The Best Hand Cannons for PvP in Destiny 2

Tamara Wells Avatar
The Best Hand Cannons for PvP in Destiny 2

Did you know that Ace of Spades boasts a 25% increase in damage with its Memento Mori perk after a kill? When it comes to dominating PvP in Destiny 2, this hand cannon is just one of the top choices you should consider. The Last Word, with its rapid-fire rate, and Thorn, with its unique damage-over-time effect, also make compelling cases. But how do these compare to Hawkmoon’s devastating critical hits or Fatebringer’s smooth handling and powerful perks? Exploring these options can greatly impact your PvP gameplay strategy.

Key Takeaways

  • Ace of Spades offers versatile perks like Memento Mori and Firefly, making it a top choice for varied PvP scenarios.
  • The Last Word excels in close-quarters combat with its rapid-fire rate and hip-fire accuracy.
  • Thorn’s damage-over-time effect and long-range capabilities make it a formidable option in PvP.
  • Hawkmoon’s Paracausal Shot perk allows for devastating critical hits, enhanced by its random rolls and Exotic catalyst.
  • Fatebringer boasts exceptional handling, versatile perks, and solid accuracy, making it highly reliable in PvP engagements.

Ace of Spades

Among the top choices for PvP in Destiny 2, the Ace of Spades stands out for its exceptional perks and versatility. This hand cannon is a favorite among many players due to its unique exotic perks and impressive reload speed. One of the key perks, Memento Mori, reloads the weapon with extra-damage bullets after you secure a kill. It’s a game-changer that can turn the tide of any PvP match.

Another notable perk is Firefly, which causes enemies to explode upon precision kills, dealing area damage and increasing your reload speed. This not only helps in quickly dispatching groups of opponents but also ensures you’re prepared for the next engagement faster.

Additionally, the Ace of Spades has the intrinsic perk, High-Caliber Rounds, which increases the weapon’s impact, causing more flinch to opponents when hit.

Its combination of perks makes it a formidable choice in the Crucible. With its high damage output, fast reload speed, and ability to disrupt enemy formations, the Ace of Spades is an excellent tool for any Guardian looking to dominate in PvP. Equip it, master its use, and you’ll see why it’s so highly regarded.

The Last Word

The Last Word is a fan-favorite hand cannon in Destiny 2’s PvP thanks to its rapid-fire rate and hip-fire accuracy. When you wield The Last Word, you’re equipped with a weapon that excels in close-quarters combat. Its firing rate is notably higher than most hand cannons, enabling you to burst down opponents quickly. Unlike other hand cannons, The Last Word is designed for hip-firing, allowing you to maintain mobility and keep up with fast-paced engagements.

To understand why The Last Word stands out, let’s break down its core stats:

StatThe Last Word
Firing Rate225 RPM
Damage OutputHigh per shot
RangeShort to Medium
Reload SpeedFast
Hip-Fire AccuracyExceptional

Its firing rate of 225 rounds per minute (RPM) means you can fire rapidly without compromising on accuracy. The high damage output per shot ensures your enemies are quickly dispatched if you land your shots. Although its range is short to medium, the weapon’s fast reload speed and exceptional hip-fire accuracy make it lethal in close encounters. Mastering The Last Word can give you a distinct edge in PvP skirmishes, making it a reliable choice for Guardians looking to dominate the battlefield.

Thorn

Thorn is accessible in Destiny 2’s PvP for its unique damage-over-time effect and long-range capabilities. When you land a shot with Thorn, the bullet poisons your enemy, dealing additional damage over time. This mechanic is especially useful for weakening opponents and forcing them into defensive positions. Thorn’s range also allows you to engage targets from a distance, giving you an advantage in various PvP scenarios.

To acquire Thorn, you’ll need to complete an Exotic quest. This questline is both challenging and rewarding, involving multiple steps that test your PvE and PvP skills. Once you have Thorn in your arsenal, you’ll activate its potent perk, Soul Devourer. Soul Devourer enhances Thorn’s damage-over-time effect, making it even deadlier in the Crucible. Every time you defeat an enemy with Thorn, they drop a Remnant. Picking up these Remnants not only refills part of your magazine but also triggers Soul Devourer, increasing the poison damage on your next shot.

Thorn’s combination of long-range effectiveness and continuous damage makes it a formidable choice for PvP. Mastering its unique playstyle can give you a significant edge, disrupting opponents and securing kills with its lethal poison.

