Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (2024)

Hand cannons have been at the top of the PvP Meta since the early days of Destiny 1. 8 years later, they remain at the top for the Crucible. And thanks to a few notable buffs recently released, Hand cannons have become meta for PvE too.

This guide covers every Hand Cannon in Destiny 2, including both Exotic and Legendary hand cannons, as well as the best rolls for PvE and PvP.

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (1)Updated as of Season of the Wish (S23). See Updates.

Destiny 2 Best Hand Cannons: Top-tier Options

This Tier list features the best Exotic and Legendary hand cannons right now, including Sunshot and Zaouli’s Bane:

ItemWeaponsTypeArchetypeAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?RankSourceAvailable?Tier rankSource ❘ DLCFinal VerdictReleasedPerksBest of?
LuminaBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (2)
Lumina
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (3)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Exotic Kiosk
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (4)

Forsaken Pack

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (5) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (6) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration."

►Lumina is one of the most unique Exotics in Destiny 2, allowing you to heal allies and spread one of the most potent damage buffs in the game. If you're looking to optimize a DPS phase—or want to play a more significant support role—this is a fantastic pick. This applies to PvP too.

Season 7

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (7) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (8) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration."
Top-tier
FatebringerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (9)
Fatebringer
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestVault of Glass RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (10)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Vault of Glass Raid
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (11)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (12) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (13) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly
PvP God Roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm

► One of the most iconic legendary weapons in the game, Fatebringer comes with insane stats and great perks. While it does have some competition, namely Eyasluna, this almost-perfect Hand Cannon holds its ground as an all-time community favorite.

Season 14

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (14) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (15) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly
PvP God Roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm
Top-tier
EyaslunaBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (16)
Eyasluna
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryStasis30th AnniversaryYesS › BestGrasp of Avarice DungeonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (17)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Grasp of Avarice Dungeon
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (18)

30th Anniversary

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (19) Stasis | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (20) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Headstone
PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Kill Clip

► One of the most beloved weapons from Destiny 1, Eyasluna returned even stronger than ever before. Eyasluna offers god-tier stats and an extremely good perk selection that will help it dominate the Crucible.

30th Anniversary event

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (21) Stasis | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (22) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Headstone
PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Kill Clip
Top-tier
Exalted TruthBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (23)
Exalted Truth
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryVoidLightfallYesS › BestTrials of OsirisBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (24)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Trials of Osiris
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (25)

Lightfall

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (26) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (27) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage (also good: Repulsor Brace)
PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage

► Currently one of the best legendary hand cannons available, Exalted Truth's difficult method of obtainability is balanced out by the weapon's pure power. With buildcrafting options for PvE and a plethora of consistency perks for The Crucible, this is a weapon that will be hard to top with future releases.

Season 19

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (28) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (29) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage (also good: Repulsor Brace)
PvP God Roll: Rangefinder + Rampage
Top-tier
SunshotBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (30)
Sunshot
Hand CannonExoticPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesS › BestExotic EngramBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (31)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE

Exotic Engram
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (32)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (33) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (34) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy."

► Sunshot is the cream of the crop this season. It synergizes brilliantly with Solar 3.0, and thanks to the buffs to Hand Cannons, it rips through any non-boss enemy, making it the quintessential Primary weapon for Solar players.

Season 1

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (35) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (36) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy."
Top-tier
MalfeasanceBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (37)
Malfeasance
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestExotic QuestBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (38)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvE

Exotic Quest
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (39)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (40) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (41) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders."

► Malfeasance has always been a fascinating weapon, and with the buffs to Hand Cannons, it quickly became one of the strongest Kinetic Primaries in the game, especially against Taken enemies. Malfeasance is even stronger when using the Lucky Pants Exotic, allowing for ridiculous damage.

Season 4

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (42) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (43) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders."
Top-tier
Ace of SpadesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (44)
Ace of Spades
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (45)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvP

Exotic Kiosk
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (46)

Forsaken Pack

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (47) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (48) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Precision kills increase reload speed and cause the target to explode. Reloading after a kill increases damage. Grants radar while aiming down sights."

► Arguably the best 140 RPM hand cannon in the game, Ace of Spades has a lot to offer. With excellent base stats and some of the best perks around, namely Momento Mori, which is like Kill Clip on steroids and the ability to see your radar while zoomed in, this weapon has a bit of everything.

Season 4

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (49) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (50) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Precision kills increase reload speed and cause the target to explode. Reloading after a kill increases damage. Grants radar while aiming down sights."
Top-tier
ThornBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (51)
Thorn
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesS › BestExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (52)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvP

Exotic Kiosk
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (53)

Forsaken Pack

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (54) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (55) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Rounds pierce targets and deal damage over time. Kills leave behind Remnants which, when absorbed, increase damage."

