Destiny 2 Strand weapons: Tier List & Exotics

by | Mar 21, 2024

With the Lightfall Expansion, a brand-new element was released: Strand. On top of several over-the-top Strand abilities, including the ability to fling yourself in the air, Lightfall also introduced Strand weapons for the first time. Season of the Witch continues the trend by adding even more Strand weapons to the mix.

This guide covers all the available Stasis weapons, including Legendaries and Exotics.

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

Best Strand Weapons (Episode 3)

This Tier list features the best Exotic and Legendary Strand Weapons right now:

ItemWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier RankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
The ImmortalThe Immortal art
The Immortal
Submachine Gun
Submachine GunAggressivePrimaryStrandThe Final ShapeYesS › BestTrials of OsirisCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



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

PvE God Roll: Perpetual Motion (also good: Keep Away) + Hatchling (also good: Demolitionist)
PvP God Rolls: Rangefinder (also good: Encore) + Target Lock

► The Immortal is perhaps the best legendary SMG in the game right now. From absurd PvP-centered stats and perks to synergistic options like Demolitionist and Hatchling for PvE, this weapon has no shortage of outstanding aspects. Sure, stepping into Trials of Osiris can be daunting, but this is worth it.
Season 20
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Aggressive

PvE God Roll: Perpetual Motion (also good: Keep Away) + Hatchling (also good: Demolitionist)
PvP God Rolls: Rangefinder (also good: Encore) + Target Lock
Top-tier
Scatter SignalScatter Signal art Destiny 2
Scatter Signal
Fusion Rifle
Fusion RifleRapid-FireSpecialStrandLightfallYesS › BestStarcrossedCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE + PvP
Starcrossed
Lightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Overflow + Controlled Burst (also good: Slice)
PvP God Roll: Perpetual Motion + Under-Over

► Scatter Signal is the Fusion rifle everybody's talking about in Season of the Wish. With amazing PvE perks, including Overflow and Controlled Burst, and the benefits of the Rapid-Fire Frame, it's easy to see why Scatter Signal is one of the most sought-after weapons this season.
Season 23
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Overflow + Controlled Burst (also good: Slice)
PvP God Roll: Perpetual Motion + Under-Over
Top-tier
Until Its ReturnUntil Its Return art Destiny 2
Until Its Return
Shotgun
ShotgunRapid-FireSpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesS › BestXûrCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Xûr
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster + Cascade Point or Surrounded

► Until Its Return is not only part of the Rapid-Fire Frame, but also comes packed with brilliant perks, making it one of the most powerful Shotguns for PvE right now. Cascade Point or Surrounded are great for damage, and Auto-Loading Holster provides added utility.
Season 21
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Auto-Loading Holster + Cascade Point or Surrounded
Top-tier
Cataphract GL3Cataphract GL3 art
Cataphract GL3
Grenade Launcher
Grenade LauncherAdaptiveHeavyStrandThe Final ShapeYesS › BestTrials of OsirisCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Trials of Osiris
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Rolls: Envious Assassin + Bait and Switch

► Grenade Launchers are reliable options for PvP as they can typically secure very easy kills on multiple targets if you are accurate. On top of that, Cataphract features great stats and all the right perks to excel in high-stakes PvP.
Season 22
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Rolls: Envious Assassin + Bait and Switch
Top-tier
Fang of Ir YûtFang of Ir Yût art
Fang of Ir Yût
Scout Rifle
Scout RifleRapid-FirePrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesS › BestCrota's End RaidCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Crota's End Raid
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

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: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire

PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit + Precision Instrument
Top-tier
The CallThe Call art Destiny 2
The Call
Sidearm
SidearmRocket-AssistedSpecialStrandThe Final ShapeYesS › BestThe Pale HeartCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
The Pale Heart
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rocket-Assisted

PvE God Roll: Lead from Gold (also good: Demolitionist) + One for All (also good: Desperate Measures)

► In PvE, The Call is outstanding. While its offerings mostly coincide with Indebted Kindness, its unique Strand element allows it to roll with more unique options as well. Regardless, The Call’s outstanding archetype and well-rounded perk pool are sure to make the weapon a PvE staple.
The Final Shape
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Rocket-Assisted

PvE God Roll: Lead from Gold (also good: Demolitionist) + One for All (also good: Desperate Measures)
Top-tier
ScintillationScintillation art Destiny 2
Scintillation
Linear Fusion Rifle
Linear Fusion RifleAdaptiveHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesS › BestNightfall: The OrdealsCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Nightfall: The Ordeals
Destiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Rewind Rounds (also good: Envious Assassin) + Bait and Switch (also good: Surrounded)

