring Projectiles will track marked targets and deal increased body shot damage. Aiming Projectiles have greatly increased velocity and deal extra critical hit damage." | |
Rat King | ![]() Rat King | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Average ❘ B | Exotic Kiosk![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "This fully automatic weapon becomes stronger when nearby allies also have it equipped. Reloading immediately after a kill grants a brief period of invisibility." ► One of the most unique primary weapons available, Rat King is capable when used by yourself and quite strong when used in a Fireteam with other Rat King users. | Season 1 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "This fully automatic weapon becomes stronger when nearby allies also have it equipped. Reloading immediately after a kill grants a brief period of invisibility." | |
Seventh Seraph SI-2 | ![]() Seventh Seraph SI-2 | Sidearm | Lightweight | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Xûr | ![]() | Average ❘ B | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Vorpal Weapon ► This Seventh Seraph weapon, while not the best, can be pretty decent in PVE with a Demolitionist + Vorpal combo. And to be able to create Warmind cells is one hell of a bonus. | Season 10 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Vorpal Weapon | |
Lonesome | ![]() Lonesome | Sidearm | Precision | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | World loot pool | ![]() | Average ❘ B | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Full Auto + Kill Clip ► Lonesome can be a nice filler int he Kinetic slot- be on the lookout for a Full Auto + Kill clip combination. | Season 11 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Full Auto + Kill Clip | |
Cryosthesia 77K | ![]() Cryosthesia 77K | Sidearm | Exotic | Primary | Stasis | Beyond Light | Yes | B › Average | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Average ❘ B | Exotic Kiosk![]() Beyond Light | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Press and release to fire individual shots. Hold to fire a Charged Shot when Liquid Cooling is active. Final blows with this weapon enable a Charged Shot for a short duration. Targets hit by this shot are instantly frozen." ► Cryosthesia 77K has been through a lot. It was originally released in a sorry state, but it recently received several buffs that help it stand on its own. While it will serve you best in PVE as part of a carefully selected Stasis built, it can hold its own in the hands of an experienced sidearm user in PVP. | Season 14 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Press and release to fire individual shots. Hold to fire a Charged Shot when Liquid Cooling is active. Final blows with this weapon enable a Charged Shot for a short duration. Targets hit by this shot are instantly frozen." | |
Farewell | ![]() Farewell | Sidearm | Lightweight | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Xûr | ![]() | Average ❘ B | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Frenzy ► Slap on a Full Auto Retrofit Mod and look out for a Subsistence + Frenzy combo for a killer PVE Sidearm! | Season 14 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Frenzy | |
A Swift Verdict | ![]() A Swift Verdict | Sidearm | Precision | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | B › Average | Prophecy Dungeon | ![]() | Average ❘ B | Prophecy Dungeon![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Surplus) + Rangefinder (also good: Kill Clip) ► A Swift Verdict is part of a fairly unpopular archetype: Precision sidearms. There are more lethal options out there, namely lightweight sidearms. Still, if you happen to land a god roll, this weapon can certainly compete in 6v6 PVP modes. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Surplus) + Rangefinder (also good: Kill Clip) | |
Enigma's Draw | ![]() Enigma's Draw | Sidearm | Precision | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | C › Weak | World loot pool | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Opening shot+ Frenzy ► An Opening Shot + Rangefinder combo can make this a nice compliment to any PvP build needing a Sidearm. | Season 10 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Opening shot+ Frenzy | |
The Fool's Remedy | ![]() The Fool's Remedy | Sidearm | SUROS Rapid-Fire | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | No | C › Weak | Iron Banner | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | Iron Banner![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Moving Target + Kill Clip ► The Fool's Remedy can roll with some decent perks, but Sidearms, in general, aren't that good (especially when not on a controller). Plus, while it has a solid optimal TTK at 0.67s, there are Archetypes with better TTKs out there. | Season 11 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Moving Target + Kill Clip | |
