Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP and 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. If you look carefully, you’ll see that the vast majority of serious PvP players are hand cannon users. Hand cannons may not be as popular on the PvE side of the game but they remain extremely capable nonetheless, especially when they’re favored by seasonal mods or builds.

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.

Destiny 2 Hand Cannons Tier list: Top-tier Options

This Tier list features the Top-tier Exotic and Legendary hand cannon in the game and covers both PvE and PvP:

Name	Weapons	Type	Archetype	Ammo	Element	Requirements	In loot pool?	Rank	Source	Available?	Tier rank	Source ❘ DLC	Final Verdict	Released	Perks	Best of?
Targeted Redaction	Targeted Redaction	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Primary	Void	Season 21	Yes	S › Best	Seasonal activity		Best ❘ S	Seasonal activity Season 21	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Collective Action (also good: Destabilizing Rounds) PvP God Roll: Outlaw + Collective Action ► Targeted Redaction has a host of Void perks that allow it to excel in PvE and one new one that's a must-have: Collective Action. With this perk, you can easily two-tap Guardians in The Crucible. Plus, it's an easy 20% damage buff in PvE, making this weapon an S-Tier pick.	Season 21	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Collective Action (also good: Destabilizing Rounds) PvP God Roll: Outlaw + Collective Action	Top-tier
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
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
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." ► One of very few Lightweight Hand Cannons left in the game, Sunshot feels exceptionally great to use even while disregarding its exotic perk. However, looking at how many explosions you can set off with this weapon, it's clear why the community often regards Sunshot as both fun and a beast at ad clear.	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
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
The Palindrome	The Palindrome	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	No	S › Best	Nightfall: The Ordeals		Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals Free-to-Play	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder ► With S-Tier perks, great stats, and an adept version, there is nothing to hate about The Palindrome. Plus, it can get max range, take advantage of Volatile Rounds, and feels amazing to fire, making it one of the best legendary weapons in the game.	Season 13	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder	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 (also good: Slideshot) + Eye of the Storm (also good: Rangefinder) ► 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 (also good: Slideshot) + Eye of the Storm (also good: Rangefinder)	Top-tier
Exalted Truth	Exalted Truth	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Void	Lightfall	Yes	S › Best	Trials of Osiris		Best ❘ S	Trials of Osiris Lightfall	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage ► A relatively new hand cannon from Trials of Osiris, Exalted Truth features exactly what you'd expect from an endgame reward: Excellent stats and perks. With a combination of stability and damage perks, this is one of the best Legendary hand cannons for PvP.	Season 19	Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage	Top-tier
Fatebringer	Fatebringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	Vault of Glass Raid		Strong ❘ A 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: Killing Wind + Opening Shot ► 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: Killing Wind + Opening Shot	Top-tier
Austringer	Austringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	xur		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP	xur Free-to-Play	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
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
Crimson	Crimson	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	A › Strong	Exotic Engram		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	Exotic Engram Free-to-Play	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires a 3-round burst. Kills with this weapon heal the wielder. Precision kills also refill the magazine." ► Effectively a Hand Cannon version of Red Death from Destiny 1, Crimson is often a misunderstood weapon and typically receives mixed reviews. But just like The Last Word, Crimson can be very good for PvP, provided you're using a controller.	Season 2	Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires a 3-round burst. Kills with this weapon heal the wielder. Precision kills also refill the magazine."	Top-tier
Hawkmoon	Hawkmoon	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	A › Strong	Xûr		Strong ❘ A 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
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	World loot pool		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	World loot pool 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
Round Robin	Round Robin	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Primary	Strand	Lightfall	Yes	A › Strong	Neomuna		Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP	Neomuna Lightfall	Slot: Strand | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvP God Rolls: Killing Wind (also good: Keep Away) + Kill Clip ► Like Crimil's Dagger and Loud Lullaby, Round Robin can 2-tap in The Crucible with Kill Clip. While that alone isn't enough to put it up there with top options like Rose, Round Robin's decent stats and great perks carry it past most of the competition.	Season 20	Slot: Strand | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Aggressive PvP God Rolls: Killing Wind (also good: Keep Away) + Kill Clip	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		Forsaken Pack	Season 4	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Ancient Gospel	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Shadowkeep	Yes	Primary	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE	Garden of Salvation Raid		Shadowkeep	Season 8	Energy	No
	Annual Skate	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Weak ❘ C	-	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 15	Energy	No
	Austringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	xur		Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	Craftable	Top-tier
	Bottom Dollar	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Void	Average ❘ B	PvE + PvP	Playlist: Gambit		Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No
