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Best Machine Guns in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP and PvE

by | Apr 30, 2023

Machine guns have been underwhelming for a long time, but thanks to recent buffs, they have finally claimed their place in the meta. In fact, today’s top-tier machine guns can easily compete with the best weapons in the game.

This guide covers every Machine Gun in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendaries, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Checkmark icon V3 Updated as of Season of Defiance (S20). See Updates.

Destiny 2 Machine Gun Tier List: Top-tier Options

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

NameWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier rankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
ThunderlordDestiny 2 Thunderlord art
Thunderlord
Machine GunExoticHeavyArcForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic EngramCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Exotic Engram
Forsaken Destiny 2 icon
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon generate lightning strikes from above and increase reload speed for a short time."

► One of the all-time Destiny greats, Thunderlord is the cream of the crop when it comes to Machine Guns. With a good archetype, an excellent exotic perk, and a brilliant catalyst, Thunderlord easily lands in the S tier. It excels everywhere: Ad clear, DPS, and even PvP!
Season 4
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon generate lightning strikes from above and increase reload speed for a short time."
Top-tier
CommemorationCommemoration Destiny 2 art
Commemoration
Machine GunAdaptiveHeavyVoidBeyond LightYesS › BestDeep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Deep Stone Crypt Raid
Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction + Rampage (also good: Killing Tally)

► Commemoration has been one of the top machine guns since it was released alongside the Deep Stone Crypt raid. With many excellent perks and solid stats, Commemoration can be easily top-tier.
Season 12
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction + Rampage (also good: Killing Tally)
Top-tier
Corrective MeasureCorrective Measure art
Corrective Measure
Machine GunAdaptiveHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesS › BestVault of Glass RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Vault of Glass Raid
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Rewind Rounds (also good: Subsistence) + One for All (also good: Firefly)

► Corrective Measure is still one of the best Machine guns in the entire game. With great perks, a good archetype, and a nice 'feel' to it, Corrective Measure is a weapon you can't go wrong with.
Season 14
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Rewind Rounds (also good: Subsistence) + One for All (also good: Firefly)
Top-tier
Grand OvertureGrand Overture art
Grand Overture
Machine GunExoticHeavyArcThe Witch QueenYesS › BestExotic KioskCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Exotic Kiosk
The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Heavy slug launcher that charges, then fires full auto while the trigger is held. Land hits with the slug launcher to load missiles and then fire to launch all missiles in a single volley."

► Grand Overture is one of the best picks for burst DPS right now. Only rivaled by Parasite, Grand Overture can be used in a myriad of situations. This machine gun is perfect for encounters that require burst damage, but it also delivers solid total damage numbers.
Season 16
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Heavy slug launcher that charges, then fires full auto while the trigger is held. Land hits with the slug launcher to load missiles and then fire to launch all missiles in a single volley."
Top-tier
Fixed OddsFixed Odds art
Fixed Odds
Machine GunHigh-ImpactHeavySolarDeluxe EditionYesS › BestDuality DungeonCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Duality Dungeon
The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Field Prep (also good: Feeding Frenzy) + Incandescent (also good: Rampage)

► A fan favorite, Fixed Odds is one of the best options among slow-firing Machine guns. Offering a fine selection of perks, Fixed Odds is a great pick and performs nicely in more difficult content featuring beefier enemies.
Season 17
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Field Prep (also good: Feeding Frenzy) + Incandescent (also good: Rampage)
Top-tier
Heir ApparentDestiny 2 Heir Apparent art
Heir Apparent
Machine GunExoticHeavyArcFree-to-PlaySeasonalA › StrongEvent: Guardian GamesNote icon V2
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Event: Guardian Games
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "This weapon can be fired only when fully spun up. While at full health, spinning up this weapon protects you with an Arc Shield."

