Best Rocket Launchers in Destiny 2: Tier List (Heresy Meta)

by | Mar 20, 2025

Not too long ago, Destiny 2’s Rocket launchers were in a pathetic state. They were underpowered and simply not fun to use. But slowly, they received several buffs, from increased ammo reserves to significant damage increases against Majors and Bosses. All those buffs have catapulted Rocket launchers back to the forefront, with some of them sitting among the best weapons in the game.

This guide covers all Rocket Launchers in Destiny 2 and their best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Episode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2Update based on Episode 3: Heresy. See Updates.

Top Tier Rocket Launchers (Episode 3)

These are the best Exotic and Legendary Rocket Launchers right now:

ItemWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier rankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
GjallarhornGjallarhorn art
Gjallarhorn
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherExoticHeavySolar30th AnniversaryYesS › BestGrasp of Avarice DungeonCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Grasp of Avarice Dungeon
Destiny 2 30th anniversary icon
30th Anniversary
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Rounds fired split into tracking cluster missiles upon detonation. Gain increased handling and reload speed when standing near allies. Firing this weapon also grants Wolfpack Rounds to nearby allies wielding non-Exotic Rocket Launchers."

► Gjallarhorn is still one of the greats. Despite the fact that other options are generally preferred for boss damage right now, rockets are still solid, and Gjallarhorn is an absolute must when using them.
30th Anniversary event
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Rounds fired split into tracking cluster missiles upon detonation. Gain increased handling and reload speed when standing near allies. Firing this weapon also grants Wolfpack Rounds to nearby allies wielding non-Exotic Rocket Launchers."
Top-tier
Hezen VengeanceHezen Vengeance art
Hezen Vengeance
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherAggressiveHeavySolarFree-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: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch (also good: Elemental Honing)
PvP God Roll: Cluster Bomb + Vorpal Weapon

► Hezen Vengeance has quickly cemented itself as the best rocket launcher currently available. With outstanding perks, a potent origin trait, and both craftable and adept variants, this weapon is a must-have for all Guardians.
Episode 3
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch (also good: Elemental Honing)
PvP God Roll: Cluster Bomb + Vorpal Weapon
Top-tier
Apex PredatorApex Predator art Destiny 2
Apex Predator
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherAdaptiveHeavySolarForsaken PackYesS › BestLast Wish RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



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

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)

► While we're now past the height of the rocket launcher meta, Apex Predator is still an absolutely outstanding option when paired with a full damage loadout. Especially if you're unable to use an exotic heavy weapon for one reason or another, Apex is one of the best picks out right now.
Season 4
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Reconstruction (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)
Top-tier
Cold ComfortCold Comfort art Destiny 2
Cold Comfort
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherAggressiveHeavyStasisLightfall Dungeon KeyYesS › BestGhost of the Deep DungeonCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Ghost of the Deep Dungeon
Lightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall Dungeon Key
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)

► With a host of absurd perks, a strong frame, and a top-tier Origin Trait, Cold Comfort is a strong pick for anything PvE. Its inability to be crafted does make it annoying to farm, but this rocket sees little competition in the current sandbox, making it a must-have.
Season 21
Slot: Stasis Stasis | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)
Top-tier
Crowning DuologueCrowning Duologue art
Crowning Duologue
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherPrecisionHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongEvent: SolsticeCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Event: Solstice
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Field Prep) + Hatchling (also good: Adrenaline Junkie)

► Crowning Duologue has had a serious glow-up since its last iteration. Now, with top-tier perks like Reconstruction and Bait and Switch, It is much better than it once was. However, despite this drastic upgrade, it doesn’t quite reach the top dogs like Apex Predator due to its weaker archetype.
Season 21
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Precision

PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster (also good: Field Prep) + Hatchling (also good: Adrenaline Junkie)
Top-tier
Dragon's BreathDragon's Breath art Destiny 2
Dragon's Breath
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherExoticHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongSeason PassCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



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

Exotic Perk: "Rockets embed themselves in struck targets and periodically eject incendiary fuel that inflicts Scorch. The longer this weapon goes without firing, the more fuel the next rocket contains. Igniting nearby targets partially replenishes fuel. This weapon refills itself from reserves upon gaining maximum fuel."

