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

by | Jul 22, 2024

Hand cannons have been at the top of the PvP Meta since the early days of Destiny 1. 10 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 all Hand Cannons in Destiny 2 and their best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Episode 1 Echoes icon Destiny 2Updated as of Episode 1: Echoes. See Updates.

Top Tier Hand Cannons (Episode 1)

This Tier list features the best Exotic and Legendary Hand cannons right now:

ItemWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier rankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
FatebringerFatebringer art
Fatebringer
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestVault of Glass RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Vault of Glass Raid
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly
PvP God Roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm
Top-tier
Warden's LawWarden's Law art
Warden's Law
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonHeavy BurstPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestNightfall: The OrdealsCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Nightfall: The Ordeals
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
SunshotDestiny 2 Sunshot art
Sunshot
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesS › BestExotic EngramCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Exotic Engram
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Exotic

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

► While it may not have access to the Season 23 Artifact that made it truly pop, Sunshot continues to dominate the current PvE meta. Even if you aren't rocking a Solar build, this weapon is a great option for any PvE activity you dive into.
Season 1
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy."
Top-tier
MalfeasanceDestiny 2 Malfeasance art
Malfeasance
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestExotic QuestCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Exotic Quest
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
Zaouli’s BaneZaouli’s Bane art
Zaouli’s Bane
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesS › BestKing's Fall RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
King's Fall Raid
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent
Top-tier
Midnight CoupMidnight Coup art Destiny 2
Midnight Coup
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestOnslaught ActivityCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Onslaught Activity
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Firefly or Explosive Payload + Frenzy or One for All

► Midnight Coup offers a plethora of perks. While the classic Outlaw and Rampage combo is still strong, Midnight Coup offers insane perk combinations that set it apart, and help it excel, be it for ad clear or taking down Majors.
Into the Light
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Firefly or Explosive Payload + Frenzy or One for All
Top-tier
Ace of SpadesDestiny 2 Ace of Spades art
Ace of Spades
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic KioskCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvP
Exotic Kiosk
Forsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
ThornDestiny 2 Thorn
Thorn
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic KioskCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvP
Exotic Kiosk
Forsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Rounds pierce targets and deal damage over time. Kills leave behind Remnants which, when absorbed, increase damage."
Top-tier
HawkmoonHawkmoon Destiny 2 art
Hawkmoon
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticBeyond Light PackYesS › BestXûrCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvP
Xûr
Beyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
RoseRose art
Rose
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonLightweightPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestPlaylist: CrucibleCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvP
Playlist: Crucible
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Lightweight

PvP God Rolls: Moving Target + Explosive Payload (also good: Eye of the Storm)
Top-tier
LuminaDestiny 2 Lumina art
Lumina
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesA › StrongExotic KioskCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Exotic Kiosk
Forsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
AustringerAustringer art
Austringer
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryKineticBeyond Light PackYesA › StrongPresageCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Presage
Beyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Slot: Kinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage
PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder)
Top-tier
Exalted TruthExalted Truth art
Exalted Truth
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryVoidThe Final ShapeYesA › StrongTrials of OsirisCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Trials of Osiris
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage (also good: Repulsor Brace)
PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage
Top-tier
Word of CrotaWord of Crota art
Word of Crota
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonPrecisionPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongCrota's End RaidCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Crota's End Raid
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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
Sightline SurveySightline Survey art Destiny 2
Sightline Survey
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonPrecisionPrimaryArcEpisode 1: EchoesYesA › StrongEchoes ActivitiesCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Echoes Activities
EP1 Echoes Icon (final) Destiny 2
Episode 1: Echoes
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Enlightened Action + Voltshot
PvP God Roll: Keep Away (also good: Fragile Focus) + Kill Clip (also good: Precision Instrument)

► While 180 RPM hand cannons are notoriously disliked (especially in PvE), Sightline Survey is one of the best of the bunch. Offering some solid perks for all areas of the game, it may be with grinding if you're a fan of the way it feels to use.
The Final Shape
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Enlightened Action + Voltshot
PvP God Roll: Keep Away (also good: Fragile Focus) + Kill Clip (also good: Precision Instrument)
Top-tier
Nation of BeastsNation of Beasts art Destiny 2
Nation of Beasts
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryArcForsaken PackYesA › StrongLast Wish RaidCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Last Wish Raid
Forsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action)