► Heir Apparent is not only a very fun option, it's a surprisingly competent weapon too. While it's not a great DPS option, it can still provide you with an extra layer of safety thanks to its beefy overshield. Plus, it can generate Super energy remarkably fast due to its 900 RPM damage profile.
Season 10
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "This weapon can be fired only when fully spun up. While at full health, spinning up this weapon protects you with an Arc Shield."
Top-tier
Qullim’s TerminusQullim’s Terminus art
Qullim’s Terminus
Machine GunHigh-ImpactHeavyStasisFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongKing's Fall RaidCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
King's Fall Raid
Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Unrelenting + Killing Tally (also good: Headstone)

► Qullim's Terminus is a solid option. But due to its strong competition, namely the Fixed Odds, Qullim's can feel a bit pointless. That said, just because another weapon surpasses it doesn't mean Qullim's is bad. If you have a good roll, hold on to it!
Season 18
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Unrelenting + Killing Tally (also good: Headstone)
Top-tier
Circular LogicCircular Logic art
Circular Logic
Machine GunAdaptiveHeavyStrandLightfallYesA › StrongTerminal OverloadCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Terminal Overload
Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

God Rolls: Feeding Frenzy + Hatchling (also good: Demolitionist)

► Adaptive Frame variants have always been the go-to machine guns for most players, providing a perfect balance between all stats. This, in addition to Circular Logic’s unique Strand element, makes for a great weapon in all scenarios.
Season 20
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

God Rolls: Feeding Frenzy + Hatchling (also good: Demolitionist)
Top-tier
XenophageDestiny 2 Xenophage
Xenophage
Machine GunExoticHeavySolarShadowkeepYesA › StrongExotic QuestCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Exotic Quest
Shadowkeep Destiny 2 icon
Shadowkeep
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Fires high-powered explosive ammunition. Aiming this weapon increases its effective range and zoom magnification."

► Xenophage has seen many ups and downs. Unnecessary changes turned it into a joke and the weapon remained in that state for a long time. But now that Xenophage was returned to its original state, it's once again an excellent PVE weapon that never disappoints.
Season 8
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Fires high-powered explosive ammunition. Aiming this weapon increases its effective range and zoom magnification."
Top-tier
Unwavering DutyUnwavering Duty art
Unwavering Duty
Machine GunAdaptiveHeavySolarLightfallYesA › StrongTrials of OsirisCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Trials of Osiris
Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Incandescent (also good: Killing Tally)

► Unwavering Duty is one of the best Machine guns in the game right now. While you do need to play Trials of Osiris to get it, it will be absolutely worth it if you're looking for a top-tier Solar Adaptive Frame.
Season 19
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Subsistence + Incandescent (also good: Killing Tally)
Top-tier

Destiny 2 Machine Guns: The complete list

This database includes every viable Machine gun currently in the game:

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
A Fine Memorial artA Fine MemorialMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

PvEMoonError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Archon's Thunder artArchon's ThunderMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayNoHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Weak

C

-Iron BannerError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Avalanche Destiny 2 artAvalancheMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlaySeasonalHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Average

B

-Event: DawningError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 12HeavyNo
Blood Feud artBlood FeudSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
Average

B

PvESeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 18KineticCraftable
Borrowed Time artBorrowed TimeSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
Average

B

PvE + PvPPlaylist: GambitError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14EnergyNo
Bug-Out Bag art Destiny 2Bug-Out BagSubmachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarSeason 21YesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar SolarFishingError icon V2Season of the Deep Icon
Season 21
Season 21EnergyNo
CALUS Mini-Tool artCALUS Mini-ToolSubmachine GunMIDA SynergyLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
Best

S

PvEDerelict LeviathanCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 17EnergyCraftableTop-tier
Chain of Command artChain of CommandMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStasisFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
Average

B

PvEExotic KioskError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 17HeavyNo
Circular Logic artCircular LogicMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandLightfallYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
Strong

A

PvETerminal OverloadError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 20HeavyNoTop-tier
Cold Front Destiny 2 artCold FrontSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlaySeasonalPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Average

B

-Event: DawningError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 12KineticNo
Commemoration Destiny 2 artCommemorationMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEDeep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyCraftableTop-tier
Corrective Measure artCorrective MeasureMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEVault of Glass RaidError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier
Death Adder Destiny 2 artDeath AdderSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
Worst

D

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11EnergyNo
Deterministic Chaos artDeterministic ChaosMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyVoidLightfallYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Average

B

-Exotic QuestError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 20HeavyNo
Enyo-D artEnyo-DSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Average

B

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 17KineticNo
Escape Velocity Destiny 2 artEscape VelocitySubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Worst

D

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 10KineticNo
Every Waking Moment artEvery Waking MomentSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Average

B

-MoonError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14EnergyNo
Extraordinary Rendition artExtraordinary RenditionSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Average

B

PvEXûrError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 13KineticNo
Fixed Odds artFixed OddsMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavySolarDeluxe EditionYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Best

