Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE

Hand cannons have been at the top of the PvP Meta since the early days of Destiny 1. 8 years later, they remain at the top for the Crucible. And thanks to a few notable buffs recently released, Hand cannons have become meta for PvE too. 

This guide covers every Hand Cannon in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendary hand cannons, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.

 Updated as of Season of the Wish (S23). See Updates.

Destiny 2 Best Hand Cannons: Top-tier Options

This Tier list features the best Exotic and Legendary hand cannons right now, including Sunshot:

Item	Weapons	Type	Archetype	Ammo?	Element?	Requirements	In loot pool?	Rank	Source	Available?	Tier rank	Source ❘ DLC	Final Verdict	Released	Perks	Best of?
Lumina	Lumina	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	S › Best	Exotic Kiosk		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP	Exotic Kiosk Forsaken Pack	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration." ►Lumina is one of the most unique Exotics in Destiny 2, allowing you to heal allies and spread one of the most potent damage buffs in the game. If you're looking to optimize a DPS phase—or want to play a more significant support role—this is a fantastic pick. This applies to PvP too.	Season 7	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration."	Top-tier
Fatebringer	Fatebringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	S › Best	Vault of Glass Raid		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP	Vault of Glass Raid Free-to-Play	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly PvP God Roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm ► One of the most iconic legendary weapons in the game, Fatebringer comes with insane stats and great perks. While it does have some competition, namely Eyasluna, this almost-perfect Hand Cannon holds its ground as an all-time community favorite.	Season 14	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly PvP God Roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm	Top-tier
Eyasluna	Eyasluna	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Stasis	30th Anniversary	Yes	S › Best	Grasp of Avarice Dungeon		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP	Grasp of Avarice Dungeon 30th Anniversary	Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Headstone PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Kill Clip ► One of the most beloved weapons from Destiny 1, Eyasluna returned even stronger than ever before. Eyasluna offers god-tier stats and an extremely good perk selection that will help it dominate the Crucible.	30th Anniversary event	Slot: Stasis | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Headstone PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Kill Clip	Top-tier
Exalted Truth	Exalted Truth	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Void	Lightfall	Yes	S › Best	Trials of Osiris		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP	Trials of Osiris Lightfall	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage (also good: Repulsor Brace) PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage ► Currently one of the best legendary hand cannons available, Exalted Truth's difficult method of obtainability is balanced out by the weapon's pure power. With buildcrafting options for PvE and a plethora of consistency perks for The Crucible, this is a weapon that will be hard to top with future releases.	Season 19	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage (also good: Repulsor Brace) PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage	Top-tier
Sunshot	Sunshot	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	S › Best	Exotic Engram		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE	Exotic Engram Free-to-Play	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy." ► Sunshot is the cream of the crop this season. It synergizes brilliantly with Solar 3.0, and thanks to the buffs to Hand Cannons, it rips through any non-boss enemy, making it the quintessential Primary weapon for Solar players.	Season 1	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy."	Top-tier
Malfeasance	Malfeasance	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	S › Best	Exotic Quest		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE	Exotic Quest Free-to-Play	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders." ► Malfeasance has always been a fascinating weapon, and with the buffs to Hand Cannons, it quickly became one of the strongest Kinetic Primaries in the game, especially against Taken enemies. Malfeasance is even stronger when using the Lucky Pants Exotic, allowing for ridiculous damage.	Season 4	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders."	Top-tier
Ace of Spades	Ace of Spades	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	S › Best	Exotic Kiosk		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP	Exotic Kiosk Forsaken Pack	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Precision kills increase reload speed and cause the target to explode. Reloading after a kill increases damage. Grants radar while aiming down sights." ► Arguably the best 140 RPM hand cannon in the game, Ace of Spades has a lot to offer. With excellent base stats and some of the best perks around, namely Momento Mori, which is like Kill Clip on steroids and the ability to see your radar while zoomed in, this weapon has a bit of everything.	Season 4	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Precision kills increase reload speed and cause the target to explode. Reloading after a kill increases damage. Grants radar while aiming down sights."	Top-tier
Thorn	Thorn	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	S › Best	Exotic Kiosk		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP	Exotic Kiosk Forsaken Pack	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Rounds pierce targets and deal damage over time. Kills leave behind Remnants which, when absorbed, increase damage." ► Thorn has rocketed right back into the meta with the release of its Exotic Catalyst. This catalyst provides practically everything: Range, Mobility, Handling, and Stability upon a single kill, or absorbing a remnant. This allows for constant kill-chaining and lets good players take over any lobby.	Season 6	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Rounds pierce targets and deal damage over time. Kills leave behind Remnants which, when absorbed, increase damage."	Top-tier
Hawkmoon	Hawkmoon	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	S › Best	Xûr		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP	Xûr Beyond Light	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Final blows and precision hits with Hawkmoon grant stacks of Paracausal Charge. The final round in the magazine deals bonus damage based on the number of stacks. Stowing Hawkmoon on the final round removes this bonus." ► Hawkmoon is one of the strongest Exotic Hand Cannons in PvP. It can consistently 2-tap (and even 1-tap) opposing Guardians, provided you are accurate enough. In the hands of an experienced player, Hawkmoon is definitely something to fear.	Season 12	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "Final blows and precision hits with Hawkmoon grant stacks of Paracausal Charge. The final round in the magazine deals bonus damage based on the number of stacks. Stowing Hawkmoon on the final round removes this bonus."	Top-tier