	Cantata-57	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Strong ❘ A	PvP	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Combined Action	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvP	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 21	Energy	No
	Crimil’s Dagger	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Iron Banner		Free-to-Play	Season 11	Kinetic	No
	Crimson	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Exotic Engram		Free-to-Play	Season 2	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Crisis Inverted	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Weak ❘ C	-	Playlist: Crucible		Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No
	D.F.A.	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Nightfall: The Ordeals		Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	No
	Dire Promise	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No
	Epochal Integration	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE + PvP	Seasonal activity		Season 21	Season 21	Energy	No
	Eriana's Vow	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Special	Solar	Shadowkeep	Yes	Special	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE	Exotic Kiosk		Shadowkeep	Season 8	Energy	No
	Exalted Truth	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Lightfall	Yes	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S	-	Trials of Osiris		Lightfall	Season 19	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Eyasluna	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	30th Anniversary	Yes	Primary	Stasis	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Grasp of Avarice Dungeon		30th Anniversary	30th Anniversary event	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Fatebringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	Vault of Glass Raid		Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Finite Impactor	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Arc	Worst ❘ D	-	Iron Banner		Free-to-Play	Season 14	Energy	No
	Frontier's Cry	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Weak ❘ C	-	Iron Banner		Free-to-Play	Season 16	Energy	No
	Hawkmoon	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Beyond Light	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Xûr		Beyond Light	Season 12	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Igneous Hammer	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Lightfall	No	Primary	Solar	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Trials of Osiris		Lightfall	Season 13	Energy	No	Top-tier
	IKELOS_HC_v1.0.3	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Void	Weak ❘ C	-	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 11	Energy	Craftable
	Judgment	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Weak ❘ C	-	Prophecy Dungeon		Free-to-Play	Season 15	Energy	No
	Loud Lullaby	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Moon		Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No
	Lumina	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvE + PvP	Exotic Kiosk		Forsaken Pack	Season 7	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Malfeasance	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Exotic Quest		Free-to-Play	Season 4	Kinetic	No
	Nation of Beasts	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Arc	Strong ❘ A	PvE	Last Wish Raid		Forsaken Pack	Season 4	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Nature of the Beast	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Worst ❘ D	-	World loot pool		Free-to-Play	Season 11	Energy	No
	Posterity	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Beyond Light	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvE	Deep Stone Crypt Raid		Beyond Light	Season 12	Energy	Craftable
	Pure Poetry	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Weak ❘ C	-	Vanguard Focusing		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		Free-to-Play	Season 19	Kinetic	No	Top-tier
	Round Robin	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Strand	Lightfall	Yes	Primary	Strand	Strong ❘ A	PvP	Neomuna		Lightfall	Season 20	Kinetic	Craftable	Top-tier
	Seventh Seraph Officer Revolver	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Worst ❘ D	PvE	Xûr		Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No
	Something New	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	Free-to-Play	Seasonal	Primary	Stasis	Average ❘ B	-	Event: Solstice		Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	No
	Spare Rations	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Fishing		Season 21	Season 21	Kinetic	No
	Sturm	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Exotic Kiosk		Free-to-Play	Season 1	Kinetic	No
	Sunshot	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Best ❘ S	PvE	Exotic Engram		Free-to-Play	Season 1	Energy	No	Top-tier
	Survivor's Epitaph	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Playlist: Crucible		Free-to-Play	Season 14	Kinetic	No
	Targeted Redaction	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S		Seasonal activity		Season 21	Season 21	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier
	The Last Word	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Exotic Kiosk		Forsaken Pack	Season 5	Kinetic	No
	The Palindrome	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S	PvP	Nightfall: The Ordeals		Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No	Top-tier
	The Steady Hand	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	No	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	-	Iron Banner		Free-to-Play	Season 12	Kinetic	No
	Thorn	Hand Cannon	Exotic	Exotic	Primary	Kinetic	Forsaken Pack	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Exotic Kiosk		Forsaken Pack	Season 6	Kinetic	No
	True Prophecy	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Average ❘ B	PvP	Xûr		Free-to-Play	Season 10	Kinetic	No
	Trust	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Average ❘ B	PvE + PvP	Playlist: Gambit		Free-to-Play	Season 20	Energy	No
	Vulpecula	Hand Cannon	Precision	Legendary	Primary	Stasis	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Stasis	Weak ❘ C	-	Xûr		Free-to-Play	Season 15	Kinetic	No
	Waking Vigil	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Arc	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Arc	Average ❘ B	PvP	Dreaming City		Free-to-Play	Season 13	Energy	No
	Zaouli’s Bane	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Solar	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Solar	Strong ❘ A	PvE	King's Fall Raid		Free-to-Play	Season 18	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier

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 2023

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. Austringer

Excels in PVE and PVP

ustringer has been a fan favorite since its initial release in Season of Opulence, and for good reason. Its solid perks and stats make it an excellent choice for PvE and PvP alike.

In The Crucible, running Eye of the Storm and Opening Shot makes this weapon remarkably consistent. Austringer’s fantastic set of base stats also contributes to this, along with its great feel. Sure, it’s not a two-tapping 120RPM hand cannon, but it’s still a great option.

The tried and true combination of Outlaw and Rampage allows Austringer to excel in PvE, too. While perks synergizing with subclasses are far more popular these days, using this more generic combo always works in casual content.

Austringer doesn’t seem too impressive compared to the four hand cannons above it on this list, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great weapon. If you’re looking for something highly reliable in any situation, Austringer is for you.

PvE God roll:

• Perk 1: Outlaw
• Perk 2: Rampage

PvP God roll:

• Perk 1: Eye of the Storm
• Perk 2: Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder)

How to get it: Austringer is hard to acquire these days. Xûr may randomly sell it on weekends from time to time.

Art	Weapon	Type	Archetype	Rarity	Ammo	Element	Requirements	In loot pool?	Ammo?	Element?	Tier	Excels	Source	Craftable?	Requires	Released	Slot	Can be Crafted?	Best of?	Top Perk?
	Austringer	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Strong ❘ A	PvE + PvP	xur		Free-to-Play	Season 17	Kinetic	Craftable	Top-tier

4. Rose

Excels in PVP

With crazy stats, an exceptional selection of perks, and a unique frame, it’s no wonder why Rose is a hit amongst PvP players.

There are very few ways to go wrong with Rose’s perks. Moving Target, Slideshot, Eye of the Storm, and Opening Shot are among our favorites, but if you’re using this in The Crucible, any perk can work with a suitable playstyle.

Rose also retained its lightweight frame when reissued, making it one of very few left in the game. This heavily contributes to how great it feels to wield and immediately sets it above all other 140RPM hand cannons.

What Rose severely lacks in PvE is more than made up for in its strengths in The Crucible. It’s a pain to get, but Rose’s strength and consistency can’t be denied.

How to get it: Rose was the reward for the PvP Competitive Playlist last season. Right now, it is unfortunately unavailable…

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?
	Rose	Hand Cannon	Lightweight	Legendary	Primary	Kinetic	Free-to-Play	Yes	Primary	Kinetic	Best ❘ S	PvP	Playlist: Crucible		Free-to-Play	Season 19	Kinetic	No	Top-tier

3. Targeted Redaction

Excels in PVE and PVP

With a pool full of new perks and a crafted variant, Targeted Redaction has a ton going for it in all areas of the game.

In The Crucible, Collective Action is insane on this weapon. All you need to do is collect an elemental pickup, and you’ll instantly receive 20% extra damage for six seconds—enough to two-tap Guardians. With how many Ionic Traces and Stasis Shards players are generating these days, maintaining this two-tap buff is easy.

