Scout rifles have gone through a lot. These days, they are in a balanced state. They don’t lag behind every other primary weapon as they once did, but they don’t necessarily dominate in endgame PvE content anymore.
This guide covers every Scout in Destiny 2, including both Exotics and Legendaries, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Update based on Episode 3: Heresy. See Updates.
Top Scout Rifles (Episode 3)
This Tier list features the best Exotic and Legendary Scout Rifles right now:
Item | Weapons | Type | Archetype | Ammo? | Element? | Requirements | In loot pool? | Rank | Source | Available? | Tier rank | Source ❘ DLC | Final Verdict | Released | Perks | Best of? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Unworthy | ![]() Unworthy Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Arc | The Final Shape Dungeon Key | Yes | S+ > Meta | Sundered Doctrine Dungon | ![]() | Meta ❘ S+ Excels in: PvE + PvP | Sundered Doctrine Dungon![]() The Final Shape Dungeon Key | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Firefly + Voltshot PvP God Roll: Keep Away (also good: Rapid Hit) + Zen Moment or Precision Instrument ► Unworthy is the best of the best when it comes to Scout Rifles. With good AoE perks and the incredibly strong Subjugation Origin Trait, Unworthy is by far and away the best Scout Rifle in the game. | Episode 3 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Firefly + Voltshot PvP God Roll: Keep Away (also good: Rapid Hit) + Zen Moment or Precision Instrument | Top-tier |
Trustee | ![]() Trustee Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Solar | Beyond Light Pack | Yes | S › Best | Deep Stone Crypt Raid | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | Deep Stone Crypt Raid![]() Beyond Light Pack | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Incandescent PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Surplus)+ Eye of the Storm (also good: High-Impact Reserves) ► Trustee is a top-of-the-line option. With perks like Rapid Hit and Incandescent available, as well as the Bray Inheritance Origin Trait, Trustee is an incredible all-rounder and feels spectacular for a Scout Rifle. | Season 12 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Incandescent PvP God Roll: Killing Wind (also good: Surplus)+ Eye of the Storm (also good: High-Impact Reserves) | Top-tier |
Randy's Throwing Knife | ![]() Randy's Throwing Knife Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Playlist: Crucible | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP | Playlist: Crucible![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Under-Over + Kinetic Tremors PvP God Roll: Rapid Hit + Kill Clip (also good: Perpetual Motion) ► Randy's Throwing Knife might just be one of the best Scouts in the game. It is incredibly viable in every area of the game, with viability in both PvE and PvP. Randy's can be used in high-level Nightfalls to handle Champions. | Season 21 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Under-Over + Kinetic Tremors PvP God Roll: Rapid Hit + Kill Clip (also good: Perpetual Motion) | Top-tier |
Vouchsafe | ![]() Vouchsafe Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Shattered Throne Dungeon | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Shattered Throne Dungeon![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Rapid Hit) + Destabilizing Rounds ► Thanks to the massive buffs to Destabilizing Rounds, Vouchsafe is now a top contender in the Scout Rifle department. Vouchsafe comfortably fills the spot of a good Void Scout Rifle, and is perfect any time you want Volatile Rounds. | Season 13 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Rapid Hit) + Destabilizing Rounds | Top-tier |
Fang of Ir Yût | ![]() Fang of Ir Yût Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | S › Best | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvE | Crota's End Raid![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Precision Instrument ► Fang of Ir Yut is an excellent option for PvP with perks like Precision Instrument, dropping the time-to-kill down to 0.7 seconds provided you hit 4 headshots in a row. | Season 22 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Precision Instrument | Top-tier |
Dead Man's Tale | ![]() Dead Man's Tale Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Beyond Light Pack | Yes | S › Best | Presage | ![]() | Best ❘ S Excels in: PvP | Presage![]() Beyond Light Pack | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Chaining precision hits grants bonus target acquisition and range" + Killing Wind PvP God Roll: Outlaw (also good: Vorpal Weapon ) ► Dead Man's Tale is incredible in the Crucible right now. Due to the recent patch slowing the game down, players are able to take advantage of Dead Man's Tale's incredible range and hip-fire dueling potential. | Season 13 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Chaining precision hits grants bonus target acquisition and range" + Killing Wind PvP God Roll: Outlaw (also good: Vorpal Weapon ) | Top-tier |
Timeworn Wayfarer | ![]() Timeworn Wayfarer Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Primary | Solar | Episode 1: Echoes | Yes | A › Strong | Echoes Activities | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE + PvP | Echoes Activities![]() Episode 1: Echoes | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Heal Clip (also good: Shoot to Loot) + Incandescent (also good: Precision Instrument) PvP God Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm (also good: Opening Shot) ► On PvP maps that have long lanes, Timeworn Wayfarer can excel massively thanks to its strong perk pool and archetype, but it can struggle if enemies get on top of you. | The Final Shape | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Heal Clip (also good: Shoot to Loot) + Incandescent (also good: Precision Instrument) PvP God Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm (also good: Opening Shot) | Top-tier |