► Thorn has rocketed right back into the meta with the release of its Exotic Catalyst. This catalyst provides practically everything: Range, Mobility, Handling, and Stability upon a single kill, or absorbing a remnant. This allows for constant kill-chaining and lets good players take over any lobby.

Season 6

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (56) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (57) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Rounds pierce targets and deal damage over time. Kills leave behind Remnants which, when absorbed, increase damage."
Top-tier
HawkmoonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (58)
Hawkmoon
Hand CannonExoticPrimaryKineticBeyond LightYesS › BestXûrBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (59)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvP

Xûr
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (60)

Beyond Light

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (61) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (62) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Final blows and precision hits with Hawkmoon grant stacks of Paracausal Charge. The final round in the magazine deals bonus damage based on the number of stacks. Stowing Hawkmoon on the final round removes this bonus."

► Hawkmoon is one of the strongest Exotic Hand Cannons in PvP. It can consistently 2-tap (and even 1-tap) opposing Guardians, provided you are accurate enough. In the hands of an experienced player, Hawkmoon is definitely something to fear.

Season 12

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (63) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (64) Primary | Archetype: Exotic


Exotic Perk: "Final blows and precision hits with Hawkmoon grant stacks of Paracausal Charge. The final round in the magazine deals bonus damage based on the number of stacks. Stowing Hawkmoon on the final round removes this bonus."
Top-tier
RoseBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (65)
Rose
Hand CannonLightweightPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesS › BestPlaylist: CrucibleBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (66)

Best


S

Excels in:
PvP

Playlist: Crucible
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (67)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (68) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (69) Primary | Archetype: Lightweight


PvP God Rolls: Moving Target + Explosive Payload (also good: Eye of the Storm)

► Rose was a reward from competitive PvP, so it makes sense that it's a monster in The Crucible. The weapon has absurd stats and perks that allow it to rocket past its competition. Sure, it's harder to obtain than other options, but this grind is easily worth it if you're an avid Crucible player.

Season 19

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (70) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (71) Primary | Archetype: Lightweight


PvP God Rolls: Moving Target + Explosive Payload (also good: Eye of the Storm)
Top-tier
AustringerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (72)
Austringer
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryKineticBeyond LightYesA › StrongPresageBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (73)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Presage
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (74)

Beyond Light

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (75) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (76) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage
PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder)

► With a fanbase that rivals that of Spare Rations, nearly everyone was waiting for the day that Austringer came back. That day has come, and Austringer is once again a great pick for anything in the game. With amazing stats, even better perks, and the ability to be crafted, it's hard to not see why people love this weapon.

Season 17

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (77) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (78) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Outlaw + Rampage
PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder)
Top-tier
Epochal IntegrationBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (79)
Epochal Integration
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimarySolarSeason 21YesA › StrongSeasonal activityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (80)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Seasonal activity
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (81)

Season 21

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (82) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (83) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE Fixed Roll: Stats for All + Incandescent
PvP Fixed Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm

► Epochal Integration is an easy-to-obtain and powerful Solar hand cannon. Because of how strong Solar is right now, a solid Solar weapon like Epochal Integration can easily excel. It beats out the competition mostly due to its ease of access, but also because Stats for All and Incandescent are excellent perks.

Season 21

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (84) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (85) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE Fixed Roll: Stats for All + Incandescent
PvP Fixed Roll: Keep Away + Eye of the Storm
Top-tier
Warden's LawBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (86)
Warden's Law
Hand CannonHeavy BurstPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongNightfall: The OrdealsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (87)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Nightfall: The Ordeals
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (88)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (89) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (90) Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst


PvE God Roll: Fourth Time's the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy )
PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip

► While Warden's Law is only known for one thing (absurdly high DPS with the Hunter's Lucky Pants), it does exceptionally well at it. Although it definitely isn't a meta pick outside of that one use case, that alone bursts it above most of the pack; plus, it's an extremely fun and unique gun to use regardless!

Season 22

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (91) Kinetic | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (92) Primary | Archetype: Heavy Burst


PvE God Roll: Fourth Time's the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy )
PvP God Roll: Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip
Top-tier
Word of CrotaBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (93)
Word of Crota
Hand CannonPrecisionPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongCrota's End RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (94)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE + PvP

Crota's End Raid
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (95)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (96) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (97) Primary | Archetype: Precision


PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Demolitionist) + Sword Logic (also good: Destabilizing Rounds)
PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Sword Logic

► Word of Crota is in the running for the best 180 RPM hand cannon in the game, competing with other top-tier options such as Posterity. While it continues to be difficult to recommend 180 RPM options over other archetypes, Word of Crota excels in its own field and could become a top option with future sandbox changes.

