Sometimes referred to as “Dad rifles,” some love to hate Pulse rifles. They claim Pulses require no skill and are too easy to use, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, some of them are considered to be among the best weapons in the entire game.
Today we cover every Pulse Rifle in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendaries, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.
Updated as of Season of the Seraph (S19).
Destiny 2 Pulse rifles Tier list
The Tier list below includes every non-sunset Pulse rifle in the game. It starts with the S Tier weapons and moves down from there. It also covers both PVE and PVP, with the “Excels in” column clearly identifying in what area each weapon shines:
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
Season 21
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
No Time to Explain
No Time to Explain
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Beyond Light
Yes
S › Best
Beyond Light Campaign
Best
❘ S
Excels in: PvE + PvP
Beyond Light Campaign
Beyond Light
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Precision shots and shots against combatants affected by Stasis return to the magazine. At 10 stacks, a small portal will open, shooting bullets from an alternate timeline version of this weapon. Precision hits extend the portal's duration."
► An exceptional pick in PVP (and a fun one in PVE), No Time to Explain's ability to provide you with an extra set of bullets continues to be helpful in most areas of the game.
Season 12
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Precision shots and shots against combatants affected by Stasis return to the magazine. At 10 stacks, a small portal will open, shooting bullets from an alternate timeline version of this weapon. Precision hits extend the portal's duration."
Top-tier
BxR-55 Battler
BxR-55 Battler
Pulse Rifle
Legacy PR-55
Primary
Solar
Free-to-Play
Yes
S › Best
Dares of Eternity
Best
❘ S
Excels in: PvE + PvP
Dares of Eternity
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Legacy PR-55
PvE God Roll:Outlaw(also good: Demolitionist) + Incandescent(also good: Kill Clip) PvE God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Perpetual Motion) + Kill Clip
► The BxR has always been a powerful pulse rifle, but it recently got even better. Now with the ability to roll with Incandescent (and the ability to craft it), this pulse rifle continues to dominate most areas of the game.
30th Anniversary event
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Legacy PR-55
PvE God Roll:Outlaw(also good: Demolitionist) + Incandescent(also good: Kill Clip) PvE God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Perpetual Motion) + Kill Clip
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Dragonfly) + Rampage PvP God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Heating Up) + Rampage
► One of very few 4-burst pulse rifles, people had big expectations for this weapon. And with outstanding perk combinations for both PVE and PVP, Insidious blew those out of the water. With an S-Tier Origin Trait and no terrible perks in its pool, there's not much to hate about this pulse rifle. For PVP in particular, Aggressive Burst Pulses hit like a truck, flinching opponents with ease.
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Dragonfly) + Rampage PvP God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Heating Up) + Rampage
Top-tier
Horror's Least
Horror's Least
Pulse Rifle
Rapid-Fire
Primary
Arc
Free-to-Play
Yes
S › Best
Nightfall: The Ordeals
Best
❘ S
Excels in: PvP
Nightfall: The Ordeals
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Heating Up) + Kill Clip
► Able to dominate in the Crucible at mid-range, Horror's Least is one of the best pulse rifles in the game. With great stats, an Adept variant, and a well-rounded perk pool, this weapon is a beast and worth grinding if you're a pulse rifle fan.
Season 17
Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Heating Up) + Kill Clip
► Because Desperado is no longer exclusive to this pulse (and because the perk has suffered from a handful of nerfs), The Messenger isn't as popular as it once was. Kill Clip allows this weapon to continue to excel in PVP, but it isn't the monster it was previously.
PvE God Roll:Feeding Frenzy + Headstone (also good: Desperado) PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Tunnel Vision) + Desperado
► For those not wanting to grind out The Messenger, New Purpose is the next best thing. Desperado was recently nerfed and is now significantly less potent, but it's still crazy fun in both PvE and PvP. Plus, New Purpose's Stasis element and Headstone can also play an integral part in a PvE Stasis build.
PvE God Roll:Feeding Frenzy + Headstone (also good: Desperado) PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Tunnel Vision) + Desperado
Top-tier
Outbreak Perfected
Outbreak Perfected
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Free-to-Play
Yes
A › Strong
Exotic Kiosk
Strong
❘ A
Excels in: PvE
Exotic Kiosk
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon creates SIVA nanite swarms on rapid hits and precision kills and does more damage to enemies based on the number of SIVA nanites that attach to them."