Polaris Lance | ![]() Polaris Lance Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Exotic Kiosk![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Precision hits return ammo to the mag. Landing 4 precision hits loads a delayed Solar explosive round for your next shot." ► Polaris has definitely fallen in terms of strength, mainly because the Season 23 Seasonal Artifact that helped it a lot are no longer available. However, Polaris Lance is still a solid weapon, just perhaps not as powerful as it once was. | Season 3 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "Precision hits return ammo to the mag. Landing 4 precision hits loads a delayed Solar explosive round for your next shot." | Top-tier |
Tarnished Mettle | ![]() Tarnished Mettle Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Xûr | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Voltshot (also good: Shoot to Loot + Explosive Payload) ► Tarnished Mettle has a good number of solid perks available, in particular Votlshot, which allows Tarnished Mettle to have some good AoE capabilities. While it falls short of Destabilizing Rounds, Voltshot Tarnished Mettle is still a good pick. | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Voltshot (also good: Shoot to Loot + Explosive Payload) | Top-tier |
Doom of Chelchis | ![]() Doom of Chelchis Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Precision | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | King's Fall Raid | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | King's Fall Raid![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Firefly (also good: Explosive Payload) + Frenzy (also good: Dragonfly + One For All) ► Doom of Chelchis has plenty of fantastic perk options that all work nicely together. With two AoE perks and two brilliant damage perks, you can customize Doom of Chelchis a lot, making it a strong option. | Season 18 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Firefly (also good: Explosive Payload) + Frenzy (also good: Dragonfly + One For All) | Top-tier |
Brya's Love | ![]() Brya's Love Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Precision | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Xûr | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Loose Change + Desabilizing Rounds ► Like all Scout Rifles with Destabilizing Rounds, Brya's Love has increased in strength. Unfortunately, compared to some other options like Vouchsafe, Brya's Love doesn't have as good perks in the first column, but it's still a good option. | Season 22 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Loose Change + Desabilizing Rounds | Top-tier |
Hung Jury SR4 | ![]() Hung Jury SR4 Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Precision | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Onslaught Activity | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Onslaught Activity![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Kinetic Tremors (also good: Shoot to Loot) + Firefly or Explosive Payload ► Hung Jury is a good kinetic option for high-level content as it comes with suitable perks. Kinetic Tremors, Shoot to Loot, and Explosive Payload are all excellent options, and Precision Scout Rifles are decent. | Into the Light | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Kinetic Tremors (also good: Shoot to Loot) + Firefly or Explosive Payload | Top-tier |
Patron of Lost Causes | ![]() Patron of Lost Causes Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Primary | Kinetic | Episode 1: Echoes | Yes | A › Strong | Dawn Engrams | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Dawn Engrams![]() Episode 1: Echoes | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Kinetic Tremors (also good: Explosive Payload) ► Patron of Lost Causes comes with some straightforward strong perks like Rapid Hit and Kinetic Tremors, making it a good option for harder content where Scouts can excel. | The Final Shape | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Kinetic Tremors (also good: Explosive Payload) | Top-tier |
Vision of Confluence | ![]() Vision of Confluence Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Precision | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Vault of Glass Raid | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvE | Vault of Glass Raid![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Incandescent (also good: Heal Clip) + Explosive Payload (also good: Frenzy) ► Thanks to a decent perk pool, Vision of Confluence is capable of dealing with a wide variety of situations. The versatility in column 1 provides self-sustain or ad clear, and column 2 has a wide array of damage perks. | Episode 3 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvE God Roll: Incandescent (also good: Heal Clip) + Explosive Payload (also good: Frenzy) | Top-tier |
MIDA Multi-Tool | ![]() MIDA Multi-Tool Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Exotic Kiosk![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "This weapon boosts move speed. Radar stays active while aiming down sights." ► MIDA Multi-Tool is regularly a favorable option in certain metals thanks to its ease of use that comes from having 100 aim assist. | Season 1 | Slot: ![]() ![]() Exotic Perk: "This weapon boosts move speed. Radar stays active while aiming down sights." | Top-tier |
Contingency Plan | ![]() Contingency Plan Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Xûr | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Xûr![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Surplus + Kill Clip ► A niche option, Contingency Plan is loved by Scout Rifle aficionados in PvP due to its high kill potential and solid perk pool. Kill Clip helps it stand out inside the Crucible, bringing its TTK (time-to-kill) down to a whoping 0.7 seconds. | Season 15 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Surplus + Kill Clip | Top-tier |
