Hand Cannons Guide
Hand Cannons are iconic weapons in Destiny 2, renowned for their high precision damage and satisfying impact. In the 2026 Expansion, they continue to be potent tools for both PvE and PvP, particularly for Guardians who master their deliberate firing cadence and pinpoint accuracy. These weapons excel at taking down high-priority targets with critical hits, making them invaluable for dealing with Elites and Bosses. The expansion introduces new Hand Cannon archetypes, including the Aggressive Burst frame, which fires two rapid shots per trigger pull, offering a unique burst damage potential. When choosing a Hand Cannon, prioritize its impact, range, and stability. A high impact stat means each shot carries significant weight, capable of staggering enemies. Range determines how far you can effectively engage targets without damage falloff, while stability influences how quickly you can acquire your next target after firing.
Exotic Hand Cannons like the Ace of Spades remain powerful choices, offering unique perks that can turn the tide of battle. The Ace of Spades, for example, gains bonus damage after a kill and can create a devastating explosion on its final shot. For legendary Hand Cannons, look for perks that enhance their strengths. Opening Shot provides a significant accuracy and range bonus on the first shot of an engagement, ideal for initiating combat. Kill Clip, as with Auto Rifles, offers a substantial damage boost after a kill, allowing for rapid takedowns of subsequent enemies. Consider the elemental affinity; a Void Hand Cannon can be excellent for disrupting enemy abilities with its suppression effect, while a Solar variant can apply Scorch. In challenging activities like the new dungeon, The Sunken City, precise headshots with a Hand Cannon can quickly eliminate dangerous snipers or shielded enemies, allowing your team to focus on larger threats. Mastering the reload animation and the slight delay between shots is key to maximizing your damage output. Don't be afraid to experiment with different Hand Cannon archetypes and perk combinations to find what best suits your playstyle and the specific challenges presented by the expansion's new enemies, such as the formidable Hive Guardians.