► Outbreak Perfected's theme and great firing feel alone make it a popular PVE choice. And with buffs to Exotic primary weapon damage, it's now an excellent option for casual PVE content.
Season 6
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon creates SIVA nanite swarms on rapid hits and precision kills and does more damage to enemies based on the number of SIVA nanites that attach to them."
Top-tier
Bad Juju
Bad Juju
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Forsaken Pack
Yes
A › Strong
Exotic Kiosk
Strong
❘ A
Excels in: PvE
Exotic Kiosk
Forsaken Pack
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Kills refill the magazine, increase damage for a short duration, and grant Super energy based on the number of kills. Fires full-auto."
► Bad Juju is one of the most underrated weapons in Destiny 2. It can be an absolute monster in PVE and gets even better with the catalyst. And with the recent buffs to Exotic primaries and pulse rifles, it can finally compete with the best.
Season 7
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Kills refill the magazine, increase damage for a short duration, and grant Super energy based on the number of kills. Fires full-auto."
Top-tier
Collective Obligation
Collective Obligation
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Void
The Witch Queen
Yes
A › Strong
Vow of the Disciple Raid
Strong
❘ A
Excels in: PvE
Vow of the Disciple Raid
The Witch Queen
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon leeches Void debuffs when damaging targets that are suppressed, weakened, or volatile. Once charged, damage from this weapon applies the same Void debuffs that were leeched. Weapon automatically reloads when you gain Devour, a Void overshield, or become invisible."
► With the ability to debuff everything in sight, Collective Obligation can do things no other weapon can. That being said, you're almost required to create a build with it to make it worth your exotic slot. While this weapon has potential, having to work so hard to make your exotic feel "exotic" isn't great.
Season 16
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon leeches Void debuffs when damaging targets that are suppressed, weakened, or volatile. Once charged, damage from this weapon applies the same Void debuffs that were leeched. Weapon automatically reloads when you gain Devour, a Void overshield, or become invisible."
PvE God Roll:Demolitionist(also good: Focused Fury) + Adrenaline Junkie(also good: One for All)
► From its synergistic combinations like Demolitionist and Adrenaline Junkie to its ability to roll with two damage perks at once, Smite of Merain's perks alone make it a solid choice for PVE. 4-burst pulse rifles will continue to be the most potent option, but this can be a unique alternative.
PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace + Golden Tricorn (also good: Kill Clip)
► Veles-X is a perfect sidekick to any Void 3.0 build and one of the better ritual weapons we've gotten recently. If you don't have Collective Obligation, Veles-X is an exceptional pick.
► Being both a Stasis and 4-burst pulse rifle, Disparity doesn't have much competition. Even if it did, however, it would still excel—its S-Tier perks make it an excellent choice for medium-level PVE content.
PvP God Roll:Under Pressure(also good: Quickdraw) + Iron Grip (also good: Rampage)
► The Time-Worn Spire is a reprised Year 1 Iron Banner weapon that returned with plenty of fantastic perks. It belongs to one of the better archetypes, which, coupled with solid perks, can be a great choice for PVP.
PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Overflow) + Moving Target
► With a TTK of 0.80s, Piece of Mind is a solid PVP choice. It's not a High-Impact Pulse and it doesn't have the best TTK, yet it can absolutely shred in PVP while simultaneously feeling great in your hands. As a Rapid-Fire pulse, Piece of Mind isn't great at peak shooting, but if used aggressively, it can easily dominate medium-range engagements.
PvP God Roll:Perpetual Motion(also good: Overflow) + Moving Target
Top-tier
Revision Zero
Revision Zero
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
The Witch Queen
Yes
A › Strong
Unobtainable
Strong
❘ A
Excels in: PvP
Unobtainable
The Witch Queen
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Precision hits grant targeting data. Swap to the alternate scope, loading high-damage rounds based on the amount of targeting data. Strong against Barrier Champions. Increased movement speed and target acquisition when moving while aiming down sights."