► The last Season Pass exotic to become meta was Witherhoard in Season 11. Thankfully, after 12 seasons, we got another one: Dragon's Breath. This is one of the easiest to get and strongest Rockets we've ever seen. Using this exotic in DPS rotations on a Solar Subclass can net some outrageous damage.
Season 23
Slot: Solar Solar | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Exotic

Exotic Perk: "Rockets embed themselves in struck targets and periodically eject incendiary fuel that inflicts Scorch. The longer this weapon goes without firing, the more fuel the next rocket contains. Igniting nearby targets partially replenishes fuel. This weapon refills itself from reserves upon gaining maximum fuel."
Top-tier
Crux Termination IVCrux Termination IV art Destiny 2
Crux Termination IV
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherAggressiveHeavyArcFree-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: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Reconstruction) + Surrounded

► With the ability to roll with Surrounded, Crux Termination IV can technically out-damage popular options like Apex Predator and Cold Comfort. Despite this, Surrounded is much harder to keep active compared to Bait and Switch, making it less popular overall.
Season 23
Slot: Arc Arc | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Reconstruction) + Surrounded
Top-tier
Tomorrow's AnswerTomorrows Answer Destiny 2 art
Tomorrow's Answer
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherHigh-ImpactHeavyVoidThe Final ShapeNoA › StrongTrials of OsirisError icon V2
Strong

A



Excels in:
PvE
Trials of Osiris
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch

► Tomorrow's Answer got a recent perk refresh, which ended up treating it well. While the weapon still isn't all too likely to enter experienced Guardians' loadouts, it's hard to ignore how many meta perks this rocket launcher now has.
Episode 2
Slot: Void Void | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: High-Impact

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch
Top-tier
CynosureCynosure art Destiny 2
Cynosure
Rocket Launcher
Rocket LauncherHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongPlaylist: VanguardCheckmark icon V3
Strong

A



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

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal (also good: Clown Cartridge) + Explosive Light (also good: Bipod)

► Cynosure is an excellent option for PvE players thanks to the perks present on the weapon. In PvP, it will be a solid pick, but nothing too overpowered.
Episode 3
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype:

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal (also good: Clown Cartridge) + Explosive Light (also good: Bipod)
Top-tier