Season 22

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (98) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (99) Primary | Archetype: Precision


PvE God Roll: Repulsor Brace (also good: Demolitionist) + Sword Logic (also good: Destabilizing Rounds)
PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Sword Logic
Top-tier
Nation of BeastsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (100)
Nation of Beasts
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryArcForsaken PackYesA › StrongLast Wish RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (101)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE

Last Wish Raid
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (102)

Forsaken Pack

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (103) Arc | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (104) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action)

► Last Wish weapons just received updated perk pools. Nation of Beasts was treated exceptionally well, gaining some of the best new perks like Voltshot, Collective Action, and Eddy Current. This weapon is the ultimate Hand Cannon for Arc 3.0 synergy, making it an easy A-Tier on this list.

Season 4

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (105) Arc | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (106) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Dragonfly (also good: Eddy Current) + Voltshot (also good: Collective Action)
Top-tier
Zaouli’s BaneBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (107)
Zaouli’s Bane
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongKing's Fall RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (108)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvE

King's Fall Raid
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (109)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (110) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (111) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent

► On top of offering excellent base stats (which can only be expected from a raid weapon), the Zaouli's Bane can also roll with an extremely lethal and unique perk combination: Explosive Payload + Incandescent. With a strong Solar 3.0 Build, a Zaouli's Bane with Incandescent can be a monster in mid to high-end PvE content.

Season 18

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (112) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (113) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvE God Roll: Explosive Payload + Incandescent
Top-tier
The PalindromeBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (114)
The Palindrome
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayNoA › StrongNightfall: The OrdealsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (115)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvP

Nightfall: The Ordeals
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (116)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (117) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (118) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder

► Because of a couple of perk nerfs in combination with the release of new and potent hand cannons, The Palindrome has seen a slow decline in popularity. While it still isn't a bad pick for The Crucible, there are better options out there.

Season 13

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (119) Void | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (120) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvP God Roll: Killing Wind + Rangefinder
Top-tier
Igneous HammerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (121)
Igneous Hammer
Hand CannonAggressivePrimarySolarLightfallNoA › StrongTrials of OsirisBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (122)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvP

Trials of Osiris
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (123)

Lightfall

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (124) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (125) Primary | Archetype: Aggressive


PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage

► While not as strong as it was a year or so ago, Igneous Hammer boasts the best stats out of all 120 RPM Hand Cannons and comes with some sweet perks. Even though it isn't currently meta, this weapon can excel in any environment you put it in.

Season 13

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (126) Solar | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (127) Primary | Archetype: Aggressive


PvE God Roll: Rapid Hit (also good: Outlaw) + Rampage
Top-tier
Cantata-57Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (128)
Cantata-57
Hand CannonAdaptivePrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesA › StrongGunsmithBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (129)

Strong


A

Excels in:
PvP

Gunsmith
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (130)

Free-to-Play

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (131) Arc | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (132) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder )

► Cantata-57 has definitely lost popularity since its initial release with The Witch Queen, but that doesn't mean it's not worth using! With a well-rounded balance of great perks and stats, this hand cannon still rivals top picks in The Crucible while being easier to obtain.

Season 16

Slot: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (133) Arc | Ammo: Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (134) Primary | Archetype: Adaptive


PvP God Roll: Eye of the Storm + Opening Shot (also good: Rangefinder )
Top-tier

Destiny 2 Hand Cannons: The complete list

This database includes every viable Hand Cannon currently in the game:

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (135)Ace of SpadesHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (136) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (137) Kinetic

Best


S

PvPExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (138) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (139)

Forsaken Pack

Season 4KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (140)The Last WordHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (141) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (142) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (143) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (144)

Forsaken Pack

Season 5KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (145)CrimsonHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (146) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (147) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPExotic EngramBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (148) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (149)

Free-to-Play

Season 2KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (150)LuminaHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (151) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (152) Kinetic

Best


S

PvE + PvPExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (153) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (154)

Forsaken Pack

Season 7KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (155)SturmHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (156) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (157) Kinetic

Average


B

-Exotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (158) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (159)

Free-to-Play

Season 1KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (160)ThornHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (161) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (162) Kinetic

Best


S

PvPExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (163) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (164)

Forsaken Pack

Season 6KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (165)HawkmoonHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticBeyond LightYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (166) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (167) Kinetic

Best


S

PvPXûrBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (168) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (169)

Beyond Light

Season 12KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (170)MalfeasanceHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (171) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (172) Kinetic

Best


S

PvEExotic QuestBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (173) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (174)

Free-to-Play

Season 4KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (175)Eriana's VowHand CannonExoticExoticSpecialSolarShadowkeepYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (176) SpecialBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (177) Solar

Average


B

PvEExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (178) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (179)

Shadowkeep

Season 8EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (180)SunshotHand CannonExoticExoticPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (181) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (182) Solar

Best


S

PvEExotic EngramBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (183) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (184)

Free-to-Play

Season 1EnergyNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (185)Seventh Seraph Officer RevolverHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (186) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (187) Kinetic

Worst


D

PvEXûrBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (188) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (189)

Free-to-Play

Season 10KineticNoReconstruction
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (190)The Steady HandHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (191) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (192) Kinetic