Jararaca-3sr | ![]() Jararaca-3sr Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | VEIST Rapid-Fire | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Gunsmith | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Gunsmith![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Rolls: Rapid Hit + Kill Clip ► Jararaca-3sr is similar to Contingency Plan. It can roll with Kill Clip and is a Veist Rapid Fire Frame weapon. With Rapid Hit and Kill Clip, it can become quite the killing machine inside of PvP. | Season 19 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Rolls: Rapid Hit + Kill Clip | Top-tier |
The Prophet | ![]() The Prophet Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Primary | Stasis | The Final Shape | Yes | A › Strong | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Trials of Osiris![]() The Final Shape | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Rapid Hit + Explosive Payload or Kill Clip ► The Prophet is a 120RPM Scout Rifle, immediately making it quite a middle of the road option in general. However, in the right hands these Scout Rifles can be incredibly consistent and stable to use. | Season 23 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Rapid Hit + Explosive Payload or Kill Clip | Top-tier |
Taraxippos | ![]() Taraxippos Scout Rifle | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | A › Strong | Event: Guardian Games | ![]() | Strong ❘ A Excels in: PvP | Event: Guardian Games![]() Free-to-Play | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Lone Wolf (also good: Zen Moment) + Explosive Payload (also good: Kill Clip) ► Taraxippos remains a rather average weapon in PvE. In PvP, though, Taraxippos has more going for it and can be a consistent weapon, but it will be beaten by the top weapons. | Season 23 | Slot: ![]() ![]() PvP God Roll: Lone Wolf (also good: Zen Moment) + Explosive Payload (also good: Kill Clip) | Top-tier |
Destiny 2 Scouts: Complete List
These are all the viable Scout currently in the game:
Art | Name | 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? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Dead Man's Tale | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Beyond Light Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S › Best | PvP | Presage | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light Pack | Season 13 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | MIDA Multi-Tool | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Polaris Lance | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 3 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Skyburner's Oath | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 1 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Symmetry | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Arc | Shadowkeep Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | PvP | Exotic Kiosk | ![]() | ![]() Shadowkeep Pack | Season 9 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | The Jade Rabbit | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | Exotic Engram | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 2 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Touch of Malice | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | King's Fall Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Wicked Implement | Scout Rifle | Exotic | Exotic | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | Exotic Quest | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Admetus-D | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE + PvP | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Episode 3 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Adverse Possession IX | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | The Final Shape | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Aisha's Embrace | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Void | The Final Shape | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | PvE | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() The Final Shape | Season 16 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Brya's Love | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | Contingency Plan | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvP | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Doom of Chelchis | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | King's Fall Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Repulsor Brace |
![]() | Eternal Blazon | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Fang of Ir Yût | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S › Best | PvE | Crota's End Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 22 | Kinetic | Craftable | Top-tier | Sword Logic |
![]() | Glissando-47 | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | PvE | Lost Sector | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | Reconstruction | |
![]() | Hung Jury SR4 | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Onslaught Activity | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Into the Light | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | Kinetic Tremors |
![]() | Imperative | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | Undying | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Kinetic | Craftable | Kinetic Tremors | |
![]() | Jararaca-3sr | Scout Rifle | VEIST Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvP | Gunsmith | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 19 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Last Rite | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvP | Playlist: Pursuit | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | Reconstruction | |
![]() | Live Fire | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Episode 2 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Long Arm | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Witch Queen Dungeon Key | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvP | Spire of the Watcher Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() Episode 3: Heretic | Season 19 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Nameless Midnight | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | Playlist: Vanguard | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 20 | Kinetic | No | Kinetic Tremors | |