S

PvEDuality DungeonCheckmark icon V3The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 17HeavyCraftableTop-tier
Forensic Nightmare artForensic NightmareSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
Weak

C

-Throne WorldCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 16KineticCraftable
Friction Fire Destiny 2 artFriction FireSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Weak

C

-XûrError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 12KineticNo
Funnelweb artFunnelwebSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Best

S

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 16EnergyNoTop-tier
Grand Overture artGrand OvertureMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyArcThe Witch QueenYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Best

S

PvEExotic KioskError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Season 16HeavyNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 Heir Apparent artHeir ApparentMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyArcFree-to-PlaySeasonalHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Strong

A

PvE + PvPEvent: Guardian GamesError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 10HeavyNoTop-tier
IKELOS_SMG_v1.0.2 artIKELOS_SMG_v1.0.3Submachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
Best

S

PvE + PvPWorld loot poolCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 11EnergyCraftableTop-tier
MIDA Mini-Tool artMIDA Mini-ToolSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
Weak

C

-The GunsmithError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 12EnergyNo
Multimach CCX artMultimach CCXSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Strong

A

PvPIron BannerError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 13KineticNoTop-tier
No Survivors SMG art Destiny 2No SurvivorsSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimarySolarDeluxe EditionYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar SolarGhost of the Deep DungeonError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 21EnergyNo
Osteo Striga artOsteo StrigaSubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimaryKineticThe Witch QueenYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Best

S

PvE + PvPThe Witch Queen CampaignCheckmark icon V3The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Season 16KineticCraftableTop-tier
Out of Bounds artOut of BoundsSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
Average

B

-Playlist: CrucibleError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 18EnergyNo
Pizzicato-22 artPizzicato-22Submachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Weak

C

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 18KineticNo
Planck's Stride artPlanck's StrideMachine GunRapid-FireLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Weak

C

-Seasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 18HeavyCraftable
Prolonged Engagement artProlonged EngagementSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis Stasis
Strong

A

PvEVanguard FocusingError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 19KineticNoTop-tier
Qullim’s Terminus art Qullim’s TerminusMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyStasisFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
Strong

A

PvEKing's Fall RaidCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 18HeavyCraftableTop-tier
Rapacious Appetite art Destiny 2Rapacious AppetiteSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisSeason 21YesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStasis StasisSeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Season of the Deep Icon
Season 21
Season 21KineticCraftable
Recurrent Impact artRecurrent ImpactMachine GunRapid-FireLegendaryHeavyStasisDeluxe EditionYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
Average

B

PvEPsiOps BattlegroundsCheckmark icon V3The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 16HeavyCraftable
Retrofit Escapade art
Retrofit EscapadeMachine GunRapid-FireLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Average

B

PvESeasonal activityCheckmark icon V3Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 19HeavyCraftable
Destiny 2 RiskrunnerRiskrunnerSubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
Strong

A

PvEExotic QuestError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 1EnergyNoTop-tier
Seventh Seraph SAW Destiny 2Seventh Seraph SAWMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Worst

D

-XûrError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 10HeavyNo
Seventh Seraph VY 7 Destiny 2 artSeventh Seraph VY-7Submachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
Worst

D

-World loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 10EnergyNo
Shattered Cipher artShattered CipherMachine GunRapid-FireLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayNoHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Weak

C

-UnobtainableError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNo
Shayura's Wrath artShayura's WrathSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Best

S

PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 14EnergyNoTop-tier
Stochastic Variable artStochastic VariableSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryArc Arc
Average

B

PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14EnergyNo
Submission art v2SubmissionSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryKineticThe Witch QueenYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Average

B

PvE + PvPVow of the Disciple RaidCheckmark icon V3The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Season 16KineticCraftable
Synchronic Roulette artSynchronic RouletteSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
Average

B

PvETerminal OverloadError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 20KineticNo
Destiny 2 Tarrabah artTarrabahSubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimarySolarForsaken PackYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimarySolar Solar
Best

S

PvE + PvPExotic KioskError icon V2Forsaken Destiny 2 icon
Forsaken Pack
Season 4EnergyNoTop-tier
Terminus Horizon art Destiny 2Terminus HorizonMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyArcDeluxe EditionYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

-Spire of the Watcher DungeonError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 19HeavyNo
The Hero's Burden artThe Hero's BurdenSubmachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Average

B

-Iron BannerError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 17EnergyNoDestabilizing Rounds
Destiny 2 The Huckleberry artThe HuckleberrySubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryKinetic symbol Destiny 2 Kinetic
Strong