► Some have called Revision Zero the Pulse Rifle version of the Hawkmoon due to its charge function through precision hits. Charging up Sniper shots makes for quite a versatile weapon, but there will be better options if you just want a solid dueling Pulse Rifle.
Season 19
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Precision hits grant targeting data. Swap to the alternate scope, loading high-damage rounds based on the amount of targeting data. Strong against Barrier Champions. Increased movement speed and target acquisition when moving while aiming down sights."
Top-tier
Graviton Lance
Graviton Lance
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Void
Free-to-Play
Yes
B › Average
Exotic Engram
Average
❘ B
Excels in: PvE
Exotic Engram
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Second shot of a burst rips a hole through space-time, doing high damage and recoil with no falloff. Kills with this weapon cause enemies to detonate and spawn tracking Void projectiles."
► Significant buffs to Graviton Lance specifically and Exotic primaries as a whole have made this pulse rifle not only a fun pick but also a potent one. While Collective Obligation is more suitable for Void builds, Graviton Lance's unique firing pattern and explosions lead to an exceptional weapon in casual content.
Season 1
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "Second shot of a burst rips a hole through space-time, doing high damage and recoil with no falloff. Kills with this weapon cause enemies to detonate and spawn tracking Void projectiles."
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Outlaw) + Kill Clip
► 4-burst pulse rifles have always excelled in PVE, and Sacred Provenance is no exception. Even though Insidious and Veles-X are generally considered better, this pulse is still a solid option for PVE.
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit(also good: Outlaw) + Kill Clip
Ogma PR6
Ogma PR6
Pulse Rifle
Lightweight
Primary
Solar
Free-to-Play
Yes
B › Average
World loot pool
Average
❘ B
Excels in: PvE
World loot pool
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Lightweight
PvE God Roll:Demolitionist + Wellspring
► Containing some perk combinations we've never seen before, Ogma PR6 is definitely an underrated pick. Able to roll with both Demolitionist and Wellspring at the same time, this exact roll is a must-have for any player making ability-focused builds. Beyond that though, Ogma doesn't have much going for it.
Season 16
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Lightweight
PvE God Roll:Demolitionist + Wellspring
Vigilance Wing
Vigilance Wing
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Free-to-Play
Yes
B › Average
Exotic Engram
Average
❘ B
Excels in: PvP
Exotic Engram
Free-to-Play
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires a 5-round burst. When a nearby ally is killed, gain health regeneration, and increased movement speed."
► Vigilance Wing has always been a solid choice for PVP; in recent times, however, it's gotten outclassed. Without a buff soon, Vigilance Wing may drop down into the lower half of pulse rifles.
Season 1
Slot: Kinetic | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Exotic
Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires a 5-round burst. When a nearby ally is killed, gain health regeneration, and increased movement speed."
► Boasting an excellent base time-to-kill and solid PvE perks, Cold Denial is above-average but has been recently outclassed. If you have one saved from Season of Arrivals, it'll continue to be fantastic. However, if you don't have one, don't fret—newer and better pulse rifles are readily available.
PvP God Roll: Heating Up (also good: Killing Wind) + Multikill Clip
► While not a must-have weapon, Gridskipper performs well in the Crucible. However, with newer and better perks constantly being released, Gridskipper is slowly falling out of the meta.
► Because Rapid-Fire Frame pulse rifles continue to be strong in PVP, Darkest Before is still a great choice. There are undoubtedly better pulse rifles for both ends of the game, but if you're a free-to-play player in desperate need of a stronger pulse rifle, Darkest Before has got you covered.
PvP God Roll:Feeding Frenzy(also good: Surplus) + Rampage
► Able to challenge opponents at a longer range than most pulse rifles, Legal Action II is an alright pick for those who prefer pulses over scouts. With the meta shifting toward faster and closer-range gameplay, however, playing at this more extended range may be a bad thing.
PvE God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Moving Target) + Kill Clip
► New with the Dawning 2022 event, Stay Frosty is one of few Lightweight pulse rifles. With pretty good PVP perks, this seasonal weapon has the opportunity to excel past competition in the Crucible. However, once the hype around it settles down, we believe Stay Frosty will fall in the middle of the pack.
