Best Weapons in Hunt: Showdown

Being set in the year 1895, Hunt: Showdown is equipped with a roster of old-timey guns that, for the most part, wouldn't hold up against today's high-caliber rifles. But given the time and place in which you're using them, they're cutting-edge killing machines that can dispatch both monsters and other hunters alike. That being said, not all the weapons in Hunt will have your back. Each one has its own list of advantages and disadvantages, which makes finding the best weapon setup somewhat of a challenge.

So don't risk your money and loot trying to find out in battle which weapons are the best. Instead, we've got you covered with the best weapons in Hunt: Showdown right here. Any combination of these picks will have you protected, whether you're looking for a new primary to main or simply need an all-around new and reliable loadout.

10. Nitro Express Rifle

Although it's not ideal for every encounter, the Nitro Express Rifle doe's one thing exceptionally well – deal damage. It has the highest damage output per hit of any weapon in the game at 364 DMG. What's more, it works at a distance of 252 meters, though the further the distance the more the damage will drop off. Nonetheless, the Nitro Express Rifle is one of the best weapons for hitting targets hard at close and medium ranges, almost always taking out opponents in a single shot.

Being such a heavy-hitting rifle, the Nitro Express' downfall lies in its mag size and reload time. But you're giving that up in exchange for a weapon that, barring a direct hit, will one-shot enemies. Even if it's not, it should only take a couple of shots from your pistol to finish the job. And we've got two sidearms below that are perfect for the job.

9. Dolch 96

For a long time, the Dolch 96 was the meta in Hunt: Showdown. So much so, that it eventually had to be nerfed due to it outperforming many rifles and shotguns. But, despite the nerf, the Dolch 96 still packs a punch as one of the best weapons in the game. Although more costly than the other pistols up for grabs, your money is getting you a semi-automatic clip-fed pistol that is without a doubt one of the hardest-hitting pistols in the game.

8. Scottfield Model 3

Despite only having six rounds, the Scottfield Model 3 can open at the cylinder and discharge all six rounds at once, allowing for a quicker reload time compared to its competitors. Making it an ideal secondary if you constantly find yourself going up against more than one enemy. Even if it's a trio, the Scottfield Model 3 hits for solid 107 points of damage. Meaning, you just need one mag, two bullets a person, to wipe out the entire team. That's why we've dubbed the Scottfield Model 3, “Ol' Reliable”.

7. Romero 77

Despite being the first shotgun you get, the Romero 77 is one of the best weapons in the game for a variety of reasons. Compared to the other shotguns, in terms of close-range effectiveness, the Romero 77 has the furthest range, highest damage, and best bullet spread. Although it is backed with a reload speed of 3.4 seconds, just keep in mind that is a single shot and will require a reload every time.

More reason to use this lethal shotgun is for its two variants. The Romero 77 Handcannon is a compact version of the shotgun with more firepower, while the Romero 77 Hatchet, on the other hand, is incredibly effective and fun to use for melee combat.

6. Crossbow

The crossbow may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it most certainly shouldn't be overlooked. That's because this silent killer will one-shot enemies in the chest at up to 25 meters. As a result, the crossbow can be one of the best weapons in the game if you know how to get the drop on your enemies.

5. Vetterli Karabiner

The Vetterlie Karabiner is a fantastic all-around weapon to have by your side and the most reliable one no matter what you're up against. It is a bolt-action rifle that fires quickly and performs best between 60 and 150 meters. As a result, it's ideal for whatever situation you find yourself in. Additionally, it comes in two variations: the Bayonet for close-quarters combat and the Deadeye, which equips a scope for greater accuracy at longer ranges.

4. Sparks LRR / Sniper

Speaking of longer ranges, you won't find a better long-range rifle than the Sparks LRR. Hitting for 149 points of damage, you can leave enemies one hit tagging them from distances of 300 meters or greater. Perfect if you're the sniping type that likes to sit across the water and wait in the swamp for hunters to fall into your crosshairs. We advise purchasing either the standard Sparks LRR or the sniper model, which includes a long-range scope. As the silenced version is not quite cut out for the job.

3. Martini Henry IC1

Although the Vetterli Karabiner is a great option, we like to consider the Martini Henry IC1 the bigger and better older brother. At a longer range, it deals more damage and has an insanely fast reload speed of 2.7 seconds. While it may not be as good for close-quarters combat as the Vetterli, this weapon is still one of the best in Hunt: Showdown because you can count on it in any engagement you find yourself in.

2. Bomb Lance

The Bomb Lance is one of the more unique weapons in Hunt: Showdown. It doubles as both a melee and range weapon. It shines with its light and heavy melee attacks doing 180 and 360 damage respectively. However, if someone is outside of your melee hitbox, then you can turn to the explosive harpoon tip to engage with enemies from a distance. Just not too far of a distance. Nonetheless, it's pretty easy to see why the Bomb Lance is one of the best weapons in the game. Plus, when combined with an effective secondary, it frequently makes for some of the best loudouts in the game.

1. Mosin Nagant

The Mosin Nagant is hands down one of the best weapons in Hunt: Showdown because it can even compete against today's high-powered rifles. And that's got to count for something right? Regardless, the Mosin comes in many variants, all boasting great damage and range. Whether you're looking for a compact, fully automatic, or scoped version, it has a variant fit for every play style.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our picks? Are there other weapons in Hunt: Showdown you think are best? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!