Hawkmoon

Hawkmoon stands out in Destiny 2‘s PvP for its unique perk, Paracausal Shot, which can lead to devastating critical hits. This perk allows you to build up charges with each landed hit, culminating in a powerful final shot that can potentially one-shot your opponents if you land a precision hit. It’s this mechanic that makes Hawkmoon both thrilling and deadly in the Crucible.

One of the key aspects of Hawkmoon is its random rolls. Unlike many other exotics, Hawkmoon can drop with different perks on each roll, giving you the opportunity to tailor it to your playstyle. Whether you prefer increased handling, faster reload speeds, or enhanced range, there’s a roll that can suit your needs.

Moreover, the exotic catalyst for Hawkmoon further enhances its capabilities. Once you’ve acquired and completed the catalyst, you’ll gain increased magazine size and the ability to generate Orbs of Power on multikills. This not only boosts your own performance but also aids your team by providing valuable Orbs.

Palindrome

Palindrome is a formidable hand cannon in Destiny 2’s PvP, renowned for its consistent performance and impressive perk pool. When you’re in the heat of battle, Palindrome‘s rapid fire rate can make all the difference. It allows you to deliver shots quickly, guaranteeing that you can down enemies before they’ve a chance to react. This makes it a favorite for many players looking to dominate the Crucible.

One of the key strengths of the Palindrome is its excellent recoil control. This hand cannon is designed to minimize kickback, allowing you to maintain accuracy even when firing multiple shots in quick succession. This is vital in PvP, where missing a shot can often mean the difference between victory and defeat. With Palindrome, you’ll find it easier to keep your reticle on target, maximizing your damage output.

Additionally, Palindrome boasts a versatile perk pool that can be tailored to your playstyle. Whether you prefer perks that enhance stability, increase range, or boost damage, Palindrome has options that can suit your needs. This flexibility ensures that you can customize the weapon to perform outstandingly in various PvP scenarios.

Eyasluna

Eyasluna has quickly risen to prominence in Destiny 2‘s PvP scene due to its exceptional handling and powerful perks. This hand cannon, first introduced in the original Destiny, has made a strong comeback with its well-balanced stats and versatility. It offers superb range effectiveness, making it a reliable choice for mid-to-long-range engagements. Its high stability guarantees that your shots land where you aim, vital in PvP scenarios.

One of Eyasluna‘s standout features is its recoil control. This allows you to maintain accuracy during sustained fire, reducing the chances of missing critical shots in heated skirmishes. The weapon’s handling is also excellent, allowing for quick aim-down-sights (ADS) and snappy target acquisition. These attributes make Eyasluna feel responsive and reliable, a must-have for competitive players.

Additionally, Eyasluna comes with a variety of powerful perks that can further enhance its performance. Perks like Rangefinder and Rapid Hit can increase its range effectiveness and stability even more, making each shot count. It’s these combinations of stats and perks that make Eyasluna a top contender in the PvP meta.

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile hand cannon, Eyasluna should be on your radar.

Dire Promise

Dire Promise stands out in Destiny 2’s PvP landscape due to its remarkable ease of use and consistent performance. This hand cannon is a favorite among players because it offers a balanced mix of range stability and solid recoil control. You’ll find it much easier to track targets and land your shots reliably, which is vital in intense PvP matches.

When it comes to range stability, Dire Promise doesn’t disappoint. It strikes a fine balance between being able to hit distant targets and maintaining accuracy. Its recoil control is also commendable, meaning you won’t struggle to keep your shots on target during rapid engagements. This makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned players who prefer a dependable weapon.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick breakdown of Dire Promise’s key attributes:

AttributeRatingImportance in PvP
Range Stability8/10Helps in hitting distant targets
Recoil Control9/10Keeps shots steady and on target
Ease of Use10/10Perfect for all skill levels

True Prophecy

While Dire Promise offers consistency and ease of use, True Prophecy brings raw power and high-impact shots to the table. If you’re looking for a Hand Cannon that can dominate in PvP, True Prophecy is a top contender. Its aggressive frame, combined with a high damage output, makes every shot count.

This weapon excels in ideal range engagements, where its high-impact shots can down enemies quickly. True Prophecy’s stats include a notable range, which guarantees that your bullets hit hard even at a distance. This hand cannon stands out because of:

  • High Impact: Each shot packs a punch, allowing you to eliminate opponents swiftly.
  • Effective Range: Its effective range ensures you can engage enemies from afar without sacrificing damage.
  • Precision: With a little practice, you can land critical hits consistently, taking advantage of its high damage potential.