► In PvE, Scintillation is one of the best linear fusion rifles out there. Despite the current meta favoring rocket launchers and heavy grenade launchers, the top LFRs continue to hold their ground. Scintillation is an easy addition to those options.
The Final Shape
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Rewind Rounds (also good: Envious Assassin) + Bait and Switch (also good: Surrounded)
Top-tier
Wicked SisterWicked Sister art Destiny 2
Wicked Sister
Grenade Launcher
Grenade LauncherAdaptiveHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesS › BestPlaylist: VanguardCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



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: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal (also good: Envious Assassin) + Bait and Switch (also good: Cascade Point)
PvP God Roll: Impulse Amplifier (also good: Danger Zone) + Reverberation

► Bungie clearly wanted to make sure there was no shortage of S-tier grenade launchers, with Wicked Sister being the third one to receive the Envious Arsenal + Bait and Switch roll. The catch, however, as a Vanguard weapon, it will take a lot of luck or resets to get it.
Episode 2
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Heavy ammo Destiny 2 Heavy | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Envious Arsenal (also good: Envious Assassin) + Bait and Switch (also good: Cascade Point)
PvP God Roll: Impulse Amplifier (also good: Danger Zone) + Reverberation
Top-tier
AdamantiteAdamantite art 2 Destiny 2
Adamantite
Auto Rifle
Auto RifleSupportPrimaryStrandEpisode 3: HereticYesS › BestHeresy ActivitiesCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Heresy Activities
Episode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Support

PvE God Roll: Reciprocity + Circle of Life (also good: Attrition Orbs)

► Adamantite takes what made No Hesitation so great and adds even more on top of it. While some Guardians will still prefer the latter due to its Solar synergies, Adamantite is an outstanding weapon overall.
Episode 3
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Primary ammo Destiny 2 Primary | Archetype: Support

PvE God Roll: Reciprocity + Circle of Life (also good: Attrition Orbs)
Top-tier
UnswornUnsworn art Destiny 2
Unsworn
Trace Rifle
Trace RifleAdaptiveSpecialStrandThe Final Shape Dungeon KeyYesS › BestSundered Doctrine DungonCheckmark icon V3
Best

S



Excels in:
PvE
Sundered Doctrine Dungon
The Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape Dungeon Key
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Shoot to Loot (also good: Tear) + Detonator Beam (also good: Killing Tally)

► While Unsworn isn’t too great in The Crucible, it definitely excels in PvE. Especially with newer perks like Detonator Beam and Tear, Unsworn is great in all areas where trace rifles excel.
Episode 3
Slot: Strand Element Strand | Ammo: Special ammo Destiny 2 Special | Archetype: Adaptive

PvE God Roll: Shoot to Loot (also good: Tear) + Detonator Beam (also good: Killing Tally)
Top-tier