Weak


C

-Iron BannerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (193) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (194)

Free-to-Play

Season 12KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (195)True ProphecyHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (196) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (197) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPWorld loot poolBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (198) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (199)

Free-to-Play

Season 10KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (200)Crimil's DaggerHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (201) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (202) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPIron BannerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (203) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (204)

Free-to-Play

Season 11KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (205)Dire PromiseHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (206) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (207) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPWorld loot poolBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (208) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (209)

Free-to-Play

Season 10KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (210)FatebringerHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (211) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (212) Kinetic

Best


S

PvE + PvPVault of Glass RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (213) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (214)

Free-to-Play

Season 14KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (215)Survivor's EpitaphHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (216) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (217) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPPlaylist: CrucibleBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (218) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (219)

Free-to-Play

Season 14KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (220)Loud LullabyHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (221) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (222) Kinetic

Weak


C

-MoonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (223) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (224)

Free-to-Play

Season 14KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (225)JudgmentHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (226) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (227) Stasis

Weak


C

-Prophecy DungeonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (228) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (229)

Free-to-Play

Season 23KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (230)VulpeculaHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (231) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (232) Stasis

Weak


C

-XûrBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (233) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (234)

Free-to-Play

Season 15KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (235)EyaslunaHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStasis30th AnniversaryYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (236) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (237) Stasis

Best


S

PvE + PvPGrasp of Avarice DungeonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (238) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (239)

30th Anniversary

30th Anniversary eventKineticNoTop-tierIncandescent
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (240)AustringerHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticBeyond LightYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (241) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (242) Kinetic

Strong


A

PvE + PvPPresageBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (243) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (244)

Beyond Light

Season 17KineticCraftableTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (245)D.F.A.Hand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (246) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (247) Kinetic

Average


B

-Nightfall: The OrdealsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (248) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (249)

Free-to-Play

Season 17KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (250)Something NewHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStasisFree-to-PlaySeasonalBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (251) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (252) Stasis

Average


B

-Event: SolsticeBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (253) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (254)

Free-to-Play

Season 17KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (255)Pure PoetryHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (256) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (257) Kinetic

Weak


C

-Vanguard FocusingBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (258) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (259)

Free-to-Play

Season 18KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (260)RoseHand CannonLightweightLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (261) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (262) Kinetic

Best


S

PvPPlaylist: CrucibleBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (263) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (264)

Free-to-Play

Season 19KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (265)Round RobinHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandLightfallYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (266) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (267) Strand

Average


B

PvPNeomunaBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (268) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (269)

Lightfall

Season 20KineticCraftable
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (270)Spare RationsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticSeason 21YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (271) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (272) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPFishingBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (273) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (274)

Season 21

Season 21KineticNoKinetic Tremors
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (275)Kept ConfidenceHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryStrandSeason 22YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (276) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (277) Strand

Average


B

PvPSeasonal activityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (278) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (279)

Season 22

Season 22KineticCraftable
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (280)MaledictionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (281) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (282) Kinetic

Average


B

PvPPlaylist: PursuitBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (283) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (284)

Free-to-Play

Season 22KineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (285)Warden's LawHand CannonHeavy BurstLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (286) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (287) Kinetic

Strong


A

PvE + PvPNightfall: The OrdealsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (288) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (289)

Free-to-Play

Season 22KineticNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (290)Luna's HowlHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryKineticNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (291) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (292) KineticOngoing...-Onslaught ActivityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (293) NoInto the LightKineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (294)Midnight CoupHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (295) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (296) KineticOngoing...-Onslaught ActivityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (297) NoInto the LightKineticNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (298)The PalindromeHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (299) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (300) Void

Strong


A

PvPNightfall: The OrdealsBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (301) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (302)

Free-to-Play

Season 13EnergyNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (303)PosterityHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcBeyond LightYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (304) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (305) Arc

Average


B

PvEDeep Stone Crypt RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (306) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (307)

Beyond Light

Season 12EnergyCraftableVoltshot,Reconstruction
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (308)Waking VigilHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (309) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (310) Arc

Average


B

PvPShattered Throne DungeonBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (311) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (312)

Free-to-Play

Season 13EnergyNoVoltshot
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (313)Nature of the BeastHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (314) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (315) Arc

Worst


D

-World loot poolBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (316) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (317)

Free-to-Play

Season 11EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (318)IKELOS_HC_v1.0.3Hand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (319) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (320) Void

Weak


C

-Operation: Seraph's ShieldBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (321) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (322)

Free-to-Play

Season 19EnergyCraftableRepulsor Brace
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (323)Nation of BeastsHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (324) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (325) Arc

Strong


A

PvELast Wish RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (326) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (327)

Forsaken Pack

Season 4EnergyCraftableTop-tierVoltshot
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (328)Igneous HammerHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimarySolarLightfallNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (329) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (330) Solar

Strong


A

PvPTrials of OsirisBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (331) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (332)