Rose	Rose	Hand Cannon	Lightweight	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	S › Best	Playlist: Crucible		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP	Playlist: Crucible Free-to-Play	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Lightweight PvP God Rolls: Moving Target + Explosive Payload (also good: Eye of the Storm) ► Rose was a reward from competitive PvP, so it makes sense that it's a monster in The Crucible. The weapon has absurd stats and perks that allow it to rocket past its competition. Sure, it's harder to obtain than other options, but this grind is easily worth it if you're an avid Crucible player.	Season 19	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Lightweight PvP God Rolls: Moving Target + Explosive Payload (also good: Eye of the Storm)	Top-tier
Austringer	Austringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	A › Strong	Presage		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP	Presage Beyond Light	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder) ► With a fanbase that rivals that of Spare Rations, nearly everyone was waiting for the day that Austringer came back. That day has come, and Austringer is once again a great pick for anything in the game. With amazing stats, even better perks, and the ability to be crafted, it's hard to not see why people love this weapon.	Season 17	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder)	Top-tier
Epochal Integration	Epochal Integration	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Solar	Season 21	Yes	A › Strong	Seasonal activity		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP	Seasonal activity Season 21	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE Fixed Roll: Stats for All + Incandescent PvP Fixed Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm ► Epochal Integration is an easy-to-obtain and powerful Solar hand cannon. Because of how strong Solar is right now, a solid Solar weapon like Epochal Integration can easily excel. It beats out the competition mostly due to its ease of access, but also because Stats for All and Incandescent are excellent perks.	Season 21	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE Fixed Roll: Stats for All + Incandescent PvP Fixed Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm	Top-tier
Warden's Law	Warden's Law	Hand Cannon	Heavy Burst	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	Nightfall: The Ordeals		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals Free-to-Play	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst PvE God Roll: Fourth Time's the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy ) PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip ► While Warden's Law is only known for one thing (absurdly high DPS with the Hunter's Lucky Pants), it does exceptionally well at it. Although it definitely isn't a meta pick outside of that one use case, that alone bursts it above most of the pack; plus, it's an extremely fun and unique gun to use regardless!	Season 22	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst PvE God Roll: Fourth Time's the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy ) PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip	Top-tier
Word of Crota	Word of Crota	Hand Cannon	Precision	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	Crota's End Raid		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP	Crota's End Raid Free-to-Play	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Precision PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Demolitionist) + Sword Logic (also good: Destabilizing Rounds) PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Sword Logic ► Word of Crota is in the running for the best 180 RPM hand cannon in the game, competing with other top-tier options such as Posterity. While it continues to be difficult to recommend 180 RPM options over other archetypes, Word of Crota excels in its own field and could become a top option with future sandbox changes.	Season 22	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Precision PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Demolitionist) + Sword Logic (also good: Destabilizing Rounds) PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Sword Logic	Top-tier
Nation of Beasts	Nation of Beasts	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Arc	Forsaken Pack	Yes	A › Strong	Last Wish Raid		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE	Last Wish Raid Forsaken Pack	Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action) ► Last Wish weapons just received updated perk pools. Nation of Beasts was treated exceptionally well, gaining some of the best new perks like Voltshot, Collective Action, and Eddy Current. This weapon is the ultimate Hand Cannon for Arc 3.0 synergy, making it an easy A-Tier on this list.	Season 4	Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action)	Top-tier
Zaouli’s Bane	Zaouli’s Bane	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	King's Fall Raid		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE	King's Fall Raid Free-to-Play	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent ► On top of offering excellent base stats (which can only be expected from a raid weapon), the Zaouli's Bane can also roll with an extremely lethal and unique perk combination: Explosive Payload + Incandescent. With a strong Solar 3.0 Build, a Zaouli's Bane with Incandescent can be a monster in mid to high-end PvE content.	Season 18	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent	Top-tier
The Palindrome	The Palindrome	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	No	A › Strong	Nightfall: The Ordeals		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals Free-to-Play	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder ► Because of a couple of perk nerfs in combination with the release of new and potent hand cannons, The Palindrome has seen a slow decline in popularity. While it still isn't a bad pick for The Crucible, there are better options out there.	Season 13	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder	Top-tier
Igneous Hammer	Igneous Hammer	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Primary	Solar	Lightfall	No	A › Strong	Trials of Osiris		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	Trials of Osiris Lightfall	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage ► While not as strong as it was a year or so ago, Igneous Hammer boasts the best stats out of all 120 RPM Hand Cannons and comes with some sweet perks. Even though it isn't currently meta, this weapon can excel in any environment you put it in.	Season 13	Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage	Top-tier
Cantata-57	Cantata-57	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	Gunsmith		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	Gunsmith Free-to-Play	Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder ) ► Cantata-57 has definitely lost popularity since its initial release with The Witch Queen, but that doesn't mean it's not worth using! With a well-rounded balance of great perks and stats, this hand cannon still rivals top picks in The Crucible while being easier to obtain.	Season 16	Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder )	Top-tier