PvE God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Moving Target) + Kill Clip
Jurassic Green
Jurassic Green
Pulse Rifle
Rapid-Fire
Primary
Solar
Free-to-Play
Seasonal
B › Average
Event: Festival of the Lost
Average
❘ B
Event: Festival of the Lost
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
PvP God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Perpetual Motion) + Multikill Clip
► While Jurassic Green does have some decent perks for all areas of the game, the BxR-55 Battler outclasses this in most situations. This pulse will continue to be a competent pick if you have one, but there are better options out there as well.
Season 15
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
PvP God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Perpetual Motion) + Multikill Clip
► Because of its relatively small perk pool and challenging obtaining method, Chattering Bone has yet ever to be a popular pick. The age-old combination of Outlaw and Rampage can have this weapon prove useful in PVE, but we still recommend many other options on this list regardless.
PvP God Roll:Rampage(also good: Kill Clip) + Outlaw
► Last Perdition is a solid choice if you need a Void pulse rifle, but its usefulness stops there. With more recent options like Collective Obligation and Veles-X containing synergistic perks for Void 3.0, Last Perdition is finding its way out of most players' arsenals.
Season 11
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvP God Roll:Rampage(also good: Kill Clip) + Outlaw
Stars in Shadow
Stars in Shadow
Pulse Rifle
High-Impact
Primary
Solar
Free-to-Play
Yes
C › Weak
Playlist: Crucible
Weak
❘ C
Playlist: Crucible
Free-to-Play
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: High-Impact
PvP God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Outlaw) + Kill Clip
► Outclassed by numerous other options, Stars in Shadow has lost most of its fans to newly-released pulse rifles.
Season 12
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: High-Impact
PvP God Roll:Killing Wind(also good: Outlaw) + Kill Clip
PvE God Roll:Outlaw + Demolitionist(also good: Wellspring)
► Even though there was heavy community interest in Hailing Confusion when it was released, it was quickly outclassed. The vast majority of its perks are subpar, and being in the Adaptive Frame family of pulses makes Hailing Confusion a weaker choice for PVP.
PvE God Roll:Outlaw + Demolitionist(also good: Wellspring)
The Third Axiom
The Third Axiom
Pulse Rifle
Adaptive
Primary
Arc
Free-to-Play
Yes
C › Weak
Vanguard Focusing
Weak
❘ C
Vanguard Focusing
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll:Feeding Frenzy(also good: Killing Wind) + Rampage
► The Third Axiom's bloated perk pool and older traits make it a hard pulse rifle to recommend. It's a passable option if you don't have many other pulse rifles, but we'd recommend getting a BxR or similar.
Season 13
Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll:Feeding Frenzy(also good: Killing Wind) + Rampage
► Like Last Perdition, Premonition can be a solid option if you need a Void pulse rifle. However, with The Messenger and others dominating PVP and Collective Obligation and Veles-X excelling in PVE, it's not worth going out of your way for Premonition anymore.
PvE God Roll: Stats for All + One for All (also good: Rampage)
► Despite the fact that Pulse Rifles have never been the meta in PVE, Forge's Pledge can roll with Rampage and other good perks, making it decent when the seasonal champion mods support it.
Season 15
Slot: Solar | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll: Stats for All + One for All (also good: Rampage)
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit + Explosive Payload(also good: Headstone)
► While Perses-D can roll with some of the best PVE scout rifle perks, it falls into an archetype that is extremely lacking, making other weapons (such as Night Watch and Hung Jury SR4) better picks overall.
PvE God Roll:Rapid Hit + Explosive Payload(also good: Headstone)
Yesteryear
Yesteryear
Pulse Rifle
Adaptive
Primary
Void
Free-to-Play
Yes
C › Weak
Playlist: Gambit
Weak
❘ C
Playlist: Gambit
Free-to-Play
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll:Outlaw + Golden Tricorn
► While Yesteryear boasts some alright traits, its perk pool is too bloated to be worth farming for. Obtaining Veles-X is way more straightforward, and its perks complement Void 3.0 nicely compared to Yesteryear's.