Lightfall

Season 13EnergyNoTop-tierIncandescent
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (333)Ancient GospelHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarShadowkeepYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (334) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (335) Solar

Average


B

PvEGarden of Salvation RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (336) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (337)

Shadowkeep

Season 8EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (338)Bottom DollarHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (339) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (340) Void

Weak


C

PvE + PvPPlaylist: GambitBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (341) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (342)

Free-to-Play

Season 13EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (343)Finite ImpactorHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayNoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (344) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (345) Arc

Worst


D

-Iron BannerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (346) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (347)

Free-to-Play

Season 14EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (348)Annual SkateHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (349) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (350) Solar

Weak


C

-World loot poolBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (351) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (352)

Free-to-Play

Season 15EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (353)Crisis InvertedHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (354) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (355) Arc

Weak


C

-Playlist: CrucibleBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (356) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (357)

Free-to-Play

Season 16EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (358)Cantata-57Hand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (359) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (360) Arc

Strong


A

PvPGunsmithBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (361) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (362)

Free-to-Play

Season 16EnergyNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (363)Frontier's CryHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (364) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (365) Solar

Weak


C

-Iron BannerBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (366) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (367)

Free-to-Play

Season 16EnergyNo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (368)Zaouli’s BaneHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (369) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (370) Solar

Strong


A

PvEKing's Fall RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (371) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (372)

Free-to-Play

Season 18EnergyCraftableTop-tierIncandescent
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (373)Exalted TruthHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidLightfallYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (374) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (375) Void

Best


S

PvE + PvPTrials of OsirisBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (376) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (377)

Lightfall

Season 19EnergyNoTop-tierRepulsor Brace
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (378)TrustHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (379) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (380) Solar

Average


B

PvE + PvPPlaylist: GambitBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (381) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (382)

Free-to-Play

Season 20EnergyNoIncandescent
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (383)Epochal IntegrationHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimarySolarSeason 21YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (384) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (385) Solar

Strong


A

PvE + PvPSeasonal activityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (386) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (387)

Season 21

Season 21EnergyNoTop-tier
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (388)Targeted RedactionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryVoidSeason 21YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (389) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (390) Void

Average


B

PvESeasonal activityBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (391) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (392)

Season 21

Season 21EnergyCraftable
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (393)Combined ActionHand CannonAggressiveLegendaryPrimaryArcFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (394) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (395) Arc

Average


B

PvPLost SectorBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (396) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (397)

Free-to-Play

Season 21EnergyNoVoltshot
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (398)Word of CrotaHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (399) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (400) Void

Strong


A

PvE + PvPCrota's End RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (401) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (402)

Free-to-Play

Season 22EnergyCraftableTop-tierSword Logic
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (403)OptativeHand CannonPrecisionLegendaryPrimaryVoidSeason 23YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (404) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (405) Void

Average


B

PvEUndyingBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (406) YesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (407)

Season 23

Season 23EnergyCraftable

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 Destiny 2 Hand Cannons in 2024

Ready to dig deeper into the absolute best HCs in Destiny 2 right now? These are the cream of the crop, our favorites (for PvE and PvP):

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (408)

5. Warden’s Law

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (409) Excels in PvE

Coming in at #5 on our list is currently one of the most unique legendary weapons in the game: Warden’s Law. While Bungie has confirmed that more heavy burst hand cannons are soon to come, Warden’s Law is the only one currently available. While this novelty does boost Warden’s Law up our list considerably, the weapon also has a gimmick that allows it to excel greatly in PvE.

When combined with the Lucky Pants Hunter exotic, Warden’s Law can pump out absurdly high DPS. Many still prefer other options like rocket launchers and fusion rifles, but having a weapon that’s easy to use and never runs out of ammo for DPS is still extremely desirable.

Sure, Warden’s Law may be nothing more than a fun pick for Warlocks and Titans, but its unmatched DPS strength on the Hunter class is enough to boost it above the vast majority of competition. These are the top Warden’s Law God Rolls:

  • PvE God roll: Fourth Time’s the Charm (also good: Perpetual Motion) + Vorpal Weapon (also good: Frenzy)
  • PvP God roll:Moving Target (also good: Discord) + Kill Clip

How to get it: Warden’s Law can be acquired by completing Nightfall: The Ordeals (the highest difficulties have increased drop rates).

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?

4. Malfeasance

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (411) Excels in PvE

Originally released as one of the weakest exotics out at the time, Malfeasance now excels in many PvE activities.

The most obvious pairing for Malfeasance is the same as Warden’s Law: Lucky Pants. While only Hunters can take advantage of the synergy, the damage you can put out with this combination of exotics is absurd.

Even so, Malfeasance can hold its ground without Lucky Pants just as well. With high base damage through Explosive Shadow, a boost to damage against Taken enemies with Taken Predator, Vorpal Weapon with its catalyst, and the ability to stun Unstoppable champions, Malfeasance can do just about anything. While deciding to run this over a different exotic is something you’ll rarely see, the intrinsic power of Malfeasance is unparalleled.