For a 120RPM hand cannon, Targeted Redaction is also surprisingly good in PvE. Collective Action, Destabilizing Rounds, and Frenzy all appear in the final column, making for a weapon you can’t go wrong with.

While aggressive frame hand cannons aren’t in the best spot right now, Targeted Redaction has enough potency in its perks to break the mold and excel past its competition.

PvE God roll:

• Perk 1: Outlaw
• Perk 2: Collective Action (also good: Destabilizing Rounds)

PvP God roll:

• Perk 1: Outlaw
• Perk 2: Collective Action

How to get it: Targeted Redaction can be acquired by completing Seasonal activities and focusing Engrams.

Art	Weapon	Type	Archetype	Rarity	Ammo	Element	Requirements	In loot pool?	Ammo?	Element?	Tier	Excels	Source	Craftable?	Requires	Released	Slot	Can be Crafted?	Best of?	Top Perk?
	Targeted Redaction	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Season 21	Yes	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S		Seasonal activity		Season 21	Season 21	Energy	Craftable	Top-tier

2. 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		Forsaken Pack	Season 7	Kinetic	No	Top-tier

1. Exalted Truth

Excels in PVE and PVP

Available through Trials of Osiris is our pick for the best hand cannon, Exalted Truth.

Outlaw and a slew of damage perks allow Exalted Truth to excel in PvE. Repulsor Brace is also worth mentioning, allowing for great synergy with Void subclasses. This weapon also has numerous perks geared toward The Crucible. Killing Wind and Rangefinder are best in the first column, while Eye of the Storm and Multikill Clip are go-to’s in the second.

Exalted Truth’s excellent stats, S-Tier perks, and exceptional feel all contribute to its status as the top hand cannon in the game. Regardless of your skill level or what activity you play, this weapon can’t do you wrong.

PVE God roll:

• Perk 1: Outlaw (also good: Repulsor Brace)
• Perk 2: Headstone (also good: Kill Clip)

PVP God roll:

• Perk 1: Killing Wind (also good: Rangefinder)
• Perk 2: Eye of the Storm

How to get it: Exalted Truth can be acquired via Trials of Osiris engrams and rank ups.

Art	Weapon	Type	Archetype	Rarity	Ammo	Element	Requirements	In loot pool?	Ammo?	Element?	Tier	Excels	Source	Craftable?	Requires	Released	Slot	Can be Crafted?	Best of?	Top Perk?
	Exalted Truth	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	Legendary	Primary	Void	Lightfall	Yes	Primary	Void	Best ❘ S	-	Trials of Osiris		Lightfall	Season 19	Energy	No	Top-tier

Hand Cannons and the PvP Meta: TTK

We covered in detail the Hand Cannons that 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	A › Strong	Strong ❘ A	-	► Hand Cannons are in a bit of a strange spot. Many will argue that they are still the best weapons in the game, however, due to the prevalence of Pulse Rifles and especially SMGs, Hand Cannons have slowly been pushed out of many players' main pick. They are still excellent duelling weapons though, and feel amazing to use so they still retain a strong ranking. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer	PVP Primaries
Pulse Rifles	S › Best	Best ❘ S	-	► Pulse Rifles have seen a resurgence in the past few seasons, with constant buffs to all types of Pulse Rifles. It is hard not to find success with one due to the high-flinch potential of Rapid-Fire Pulses or the lethal time-to-kill of High-Impact Pulses. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (340 RPM) - Example: The Messenger	PVP Primaries
Sidearms	A › Strong	Strong ❘ A		► Sidearms have lost their place at the top of the meta, but they remain a solid pick, especially for players using a Controller, as they inherently have manageable stability with a rapid time-to-kill. Honestly, the main reason they've lost their place at the top is due to how powerful SMGs are right now. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (325 RPM) - Example: Forgiveness	PVP Primaries
Auto Rifles	C › Weak	Weak ❘ C	-	► Auto Rifles aren't doing greét right now. They contest a similar range as Hand Cannons, however, they lack the peak shooting potential that Adaptive Hand Cannons bring. They can also be contested at close range by SMGs, making them difficult to use everywhere. However, a good player can still find value in an Auto Rifle as they do provide high flinch and constant damage. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger	PVP Primaries
Combat Bows	B › Average	Average ❘ B	-	► Bows are incredibly unique. They have a remarkably slow time to kill, however, this isn't where Bows shine. Hotswap builds with bows can be incredibly potent and don't require much learning either. Bows also provide incredible value when teamshooting opponents. Despite this, Bows on their own are quite mediocre and need something behind them to really shine. ► Best Archetype: Precision (Slower Draw Time) - Example: Strident Whistle	PVP Primaries
Scout Rifles	B › Average	Average ❘ B	-	► Scouts have been tuned down to make them less potent in the hands of the average player. However, good scout rifle players will still be able to do pretty well in lobbies, however, they may find themselves outmatched by Pulse Rifles. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (150 RPM) - Example: Polaris Lance	PVP Primaries
Submachine Guns	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► SMGs have soared in power and will absolutely destroy you if you get within their effective range which, nowadays, feels like it's across the map. This, combined with their incredible ease of use and high potential in skilled hands makes for a very oppressive weapon to face against. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM)- Example: IKELOS_SMG_V1.0.3	PVP Primaries