The Vision | ![]() The Vision | Sidearm | Omolon Adaptive | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | C › Weak | World loot pool | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Full Auto + Kill Clip ► The Vision is certainly not the best sidearm, but a Full Auto + Kill Clip combo with the right stats can bring out the best of this little sidearm. | Season 14 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Full Auto + Kill Clip | |
Spoiler Alert | ![]() Spoiler Alert | Sidearm | Lightweight | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | C › Weak | World loot pool | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Killing Wind + Swashbuckler ► Lore implications upon its release aside, Spoiler Alert is not a very strong sidearm. If you want to use it in PvE be on the lookout for a Killing Wind + Swashbuckler combo. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Killing Wind + Swashbuckler | |
Redback-5si | ![]() Redback-5si | Sidearm | Lightweight | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | C › Weak | World loot pool | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage ► Because of its S-tier PVE perks and Lightweight Frame, Redback-5si seems amazing... until you start firing it. Sidearms feel extremely weak in PVE right now and need a major buff before this weapon (or any other sidearm) becomes usable. | Season 16 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Rampage | |
Mykel's Reverence | ![]() Mykel's Reverence | Sidearm | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Strand | Lightfall | Yes | C › Weak | Root of Nightmares Raid | ![]() | Weak ❘ C | Root of Nightmares Raid![]() Lightfall | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Thresh + Swashbuckler (also good: Hatching) | Season 20 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: Thresh + Swashbuckler (also good: Hatching) | |
Brigand's Law | ![]() Brigand's Law | Sidearm | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | Ongoing | Seasonal activity | ![]() | Ongoing... | Seasonal activity![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Coming soon... ► Still too early to tell, review ongoing... | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Coming soon... | |
Boudica-C | ![]() Boudica-C | Sidearm | Precision | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | Ongoing | World loot pool | ![]() | Ongoing... | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Coming soon... ► Still too early to tell, review ongoing... | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Coming soon... | |
Fioritura-59 | ![]() Fioritura-59 | Sidearm | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | Ongoing | World loot pool | ![]() | Ongoing... | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... ► Still too early to tell, review ongoing... | Season 19 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... | |
Liminal Vigil | ![]() Liminal Vigil | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | Primary | Stasis | Deluxe Edition | Yes | Ongoing | Spire of the Watcher Dungeon | ![]() | Ongoing... | Spire of the Watcher Dungeon![]() Deluxe Edition | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... ► Still too early to tell, review ongoing... | Season 19 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... | |
Senuna SI6 | ![]() Senuna SI6 | Sidearm | Omolon Adaptive | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | Ongoing | World loot pool | ![]() | Ongoing... | World loot pool![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... | Season 20 | Slot: ![]() ![]() God Rolls: To be confirmed... |
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.
More Destiny 2 Tier lists:
![]() | Auto Rifles | ![]() |
![]() | Combat Bows | ![]() |
![]() | Fusion Rifles | ![]() |
![]() | Glaives | ![]() |
![]() | Grenade Launchers | ![]() ![]() |
![]() | Hand Cannon | ![]() |
![]() | Linear Fusion Rifle | ![]() |
![]() | Machine Guns | ![]() |
![]() | Pulse Rifle | ![]() |
![]() | Rocket Launcher | ![]() |
![]() | Scout Rifle | ![]() |
![]() | Shotgun | ![]() |
![]() | Submachine Guns | ![]() |
![]() | Swords | ![]() |
![]() | Trace Rifles | ![]() |
Best Destiny 2 Sidearms in 2022
This section not only covers the top Sniper Rifles in the game, it also tells you where you can find them.
PS: This guide covers every weapon source in Destiny 2 and most of the sources below are self-explanatory, but in doubt, you can always leave a comment below or ask away on our Discord server.
Overall, these are our Top 5 favorite Sniper Rifles for PvE and PvP.
5. Forerunner
Excels in PVP
One of this writer’s personal favorite Exotics, the Forerunner is an exotic anyone familiar with the Halo Magnum will easily fall in love with. The Forerunner, like Sidearms in Destiny 1, uses Special ammo and packs quite a serious punch. Meant to be hip-fired for up close combat, this sidearm can also zoom in and pick off far away targets. PVP or PVE players will both quickly discover what an incredible sidearm the Forerunner can be in the right hands.