Exotic Perk: “Shoot tainted slugs that burrow into the enemy. Stacking enough slugs causes them all to explode. Bonus damage against Taken enemies and Gambit invaders.”

How to get it: Malfeasance can be acquired by completing the Darkness in the Light quest.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (412)MalfeasanceHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (413) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (414) Kinetic

Best


S

PvEExotic QuestBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (415) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (416)

Free-to-Play

Season 4KineticNoTop-tier

3. Lumina

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (418) Excels in PVE and PVP

Lumina is the premier support Exotic, allowing you to heal and empower allies with ease.

In PvE, Lumina’s 35% damage bonus is one of the highest in the game. Banner Shield is the only one that surpasses it at 40%, but that requires someone to be locked in a Super. This makes Lumina a powerful option in casual and hardcore content alike.

Lumina increases damage by 15% in The Crucible, which is still significant. Its healing abilities are also potent here and can quickly help teammates cheat death. This weapon is the clear choice for Guardians wanting to strengthen their support role in a fireteam. Plus, you’ll reap the rewards in the form of your own damage buff.

Exotic Perk: “Kills with this weapon leave behind Remnants which convert your next hip fired shot into an ally-seeking Noble Round that heals them and grants both of you a weapon damage bonus for a short duration.”

How to get it: Lumina can be acquired via Exotic engrams or Xûr.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (419)LuminaHand CannonExoticExoticPrimaryKineticForsaken PackYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (420) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (421) Kinetic

Best


S

PvE + PvPExotic KioskBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (422) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (423)

Forsaken Pack

Season 7KineticNoTop-tier

See Also
Dice Saloon

2. Fatebringer: Best PvP Hand Cannon?

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (425) Excels in PVE and PVP

Surpassing all other legendary options is the hand cannon from the free-to-play Vault of Glass raid: Fatebringer.

In PvE, Fatebringer is simple yet potent. While it doesn’t boast any elemental affinity, its strong selection of perks like Explosive Payload, Kill Clip, Adrenaline Junkie, and Frenzy makes for a weapon that can chunk through just about any combatant you put it up against.

With Killing Wind, Explosive Payload, Eye of the Storm, and Opening Shot, Fatebringer holds its ground just as well in The Crucible. Plus, the weapon has top-tier stats and offers an Adept (Timelost) version!

While other options may be better in certain builds or scenarios, Fatebringer is a simplistically powerful weapon that gets the job done nicely.

  • PvE God roll: Explosive Payload + Firefly
  • PvP God roll: Explosive Payload + Eye of the Storm

How to get it: Fatebringer can be acquired from the Vault of Glass raid.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (426)FatebringerHand CannonAdaptiveLegendaryPrimaryKineticFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (427) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (428) Kinetic

Best


S

PvE + PvPVault of Glass RaidBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (429) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (430)

Free-to-Play

Season 14KineticNoTop-tier

1. Sunshot: Best PvE Hand Cannon

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (432) Excels in PvE

Sunshot has consistently been an outstanding weapon throughout Destiny 2’s history but recently has become one of the best PvE weapons in the game.

Even without any synergies, Sunshot is able to dominate most PvE activities. With relatively high damage per shot and explosions that do a fair bit of work as well, Sunshot is perhaps the smoothest-feeling ad clearing hand cannon Destiny 2 has to offer.

Finding synergies within the Solar subclasses, however, is where Sunshot takes off. Both Solar subclasses and Sunshot are absurdly powerful on their own, but utilizing fragments like Ember of Empyrean or seasonal mods like Flint Striker and Rays of Precision pushes their potency to its limit.

While some cases may call for different hand cannons or primary weapons entirely, Sunshot is both fun and strong, making it one of the best weapons currently obtainable in Destiny 2.

Exotic Perk: “This weapon fires explosive rounds. Targets killed with Sunshot explode in Solar energy.”

How to get it: Sunshot can be acquired via Exotic engrams or Xûr.

ArtWeaponTypeArchetypeRarityAmmo?Element?RequirementsIn loot pool?AmmoElementTierExcelsSourceCraftable?RequiresReleasedSlotCan be Crafted?Best of?Top Perk?
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (433)SunshotHand CannonExoticExoticPrimarySolarFree-to-PlayYesBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (434) PrimaryBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (435) Solar

Best


S

PvEExotic EngramBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (436) NoBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (437)

Free-to-Play

Season 1EnergyNoTop-tier

Hand Cannons and the PvP Meta: TTK

We covered which Hand Cannons 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 RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (438)
Hand Cannons
S › Best

Best


S

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (439)► 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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (440)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (441)
Submachine Guns
S › Best

Best


S

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (442)► SMGs remain a staple of the PvP meta. SMGs absolutely shred enemies at close range and as soon as their top option is nerfed, a new top-tier SMG is introduced to replace it. SMGs have been, and seemingly will remain, meta for a long time to come.