Destiny 2 Hand Cannons: The complete list

This database includes every viable Hand Cannon 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?
	Ace of Spades	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvP	Exotic Kiosk	No	Forsaken Pack	Season 4	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	The Last Word	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Exotic Kiosk	No	Forsaken Pack	Season 5	Kinetic	No
	Crimson	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Exotic Engram	No	Free-to-Play	Season 2	Kinetic	No
	Lumina	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Exotic Kiosk	No	Forsaken Pack	Season 7	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Sturm	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Exotic Kiosk	No	Free-to-Play	Season 1	Kinetic	No
	Thorn	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvP	Exotic Kiosk	No	Forsaken Pack	Season 6	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Hawkmoon	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvP	Xûr	No	Beyond Light	Season 12	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Malfeasance	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE	Exotic Quest	No	Free-to-Play	Season 4	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Eriana's Vow	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Special	Solar	Shadowkeep	Yes	Special	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE	Exotic Kiosk	No	Shadowkeep	Season 8	Energy	No
	Sunshot	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Best ❘ S	PvE	Exotic Engram	No	Free-to-Play	Season 1	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Seventh Seraph Officer Revolver	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Worst ❘ D	PvE	Xûr	No	Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No		Reconstruction
	The Steady Hand	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Kinetic	Weak ❘ C	-	Iron Banner	No	Free-to-Play	Season 12	Kinetic	No
	True Prophecy	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	World loot pool	No	Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No
	Crimil's Dagger	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Iron Banner	No	Free-to-Play	Season 11	Kinetic	No
	Dire Promise	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	World loot pool	No	Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No
	Fatebringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Vault of Glass Raid	No	Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Survivor's Epitaph	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Playlist: Crucible	No	Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No
	Loud Lullaby	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Weak ❘ C	-	Moon	No	Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No
	Judgment	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Stasis	Weak ❘ C	-	Prophecy Dungeon	No	Free-to-Play	Season 23	Kinetic	No
	Vulpecula	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Stasis	Weak ❘ C	-	Xûr	No	Free-to-Play	Season 15	Kinetic	No
	Eyasluna	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	30th Anniversary	Yes	Primary	Stasis	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Grasp of Avarice Dungeon	No	30th Anniversary	30th Anniversary event	Kinetic	No	Top-tier	Incandescent
	Austringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Presage	Yes	Beyond Light	Season 17	Kinetic	Craftable	Top-tier
	D.F.A.	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Nightfall: The Ordeals	No	Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	No
	Something New	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	Free-to-Play	Seasonal	Primary	Stasis	Average ❘ B	-	Event: Solstice	No	Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	No
	Pure Poetry	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Weak ❘ C	-	Vanguard Focusing	No	Free-to-Play	Season 18	Kinetic	No
	Rose	Hand Cannon	Lightweight	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvP	Playlist: Crucible	No	Free-to-Play	Season 19	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Round Robin	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Strand	Lightfall	Yes	Primary	Strand	Average ❘ B	PvP	Neomuna	Yes	Lightfall	Season 20	Kinetic	Craftable
	Spare Rations	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Fishing	No	Season 21	Season 21	Kinetic	No		Kinetic Tremors
	Kept Confidence	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Strand	Season 22	Yes	Primary	Strand	Average ❘ B	PvP	Seasonal activity	Yes	Season 22	Season 22	Kinetic	Craftable