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
Auto Rifles	B › Average	Average ❘ B		► Auto Rifles currently feel like a worse version of SMGs. They have a bit more range, but outside of the absolute top-shelf content such as Grandmaster Nightfalls, range isn't too much of a factor. And if you are actively tackling difficult content, Auto Rifles aren't exactly the best pick either, making Autos a decent, but outclassed option right now. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger	PVE Primaries
Sidearms	B › Average	Average ❘ B		► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo	PVE Primaries
Hand Cannons	B › Average	Average ❘ B	-	► While Hand Cannons routinely dominate the PvP meta, they are often outclassed by weapon types that can either offer better DPS or better range. There are a couple of solid options, such as Fatebringer or Zaouli's Bane, but putting those aside, you'll be better off using something else. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer	PVE Primaries
Pulse Rifles	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious	PVE Primaries
Scout Rifles	S › Best	Best ❘ S		► Scout Rifles have come a long way. They are a solid and consistent option for anyone that prefers a safer and slower playstyle. They also shine in high-level content due to their excellent range. The best part about Scout Rifles, however, is their versatility across archetypes. Basically, every type of Scout Rifle is viable and can be used anywhere in the game. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle	PVE Primaries
Combat Bows	A › Strong	Strong ❘ A		► Bows are a high-damage, high-range option for players who prefer to keep their distance. The main issue with bows is that they are slow at clearing ads (outside of Trinity Ghoul). and when you have to deal with ads up close, bows can massively struggle. However, their solid range and excellent damage make them a strong option. ► Best Archetype: Precision - Example: Under Your Skin	PVE Primaries

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	Average DPS	Burst DPS	Total Damage	Specs	---	Best in Class	Change?	Ammo
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	11,603	12,456	224,208	With "First Glance"		Eriana's Vow	Same	Special
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	8,979	10,980	564,704	Landing all crits		Hawkmoon	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	7,766	9,230	323,033	Vs. Taken		Malfeasance	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	4,087	5,347	268,106	-		Thorn	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	3,965	5,438	162,400	With Fan Fire x4		The Last Word	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Exotic	3,250	4,398	358,800	-		Crimson	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Aggressive	2,965	3,843	224,816	High range, low stability and handling		Igneous Hammer	Same	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Precision	3,025	3,842	138,294	High stability, poor handling		Posterity	Buffed	Primary
	Hand Cannon	Adaptive	2,724	3,464	163,295	Good stability, decent range		Eyasluna	Same	Primary

Endgame content

A good PvE player can get the job done with a hand cannon, but other options are simply stronger and/or more efficient. SMGs and Sidearms have vastly superior DPS potential, whereas Pulse rifles and Scouts have superior range. Hand cannons sit awkwardly in the middle and are simply not part of the PvE meta right now.

Your turn

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:

• 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!