Season 18
Slot: Void | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll:Outlaw + Golden Tricorn
Jian 7 Rifle
Jian 7 Rifle
Pulse Rifle
Adaptive
Primary
Arc
Free-to-Play
Yes
D › Worst
World loot pool
Worst
❘ D
World loot pool
Free-to-Play
Slot: Arc | Ammo: Primary | Archetype: Adaptive
PvE God Roll: Firmly Planted + Rampage
► Lacking base stats, TTK, and perks results in the Jian 7 Rifle being extremely mediocre. If you're looking for a solid Arc pulse rifle, you're much better off going for either Insidious or even Darkest Before.
This section not only covers the top Pulses currently in the game, it also tells you where you can find them. This guide covers every weapon source in Destiny 2 and most of the sources below are self-explanatory, but in doubt, you can always leave a comment below or ask away on our Discord server.
Overall, these are our Top 5 favorite Pulse Rifles for PVE and PVP.
5. Outbreak Perfected
Excels in PvE and PvP
Consistently a solid option in all areas of the game, Outbreak Perfected is a well-rounded pick.
In PVE, Outbreak has always been popular. While some utilize it for its relatively-high DPS (compared to other primary weapons), it has more recently excelled in general gameplay. With a handful of buffs that affected Outbreak and other weapons, this weapon feels more powerful than ever.
Outbreak Perfected is nowhere near as potent in The Crucible, but it’s still an excellent choice if you have nothing higher on this list. Feeling extremely nice to wield makes it easy to get used to as well.
While Outbreak has never been the definitive #1 pulse rifle in the game, it has always been up there. If you’re looking for a solid pulse rifle that doesn’t require you to grind or build into it, Outbreak Perfected is for you.
How to get it: Outbreak Perfected can be acquired via Exotic engrams or Xûr.
Art
Weapon
Type
Archetype
Rarity
Ammo
Element
Requirements
In loot pool?
Ammo?
Element?
Tier
Excels
Source
Craftable?
Requires
Released
Slot
Can be Crafted?
Best of?
Top Perk?
Outbreak Perfected
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Free-to-Play
Yes
Primary
Kinetic
Strong
❘ A
PvE
Exotic Kiosk
Free-to-Play
Season 6
Kinetic
No
Top-tier
4. Horror’s Least
Excels in PVE
A prevalent choice for The Crucible, Horror’s Least makes up for its lack of PVE utility in PVP.
With great stats, an Adept variant, and unmatched perks, Horror’s Least is a monster in mid-range battles. Especially when Kill Clip is triggered, this pulse is highly consistent and can prove rewarding if used correctly.
All that said, Horror’s Least contains nearly nothing for PVE players, making it only #4 on this list.
PVE God roll:
Perk 1: Perpetual Motion(also good: Heating Up)
Perk 2: Kill Clip
How to get it: Horror’s Least can be acquired by completing Nightfall: The Ordeals (the highest difficulties have increased drop rates).
Art
Weapon
Type
Archetype
Rarity
Ammo
Element
Requirements
In loot pool?
Ammo?
Element?
Tier
Excels
Source
Craftable?
Requires
Released
Slot
Can be Crafted?
Best of?
Top Perk?
3. BxR-55 Battler
Excels in PvE and PvP
The BxR has always been a fantastic option for PVP, but with its recently-updated perk pool, it now excels everywhere.
The BxR can now roll with Incandescent, the best Solar perk for PVE. Pair this with Outlaw (or even Demolitionist), and you’ve got yourself a great weapon to pair with any Solar 3.0 build.
This weapon’s strengths don’t stop there—the BxR-55 Battler is strong in PVP, too. If you craft a roll with Perpetual Motion and Kill Clip, you’ll be equipped with a fantastic weapon that isn’t anticipated to be nerfed anytime soon.
The BxR-55 Battler was extremely strong when it was released and has only gotten stronger over the past year. If you’re a solo player who doesn’t want to step into Vow of the Disciple for Insidious, the BxR is your best bet.
PVE God roll:
Perk 1: Outlaw(also good: Demolitionist)
Perk 2: Incandescent(also good: Kill Clip)
PVP God roll:
Perk 1: Killing Wind(also good: Perpetual Motion)
Perk 2: Kill Clip
How to get it: BxR-55 Battler can be acquired by completing Dares of Eternity runs or turning in Treasure keys at Xûr’s in Eternity.