	Malediction	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Playlist: Pursuit	No	Free-to-Play	Season 22	Kinetic	No
	Warden's Law	Hand Cannon	Heavy Burst	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals	No	Free-to-Play	Season 22	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Luna's Howl	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Ongoing...	-	Onslaught Activity	No	Free-to-Play	Into the Light	Kinetic	No
	Midnight Coup	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Ongoing...	-	Onslaught Activity	No	Free-to-Play	Into the Light	Kinetic	No
	The Palindrome	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Void	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals	No	Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Posterity	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Beyond Light	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvE	Deep Stone Crypt Raid	Yes	Beyond Light	Season 12	Energy	Craftable		Voltshot,Reconstruction
	Waking Vigil	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvP	Shattered Throne Dungeon	No	Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No		Voltshot
	Nature of the Beast	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Worst ❘ D	-	World loot pool	No	Free-to-Play	Season 11	Energy	No
	IKELOS_HC_v1.0.3	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Void	Weak ❘ C	-	Operation: Seraph's Shield	Yes	Free-to-Play	Season 19	Energy	Craftable		Repulsor Brace
	Nation of Beasts	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Arc	Strong ❘ A	PvE	Last Wish Raid	Yes	Forsaken Pack	Season 4	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier	Voltshot
	Igneous Hammer	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Lightfall	No	Primary	Solar	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Trials of Osiris	No	Lightfall	Season 13	Energy	No	Top-tier	Incandescent
	Ancient Gospel	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Shadowkeep	Yes	Primary	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE	Garden of Salvation Raid	No	Shadowkeep	Season 8	Energy	No
	Bottom Dollar	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Void	Weak ❘ C	PvE + PvP	Playlist: Gambit	No	Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No
	Finite Impactor	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Arc	Worst ❘ D	-	Iron Banner	No	Free-to-Play	Season 14	Energy	No
	Annual Skate	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Weak ❘ C	-	World loot pool	No	Free-to-Play	Season 15	Energy	No
	Crisis Inverted	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Weak ❘ C	-	Playlist: Crucible	No	Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No
	Cantata-57	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Gunsmith	No	Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Frontier's Cry	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Weak ❘ C	-	Iron Banner	No	Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No
	Zaouli’s Bane	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Strong ❘ A	PvE	King's Fall Raid	Yes	Free-to-Play	Season 18	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier	Incandescent
	Exalted Truth	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Lightfall	Yes	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Trials of Osiris	No	Lightfall	Season 19	Energy	No	Top-tier	Repulsor Brace
	Trust	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE + PvP	Playlist: Gambit	No	Free-to-Play	Season 20	Energy	No		Incandescent
	Epochal Integration	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Solar	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Seasonal activity	No	Season 21	Season 21	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Targeted Redaction	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Void	Average ❘ B	PvE	Seasonal activity	Yes	Season 21	Season 21	Energy	Craftable
	Combined Action	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvP	Lost Sector	No	Free-to-Play	Season 21	Energy	No		Voltshot
	Word of Crota	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Void	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Crota's End Raid	Yes	Free-to-Play	Season 22	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier	Sword Logic
	Optative	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Void	Season 23	Yes	Primary	Void	Average ❘ B	PvE	Undying	Yes	Season 23	Season 23	Energy	Craftable