Destiny 2 Rocket Launchers: Complete List

ArtNameTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Destiny 2 Deathbringer artDeathbringerRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavyVoidShadowkeep PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
C › Weak
PvE + PvPExotic QuestError icon V2 NoShadowkeep Icon (final) Destiny 2
Shadowkeep Pack
Season 8HeavyNo
Dragon's Breath art Destiny 2Dragon's BreathRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
A › Strong
PvESeason PassError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23HeavyNoTop-tier
Eyes of Tomorrow Destiny 2 1Eyes of TomorrowRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavySolarBeyond Light PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
C › Weak
-Deep Stone Crypt RaidError icon V2 NoBeyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Season 12HeavyNo
Gjallarhorn artGjallarhornRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavySolar30th AnniversaryYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
S › Best
PvE + PvPGrasp of Avarice DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 30th anniversary icon
30th Anniversary
30th Anniversary eventHeavyNoTop-tier
Destiny 2 The Wardcliff CoilThe Wardcliff CoilRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
D › Worst
-Exotic EngramError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 1HeavyNo
Destiny 2 Truth artTruthRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavyVoidForsaken PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
C › Weak
-Exotic KioskError icon V2 NoForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 7HeavyNo
Destiny 2 Two-Tailed Fox artTwo-Tailed FoxRocket LauncherExoticExoticHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
C › Weak
-Exotic EngramError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 4HeavyNo
Apex Predator art Destiny 2Apex PredatorRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavySolarForsaken PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
S › Best
PvELast Wish RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesForsaken Icon (final) Destiny 2
Forsaken Pack
Season 4HeavyCraftableTop-tierIncandescent,Explosive Light,Reconstruction,Bait and Switch
Ascendancy artAscendancyRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
C › Weak
-Exotic KioskError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 15HeavyNo
Bad Omens Destiny 2 artBad OmensRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
D › Worst
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
Blowout art
BlowoutRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
B › Average
PvEPlaylist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 19HeavyNoExplosive Light
BrayTech Osprey art Destiny 2BrayTech OspreyRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
B › Average
PvE + PvPNightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21HeavyNo
Bump in the Night artBump in the Night Rocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyStasisBeyond Light PackYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-PresageCheckmark icon V3 YesBeyond Light Icon (final) Destiny 2
Beyond Light Pack
Season 17HeavyCraftable
Code Duello artCode DuelloRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
D › Worst
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13HeavyNo
Cold Comfort art Destiny 2Cold ComfortRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyStasisLightfall Dungeon KeyYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
S › Best
PvEGhost of the Deep DungeonError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall Dungeon Key
Season 21HeavyNoTop-tierExplosive Light,Bait and Switch
Crowning Duologue artCrowning DuologueRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvE + PvPEvent: SolsticeError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21HeavyNoTop-tierBait and Switch
Crux Termination IV art Destiny 2Crux Termination IVRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
A › Strong
PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23HeavyNoTop-tierReconstruction
Cynosure art Destiny 2CynosureRocket LauncherLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEPlaylist: VanguardError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Episode 3HeavyNoTop-tier
Faith-Keeper art Destiny 2Faith-KeeperRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavyVoidEpisode 1: EchoesYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
C › Weak
-Echoes ActivitiesCheckmark icon V3 YesEP1 Echoes Icon (final) Destiny 2
Episode 1: Echoes
The Final ShapeHeavyCraftable
Heretic artHereticRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
D › Worst
-MoonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13HeavyNo
Heretic's Fervor art Destiny 2Heretic's FervorRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavyStasisEpisode 2: RevenantYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
C › Weak
-Revenant ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEP2 Revenant icon Destiny 2
Episode 2: Revenant
Episode 2HeavyNo
Hezen Vengeance artHezen VengeanceRocket LauncherAggressiveLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
S › Best
PvE + PvPVault of Glass RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Episode 3HeavyCraftableTop-tier
Hoosegow Destiny 2 artHoosegowRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
D › Worst
-World loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
Palmyra-B artPalmyra-BRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavyStasisFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStasis Stasis
D › Worst
-GunsmithCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 16HeavyCraftableExplosive Light
Red Herring artRed HerringRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
D › Worst
-Throne WorldCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 16HeavyCraftable
Roar of the BearRoar of the BearRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavySolarFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavySolar Solar
C › Weak
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 18HeavyNoIncandescent
Royal Entry artRoyal EntryRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavyVoidFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
C › Weak
-Vanguard FocusingError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13HeavyNo
Semiotician artSemioticianRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
B › Average
-XûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22HeavyCraftable
Shining Sphere Destiny 2Shining SphereRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayNoHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
D › Worst
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 11HeavyNo
Sleepless artSleeplessRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
C › Weak
-Shattered Throne DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 13HeavyNo
Subzero Salvo Destiny 2 artSubzero SalvoRocket LauncherPrecisionLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
D › Worst
-EuropaError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 12HeavyNo
The Hothead artThe HotheadRocket LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyArcFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyArc Arc
C › Weak
-Nightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 15HeavyNoExplosive Light
Tomorrows Answer Destiny 2 artTomorrow's AnswerRocket LauncherHigh-ImpactLegendaryHeavyVoidThe Final ShapeNoHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyVoid Void
A › Strong
PvETrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Episode 2HeavyNoTop-tier

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 Rocket Launchers Today

If you’re prepared to only chase the best of the best, these are the 5 absolute best rocket launchers in the game:

 

Crux Termination IV Preview Destiny 2

5. Crux Termination IV

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

With the ability to roll with Surrounded, Crux Termination IV can technically out-damage popular options like Apex Predator and Cold Comfort. Despite this, Surrounded is much harder to keep active compared to Bait and Switch, making it less popular overall. These are the top Crux Termination IV God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Reconstruction) + Surrounded

How to get it: Crux Termination IV can randomly drop at end-of-match activities, Gunsmith, Legendary engrams, and Prime engrams.