Art
Weapon
Type
Archetype
Rarity
Ammo
Element
Requirements
In loot pool?
Ammo?
Element?
Tier
Excels
Source
Craftable?
Requires
Released
Slot
Can be Crafted?
Best of?
Top Perk?
BxR-55 Battler
Pulse Rifle
Legacy PR-55
Legendary
Primary
Solar
Free-to-Play
Yes
Primary
Solar
Best
❘ S
PvE + PvP
Dares of Eternity
Free-to-Play
30th Anniversary event
Energy
Craftable
Top-tier
2. No Time to Explain
Best PvP Pulse in Destiny 2
Currently the best pulse rifle for PVP, No Time to Explain has proven to be both fun and potent in recent times.
In PVE, NTTE is nothing special. While it can be fun to have a time portal follow you around (especially when utilizing Arc Souls), it isn’t worth the Exotic slot.
In contrast, NTTE is absurd in PVP. With above-average stats, a great base TTK, and the ability to have a second copy of the same weapon shooting with you, this pulse rifle dominates in The Crucible.
From its clean sights to its absurd stats and TTK, No Time To Explain continues to prove powerful in PVP.
How to get it: No Time to Explain can be acquired by purchasing Beyond Light’s Deluxe edition.
Art
Weapon
Type
Archetype
Rarity
Ammo
Element
Requirements
In loot pool?
Ammo?
Element?
Tier
Excels
Source
Craftable?
Requires
Released
Slot
Can be Crafted?
Best of?
Top Perk?
No Time to Explain
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
Exotic
Primary
Kinetic
Beyond Light
Yes
Primary
Kinetic
Best
❘ S
PvE + PvP
Beyond Light Campaign
Beyond Light
Season 12
Kinetic
No
Top-tier
1. Insidious
Excels in PvE and PvP
The best pulse rifle in the game for quite some time now, Insidious has everything a pulse rifle fan could ever want.
Insidious is a great choice regardless of your roll, with a solid base TTK of 0.73s and great overall stats. And with an unmatched feel while wielding the weapon, this pulse holds up against newer competition like Veles-X and Disparity. Insidious truly shines, however, when you dive into its perk pool. From Rapid Hit and Rampage to Dragonfly and One for All, Insidious has combinations that can fit any playstyle in any activity.
The best pulse rifle overall, Insidious offers variety and consistency that no other pulse rifle can.
PVE God roll:
Perk 1: Rapid Hit(also good: Dragonfly)
Perk 2: Rampage
PVP God roll:
Perk 1: Rapid Hit(also good: Heating Up)
Perk 2: Rampage
How to get it:
Art
Weapon
Type
Archetype
Rarity
Ammo
Element
Requirements
In loot pool?
Ammo?
Element?
Tier
Excels
Source
Craftable?
Requires
Released
Slot
Can be Crafted?
Best of?
Top Perk?
Insidious
Pulse Rifle
Aggressive Burst
Legendary
Primary
Arc
The Witch Queen
Yes
Primary
Arc
Best
❘ S
PvE + PvP
Vow of the Disciple Raid
The Witch Queen
Season 16
Energy
Craftable
Top-tier
Pulse Rifles in PVP: Lethality & TTK
TTK is particularly important in PVP, because the lowest the TTK, the faster you can kill your opponent. This TTK guide includes the TTKs for every weapon in Destiny 2.
When it comes to PVP, Pulse rifles are a strong choice. In fact, they probably are the top second choice for competitive players, just behind hand cannons. Some of the top Pulses are even considered “Meta”, especially High-impact Pulses that can reach insane time-to-kills (TTK).
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Weapon Type
Archetype
Optimal TTK
Optimal Kill
Body Shot TTK
Specs
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Best in Class
Do keep in mind that TTKs aren’t everything. Versatility and ease of use also come into play. High-Impacts may offer one of the best TTKs in the game, but if you can’t land your shots, the archetype loses all its advantages.
If you’re looking for a more forgiving alternative, Rapid-Fires (Darkest Before) and Adaptives (The Third Axiom) can be excellent choices too.