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 Hand Cannons in 2024

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

5. Warden’s Law

Excels in PvE

Coming in at #5 on our list is currently one of the most unique legendary weapons in the game: Warden’s Law. While Bungie has confirmed that more heavy burst hand cannons are soon to come, Warden’s Law is the only one currently available. While this novelty does boost Warden’s Law up our list considerably, the weapon also has a gimmick that allows it to excel greatly in PvE.

When combined with the Lucky Pants Hunter exotic, Warden’s Law can pump out absurdly high DPS. Many still prefer other options like rocket launchers and fusion rifles, but having a weapon that’s easy to use and never runs out of ammo for DPS is still extremely desirable.

Sure, Warden’s Law may be nothing more than a fun pick for Warlocks and Titans, but its unmatched DPS strength on the Hunter class is enough to boost it above the vast majority of competition. These are the top Warden’s Law God Rolls:

• PvE God roll:  Fourth Time’s the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy)
• PvP God roll:Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip

How to get it: Warden’s Law can be acquired by completing Nightfall: The Ordeals (the highest difficulties have increased drop rates).

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?
	Warden's Law	Hand Cannon	Heavy Burst	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals	No	Free-to-Play	Season 22	Kinetic	No	Top-tier

4. Malfeasance

Excels in PvE

Originally released as one of the weakest exotics out at the time, Malfeasance now excels in many PvE activities.

The most obvious pairing for Malfeasance is the same as Warden’s Law: Lucky Pants. While only Hunters can take advantage of the synergy, the damage you can put out with this combination of exotics is absurd.

Even so, Malfeasance can hold its ground without Lucky Pants just as well. With high base damage through Explosive Shadow, a boost to damage against Taken enemies with Taken Predator, Vorpal Weapon with its catalyst, and the ability to stun Unstoppable champions, Malfeasance can do just about anything. While deciding to run this over a different exotic is something you’ll rarely see, the intrinsic power of Malfeasance is unparalleled.

Exotic Perk: “Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders.”

How to get it: Malfeasance can be acquired by completing the Darkness in the Light 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?
	Malfeasance	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE	Exotic Quest	No	Free-to-Play	Season 4	Kinetic	No	Top-tier

3. Lumina

Excels in PVE and PVP

Lumina is the premier support Exotic, allowing you to heal and empower allies with ease.

In PvE, Lumina’s 35% damage bonus is one of the highest in the game. Banner Shield is the only one that surpasses it at 40%, but that requires someone to be locked in a Super. This makes Lumina a powerful option in casual and hardcore content alike.

Lumina increases damage by 15% in The Crucible, which is still significant. Its healing abilities are also potent here and can quickly help teammates cheat death. This weapon is the clear choice for Guardians wanting to strengthen their support role in a fireteam. Plus, you’ll reap the rewards in the form of your own damage buff.

Exotic Perk: “Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration.”

How to get it: Lumina can be acquired via Exotic engrams or Xûr.

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?
	Lumina	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Exotic Kiosk	No	Forsaken Pack	Season 7	Kinetic	No	Top-tier

2. Midnight Coup

Excels in PVE and PVP

Midnight Coup is returning as a 140RPM Kinetic Weapon, putting it in direct competition with powerful weapons like Fatebringer, Zaouli’s Bane, and even Sunshot, which fill the Hand Cannon role similarly to Midnight Coup.