Forerunner will deal extra damage to unshielded enemies on precision hits. Regular enemies, Majors, even stunned Champions fall quickly as a result. Even Guardians can get killed in three precision hits up close or from across the map. If you haven’t completed the quest for this exotic it is strongly recommended that you do so. You won’t regret it.
Exotic Perk: “Fires full auto with increased rate of fire. Deals increased precision damage to unshielded targets. Tapping the trigger gives it less recoil and improves accuracy.”
How to get it: Forerunner 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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Forerunner | Sidearm | Exotic | Exotic | Special | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvP | Exotic Quest | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | 30th Anniversary event | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
4. Peacebond
Excels in PvE
The Peacebond is an Iron Banner sidearm and Destiny’s first that deals Stasis damage. It fires a three-shot burst and is incredibly deadly in both PVE and PVP. Peacebond is also the only gun on this list that can roll with the perk Headstone, which will spawn a Stasis Crystal upon a precision kill. If you’re looking for a sidearm that can lend to any Stasis build this is the one for you.
Peacebond has a nice following in the Crucible as it shoots far and feels very easy to use. Be sure to pick one up during Iron Banner week and give it a try.
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Rangefinder
- Perk 2: Headstone (also good: Subsistence, Swashbuckler, Snapshot Sights)
How to get it: Peacebond can be acquired by completing Iron Banner matches and turning in Iron Banner tokens.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Peacebond | Sidearm | Adaptive | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | No | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
3. Drang (Baroque)
Best PvE Sidearm in Destiny 2
Once a reward from Calus in the Menagerie, Drang (Baroque) has returned with the Leviathan in Season of the Haunted. And this time, it’s craftable! Like the original Drang, this version still pairs with the exotic hand cannon Strum as well, reloading it when kills with Drang (Baroque) are made and vice versa. Easy to use and with great base stats you’ll quickly see why this sidearm is so popular once you pick it up.
Drang (Baroque) stands out with a base good range, aim assist, and higher zoom stat than most sidearms. The gunplay Drang (Baroque) sports on top of those values make it an absolute blast to use in PVP or PVE.
PvE God roll:
- Perk 1: Well-Rounded
- Perk 2: Incandescent (also good: Rampage, Swashbuckler)
How to get it: Drang (Baroque) is a Haunted weapon that can be acquired at the Derelict Leviathan.
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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Drang (Baroque) | Sidearm | Together Forever | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Best ❘ S | PvE + PvP | Derelict Leviathan | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 17 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier |
2. Forgiveness
Best PvP Sidearm in Destiny 2
Forgiveness is a recent addition to the Destiny 2 loot pool being brought in for Trials of Osiris during Season of the Haunted. This gun is a 2-shot burst and falls into the Aggressive archetype. Many are calling it the new Breachlight, a popular sidearm now sunset. But most agree that Forgiveness is better due to its potential perk package. This writer agrees.
Forgiveness is also a forgiving (no pun intended) sidearm at its base. High base range, Aim Assist, and Airborne Effectiveness all lend themselves to giving the Guardian pulling the trigger a strong sense of comfort and stability. If you’re brave enough to go into Trials of Osiris and come out with one of these, make sure you don’t overlook it!
PvP God roll:
- Perk 1: Demolitionist
- Perk 2: Rapid Hit
How to get it: Forgiveness can be acquired via Trials of Osiris engrams and rank ups.
Art | Weapon | Type | Archetype | Rarity | Ammo | Element | Requirements | In loot pool? | Ammo? | Element? | Tier | Excels | Source | Craftable? | Requires | Released | Slot | Can be Crafted? | Best of? | Top Perk? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Forgiveness | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Lightfall | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | - | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() Lightfall | Season 17 | Energy | No | Top-tier |
1. Traveler’s Chosen
Excels in PvE and PvP
Traveler’s Chosen was once a broken gun given at the start of Destiny 2 during the fall of the tower. Since then it has come back, and better than ever, as an exotic weapon. When you get a kill with Traveler’s Chosen you gain a stack of a buff called “Gathering Light.” You gain three stacks per Guardian kill in PVP. With each stack gained your handling, target acquisition, and reload speed will all increase. Getting just three stacks can take this weapon to the top, but gaining more than three will take this sidearm to Number 1 in any build. It doesn’t stop there though! At any time you can hold your reload button and consume the stacks of Gathering Light to replenish your abilities- more stacks giving more energy.