Pulse Rifles in PVE: DPS
DPS is important for PVE, because the higher the DPS, the more damage you can deal to a Boss or Major.
This DPS chart includes the DPS numbers for every weapon in Destiny 2. When it comes to actual DPS, Pulses deal very mediocre damage:
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Weapon Type
Archetype
Average DPS
Burst DPS
Total Damage
Specs
---
Best in Class
Change?
Ammo
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
6,145
7,340
422,810
With averaged 'nanites"
Outbreak Perfected
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
3,687
4,381
371,126
With Catalyst
No Time to Explain
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
3,602
4,222
215,100
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Vigilance Wing
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Adaptive
2,825
3,246
194,778
High handling, decent range
The Third Axiom
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Rapid-Fire
2,771
3,285
137,970
High aim assist, low range
Piece of Mind
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Aggressive Burst
2,744
3,232
241,312
Excellent range, low aim assist
Insidious
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
High-Impact
2,720
3,281
250,128
High range & recoil, low aim assist
The Messenger
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Exotic
2,707
2,984
271,733
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Graviton Lance
Same
Primary
Pulse Rifle
Lightweight
2,573
3,046
160,805
Excellent handling, low range
Ogma PR6
Same
Primary
Endgame content
Whereas Pulses can dominate any Crucible match, be it casual 6v6s or Trials of Osiris rounds, they currently struggle in PVE. They have the range and ease of use to compete, but they simply deal too little damage. And since hand cannons and scout rifles recently received a PVE damage buff, Pulse rifles struggle even more.
For this reason, you won’t often see Pulse rifles in PVE endgame content, unless seasonal Pulse rifle mods become available (Anti-barrier, Overload, etc).
Destiny 2 Pulse Rifles: Are they Meta?
We’ve talked about the best Pulses for PVE and PVP already, but how do they compare, in general, with other primary weapon types? In other words:
Are Pulse Rifles good in Destiny 2?
The current Primary weapons Meta for PvE
Weapon Type
Rank
Tier
Trend
Role ❘ Current State
Category
Submachine Guns
S › Best
Best
❘ S
-
► SMGs are doing very well right now. They have good DPS to tear through ads and beefier orange bar enemies, but also come with excellent perks. There are a plethora of good SMGs you can go for right now, like Funnelweb, Unforgiven, Every Waking Moment, or Extraordinary Rendition, the choice is completely yours. They may struggle slightly in super high-end content, but they are still definitely usable.
► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM) - Example: Unforgiven
PVE Primaries
Auto Rifles
B › Average
Average
❘ B
► Auto Rifles currently feel like a worse version of SMGs. They have a bit more range, but outside of the absolute top-shelf content such as Grandmaster Nightfalls, range isn't too much of a factor. And if you are actively tackling difficult content, Auto Rifles aren't exactly the best pick either, making Autos a decent, but outclassed option right now.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger
PVE Primaries
Sidearms
B › Average
Average
❘ B
► Aside from a few select sidearms with certain perks, there really isn't much of a reason to use Sidearms. They have slightly higher damage numbers than SMGs, but typically come with significantly less range. Outside of top-tier weapons like a god-roll Brigand's Law or High Albedo, there is no real reason to run a sidearm.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (491 RPM) - Example: High Albedo
PVE Primaries
Hand Cannons
B › Average
Average
❘ B
-
► While Hand Cannons routinely dominate the PvP meta, they are often outclassed by weapon types that can either offer better DPS or better range. There are a couple of solid options, such as Fatebringer or Zaouli's Bane, but putting those aside, you'll be better off using something else.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (140 RPM) - Example: Fatebringer
PVE Primaries
Pulse Rifles
S › Best
Best
❘ S
► Pulse Rifles are in a great place right now. They offer good range and pretty decent damage, allowing you to take down some beefier targets nicely. There are also some excellent pulses in the game right now, like Insidious, Sacred Provenance, or New Purpose. Unfortunately, High-Impact and Aggressive frames are the only archetypes worth your time, as the others rely on Exotic Perks or god rolls to compete.