► Best Archetype: Aggressive (720 RPM) - Example: The Immortal

PVP Primaries
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (443)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (444)
Auto Rifles
A › Strong

Strong


A

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (445)► After a couple of recent changes and buffs, Auto Rifles are feeling great to use right now, especially in the more casual Crucible playlists. While they may not have the juice to compete with some of the top dogs, they are still a solid pick and can help you frag out with relative ease.

► Best Archetype: Precision (450 RPM) - Example: Ammit AR2

PVP Primaries
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (446)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (447)
Scout Rifles
C › Weak

Weak


C

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (448)► 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, top Hand Cannons dominate the Crucible:

-Weapon TypeArchetypeOptimal TTKOptimal KillBody Shot TTKSpecs---Best in Class
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (449)Hand CannonAdaptive

140 RPM

0.873 crit1.73

Good stability, decent range

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (450)Austringer
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (451)Hand CannonAggressive

120 RPM

1.002 crit 1 body1.50

High range, low stability and handling

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (452)Igneous Hammer
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (453)Hand CannonPrecision

180 RPM

1.002 crit 2 body1.33

High stability, poor handling

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (454)Frontier's Cry
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (455)Hand Cannon

Exotic

1.003 crit 1 body1.33-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (456)Malfeasance
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (457)Hand Cannon

Exotic

1.002 crit 1 body1.50-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (458)Sturm
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (459)Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.873 crit1.73-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (460)Thorn
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (461)Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.803 crit1.60-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (462)Sunshot
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (463)Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.533 crit1.33-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (464)The Last Word
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (465)Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.876 crit 1 body1.43-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (466)Crimson
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (467)Hand Cannon

Exotic

0.671 crit 1 body1.33-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (468)Eriana's Vow

That said, TTK is only half of the picture. With decent range and the ability to peek-shoot (shoot and cover), hand cannons are extremely powerful dueling weapons. There’s a reason the vast majority of elite PvP players main a hand cannon. Hand cannons are not the easiest to master, but they do have a high skill ceiling. Those who know how to master hand cannons will often come on top of most of their duels in The Crucible.

Hand Cannons and the PvE Meta: DPS

How do Hand Cannons compare to other primary weapons in PvE?

Weapon Type RankTierTrendRole ❘ Current StateCategory
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (469)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (470)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (471)
Hand Cannons
S › Best

Best


S

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (472)► 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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (473)
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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (474)
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: Rapid-Fire (720 RPM)- Example: Quicksilver Storm

PVE Primaries
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (475)
Scout Rifles
B › Average

Average


B

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (476)► 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
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (477)
Sidearms
C › Weak

Weak


C

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (478)► 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.

When it comes to actual DPS, hand cannons are not in a great place right now:

-Weapon TypeArchetypeSustained DPSMag DPSTotal DamageSpecs---Best in ClassChange?Ammo
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (479)Hand Cannon

Exotic

1527217801474680With "First Glance"Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (480)Eriana's VowSameSpecial
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (481)Hand Cannon

Exotic

1094313668/w CatalystBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (482)MalfeasanceSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (483)Hand Cannon

Exotic

1067815274/w CatalystBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (484)HawkmoonSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (485)Hand Cannon

Exotic

60987022"Soul Devourer"Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (486)ThornSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (487)Hand Cannon

Exotic

55139803-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (488)The Last WordSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (489)Hand Cannon

Exotic

46366418"Momento Mori"Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (490)Ace of SpadesPrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (491)Hand Cannon

Exotic

45526730-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (492)CrimsonSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (493)Hand CannonPrecision43365244High stability, poor handlingBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (494)PosterityBuffedPrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (495)Hand CannonLightweight43275215-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (496)RosePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (497)Hand Cannon

Exotic

40715120-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (498)SturmPrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (499)Hand Cannon

Exotic

40185215-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (500)LuminaPrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (501)Hand CannonAggressive39924654High range, low stability and handlingBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (502)Igneous HammerSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (503)Hand Cannon

Exotic

39855363-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (504)SunshotPrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (505)Hand CannonAdaptive39344741Good stability, decent rangeBest Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (506)EyaslunaSamePrimary
Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (507)Hand CannonDouble Fire38844902-Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (508)Warden's LawPrimary

Before you go…

Are you looking for a top-tier Special and Heavy weapon to round out your loadout? We cover the Best Destiny 2 Trace Riflesand Best Destiny 2 Linear Fusion Rifles, too.

You now know everything there is to know about hand cannons in Destiny 2, whether that is for PvP or PvE content.

See latest Updates

We keep our content up to date! These are the latest changes made to this guide:

  • February 28, 2024: General updates and the inclusion of Hand Cannons from Season 23.
  • October 25, 2023: Inclusion of Season 22 weapons.
  • May 30, 2023: General updates (based on the current sandbox) and the inclusion of Season 18 to 21 hand cannons.
  • June 3, 2022: The guide is published for the first time.

