Destiny 2
Destiny 2

Weapon Types & Archetypes

Understand Destiny 2's weapon types and archetypes, from Auto Rifles to Hand Cannons. Choose the right primary or special weapon for every combat scenario.

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Destiny 2 features a diverse arsenal of weapons, each falling into a specific type and archetype. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for choosing the right tool for the job.

Primary Weapons (White Ammo):

  • Auto Rifles: Full-auto, versatile.
  • Pulse Rifles: Burst fire, good for medium range.
  • Scout Rifles: Semi-auto, long range, precision.
  • Hand Cannons: High damage, low rate of fire, precision.
  • Submachine Guns (SMGs): High rate of fire, close range.
  • Sidearms: Rapid fire, close range, often dual-wielded.

Special Weapons (Green Ammo):

  • Shotguns: Close-range burst damage.
  • Sniper Rifles: Long-range precision, high damage.
  • Fusion Rifles: Charge-up, medium-range burst.
  • Grenade Launchers (Breach-Loaded): Single-shot, explosive damage.
  • Trace Rifles: Continuous laser beam, unique.
  • Glaives: Melee/ranged hybrid, shield.

Heavy Weapons (Purple Ammo):

  • Rocket Launchers: High explosive damage, area of effect.
  • Linear Fusion Rifles: Charge-up, long-range precision, high damage.
  • Heavy Grenade Launchers: Full-auto or burst, high explosive damage.
  • Swords: Melee weapons, high damage, block ability.
  • Machine Guns: High rate of fire, sustained damage.

Each weapon type also has various archetypes (e.g., High-Impact, Adaptive, Rapid-Fire for Auto Rifles), which dictate their specific stats like rate of fire, impact, and handling. Experiment to find what suits your playstyle.