A

PvEExotic EngramError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 3KineticNoTop-tier
The Immortal artThe ImmortalSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
Best

S

PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 20KineticNoTop-tier
The Manticore artThe ManticoreSubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimaryVoidThe Witch QueenYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Average

B

PvPExotic KioskError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Season 19EnergyNo
THE SWARM artTHE SWARMMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Average

B

PvENightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 13HeavyNo
Thermal Erosion Destiny 2 artThermal ErosionMachine GunRapid-FireLegendaryHeavySolarBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Weak

C

-Empire HuntsError icon V2Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyNo
Destiny 2 Thunderlord artThunderlordMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyArcForsaken PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Best

S

PvE + PvPExotic EngramError icon V2Forsaken Destiny 2 icon
Forsaken Pack
Season 4HeavyNoTop-tier
Unforgiven artUnforgivenSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidDeluxe EditionYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryVoid Void
Strong

A

PvEDuality DungeonError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 17EnergyNoTop-tier
Unwavering Duty artUnwavering DutyMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarLightfallYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Strong

A

-Trials of OsirisError icon V2Lightfall Preorder icon
Lightfall
Season 19HeavyNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 XenophageXenophageMachine GunExoticExoticHeavySolarShadowkeepYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Strong

A

-Exotic QuestError icon V2Shadowkeep Destiny 2 icon
Shadowkeep
Season 8HeavyNoTop-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 Machine Guns in Destiny 2: Top 5

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

 

Corrective Measure Destiny 2 featured machine gun

5. Corrective Measure

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Corrective Measure is one of the better options for a 450 RPM Machine Gun, as it has some excellent perks. Given that it drops from the Vault of Glass raid, one of the easiest raids in the game, obtaining Corrective Measure isn’t too much hassle.

Another bonus of being from a raid is its raid unique perks like Rewind Rounds and Firefly, which only come on Raid weapons currently. Corrective Measure is a very solid option, and while it may be slightly worse than others, it is in no way a bad pick.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Rewind Rounds (also good: Subsistence)
  • Perk 2: One for All (also good: Firefly)

How to get it: Corrective Measure can be acquired by completing the first, third, or fifth encounter of the Vault of Glass raid.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Corrective Measure artCorrective MeasureMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEVault of Glass RaidError icon V2Free to Play Destiny 2 icon
Free-to-Play
Season 14HeavyNoTop-tier

 

Fixed Odds machine gun Destiny 2 featured

4. Fixed Odds

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Fixed Odds is a favorite for many players. It feels nice to use and comes with many excellent perks. While it can be a bit annoying to grind, as it can only drop from the Duality Dungeon, it is craftable, meaning that eventually, you will be able to make your own god roll.

Fixed Odds is the preferred pick among players that want a harder-hitting option compared to the regular Adaptive archetype or players that want to switch it up and enjoy powerful feeling Machine Gun.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Field Prep (also good: Feeding Frenzy)
  • Perk 2: Incandescent (also good: Rampage)

How to get it: Fixed Odds can be acquired by completing the Duality dungeon.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Fixed Odds artFixed OddsMachine GunHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavySolarDeluxe EditionYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
Best

S

PvEDuality DungeonCheckmark icon V3The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
Deluxe Edition
Season 17HeavyCraftableTop-tier

 

Commemoration Destiny 2 featured machine gun

3. Commemoration

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE and PVP

A go-to Machine Gun from the Deep Stone Crypt raid, Commemoration has it all. It is craftable, belongs to the Adaptive frame archetype, and comes with a wide selection of excellent perks.

Damage perks like Rampage, Killing Tally, or even Redirection, ammo perks like Reconstruction, Subsistence, and Fourth Time’s the Charm, or utility perks like Repulsor Brace and Unrelenting are all available. You can truly customize Commemoration to your liking.

PVE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Reconstruction
  • Perk 2: Rampage (also good: Killing Tally)

PvE God roll:

  • Perk 1: Dynamic Sway Reduction
  • Perk 2: Under Pressure

How to get it: Commemoration can be acquired by completing the Deep Stone Crypt raid.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Commemoration Destiny 2 artCommemorationMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidBeyond LightYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
Best

S

PvEDeep Stone Crypt RaidCheckmark icon V3Beyond Light Destiny 2 icon
Beyond Light
Season 12HeavyCraftableTop-tier

 

Grand Overture Machine gun Destiny 2 featured

2. Grand Overture

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE

Grand Overture is a DPS monster. Some players often mix and confuse the terms DPS (damage per second) and ‘total damage’. DPS is typically associated with burst damage like Rocket Launchers, and total damage is often mentioned when discussing weapons like Linear Fusion Rifles. Still, Grand Overture can be part of both conversations as it has remarkable DPS with its Rocket Volley and solid total damage with its regular fire.