► Nation of Beasts was treated well with the Last Wish weapon refresh. While it's not the absolute strongest option out there, it's one of the best pairings for Arc builds in PvE.
Season 4
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action)
Top-tier
PosterityPosterity Destiny 2 art
Posterity
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonPrecisionPrimaryArcBeyond Light PackYesA › StrongDeep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Deep Stone Crypt Raid
Beyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction (also good: Rapid Hit) + One for All (also good: Rampage)

► With an extremely strong perk pool and amazing stats, Posterity is easily one of the best 180 RPM Hand Cannon in the game. The problem is it belongs to the weak Precision Frame archetype... While it isn't the best choice now, it might be worth picking up a roll you like when 180s get buffed.
Season 12
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction (also good: Rapid Hit) + One for All (also good: Rampage)
Top-tier
Bold EndingsBold Endings art Destiny 2
Bold Endings
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonHeavy BurstPrimaryStasisThe Final ShapeYesA › StrongThe Pale HeartCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
The Pale Heart
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst

PvE God Roll: Headstone (also good: Rapid-Hit) + Demolitionist or Collective Action

► Bold Endings has some stiff competition from Warden's Law, and people tend to still prefer the latter. While Bold Endings does well in the stat department, Warden's Law is better at what heavy burst hand cannons are primarily used for: boss damage.
The Final Shape
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst

PvE God Roll: Headstone (also good: Rapid-Hit) + Demolitionist or Collective Action
Top-tier
Better DevilsBetter Devils art Destiny 2
Better Devils
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongPlaylist: CrucibleCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Playlist: Crucible
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Frenzy or Explosive Payload

► While Better Devils does have its fair share of solid perks (and is easily the best Strand hand cannon for PvE released thus far), it definitely doesn't compare to the top options we see being used constantly.
The Final Shape
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Demolitionist + Frenzy or Explosive Payload
Top-tier
Maahes HC4Maahes HC4 art Destiny 2
Maahes HC4
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonHeavy BurstPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongWorld loot poolCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
World loot pool
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst

PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit or Repulsor Brace + Frenzy or Destabilizing Rounds

► Because there aren't all too many outstanding Void hand cannons for PvE, Maahes HC4 has seen a fair bit of use recently. Even so, unless you're running a Void build and are an avid hand cannon enjoyer, there's likely a better option out there for you.
The Final Shape
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst

PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit or Repulsor Brace + Frenzy or Destabilizing Rounds
Top-tier
Igneous HammerIgneous Hammer art
Igneous Hammer
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAggressivePrimarySolarThe Final ShapeYesA › StrongTrials of OsirisCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvP
Trials of Osiris
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage

► Igneous Hammer definitely isn't as popular as it was when it was first released, but the weapon still sees use in all areas of the game. With excellent stats and some top-tier perks on its side, Igneous continues to be one of the better 120 RPM hand cannons available.
Season 13
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage
Top-tier
Cantata-57Cantata-57 art
Cantata-57
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongGunsmithCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvP
Gunsmith
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 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 Arc | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Adaptive

PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder )
Top-tier
Luna's HowlLuna's Howl art Destiny 2
Luna's Howl
Hand Cannon
Hand CannonPrecisionPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongOnslaught ActivityCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvP
Onslaught Activity
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvP God Roll: Encore or Eye of the Storm + Magnificent Howl or Kill Clip

► Given that Magnificent Howl was nerfed, Luna’s won’t be as overpowered as it used to be. However, its new suite of perks makes it one of the most powerful 140s for PvP, plus, it has the stats of a precision frame in terms of accuracy. This is a perfect dueling weapon for the hand cannon aficionados.
Into the Light
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Precision

PvP God Roll: Encore or Eye of the Storm + Magnificent Howl or Kill Clip
Top-tier

Destiny 2 Hand Cannons: Complete List

This database includes every viable Hand Cannon currently in the game:

ArtNameTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Destiny 2 Ace of Spades artAce of SpadesHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvPExotic KioskError icon V2 NoForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 4KineticNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 CrimsonCrimsonHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvPExotic EngramError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 2KineticNo
Destiny 2 Eriana's Vow artEriana's VowHand CannonExoticExoticSpecialSolarShadowkeep PackYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialSolar Solar
B › Average
PvEExotic KioskError icon V2 NoShadowkeep Icon (final) Destiny 2
Shadowkeep Pack
Season 8EnergyNo
Hawkmoon Destiny 2 artHawkmoonHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticBeyond Light PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvPXûrError icon V2 NoBeyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Season 12KineticNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 Lumina artLuminaHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvE + PvPExotic KioskError icon V2 NoForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 7KineticNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 Malfeasance artMalfeasanceHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvEExotic QuestError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 4KineticNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 Sturm artSturmHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-Exotic KioskError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 1KineticNo
Destiny 2 Sunshot artSunshotHand CannonExoticExoticPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
S › Best
PvEExotic EngramError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 1EnergyNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 The Last WordThe Last WordHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvPExotic KioskError icon V2 NoForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 5KineticNo
Destiny 2 ThornThornHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvPExotic KioskError icon V2 NoForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 6KineticNoTop-tier
Ancient Gospel artAncient GospelHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidShadowkeep PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
C › Weak
PvEGarden of Salvation RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesShadowkeep Icon (final) Destiny 2
Shadowkeep Pack
Season 8EnergyCraftable
Annual Skate artAnnual SkateHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
C › Weak
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 15EnergyNo
Austringer artAustringerHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticBeyond Light PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
A › Strong
PvE + PvPPresageCheckmark icon V3 YesBeyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Season 17KineticCraftableTop-tier
Better Devils art Destiny 2Better DevilsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEPlaylist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
The Final ShapeKineticNoTop-tier
Bold Endings art Destiny 2Bold EndingsHand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryStasisThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
A › Strong
PvEThe Pale HeartCheckmark icon V3 YesThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeKineticCraftableTop-tier
Bottom Dollar artBottom DollarHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
C › Weak
PvE + PvPPlaylist: GambitError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13EnergyNo
Cantata-57 artCantata-57Hand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvPGunsmithError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 16EnergyNoTop-tier
Combined Action art Destiny 2Combined ActionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
PvPLost SectorError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21EnergyNoVoltshot
Crimils Dagger Destiny 2 1Crimil's DaggerHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvPIron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 11KineticNo
Crisis Inverted artCrisis InvertedHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
C › Weak
-Playlist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 16EnergyNo
D.F.A. artD.F.A.Hand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-Nightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 17KineticNo
Dire Promise artDire PromiseHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 10KineticNo
Epochal Integration art Destiny 2Epochal IntegrationHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
B › Average
PvE + PvPSeasonal activityError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21EnergyNo
Exalted Truth artExalted TruthHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Season 19EnergyNoTop-tierRepulsor Brace
Exuviae art Destiny 2ExuviaeHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisEpisode 2: RevenantYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis StasisRevenant ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEP2 Revenant icon Destiny 2
Episode 2: Revenant
Episode 2KineticNo
Eyasluna artEyaslunaHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStasis30th AnniversaryYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
B › Average
PvE + PvPGrasp of Avarice DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 30th anniversary icon
30th Anniversary
30th Anniversary eventKineticNo
Fatebringer artFatebringerHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvE + PvPVault of Glass RaidError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 14KineticNoTop-tier
Finite Impactor artFinite ImpactorHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
D › Worst
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 14EnergyNo
Frontier's Cry artFrontier's CryHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
D › Worst
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 16EnergyNo
Igneous Hammer artIgneous HammerHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimarySolarThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Season 13EnergyNoTop-tierIncandescent
IKELOS HC v1.0.2 Destiny 2 artIKELOS_HC_v1.0.3Hand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidThe Witch QueenYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
C › Weak
-Operation: Seraph's ShieldCheckmark icon V3 YesThe Witch Queen Icon (final) Destiny 2
Witch Queen
Season 19EnergyCraftableRepulsor Brace
Judgment art Destiny 2JudgmentHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-Prophecy DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNo
Kept Confidence artKept ConfidenceHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPXûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticCraftable
Loud Lullaby artLoud LullabyHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-MoonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 14KineticNo
Luna's Howl art Destiny 2Luna's HowlHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvPOnslaught ActivityError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Into the LightEnergyNoTop-tierIncandescent
Maahes HC4 art Destiny 2Maahes HC4Hand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
The Final ShapeEnergyNoTop-tier
Malediction artMaledictionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
PvPPlaylist: PursuitError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticNo
Midnight Coup art Destiny 2Midnight CoupHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvEOnslaught ActivityError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Into the LightKineticNoTop-tierKinetic Tremors
Nation of Beasts art Destiny 2Nation of BeastsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvELast Wish RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 4EnergyCraftableTop-tierVoltshot
Nature of the Beast Destiny 2 artNature of the BeastHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
D › Worst
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 11EnergyNo
Optative art Destiny 2OptativeHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
B › Average
PvEUndyingCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23EnergyCraftable
Posterity Destiny 2 artPosterityHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcBeyond Light PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvEDeep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesBeyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Season 12EnergyCraftableTop-tierVoltshot,Reconstruction
Pure Poetry artPure PoetryHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
-Vanguard FocusingError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 18KineticNo
Rose artRoseHand CannonLightweightLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvPPlaylist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 19KineticNoTop-tier
Round Robin artRound RobinHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPNeomunaCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftable
Seventh Seraph Officer Revolver Destiny 2 artSeventh Seraph Officer RevolverHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
PvEXûrError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 10KineticNoReconstruction
Sightline Survey art Destiny 2Sightline SurveyHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcEpisode 1: EchoesYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
A › Strong
PvE + PvPEchoes ActivitiesCheckmark icon V3 YesEP1 Echoes Icon (final) Destiny 2
Episode 1: Echoes
The Final ShapeEnergyCraftableTop-tierVoltshot
Something New artSomething NewHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayTimed-EventPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
B › Average
-Event: SolsticeError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 17KineticNo
Spare Rations art Destiny 2Spare RationsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
PvPFishingError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticNoKinetic Tremors
Survivor's Epitaph artSurvivor's EpitaphHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
B › Average
PvPPlaylist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 14KineticNo
Targeted Redaction art Destiny 2Targeted RedactionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
C › Weak
PvEXûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21EnergyCraftable
The Palindrome artThe PalindromeHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
B › Average
PvPNightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13EnergyNo
The Steady Hand Destiny 2The Steady HandHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
D › Worst
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 12KineticNo
True Prophecy Destiny 2 artTrue ProphecyHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
C › Weak
PvPWorld loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 10KineticNo
Trust artTrustHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
B › Average
PvE + PvPPlaylist: GambitError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 20EnergyNoIncandescent
Vulpecula artVulpeculaHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-XûrError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 15KineticNo
Waking Vigil artWaking VigilHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
B › Average
PvPShattered Throne DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13EnergyNoVoltshot
Warden's Law artWarden's LawHand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
S › Best
PvE + PvPNightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticNoTop-tier
Word of Crota artWord of CrotaHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
A › Strong
PvE + PvPCrota's End RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22EnergyCraftableTop-tierSword Logic
Yesterday's Question art Destiny 2Yesterday's QuestionHand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryArcThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc ArcTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Episode 2EnergyNo
Zaouli’s Bane artZaouli’s BaneHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
S › Best
PvEKing's Fall RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 18EnergyCraftableTop-tierIncandescent