This weapon is best suited for Guardians who are confident in their aim and positioning. Landing your shots with precision will reward you with quick takedowns, making True Prophecy a powerful ally in the Crucible. Equip it, master it, and you’ll find yourself rising through the ranks in no time.

Fatebringer

Fatebringer is a standout hand cannon for PvP, thanks to its impressive perks and mod synergy. You’ll appreciate its smooth handling, making it easy to land precision shots.

Its performance shines with perks like Explosive Payload and Firefly, offering both damage and crowd control.

Perks and Mod Synergy

When optimizing Fatebringer for PvP, focus on perks like Explosive Payload and Eye of the Storm to maximize its potential. Explosive Payload splits damage between impact and explosive, making it easier to land shots and flinch opponents. Eye of the Storm increases accuracy and handling as your health gets lower, making it a vital choice in intense firefights.

To further enhance Fatebringer, consider these synergy options:

  • Kill Clip: After reloading, this perk increases damage, allowing you to secure multi-kills more efficiently.
  • Rangefinder Boost: This perk improves the effective range, making Fatebringer competitive against other long-range weapons.
  • Accurized Rounds: Enhances range, ensuring your bullets hit targets accurately from a distance.

Mods also play an essential role in optimizing Fatebringer for PvP. Targeting Adjuster increases aim assist, helping you stay on target during high-stress encounters. The Counterbalance Stock mod reduces recoil deviation, making the weapon’s firing pattern more predictable.

Handling and Performance

In PvP, mastering the handling and performance of Fatebringer can give you a significant edge over your opponents. This hand cannon is renowned for its exceptional handling stats, making it quick and responsive in high-pressure situations. When you’re in the heat of battle, every millisecond counts, and Fatebringer’s swift aim-down-sights speed guarantees you’re ready to fire before your enemy.

Recoil control is important for maintaining accuracy, especially in PvP scenarios where your target is constantly moving. Fatebringer excels in this area with its manageable recoil pattern, allowing you to land successive shots with ease. By keeping your reticle steady, you can maintain a consistent aim, ensuring more of your bullets hit their mark.

Target acquisition is another essential aspect. Fatebringer’s high aim assist stat helps you snap onto your targets more effectively. This feature enhances your ability to track and shoot fast-moving opponents, increasing your chances of securing a kill. Combining this with Fatebringer’s solid range and impact stats, you’ll find it a reliable choice for various PvP engagements.

In essence, Fatebringer’s superior handling and performance attributes make it a formidable weapon in any Guardian’s arsenal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Perks for Hand Cannons in Pvp?

You’ll want perks that give you an edge in PvP. Look for Range Boosters like Rangefinder to engage targets from a distance and Stability Enhancements like Zen Moment to keep your shots accurate and on target.

How Do I Improve My Aim With Hand Cannons?

Perfecting precision with hand cannons requires adjusting aim sensitivity and establishing solid practice routines. Spend time tweaking your settings, then consistently practice in controlled environments to build muscle memory and sharpen your shooting skills.

Are There Any Hand Cannons With Unique Abilities in Pvp?

Yes, there are hand cannons with Exotic traits and unique synergies in PvP. For instance, Thorn’s poison damage and Hawkmoon’s random precision damage boost offer distinct advantages, making them standout choices for your loadout.

Which Hand Cannon Archetype Is Best for Aggressive Playstyles?

Investigate the theory that 140 RPM hand cannons excel in aggressive playstyles. You’ll find their ideal range and recoil control make them perfect for closing gaps quickly, landing critical hits, and maintaining pressure on your opponents.

How Do Hand Cannons Compare to Other Weapon Types in Pvp?

When comparing hand cannons to other weapon types in PvP, you’ll notice their damage falloff and ideal range play significant roles. They excel up close but can struggle against longer-range weapons like scout rifles and snipers.

Conclusion

To sum up, it’s no coincidence that Ace of Spades, The Last Word, Thorn, Hawkmoon, and Fatebringer consistently top the charts for PvP hand cannons in Destiny 2. Each offers unique advantages such as Ace of Spades with Memento Mori and Firefly, The Last Word’s rapid-fire capability, Thorn’s damage-over-time effect, Hawkmoon’s ability to deliver powerful critical hits, and Fatebringer’s smooth handling.

By understanding these strengths, you can choose the best hand cannon to match your playstyle, ensuring success on the PvP battlefield.

We look forward to seeing you there!