![]() | Night Watch | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Patron of Lost Causes | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Episode 1: Echoes | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Dawn Engrams | ![]() | ![]() Episode 1: Echoes | The Final Shape | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | Kinetic Tremors |
![]() | Pleiades Corrector | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 14 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Pointed Inquiry | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | Throne World | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 16 | Energy | Craftable | ||
![]() | Randy's Throwing Knife | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S › Best | PvE + PvP | Playlist: Crucible | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 21 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | Kinetic Tremors |
![]() | Red Tape | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | Episode 2: Revenant | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | Revenant Activities | ![]() | ![]() Episode 2: Revenant | Episode 2 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Royal Chase | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | World loot pool | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Energy | No | ||
![]() | Servant Leader | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE + PvP | Playlist: Gambit | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 15 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Staccato-46 | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | Gunsmith | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 17 | Energy | No | Incandescent | |
![]() | Talons of the Eagle | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Free-to-Play | No | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | PvP | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 11 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Taraxippos | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvP | Event: Guardian Games | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 23 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Tarnished Mettle | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Arc | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Xûr | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 18 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Voltshot |
![]() | Tears of Contrition | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Beyond Light Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvP | Presage | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light Pack | Season 17 | Kinetic | Craftable | ||
![]() | The Guiding Sight | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Strand | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | D › Worst | - | Iron Banner | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 12 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | The Prophet | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Legendary | Primary | Stasis | The Final Shape | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvP | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() The Final Shape | Season 23 | Kinetic | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | The Scholar | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | The Final Shape | No | ![]() | ![]() | C › Weak | - | Trials of Osiris | ![]() | ![]() The Final Shape | Season 10 | Kinetic | No | ||
![]() | Timeworn Wayfarer | Scout Rifle | Aggressive | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Episode 1: Echoes | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE + PvP | Echoes Activities | ![]() | ![]() Episode 1: Echoes | The Final Shape | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Incandescent |
![]() | Transfiguration | Scout Rifle | High-Impact | Legendary | Primary | Kinetic | Forsaken Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | B › Average | PvE | Last Wish Raid | ![]() | ![]() Forsaken Pack | Season 4 | Kinetic | Craftable | Kinetic Tremors | |
![]() | Trustee | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Beyond Light Pack | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S › Best | PvE + PvP | Deep Stone Crypt Raid | ![]() | ![]() Beyond Light Pack | Season 12 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | Incandescent,Reconstruction |
![]() | Unworthy | Scout Rifle | Rapid-Fire | Legendary | Primary | Arc | The Final Shape Dungeon Key | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S+ > Meta | PvE + PvP | Sundered Doctrine Dungon | ![]() | ![]() The Final Shape Dungeon Key | Episode 3 | Energy | No | Top-tier | |
![]() | Vision of Confluence | Scout Rifle | Precision | Legendary | Primary | Solar | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | A › Strong | PvE | Vault of Glass Raid | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Episode 3 | Energy | Craftable | Top-tier | |
![]() | Vouchsafe | Scout Rifle | Lightweight | Legendary | Primary | Void | Free-to-Play | Yes | ![]() | ![]() | S › Best | PvE | Shattered Throne Dungeon | ![]() | ![]() Free-to-Play | Season 13 | Energy | No | 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 D2 Scout Rifles Today
Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best Scouts in Destiny 2? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):
5. Randy’s Throwing Knife
Excels in PvE and PvP
Randy’s Throwing Knife might just be one of the best Scouts in the game. It is incredibly viable in every area of the game, with viability in both PvE and PvP. Randy’s Throwing Knife can also be used in high-level Nightfalls to handle Champions.
- PvE God roll: Under-Over + Kinetic Tremors
- PvP God Roll: Rapid Hit + Kill Clip (also good: Perpetual Motion)
How to get it: Randy’s Throwing Knife can be acquired from the Crucible Playlist.
![]() Name: Randy's Throwing Knife | Type: Scout RifleArchetype: Rapid-Fire | Ammo: ![]() Element: ![]() | Craftable: ![]() Released: Season 21 | Source: Playlist: CrucibleRequires: Free-to-Play |
4. Dead Man’s Tale
Excels in PvP
Dead Man’s Tale is incredible in the Crucible right now. Due to the recent patch slowing the game down, players are able to take advantage of Dead Man’s Tale’s incredible range and hip-fire dueling potential. These are the top Dead Man’s Tale God Rolls:
Exotic Perk: “Chaining precision hits grants bonus target acquisition and range” + Killing Wind
- PvP God roll: Outlaw (also good: Vorpal Weapon)
How to get it: Dead Man’s Tale can be acquired by completing the Presage Exotic Mission.
![]() Name: Dead Man's Tale | Type: Scout RifleArchetype: Exotic | Ammo: ![]() Element: ![]() | Craftable: ![]() Released: Season 13 | Source: PresageRequires: Beyond Light Pack |
3. Vouchsafe
Excels in PvE
Thanks to the massive buffs to Destabilizing Rounds, Vouchsafe is now a top contender in the Scout Rifle department. Vouchsafe comfortably fills the spot of a good Void Scout Rifle and is perfect any time you want Volatile Rounds.
- PvE God roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Rapid Hit) + Destabilizing Rounds
How to get it: Vouchsafe can be acquired from the Dreaming City, including the Shattered Throne Dungeon.
![]() Name: Vouchsafe | Type: Scout RifleArchetype: Lightweight | Ammo: ![]() Element: ![]() | Craftable: ![]() Released: Season 13 | Source: Shattered Throne DungeonRequires: Free-to-Play |
2. Trustee
Excels in PvE
Trustee is a niche weapon, but that doesn’t mean it is weak. In fact, out of all the Rapid-Fire Frame Scout Rifles, it is one of the better options, thanks to the Bray Inheritance Origin Trait. This, paired with Incandescent, allows players to generate a lot of ability energy as every tick of Scorch from Incandescent will generate 0.35% energy and any hit from the weapon itself. While this may not sound like a lot, it adds up and is brilliant on Trustee. These are the top Trustee God Rolls:
- PvE God roll: Rapid Hit + Incandescent
How to get it: Trustee can be acquired from the Deep Stone Crypt Raid.
![]() Name: Trustee | Type: Scout RifleArchetype: Rapid-Fire | Ammo: ![]() Element: ![]() | Craftable: ![]() Released: Season 12 | Source: Deep Stone Crypt RaidRequires: Beyond Light Pack |
1. Unworthy
Excels in PvE
Unworthy is an excellent workhorse weapon for anyone needing an Arc weapon. While Scout Rifles are generally quite unpopular, Unworthy isn’t a weapon you should simply turn your nose up at.