Strand Exotic & Legendary Weapons: Complete List

ArtNameTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Barrow-Dyad Exotic preview artBarrow-DyadSubmachine GunExoticExoticPrimaryStrandEpisode 3: HereticNoPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEExotic QuestError icon V2 NoEpisode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Euphony FINAL art Destiny 2EuphonyLinear Fusion RifleExoticExoticSpecialStrandThe Final ShapeYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvESalvation's Edge RaidError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeKineticNoTop-tier
Final Warning artFinal WarningSidearmExoticExoticPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvE + PvPExotic QuestError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticNoTop-tier
Quicksilver Storm artQuicksilver StormAuto RifleExoticExoticPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEExotic KioskError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 18KineticNoTop-tier
The Navigator art Destiny 2The NavigatorTrace RifleExoticExoticSpecialStrandLightfall Dungeon KeyYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvEGhost of the Deep DungeonError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall Dungeon Key
Season 21KineticNoTop-tier
Wish-Keeper art Destiny 2Wish-KeeperCombat BowExoticExoticPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvE + PvPStarcrossedCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 23KineticCraftable
Aisha's Care art Destiny 2 Aisha's CarePulse RifleHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryStrandThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeKineticNoTop-tier
Abyssal Edge art 2 Destiny 2Abyssal EdgeSwordWaveLegendaryHeavyStrandEpisode 3: HereticYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEHeretical ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEpisode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Episode 3HeavyNoTop-tier
Adamantite art 2 Destiny 2AdamantiteAuto RifleSupportLegendaryPrimaryStrandEpisode 3: HereticYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvEHeretical ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEpisode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Belisarius-D art Destiny 2Belisarius-DPulse RifleAggressive BurstLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvE + PvPCrucible CompetitiveError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNoTop-tier
Better Devils art Destiny 2Better DevilsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvEPlaylist: CrucibleError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
The Final ShapeKineticNo
Breachlight art Destiny 2BreachlightSidearmHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryStrandEpisode 1: EchoesYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
-Dawn EngramsError icon V2 NoEP1 Echoes Icon (final) Destiny 2
Episode 1: Echoes
The Final ShapeKineticNo
Cataphract GL3 artCataphract GL3Grenade LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandThe Final ShapeYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Season 22HeavyNoTop-tierBait and Switch
Circular Logic artCircular LogicMachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandLightfallYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvETerminal OverloadError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20HeavyNoTop-tier
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
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
Different Times art Destiny 2Different TimesPulse RifleRapid-FireLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvE + PvPXûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticCraftableTop-tier
Dragoncult Sickle art preview Destiny 2Dragoncult SickleSwordCasterLegendaryHeavyStrandLightfall Dungeon KeyYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
D › Worst
-Warlord's Ruin DungeonError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall Dungeon Key
Season 23HeavyNo
Fang of Ir Yût artFang of Ir YûtScout RifleRapid-FireLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvECrota's End RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticCraftableTop-tierSword Logic
Glissando-47 art Destiny 2Glissando-47Scout RiflePrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
C › Weak
PvELost SectorError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticNoReconstruction
Imminence FINAL art Destiny 2ImminenceSubmachine GunLightweightLegendaryPrimaryStrandThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPSalvation's Edge RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeKineticCraftableTop-tierChaos Reshaped
Incisor art Destiny 2IncisorTrace RifleAdaptiveLegendarySpecialStrandThe Final ShapeYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvETrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Season 23EnergyNoTop-tier
Kept Confidence artKept ConfidenceHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPXûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticCraftable
Koraxis's Distress artKoraxis's DistressGrenade LauncherRapid-FireLegendaryHeavyStrandLightfallYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
B › Average
-Root of Nightmares RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20HeavyCraftableReconstruction
Laser Painter art Destiny 2Laser PainterLinear Fusion RiflePrecisionLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
C › Weak
-Playlist: GambitError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21HeavyNo
Lethal Abundance art Destiny 2Lethal AbundanceAuto RifleHigh-ImpactLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPIron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNoTop-tier
Marcato-45 art Destiny 2Marcato-45Machine GunAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEWorld loot poolError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23HeavyNoTop-tier
Mirror Imago art Destiny 2Mirror ImagoSubmachine GunAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandEpisode 3: HereticYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPHeretical ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEpisode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
 artMykel's ReverenceSidearmRapid-FireLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvERoot of Nightmares RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftable
Naeem's Lance art preview Destiny 2Naeem's LanceSniper RifleRapid-FireLegendarySpecialStrandLightfall Dungeon KeyYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEWarlord's Ruin DungeonError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall Dungeon Key
Season 23KineticNoTop-tier
Nightshade artNightshadePulse RifleLightweightLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPRecovered Red WarError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticNo
Nox Perennial V artNox Perennial VFusion RifleHigh-ImpactLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvELost SectorError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticNoTop-tier