Tier Ranks used for our list:

  • S+ Tier – Meta: Weapons so good they singlehandedly shifted the current meta
  • S Tier – Best: Highest ranking weapons.
  • A Tier – Strong: Very strong weapons, but not on the same level as S Tier Choices.
  • B Tier – Average: Either decent weapons or weapons that fit a very specific niche/use case.
  • C Tier – Weak: Mediocre weapons that are easily outclassed by the competition.
  • D Tier – Worst: Weapons that don’t have much to offer and don’t deserve your attention.

Best D2 Hand Cannons Today

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

 

Warden's Law Hand cannon featured Destiny 2

5. Warden’s Law

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 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.

Even though Bungie has recently added more entries to the heavy burst frame, they simply don’t compare to Warden’s Law. And while it only has one purpose in the current meta, its strengths in that area are enough to boost it above most of its competition.

When combined with the Lucky Pants Hunter exotic, Warden’s Law can pump out absurdly high DPS. Many still prefer other options that take special and heavy ammo instead, 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 most of the competition. These are the top Warden’s Law God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: ourth 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 is a Nightfall Weapon that can be acquired from Nightfall completions, Engrams, and/or rank-ups.

 

Malfeasance Exotic hand cannon screen Destiny 2

4. Malfeasance

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 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: We cover How to get Malfeasance + Catalyst here.

 

Lumina Exotic hand cannon

3. Lumina

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2 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 from Exotic engrams or occasionally from Xûr.

 

Zaouli's Bane Hand Cannon

2. Zaouli’s Bane

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

While it feels a bit one-sided to have our top two picks on this list serve the exact same purpose, they’re both extremely strong and deserve the rankings they have.

With Explosive Payload and Incandescent, Zaouli’s Bane is effectively a legendary version of Sunshot. And while other options excel further when not using a Solar build (Midnight Coup and Fatebringer come to mind), Zaouli’s feels extremely nice to use and is hard to beat.

If you’re able to find a team to farm King’s Fall for this weapon, definitely get some runs in. This weapon is definitely worth the hype and is the default option for many Guardians in PvE. These are the top Zaouli’s Bane God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent

How to get it: Zaouli’s Bane can be acquired from the King’s Fall Raid.

 

Sunshot hand cannon Destiny 2 featured

1. Sunshot

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 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 Solar-based seasonal mods 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: We cover How to get Sunshot + Catalyst here.