 

Cold Comfort Rocket launcher

4. Cold Comfort

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

With a host of absurd perks, a strong frame, and a top-tier Origin Trait, Cold Comfort is a strong pick for anything PvE. Its inability to be crafted does make it annoying to farm, but this rocket sees little competition in the current sandbox, making it a must-have. These are the top Cold Comfort God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Envious Assassin (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)

How to get it: Cold Comfort can be acquired from the Ghost of the Deep Dungeon.

 

Gjallarhorn rocket launcher

3. Gjallarhorn

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2Excels in PvE and PvP

Gjallarhorn is still one of the greats. Despite the fact that other options are generally preferred for boss damage right now, rockets are still solid, and Gjallarhorn is an absolute must when using them.

Exotic Perk: “Rounds fired split into tracking cluster missiles upon detonation. Gain increased handling and reload speed when standing near allies. Firing this weapon also grants Wolfpack Rounds to nearby allies wielding non-Exotic Rocket Launchers.”

How to get it: Gjallarhorn can be acquired by completing the Grasp of Avarice Dungeon.

 

Apex Predator rocket launcher

2. Apex Predator

Vanguard logo Destiny 2 Excels in PvE

While we’re now past the height of the rocket launcher meta, Apex Predator is still an absolutely outstanding option when paired with a full damage loadout. Especially if you’re unable to use an exotic heavy weapon for one reason or another, Apex is one of the best picks out right now. These are the top Apex Predator God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Reconstruction (also good: Tracking Module) + Bait and Switch (also good: Explosive Light)

How to get it: Apex Predator can be acquired from the Last Wish Raid.

 
Hezen Vengeance preview Destiny 2

1. Hezen Vengeance

PVE and PVP logo Destiny 2Excels in PvE and PvP

Hezen Vengeance has quickly cemented itself as the best rocket launcher currently available. With outstanding perks, a potent origin trait, and both craftable and adept variants, this weapon is a must-have for all Guardians. These are the top Hezen Vengeance God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch (also good: Elemental Honing)
  • PvP God roll: Cluster Bomb + Vorpal Weapon

How to get it: Hezen Vengeance can be acquired from the Vault of Glass Raid.

Rocket launchers and the Meta

How do Rocket launchers compare to other Heavy weapons in PvE and PvP?

The PvE Meta

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Sniper rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Exotic Sniper Rifles
S › Best
Best

S

Trend upMain role: Single Target damage

► The recent buffs to certain Snipers, like Whisper of the Worm, and the Sniper's Meditation artifact mod make Exotic Sniper Rifles an easy, accessible, and powerful DPS option on bosses like The Witness in particular. Any boss that has a reasonable crit spot and a decently lengthed damage phase can be destroyed by Whisper right now, and you should definitely take advantage of it.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Whisper of the Worm
PVE Heavies
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

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

► Grenade Launchers have finally reached the apex of the DPS meta. Grenade Launchers like Edge Transit and Cataphract GL3 with Envious Assassin and Bait and Switch are incredibly powerful thanks to the amount of burst damage they can put out. Because of this, it's safe to say that Grenade Launchers belong in the top tier of PvE Heavies.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Edge Transit
PVE Heavies
Machine gun weapon type Destiny 2
Machine Guns
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend upMain role: Add Clear

► With the nerf to double-special loadouts, players can't mindlessly spam Machine Guns at enemies anymore and be rewarded for it. However, Machine guns are still excellent at ad clear and remain decent for DPS. That said, for DPS, they are massively outclassed by Rocket Launchers.

► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (900 RPM) - Example: Retrofit Escapade
PVE Heavies
Sword weapon type Destiny 2
Swords
A › Strong
Strong

A

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

► Swords are pretty decent right now. In fact, they are the go-to option for Crota in Crota's End and for the Herald of Finality in Salvation's Edge. However, this is only because of the design of the boss fight and a specific buff to Sword damage against Crota. Outside of these bosses, Swords are a decent but mediocre option as they are simply out-damaged by other heavy weapons.

► Best Archetype: Whirlwind - Example: Falling Guillotine
PVE Heavies
Rocket launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Rocket Launchers
A › Strong
Strong

A

Trend downMain role: Burst Damage (Secondary role: Add Clear)

► Rockets aren't as good as they used to be, but they are still definitely usable. In most relevant content such as the most recent raid, Salvation's Edge, Rockets aren't too popular (outside of Still Hunt rotations). Despite this Rockets are still a competitive option, and they do some solid burst damage.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive (20 RPM) - Example: Apex Predator
PVE Heavies
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
A › Strong
Strong

A

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

► Linear Fusion Rifles might not be the top dogs anymore, but they are still serious contenders when it comes to total damage. Options like Cataclysmic and Briar's Contempt can still see some use in today's meta. However, despite their strengths, most situations do not require the amount of total damage that Linear Fusions offer, and if they do, options like Leviathan's Breath can fill that void very easily.

► Best Archetype: Precision (533 RPM) - Example: Reed's Regret
PVE Heavies

Remember that DPS is one of the most important factors when it comes to PvE. 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.

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

The PvP Meta

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
Grenade launcher weapon type Destiny 2
Grenade Launchers
S › Best
Best

S

-► 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
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
Linear fusion rifle weapon type Destiny 2
Linear Fusion Rifles
B › Average
Average

B

-► 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.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 redundant.

► Best Archetype: Adaptive/Lightweight- Examples: Half-Truths/Quickfang
PVP Heavies

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. But Heavy weapons follow different rules (except machine guns). These are supposed to be the most powerful weapons in the entire game, and the expectation is that they one-shot enemy guardians. This is why TTK is not applicable here.It’s all about consistency when it comes to rocket launchers in PVP. You want a rocket launcher that can easily secure those one-kills.

Before you go…

Are you looking for top-tier Primary and Special weapons to round out your loadout? We cover the Best Destiny 2 Scout Rifles and Best Destiny 2 Shotguns, too.

You now know everything there is to know about Rocket launchers 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:
  • March 20, 2025: Inclusion of Rocket Launchers from Episodes 2 & 3 and updates based on the Episode: Heresy’s meta.
  • July 24, 2024: General updates according to The Final Shape Meta and the inclusion of Rocket Launchers from Episode 1.
  • March 4, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Rocket Launchers from Season 23.
  • October 25, 2023: Inclusion of Season 22 weapons.
  • July 17, 2023: General updates and the inclusion of Season 18 to 20 rocket launchers.
  • Dec 15, 2022: Inclusion of Year 4 rocket launchers.
  • April 28, 2021: 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
5 Comments
  1. bob

    Hi, just a quick question. I have over 1800 kills via strikes, dungeons and whatever with the Graviton Lance. I still haven’t received the catalyst for it. I’ve done everything suggested online. Any ideas or thoughts as to why it won’t drop? I noticed others have the same problem. Thanks!

    Reply
  2. cobra

    After the name ” Cold Comfort ” change the name ” Shining Sphere “to “CROWNING DUOLOGUE “.

    Reply
    • Ric Molina

      Good eye! We manage our own database and I guess something went wrong… Thank you for the heads up!

      Reply
  3. LABER1

    Nice rocket guide, thank you!

    Reply
  4. nightshadeyt

    Where does the Classical-42 rocket launcher rank at on this list? I do not see it.

    Reply
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