Grand Overture is a jack of all trades that specializes in dealing incredible burst damage, which makes it a good pick on almost all bosses.

Exotic Perk: “Heavy slug launcher that charges, then fires full auto while the trigger is held. Land hits with the slug launcher to load missiles and then fire to launch all missiles in a single volley.”

How to get it: Grand Overture can be acquired from the Season Pass (either the paid or free track).

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Grand Overture artGrand OvertureMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyArcThe Witch QueenYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Best

S

PvEExotic KioskError icon V2The Witch Queen Destiny 2 icon
The Witch Queen
Season 16HeavyNoTop-tier

 

Thunderlord Machine gun Destiny 2 featured

1. Thunderlord

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2 Excels in PVE and PVP

Thunderlord has risen to the top of the meta thanks partly to its recent catalyst, which refills ammo upon lightning strike. This change has turned Thunderlord into even more of a beast capable of excellent ad clear and a solid, albeit suboptimal, boss damage weapon.

Thunderlord is an easy route to doing solid damage on bosses. While it may not be as good as some of the top DPS options in the game, it is undeniable that Thunderlord can be used by anyone with remarkable ease.

Exotic Perk: “Kills with this weapon generate lightning strikes from above and increase reload speed for a short time.”

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

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmoElementRequirementsIn loot pool?Ammo?Element?TierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Destiny 2 Thunderlord artThunderlordMachine GunExoticExoticHeavyArcForsaken PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
Best

S

PvE + PvPExotic EngramError icon V2Forsaken Destiny 2 icon
Forsaken Pack
Season 4HeavyNoTop-tier

Machine Guns and the PvP Meta: TTK

We covered in detail the Machine guns 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 RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Rocket launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Rocket Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

-► Rocket Launchers remain a staple in many players' loadouts. They can provide high-range one-shot kills, and can also do AoE damage which can potentially allow you to clear teams if they are close enough together.

► Best Archetype: Precision (15 RPM) - Example: Gjallarhorn
PVP Heavies
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2
Machine Guns
A › Strong
Strong

A

-► Machine Guns are still an incredible option for Control as they can provide many kills. However, they do require multiple shots to kill which can lead to you potentially being Sniped or peak-shot by a Primary Weapon.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (450 RPM) - Example: Corrective Measure
PVP Heavies
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

Trend up► Heavy Grenade Launchers are an incredible option for those who are confident in landing their direct hits. They can functionally serve as a Rocket Launcher, but instead of coming with only a single shot, Grenade Launchers can bring 3, which, of course, means more potential kills.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Memory Interdict
PVP Heavies
Sword weapon type Destiny 2
Swords
C › Weak
Weak

C

-► Swords are perhaps the most fun option (especially with Eager Edge), however, they are too inconsistent to warrant any competitive use. Furthermore, benefitting from third-person view is no longer possible without Heavy ammo, making the only niche usage swords had now redundant.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive/Lightweight- Examples: Half-Truths/Quickfang
PVP Heavies
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
C › Weak
Weak

C

Linear fusion rifles are in the middle of an identity crisis. They are stronger than sniper rifles and have more aim assistance, but they still require Heavy ammo and a headshot to one-shot an enemy.

On top of that, they also have a charge time to take into account. Compared to a sniper rifle that fires immediately and only uses Special ammo, Linear Fusion rifles make little sense for the Crucible. In PVP, you want a Heavy weapon that can either easily down several guardians or guarantee a kill in a high-stakes match. It isn't impossible to do with a linear fusion rifle, but other weapon types can accomplish that more easily.
PVP Heavies

Keep in mind 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.

Machine guns and the PvE Meta: DPS

How do Machine guns compare to other primary weapons in PvE?

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Sword weapon type Destiny 2
Swords
B › Average
Average

B

Trend downMain roles: Add Clear & Single Target damage (i.e. Boss damage).