With Firefly and Voltshot, Unworthy has unmatched AoE add-clear potential and also comes with the Subjugation Origin Trait, which is remarkably powerful as it effectively grants the weapon Explosive Payload, and a nerfed version of Sever depending on who you’re shooting. These are the top Unworthy God Rolls:
- PvE God roll: Firefly + Voltshot
How to get it: Unworthy can be acquired from the Sundered Doctrine Dungeon.
![]() Name: Unworthy | Type: Scout RifleArchetype: Rapid-Fire | Ammo: ![]() Element: ![]() | Craftable: ![]() Released: Episode 3 | Source: Sundered Doctrine DungonRequires: The Final Shape Dungeon Key |
Scouts and the PvP Meta: TTK
We covered which Scout rifles are considered top-tier (and should be farmed) and which ones can be safely ignored. But how do they compare to other primary weapons in PvP?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Hand Cannons | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Hand Cannons feel great right now and can deal with all the other meta options, provided they are in the hands of a skilled player. They are unbelievably forgiving in terms of aim-assist and can compete at solid ranges. Hand Cannons are the jack of all trades, and while they may not dominate up close or far away, they are incredibly scary to face in a mid-range duel. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer | PVP Primaries |
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Pulse Rifles have seen a resurgence in the past few seasons, with constant buffs to all types of Pulse Rifles. It is hard not to find success with one due to the high-flinch potential of Rapid-Fire Pulses or the lethal time-to-kill of High-Impact Pulses. ► Best Archetype: High-Impact (340 RPM) - Example: The Messenger | PVP Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | ![]() | ► Auto Rifles are remarkably easy to use. Options like Khvostov or The Summoner both excel at medium range, and if you can close the gap on Pulse Rifles, you can easily take advantage of the high flinch factor and solid time-to-kill that Auto Rifles have. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 7G-0X | PVP Primaries |
![]() 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 |
![]() Submachine Guns | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | ![]() | ► SMGs have lost a little bit of power as aggressive play isn't as prevalent as it once was, but you can definitely still succeed with certain SMGs, especially on close-range maps. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: Unending Tempest | PVP Primaries |
![]() Combat Bows | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Bows are incredibly unique. They have a remarkably slow time to kill, however, this isn't where Bows shine. Hotswap builds with bows can be incredibly potent and don't require much learning either. Bows also provide incredible value when teamshooting opponents. Despite this, Bows on their own are quite mediocre and need something behind them to really shine. ► Best Archetype: Precision (Slower Draw Time) - Example: Strident Whistle | PVP Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | - | ► Scout Rifles are struggling right now. In most situations, the maps are too small to benefit the long range of a Scout rifle. An Aggressive or High-Impact Pulse Rifle will better serve your needs. Plus, Scout Rifles are abysmal up close. There are one or two outliers that shine but, on the whole, Scout Rifles are in a weak spot. ► Best Archetype: Rapid-Fire (260 RPM) - Example: Fang of Ir Yût | PVP Primaries |
Remember that when it comes to PvP, TTK is perhaps the most important factor. As you know, the lower the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. This TTK guide includes the TTK figures for every weapon in Destiny 2. When it comes to PvP, Scouts can do well in the Crucible:
- | Weapon Type | Archetype | Optimal TTK | Optimal Kill | Body Shot TTK | Specs | --- | Best in Class |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Scout Rifle | High-Impact 150 RPM | 0.80 | 3 crit | 1.60 | Excellent range, low aim assist | ![]() | The Scholar |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Lightweight 200 RPM | 0.90 | 3 crit 1 body | 1.80 | Excellent aim assist & handling, low range | ![]() | Night Watch |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Precision 180 RPM | 1.00 | 2 crit 2 body | 1.67 | High stability, decent elsewhere | ![]() | Vision of Confluence |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Rapid Fire 260 RPM | 0.93 | 3 crit 2 body | 1.40 | High stability, very low range | ![]() | Aisha's Embrace |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Aggressive 120 RPM | 1.00 | 2 crit 1 body | 1.50 | High range, low aim assist | ![]() | Long Arm |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Exotic | 0.93 | 3 crit 2 body | 1.40 | Last round drains ~10 health per shot | ![]() | Touch of Malice |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Exotic | 1.00 | 2 crit 1 body | 1.50 | - | ![]() | Dead Man's Tale |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Exotic | 0.93 | 3 crit 2 body | 1.40 | - | ![]() | Symmetry |
![]() | Scout Rifle | Exotic | 0.80 | 3 crit | 1.60 | - | ![]() | Skyburner's Oath |
That said, TTK is only half of the picture. With excellent range and relative ease of use, Scouts can dominate large maps that benefit long-range weapons.