For PVP this is probably the best sidearm period. In PVE you can use Traveler’s Chosen to supplement any ability build and over power it.
Exotic Perk: “Final blows grant stacks of Gathering Light. Consuming stacks, grant melee, grenade, and class ability energy based on the number of stacks. Each stack of Gathering Light improves this weapon’s reload, handling, and target acquisition.”
How to get it: Traveler’s Chosen 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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Traveler's Chosen | Sidearm | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Shadowkeep | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | Strong ❘ A | PvE + PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier |
Sidearms in PvP: Lethality & TTK
TTK is particularly important in PvP, because the lowest the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. You can read all about it in our TTK guide below.
TTK is very important in PvP, because the lowest the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. But this only applies to primary weapons.
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Optimal TTK | Optimal Kill | Body Shot TTK | Specs | --- | Best in Class |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Sidearm | Lightweight 360 RPM | 0.67 | 3 crit 2 body | 1.00 | High handling, very low range | ![]() | Redback-5si |
![]() | Sidearm | Adaptive 300 RPM | 0.60 | 4 crit | 1.00 | High aim assist, decent elsewhere | ![]() | Drang (Baroque) |
![]() | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst 325 RPM | 0.73 | 3 crit 2 body | 1.10 | High aim assist, low stability & handling | ![]() | Forgiveness |
![]() | Sidearm | SUROS Rapid-Fire 450 RPM | 0.67 | 5 crit 1 body | 0.93 | Good recoil, very low range & aim assist | ![]() | The Fool's Remedy |
![]() | Sidearm | Precision 260 RPM | 0.70 | 2 crit 2 body | 0.93 | Excellent aim assist, low stability & handling | ![]() | A Swift Verdict |
![]() | Sidearm | Omolon Adaptive 491 RPM | 0.73 | 5 crit 2 body | 1.10 | High stability, decent elsewhere | ![]() | The Vision |
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 0.50 | 6 crit | 1.10 | - | ![]() | Trespasser |
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 0.60 | 4 crit | 1.00 | - | ![]() | Devil's Ruin |
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 0.60 | 3 crit | 1.50 | - | ![]() | Forerunner |
Sidearms in PvE: DPS
DPS is important for PvE, because 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.
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Average DPS | Burst DPS | Total Damage | Specs | --- | Best in Class | Change? | Ammo |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 10,416 | 12,890 | 278,424 | - | ![]() | Forerunner | Same | Special |
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 9,902 | 12,863 | 216,095 | With "Rat Pack x5" | ![]() | Rat King | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Aggressive Burst | 5,331 | 6,193 | 320,151 | High aim assist, low stability & handling | ![]() | Brass Attacks | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Lightweight | 5,284 | 6,645 | 149,510 | High handling, very low range | ![]() | Redback-5si | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Adaptive | 5,137 | 6,431 | 192,937 | High aim assist, decent elsewhere | ![]() | High Albedo | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Adaptive (3-burst) | 5,348 | 6,673 | 366,925 | High aim assist, decent elsewhere | ![]() | Drang | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Omolon Adaptive | 5,020 | 6,355 | 356,452 | High stability, decent elsewhere | ![]() | The Vision | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | SUROS Rapid-Fire | 4,881 | 6,380 | 140,353 | Good recoil, very low range & aim assist | ![]() | Punching Out | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Precision | 4,742 | 6,193 | 205,794 | Excellent aim assist, low stability & handling | ![]() | A Swift Verdict | Same | Primary |
![]() | Sidearm | Exotic | 4,683 | 6,125 | 202,125 | - | ![]() | Devil's Ruin | Same | Primary |
Are Sidearms Meta?
How do Sidearms compare, in general, with other Primary weapons? Are they good in Destiny 2?