► Best Archetype: Aggressive (450 RPM) - Example: Insidious
PVE Primaries
Scout Rifles
S › Best
Best
❘ S
► Scout Rifles have come a long way. They are a solid and consistent option for anyone that prefers a safer and slower playstyle. They also shine in high-level content due to their excellent range. The best part about Scout Rifles, however, is their versatility across archetypes. Basically, every type of Scout Rifle is viable and can be used anywhere in the game.
► Best Archetype: Aggressive (72 RPM) - Example: Tarnished Mettle
PVE Primaries
Combat Bows
A › Strong
Strong
❘ A
► Bows are a high-damage, high-range option for players who prefer to keep their distance. The main issue with bows is that they are slow at clearing ads (outside of Trinity Ghoul). and when you have to deal with ads up close, bows can massively struggle. However, their solid range and excellent damage make them a strong option.
► Best Archetype: Precision - Example: Under Your Skin
PVE Primaries
The current Primary weapons Meta for PvP
Weapon Type
Rank
Tier
Trend
Role ❘ Current State
Category
Hand Cannons
A › Strong
Strong
❘ A
-
► Hand Cannons are in a bit of a strange spot. Many will argue that they are still the best weapons in the game, however, due to the prevalence of Pulse Rifles and especially SMGs, Hand Cannons have slowly been pushed out of many players' main pick. They are still excellent duelling weapons though, and feel amazing to use so they still retain a strong ranking.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (120 RPM) - Example: Igneous Hammer
PVP Primaries
Pulse Rifles
S › Best
Best
❘ S
-
► Pulse Rifles have seen a resurgence in the past few seasons, with constant buffs to all types of Pulse Rifles. It is hard not to find success with one due to the high-flinch potential of Rapid-Fire Pulses or the lethal time-to-kill of High-Impact Pulses.
► Best Archetype: High-Impact (340 RPM) - Example: The Messenger
PVP Primaries
Sidearms
A › Strong
Strong
❘ A
► Sidearms have lost their place at the top of the meta, but they remain a solid pick, especially for players using a Controller, as they inherently have manageable stability with a rapid time-to-kill. Honestly, the main reason they've lost their place at the top is due to how powerful SMGs are right now.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (325 RPM) - Example: Forgiveness
PVP Primaries
Auto Rifles
C › Weak
Weak
❘ C
-
► Auto Rifles aren't doing greét right now. They contest a similar range as Hand Cannons, however, they lack the peak shooting potential that Adaptive Hand Cannons bring. They can also be contested at close range by SMGs, making them difficult to use everywhere. However, a good player can still find value in an Auto Rifle as they do provide high flinch and constant damage.
► Best Archetype: Adaptive (600 RPM) - Example: Gnawing Hunger
PVP Primaries
Combat Bows
B › Average
Average
❘ B
-
► Bows are incredibly unique. They have a remarkably slow time to kill, however, this isn't where Bows shine. Hotswap builds with bows can be incredibly potent and don't require much learning either. Bows also provide incredible value when teamshooting opponents. Despite this, Bows on their own are quite mediocre and need something behind them to really shine.
► Scouts have been tuned down to make them less potent in the hands of the average player. However, good scout rifle players will still be able to do pretty well in lobbies, however, they may find themselves outmatched by Pulse Rifles.
► Best Archetype: High-Impact (150 RPM) - Example: Polaris Lance
PVP Primaries
Submachine Guns
S › Best
Best
❘ S
► SMGs have soared in power and will absolutely destroy you if you get within their effective range which, nowadays, feels like it's across the map. This, combined with their incredible ease of use and high potential in skilled hands makes for a very oppressive weapon to face against.
► Best Archetype: Aggressive (750 RPM)- Example: IKELOS_SMG_V1.0.3
PVP Primaries
Your turn
You now know everything there is to know about Pulse Rifles in Destiny 2, whether that is for PVP or PVE content.
On the darkest before review, it says gridskipper instead of darkest before in its description, in the very first section, overall a very useful tier list!
Primary | Archetype: Rapid-Fire
Solar | Ammo: 
Arc | Ammo: 
Stasis | Ammo: 
Void | Ammo: 
Special
Heavy
Excels in PVE
Best PvP Pulse in Destiny 2
On the darkest before review, it says gridskipper instead of darkest before in its description, in the very first section, overall a very useful tier list!