► Swords have fallen slightly out of the meta since the days of Falling Guillotine, however, they are still a solid pick. Swords like The Lament and Heartshadow are both solid options for slaying majors and dealing good boss damage. They are unfortunately very risky, though, and when Linear Fusion Rifles deal the incredible amount of damage they do right now, it is difficult to recommend Swords.

► Best Archetype: Exotics - Example: The Lament
PVE Heavies
Rocket launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Rocket Launchers
A › Strong
Strong

A

-Main role: Burst Damage (Secondary role: Add Clear)

► Rocket Launchers are solid options. They deal good burst damage and are effective for killing high-health targets like Majors quickly. Their ammo economy is poor, unfortunately, meaning that you will need to be conservative with how you use your rockets.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (20 RPM) - Example: The Hothead
PVE Heavies
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
S › Best
Best

S

Trend upMain role: Single Target damage (Secondary role: Burst Damage)

► Linear Fusion Rifles are the cream of the crop. They can deal very high damage consistently. They have solid DPS and incredible total damage, making them amazing for Raids and other high-level pieces of content. There are also plenty of strong options right now, including the Taipan-4FR or Cataclysmic, which both come with excellent perks and have good damage.

► Best Archetype: Precision (533 RPM) - Example: Reed's Regret
PVE Heavies
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2
Machine Guns
B › Average
Average

B

-Main role: Add Clear

► Machine Guns are a different kind of Power weapon. Instead of focusing on boss damage (outside of Xenophage), Machine Guns focus on ad clear. And they are excellent at ad clear, especially Thunderlord; however, given that abilities and primary weapons are excellent at add clear, Machine Guns are currently mediocre options for your Heavy slot.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example:
PVE Heavies
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
D › Worst
Worst

D

Trend downMain role: Add Clear (Secondary role: Single Target Damage).

► Grenade Launchers are in a very sad state right now. Outside of maybe Typhon GL5, Heavy Grenade Launchers are in a terrible spot. They do not have great boss damage and also do not have good add clear, making them very, very pointless in all content.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Typhon GL5
PVE Heavies
Sniper rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Exotic Sniper Rifles
C › Weak
Weak

C

-Main role: Single Target damage

► Exotic Snipers are very niche. They are far from the top of the meta right now as they are simply harder to use and in many ways inferior to Linear Fusion Rifles.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Whisper of the Worm
PVE Heavies

According to Bungie, these are the different roles for Heavy weapons:

Role Explanation Target Weapon types
Add Clear Clearing weaker enemies faster than you could with a primary ammo weapon. For most content, primaries do the add clear job perfectly well, so this is most useful in high-difficulty PvE. Main: Machine Guns, Grenade Launchers, Swords

Secondary: Rocket Launchers

Single Target Damage Burning down a boss. Main: Linear Fusion Rifles, Exotic Snipers, Swords

Secondary: Grenade Launchers, Machine Guns

Burst Damage Burning down a champion quickly, or for bosses with multiple damage phases, clearing a phase quickly. Main: Rocket Launchers

Secondary: Linear Fusion Rifles

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, Machine guns are much more capable these days:

-Weapon TypeArchetypeAverage DPSBurst DPSTotal DamageSpecs---Best in ClassChange?Ammo
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine Gun

Exotic

17,61521,100274,300-Destiny 2 XenophageXenophageSameHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine Gun

Exotic

14,60216,485439,600-Destiny 2 Heir Apparent artHeir ApparentBuffedHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine Gun

Exotic

9,57510,997395,880-Grand Overture artGrand OvertureSameHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine Gun

Exotic

11,16315,379290,904-Destiny 2 Thunderlord artThunderlordBuffedHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine GunRapid-Fire8,81811,820241,128-Recurrent Impact artRecurrent ImpactBuffedHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine GunAdaptive7,75910,313319,000- width=CommemorationBuffedHeavy
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2Machine GunHigh-Impact7,1259,522380,880-THE SWARM artTHE SWARMBuffedHeavy

Your turn

You now know everything there is to know about machine guns 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:
  • April 30, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Season 19 and 20 new machine guns.
  • May 20, 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

Matthew Evans
Matthew Evans
Games have been a part of my life for the better part of my age, I've been hooked on them for years, and Destiny 2 is no exception. I've racked up countless hours and plenty of experience, which I hope to share with Blueberries who want to get involved with Destiny.
More from Matthew Evans
1 Comment
  1. Nathanael

    Qullim’s Terminus is still ongoing?

    Reply
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