In PvP, Midnight Coup will be a solid pick. It comes with some general consistency perks like Moving Target or Zen Moment, making it a decent option for dueling. Being an Adaptive Frame Hand Cannon helps, too, as this frame is quite powerful in PvP right now, potentially making Midnight Coup quite the sleeper pick in PvP.

In PvE, Midnight Coup has a plethora of perks available. It does have the classic Outlaw and Rampage combo, however, we don’t see this being as good as it once was. Shoot to Loot, Firefly and Kinetic Tremors are all solid options and may tempt players to try to get their hands on it, as Midnight Coup will be the second Hand Cannon to come with Kinetic Tremors, only after Spare Rations (which isn’t very good). These are the top Midnight Coup God Rolls:

• PvE God roll: Firefly + One for All
• PvP God roll: Moving Target + Opening Shot

How to get it: Midnight Coup 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?
	Midnight Coup	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Ongoing...	-	Onslaught Activity	No	Free-to-Play	Into the Light	Kinetic	No

1. Sunshot: Best PvE Hand Cannon

Excels in PvE

Sunshot has consistently been an outstanding weapon throughout Destiny 2’s history but recently has become one of the best PvE weapons in the game.

Even without any synergies, Sunshot is able to dominate most PvE activities. With relatively high damage per shot and explosions that do a fair bit of work as well, Sunshot is perhaps the smoothest-feeling ad clearing hand cannon Destiny 2 has to offer.

Finding synergies within the Solar subclasses, however, is where Sunshot takes off. Both Solar subclasses and Sunshot are absurdly powerful on their own, but utilizing fragments like Ember of Empyrean or seasonal mods like Flint Striker and Rays of Precision pushes their potency to its limit.

While some cases may call for different hand cannons or primary weapons entirely, Sunshot is both fun and strong, making it one of the best weapons currently obtainable in Destiny 2.

Exotic Perk: “This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy.”

How to get it: Sunshot can be acquired via Exotic engrams or Xûr.

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?
	Sunshot	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Best ❘ S	PvE	Exotic Engram	No	Free-to-Play	Season 1	Energy	No	Top-tier

Hand Cannons and the PvP Meta: TTK

We covered which  Hand Cannons are considered top-tier (and should be farmed) and which ones can be safely ignored. But how do they compare to other primary weapons in PvP?

Weapon Type	Rank	Tier	Trend	Role ❘ Current State	Category
Hand Cannons	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► Hand Cannons feel great right now and can deal with all the other meta options, provided they are in the hands of a skilled player. They are unbelievably forgiving in terms of aim-assist and can compete at solid ranges. Hand Cannons are the jack of all trades, and while they may not dominate up close or far away, they are incredibly scary to face in a mid-range duel. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer	PVP Primaries
Pulse 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
Submachine Guns	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► SMGs remain a staple of the PvP meta. SMGs absolutely shred enemies at close range and as soon as their top option is nerfed, a new top-tier SMG is introduced to replace it. SMGs have been, and seemingly will remain, meta for a long time to come. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: The Immortal	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	A › Strong	Strong ❘ A		► After a couple of recent changes and buffs, Auto Rifles are feeling great to use right now, especially in the more casual Crucible playlists. While they may not have the juice to compete with some of the top dogs, they are still a solid pick and can help you frag out with relative ease. ► Best Archetype: Precision (450 RPM) - Example: Ammit AR2	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	C › Weak	Weak ❘ C		► Scout Rifles are struggling right now. In most situations, the maps are too small to benefit the long range of a Scout rifle. An Aggressive or High-Impact Pulse Rifle will better serve your needs. Plus, Scout Rifles are abysmal up close. There are one or two outliers that shine but, on the whole, Scout Rifles are in a weak spot. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (260 RPM) - Example: Fang of Ir Yût	PVP Primaries

Remember that when it comes to PvP, TTK is perhaps the most important factor. As you know, the lower the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. This TTK guide includes the TTK figures for every weapon in Destiny 2. When it comes to PvP, top Hand Cannons dominate the Crucible:

-	Weapon Type	Archetype	Optimal TTK	Optimal Kill	Body Shot TTK	Specs	---	Best in Class
	Hand Cannon	Adaptive 140 RPM	0.87	3 crit	1.73	Good stability, decent range		Austringer
	Hand Cannon	Aggressive 120 RPM	1.00	2 crit 1 body	1.50	High range, low stability and handling		Igneous Hammer
	Hand Cannon	Precision 180 RPM	1.00	2 crit 2 body	1.33	High stability, poor handling		Frontier's Cry
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	1.00	3 crit 1 body	1.33	-		Malfeasance
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	1.00	2 crit 1 body	1.50	-		Sturm
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	0.87	3 crit	1.73	-		Thorn
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	0.80	3 crit	1.60	-		Sunshot
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	0.53	3 crit	1.33	-		The Last Word
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	0.87	6 crit 1 body	1.43	-		Crimson
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	0.67	1 crit 1 body	1.33	-		Eriana's Vow

That said, TTK is only half of the picture. With decent range and the ability to peek-shoot (shoot and cover), hand cannons are extremely powerful dueling weapons. There’s a reason the vast majority of elite PvP players main a hand cannon. Hand cannons are not the easiest to master, but they do have a high skill ceiling. Those who know how to master hand cannons will often come on top of most of their duels in The Crucible.

Hand Cannons and the PvE Meta: DPS

How do Hand Cannons compare to other primary weapons 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
Pulse Rifles	S › Best	Best ❘ S	-	► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious	PVE Primaries
Hand Cannons	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► Hand Cannons have shot up the rankings thanks to the changes introduced this Season, all the way up to the S tier. They have solid range and can dispatch enemies with complete ease in almost all difficulties. Hand Cannons have truly taken over the spotlight with their most recent buffs, and they shouldn't be leaving it any time soon. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer	PVE Primaries
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
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: Rapid-Fire (720 RPM)- Example: Quicksilver Storm	PVE Primaries
Scout Rifles	B › Average	Average ❘ B		► Scout Rifles are the definition of average right now. They can do the job just fine, you can plink away at enemies from a safe distance in high-level content; however, when it comes down to it, most players will prefer to use a Hand Cannon or SMG as they simply do the same job better and faster. Scouts aren't bad at all, but they certainly aren't a go-to ► Best Archetype: Lightweight (200 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle	PVE Primaries
Sidearms	C › Weak	Weak ❘ C		► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo	PVE Primaries

Keep in mind that when it comes to PvE, DPS is one of the most important factors. As you know, the higher the DPS, the more damage you can deal to a Boss or Major. This DPS chart includes the DPS numbers for every weapon in Destiny 2.

When it comes to actual DPS, hand cannons are not in a great place right now:

-	Weapon Type	Archetype	Sustained DPS	Mag DPS	Total Damage	Specs	---	Best in Class	Change?	Ammo
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	15272	17801	474680	With "First Glance"		Eriana's Vow	Same	Special
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	10943	13668		/w Catalyst		Malfeasance	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	10678	15274		/w Catalyst		Hawkmoon	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	6098	7022		"Soul Devourer"		Thorn	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	5513	9803		-		The Last Word	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	4636	6418		"Momento Mori"		Ace of Spades		Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	4552	6730		-		Crimson	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Precision	4336	5244		High stability, poor handling		Posterity	Buffed	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Lightweight	4327	5215		-		Rose		Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	4071	5120		-		Sturm		Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	4018	5215		-		Lumina		Primary
	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	3992	4654		High range, low stability and handling		Igneous Hammer	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	3985	5363		-		Sunshot		Primary
	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	3934	4741		Good stability, decent range		Eyasluna	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Double Fire	3884	4902		-		Warden's Law		Primary

Before you go…

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

You now know everything there is to know about hand cannons in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.

See latest Updates

We keep our content up to date! These are the latest changes made to this guide:

• February 28, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Hand Cannons from Season 23.
• October 25, 2023: Inclusion of Season 22 weapons.
• May 30, 2023: General updates (based on the current sandbox) and the inclusion of Season 18 to 21 hand cannons.
• June 3, 2022: The guide is published for the first time.

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