Old Sterling art Destiny 2Old SterlingAuto RifleAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvELost SectorError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticNo
Perpetualis artPerpetualisAuto RifleAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvEAvalonCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftable
Pressurized Precision art Destiny 2Pressurized PrecisionFusion RifleAdaptiveLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPIron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticNoTop-tier
Pro Memoria art Destiny 2Pro MemoriaMachine GunAggressiveLegendaryHeavyStrandThe Final ShapeYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEThe Pale HeartCheckmark icon V3 YesThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeHeavyCraftableTop-tierBait and Switch
Refusal of the Call art Destiny 2Refusal of the CallGlaiveAdaptiveLegendarySpecialStrandEpisode 3: HereticYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEHeretical ActivitiesError icon V2 NoEpisode 3 Heresy Icon Destiny 2
Episode 3: Heretic
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Relentless art Destiny 2RelentlessPulse RifleHigh-ImpactLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvE + PvPProphecy DungeonError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNo
Resounding art Destiny 2ResoundingFusion RifleAggressiveLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEPlaylist: PursuitError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Round Robin artRound RobinHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPNeomunaCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftable
Rufus's Fury artRufus's FuryAuto RifleRapid-FireLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvE + PvPRoot of Nightmares RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftableTop-tierReconstruction
Scatter Signal art Destiny 2Scatter SignalFusion RifleRapid-FireLegendarySpecialStrandLightfallYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvE + PvPStarcrossedCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 23KineticCraftableTop-tier
Scintillation art Destiny 2ScintillationLinear Fusion RifleAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvENightfall: The OrdealsError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
The Final ShapeHeavyNoTop-tierBait and Switch
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
Supercluster art Destiny 2SuperclusterShotgunPinpoint SlugLegendarySpecialStrandLightfallYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEStarcrossedCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 23KineticCraftableTop-tierReconstruction
Swordbreaker artSwordbreakerShotgunLightweightLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvECrota's End RaidCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 22KineticCraftableTop-tierSword Logic
Synchronic Roulette artSynchronic RouletteSubmachine GunPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
C › Weak
-Terminal OverloadError icon V2 NoLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticNo
Taraxippos art Destiny 2TaraxipposScout RifleLightweightLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvPEvent: Guardian GamesError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNoTop-tier
The Call art Destiny 2The CallSidearmRocket-AssistedLegendarySpecialStrandThe Final ShapeYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvEThe Pale HeartCheckmark icon V3 YesThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
The Final ShapeKineticCraftableTop-tier
The Guiding Sight Destiny 2 artThe Guiding SightScout RifleHigh-ImpactLegendaryPrimaryStrandFree-to-PlayYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
D › Worst
-Iron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 12KineticNo
The Immortal artThe ImmortalSubmachine GunAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandThe Final ShapeYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape
Season 20KineticNoTop-tier
Thin Precipice art Destiny 2Thin PrecipiceSwordVortexLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
D › Worst
-XûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21HeavyCraftable
Tusk of the Boar art Destiny 2Tusk of the BoarGrenade LauncherWaveLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvEIron BannerError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 23KineticNoTop-tierBait and Switch
Unloved art Destiny 2UnlovedHand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryStrandThe Final Shape Dungeon KeyYesPrimary ammo Destiny 2 PrimaryStrand Element Strand
A › Strong
PvESundered Doctrine DungonError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape Dungeon Key
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Unsworn art Destiny 2UnswornTrace RifleAdaptiveLegendarySpecialStrandThe Final Shape Dungeon KeyYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvESundered Doctrine DungonError icon V2 NoThe Final Shape Icon (final) Destiny 2
The Final Shape Dungeon Key
Episode 3KineticNoTop-tier
Until Its Return art Destiny 2Until Its ReturnShotgunRapid-FireLegendarySpecialStrandFree-to-PlayYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvEXûrCheckmark icon V3 YesDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
Season 21KineticCraftableTop-tier
Volta Bracket artVolta BracketSniper RifleAggressiveLegendarySpecialStrandLightfallYesSpecial ammo Destiny 2 SpecialStrand Element Strand
B › Average
PvPNeomunaCheckmark icon V3 YesLightfall Icon (final) Destiny 2
Lightfall
Season 20KineticCraftable
Wicked Sister art Destiny 2Wicked SisterGrenade LauncherAdaptiveLegendaryHeavyStrandFree-to-PlayYesHeavy ammo Destiny 2 HeavyStrand Element Strand
S › Best
PvE + PvPPlaylist: VanguardError icon V2 NoDestiny 2 Icon (final) Destiny 2
Free-to-Play
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.

Before you go…

Looking for more elemental weapons? The following guides cover every Arc, Solar, Void, and Stasis weapon currently in the game:

By now, you know everything there is to know about Strand weapons in Destiny 2: What makes them special, how to recognize them, and which ones are the best. This will hopefully help you get one step closer to the perfect loadout, combining top-tier armor, mods and weapons. What is your favorite Strand weapon so far?

About The Author

Ric Molina
Ric Molina
I've been covering gaming since 2012, and some of my work has been featured by large brands, including MSN.com, Forbes, Rock Paper Shotgun, and more. I've been obsessed with Destiny 2 (and now Diablo 4) for years now, and I hope to provide new and returning players with the guides and resources I wish I had when I first started.
More from Ric Molina
2 Comments
  1. DCG

    You missed Volta Bracket, primary strand sniper rifle.

    Reply
  2. Jesse Cleary

    Well actually he didn’t 🤓🤓🤓

    Reply
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