Scouts and the PvE Meta: DPS
How do Scouts compare to other primary weapons in PvE?
Weapon Type | Rank | Tier | Trend | Role ❘ Current State | Category |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Pulse Rifles | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete. ► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious | PVE Primaries |
![]() Hand Cannons | S › Best | Best ❘ S | - | ► Hand Cannons have shot up the rankings thanks to the changes introduced this Season, all the way up to the S tier. They have solid range and can dispatch enemies with complete ease in almost all difficulties. Hand Cannons have truly taken over the spotlight with their most recent buffs, and they shouldn't be leaving it any time soon. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer | PVE Primaries |
![]() Auto Rifles | A › Strong | Strong ❘ A | ![]() | ► Auto Rifles are in a good place right now, options like Khvostov are incredibly potent, and utility picks such as No Hesitation make Auto Rifles a very solid option for those wanting to use a good Primary Weapon. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Khvostov 76-0X | PVE Primaries |
![]() Combat 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 |
![]() Submachine Guns | B › Average | Average ❘ B | ![]() | ► SMGs are not so hot anymore, due to the buffs to other weapon archetypes, as well as the prevalence of ability usage at close range, there is little space for SMGs to compete these days. ►Best Archetype- Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven | PVE Primaries |
![]() Scout Rifles | B › Average | Average ❘ B | - | ► Scout Rifles are the definition of average right now. They can do the job just fine, you can plink away at enemies from a safe distance in high-level content; however, when it comes down to it, most players will prefer to use a Hand Cannon or SMG as they simply do the same job better and faster. Scouts aren't bad at all, but they certainly aren't a go-to ► Best Archetype: Lightweight (200 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle | PVE Primaries |
![]() Sidearms | C › Weak | Weak ❘ C | - | ► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm. ► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo | PVE Primaries |
Keep in mind that when it comes to PvE, DPS is one of the most important factors. As you know, the higher the DPS, the more damage you can deal to a Boss or Major. This DPS chart includes the DPS numbers for every weapon in Destiny 2.
Before you go…
Are you looking for a top-tier Primary and Special weapon to round out your loadout? We cover the Best Destiny 2 Trace Rifles and Best Destiny 2 Rocket Launchers, too.
You now know everything there is to know about Scouts in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.
See latest Updates
- March 6, 2025: Inclusion of Scouts from Episodes 2 and 3.
- March 21, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Swords from Seasons 22 and 23.
- August 21, 2023: General updates (based on the current sandbox) and the inclusion of Season 18 to Season 21 Scouts.
- September 30, 2022: General updates and inclusion of Year 3 Scouts.
- August 22, 2021: The guide is published for the first time.
Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!
hey, they upgraded Trustee.
Its better now
Perses-D is missing.
Taraxippos strand scout rifle is missing.
Dead Man’s Tale says “excels in PvP”, but only lists a PVE god roll.
Perses-D and Taraxippos still missing…
Polaris Lance is listed as excelling in both PvP and PvE in the descriptive list, but PvP only in the longer item list.
Also, is anyone reading these?
*Reads comment* No, no they are not.
the Is Braytech RWP MK 2 is not on here, I still use it for pvp all the time lol,