The current Meta for PvE
This table summarizes how the several Primary weapon types rank against each other in PvE:
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Submachine Guns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► SMGs are doing very well right now. They have good DPS to tear through ads and beefier orange bar enemies, but also come with excellent perks. There are a plethora of good SMGs you can go for right now, like Funnelweb, Unforgiven, Every Waking Moment, or Extraordinary Rendition, the choice is completely yours. They may struggle slightly in super high-end content, but they are still definitely usable. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven | PVE Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | ![]() | ► Auto Rifles currently feel like a worse version of SMGs. They have a bit more range, but outside of the absolute top-shelf content such as Grandmaster Nightfalls, range isn't too much of a factor. And if you are actively tackling difficult content, Auto Rifles aren't exactly the best pick either, making Autos a decent, but outclassed option right now. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger | PVE Primaries |
![]() Sidearms | B › Average | Average ❘ B | ![]() | ► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo | PVE Primaries |
![]() Hand Cannons | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► While Hand Cannons routinely dominate the PvP meta, they are often outclassed by weapon types that can either offer better DPS or better range. There are a couple of solid options, such as Fatebringer or Zaouli's Bane, but putting those aside, you'll be better off using something else. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer | PVE Primaries |
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious | PVE Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► Scout Rifles have come a long way. They are a solid and consistent option for anyone that prefers a safer and slower playstyle. They also shine in high-level content due to their excellent range. The best part about Scout Rifles, however, is their versatility across archetypes. Basically, every type of Scout Rifle is viable and can be used anywhere in the game. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle | PVE Primaries |
![]() Combat Bows | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | ![]() | ► Bows are a high-damage, high-range option for players who prefer to keep their distance. The main issue with bows is that they are slow at clearing ads (outside of Trinity Ghoul). and when you have to deal with ads up close, bows can massively struggle. However, their solid range and excellent damage make them a strong option. ► Best Archetype: Precision - Example: Under Your Skin | PVE Primaries |
The current Meta for PvP
What about PvP? This table summarizes how they rank against each other in PvP:
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Hand Cannons | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | - | ► Hand Cannons are in a bit of a strange spot. Many will argue that they are still the best weapons in the game, however, due to the prevalence of Pulse Rifles and especially SMGs, Hand Cannons have slowly been pushed out of many players' main pick. They are still excellent duelling weapons though, and feel amazing to use so they still retain a strong ranking. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer | PVP Primaries |
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Pulse Rifles have seen a resurgence in the past few seasons, with constant buffs to all types of Pulse Rifles. It is hard not to find success with one due to the high-flinch potential of Rapid-Fire Pulses or the lethal time-to-kill of High-Impact Pulses. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (340 RPM) - Example: The Messenger | PVP Primaries |
![]() Sidearms | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | ![]() | ► Sidearms have lost their place at the top of the meta, but they remain a solid pick, especially for players using a Controller, as they inherently have manageable stability with a rapid time-to-kill. Honestly, the main reason they've lost their place at the top is due to how powerful SMGs are right now. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (325 RPM) - Example: Forgiveness | PVP Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | - | ► Auto Rifles aren't doing greét right now. They contest a similar range as Hand Cannons, however, they lack the peak shooting potential that Adaptive Hand Cannons bring. They can also be contested at close range by SMGs, making them difficult to use everywhere. However, a good player can still find value in an Auto Rifle as they do provide high flinch and constant damage. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger | PVP Primaries |
![]() Combat Bows | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Bows are incredibly unique. They have a remarkably slow time to kill, however, this isn't where Bows shine. Hotswap builds with bows can be incredibly potent and don't require much learning either. Bows also provide incredible value when teamshooting opponents. Despite this, Bows on their own are quite mediocre and need something behind them to really shine. ► Best Archetype: Precision (Slower Draw Time) - Example: Strident Whistle | PVP Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Scouts have been tuned down to make them less potent in the hands of the average player. However, good scout rifle players will still be able to do pretty well in lobbies, however, they may find themselves outmatched by Pulse Rifles. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (150 RPM) - Example: Polaris Lance | PVP Primaries |
![]() Submachine Guns | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► SMGs have soared in power and will absolutely destroy you if you get within their effective range which, nowadays, feels like it's across the map. This, combined with their incredible ease of use and high potential in skilled hands makes for a very oppressive weapon to face against. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM)- Example: IKELOS_SMG_V1.0.3 | PVP Primaries |
Your turn
You now know everything there is to know about Sidearms in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.
0 Comments