Stay tuned, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for next season!

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE (2024)

FAQs

Best Hand Cannons in Destiny 2: Tier List for PvP & PvE? ›

Fatebringer has proven itself to be Destiny 2's best Legendary Hand Cannon. This weapon features one of the best perk pools out of all Hand Cannons, a great stat package, and it has an Adept variant.

What is the most powerful Hand Cannon in Destiny 2? ›

Fatebringer has proven itself to be Destiny 2's best Legendary Hand Cannon. This weapon features one of the best perk pools out of all Hand Cannons, a great stat package, and it has an Adept variant.

Is Sunshot good for PvE? ›

In PvE this weapon is great for chaining explosions to clear groups of enemies as well as applies scorch as it essentially has souped up Incandescent and Explosive Payload built into it by default.

How many exotic hand cannons are in Destiny 2? ›

Destiny 2 offers dozens of exotic weapons to choose from as well and ten of these are hand cannons. Each exotic hand cannon features a unique design and special perks that are often much better than standard weapons.

Is crimson good in PvP? ›

Crimson is a weapon that is best suited for taking consecutive fights in PvP. Kills automatically heal the user, and precision kills, reload the weapon immediately.

What is the best hand cannon for PvP? ›

Destiny 2 Best Hand Cannons: Top-tier Options
ItemWeaponsTier rank
FatebringerFatebringerBest ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP
EyaslunaEyaslunaBest ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP
Exalted TruthExalted TruthBest ❘ S Excels in: PvE + PvP
SunshotSunshotBest ❘ S Excels in: PvE
14 more rows
Feb 28, 2024

What is the most powerful handcannon? ›

The . 500 S&W Magnum is considered by some to be the most powerful standardized, mass produced handgun chambering by virtue of its considerable muzzle energy (*see note below). Incidentally, a lengthened form of the cartridge, the . 500 Bushwhacker, is considered the most powerful custom handgun chambering.

Is Sunshot any good in PvP? ›

But unlike other options, Sunshot is the only 150 RPM Hand Cannon in Destiny 2. This intrinsically gives Sunshot a slightly faster TTK than all other 140s. This gun also has Explosive Payload baked into its main perk, aggressively flinching targets with every shot.

What is the strongest PvE class in Destiny 2? ›

The best PvE Endgame class and subclass on our Destiny 2 Tier List is the Dawnblade, Solar Warlock. With near unlimited survivability, insane damage potential, and incredible ease of use, it is simply the best and easiest way to play for both new and end-game players.

Is malfeasance good in PvP? ›

What makes the Malfeasance's Catalyst so powerful in PvP is the infinite ammo for Kinetic weapons, which means that Vorpal Weapon is incredibly easy to passively utilize. With these damage boosts, the Malfeasance is finally able to solidify its spot as a top-tier hand cannon in any seasonal meta in Destiny 2.

Why is Thorn good in PvP? ›

Not only does the Thorn have unlimited ammo, but it's also one of the few weapons in Destiny 2 that can inflict damage over time, which are both highly useful features to have in endgame content where enemies have a lot of health or in competitive PvP modes in Destiny 2.

Why is Crimson better? ›

The tools, weapons, and armor obtained via Crimson material generally have minor advantages over those obtained via Corruption materials; however, Corruption tools are slightly faster. Crimson enemies tend to have slightly higher stats, such as health, defense, and damage.

Can Crimson and Plat play together? ›

The player with the highest Skill Division in the party determines which Party SR Restrictions are used: Iridescent (Including Top 250) & Crimson: Can party with players within 1 Skill Division. Diamond: Can party within 2 Skill Divisions. Bronze through Platinum: Can party up without any restrictions.

What is the most powerful cannon? ›

Schwerer Gustav was the largest-calibre rifled weapon ever used in combat, and in terms of overall weight, the heaviest mobile artillery piece ever built. It fired the heaviest shells of any artillery piece.

What is the strongest gun in Destiny 2? ›

Quicksilver Storm Exotic Auto Rifle can be considered the best primary weapon in this Destiny 2 PvE weapon guide, all thanks to the Grenade Chaser perk. It converts missiles that hit the enemy into grenades, which can be used in an alternate shooting mode.

What is the most powerful auto cannon? ›

The Avenger is by far the most powerful autocannon ever installed on an aircraft. It has 7 barrels, and fires at a rate of 3,900 rounds per minute. The rounds themselves are tipped with depleted uranium, which gives them superior kinetic penetration ability.

Which hand cannon is better Thorn or Lumina? ›

And even without necrotic/boots of the assembler or on titan/hunter, lumina is overall the better pick due to it's ability of just spamming heal compared to a bit of burn/tick damage that thorn has. Thorn is a good exotic perk trapped inside a below average handcannon.

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