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 RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2
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 rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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
Auto rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Auto Rifles
S › Best
Best

S

Trend up► Auto Rifles are remarkably easy to use. Options like Khvostov or The Summoner both excel at medium range, and if you can close the gap on Pulse Rifles, you can easily take advantage of the high flinch factor and solid time-to-kill that Auto Rifles have.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 7G-0X
PVP Primaries
Sidearm weapon type Destiny 2
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
SMG weapon type Destiny 2
Submachine Guns
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend down► SMGs have lost a little bit of power as aggressive play isn't as prevalent as it once was, but you can definitely still succeed with certain SMGs, especially on close-range maps.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: Unending Tempest
PVP Primaries
Combat bow weapon type Destiny 2
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 rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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 TypeArchetypeOptimal TTKOptimal KillBody Shot TTKSpecs---Best in Class
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonAdaptive

140 RPM

0.873 crit1.73

Good stability, decent range

Austringer artAustringer
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonAggressive

120 RPM

1.002 crit 1 body1.50

High range, low stability and handling

Igneous Hammer artIgneous Hammer
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonPrecision

180 RPM

1.002 crit 2 body1.33

High stability, poor handling

Frontier's Cry artFrontier's Cry
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

1.003 crit 1 body1.33-Destiny 2 Malfeasance artMalfeasance
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

1.002 crit 1 body1.50-Destiny 2 Sturm artSturm
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.873 crit1.73-Destiny 2 ThornThorn
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.803 crit1.60-Destiny 2 Sunshot artSunshot
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.533 crit1.33-Destiny 2 The Last WordThe Last Word
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.876 crit 1 body1.43-Destiny 2 CrimsonCrimson
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.671 crit 1 body1.33-Destiny 2 Eriana's Vow artEriana'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 RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Pulse rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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 cannon weapon type Destiny 2
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
Auto rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Auto Rifles
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend up► Auto Rifles are in a good place right now, options like Khvostov are incredibly potent, and utility picks such as No Hesitation make Auto Rifles a very solid option for those wanting to use a good Primary Weapon.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 76-0X
PVE Primaries
Combat bow weapon type Destiny 2
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
SMG weapon type Destiny 2
Submachine Guns
B › Average
Average

B

Trend down► SMGs are not so hot anymore, due to the buffs to other weapon archetypes, as well as the prevalence of ability usage at close range, there is little space for SMGs to compete these days.

►Best Archetype- Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven
PVE Primaries
Scout rifle weapon type Destiny 2
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
Sidearm weapon type Destiny 2
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 TypeArchetypeSustained DPSMag DPSTotal DamageSpecs---Best in ClassChange?Ammo
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

1527217801474680With "First Glance"Destiny 2 Eriana's Vow artEriana's VowSameSpecial
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

1094313668/w CatalystDestiny 2 Malfeasance artMalfeasanceSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

1067815274/w Catalyst class=HawkmoonSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

60987022"Soul Devourer"Destiny 2 ThornThornSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

55139803-Destiny 2 The Last WordThe Last WordSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

46366418"Momento Mori"Destiny 2 Ace of Spades artAce of SpadesPrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

45526730-Destiny 2 CrimsonCrimsonSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonPrecision43365244High stability, poor handling class=PosterityBuffedPrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonLightweight43275215-Rose artRosePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

40715120-Destiny 2 Sturm artSturmPrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

40185215-Destiny 2 Lumina artLuminaPrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonAggressive39924654High range, low stability and handlingIgneous Hammer artIgneous HammerSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand Cannon

Exotic

39855363-Destiny 2 Sunshot artSunshotPrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonAdaptive39344741Good stability, decent rangeEyasluna artEyaslunaSamePrimary
Hand cannon weapon type Destiny 2Hand CannonDouble Fire38844902-Warden's Law artWarden's LawPrimary

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:

  • July 22, 2024: General updates according to The Final Shape Meta and the inclusion of Hand Cannons from Episode 1.
  • 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!

About The Author

Andrew Sideris
Andrew Sideris
With my over seven years of game knowledge, six months of writing experience for Blueberries.gg, and hundreds of Blueberries already guided through endgame content, I hope to allow newcomers to have the same great introduction I had all those years ago. You can find Andrew on Twitter.
More from Andrew Sideris
3 Comments
  1. Nathanael

    References to Warmind cells need to be removed.

    Reply
  2. Aidan Langlie

    they nerfed collective action, so targeted Redaction does two shot anymore

    Reply
  3. Peter

    Targeted redaction is not that good

    Reply
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