Switch Axe

Learn the basics of the Switch Axe in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne. Discover its forms, phials, and starting weapon options to begin your hunt effectively.

Hey there, hunter! So you're looking to get a handle on the Switch Axe in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne? Awesome choice! This weapon's super unique because it can morph between a powerful Axe form and a swift Sword form. The cool part is that while you're swinging that axe around, you're actually charging up your sword for some really devastating attacks when you switch over. I'm still getting the hang of it myself, so I'll be sure to add more as I learn, but let's get you started with the basics!

Right now, we'll cover the starting weapons and what makes them tick. Think of this as your initial gear-up before you really dive into mastering the Switch Axe.

• Proto Iron Axe: This is your very first Switch Axe, coming from the Ore tree. You can upgrade it up to Tier III. At Tier I, it's got three levels of sharpness, and at Tiers II and III, you get four. To get it to its max Tier III, you'll need 2 Earth Crystals, 2 Malachite Ore, and 2 Iron Ore, plus about 1000 'z'. It hits for 350 damage at Tier III and uses a Power Phial, which is great for raw damage.
• Jagras Axe: This one's a bit different because it uses an Exhaust Phial, unlike the Proto Iron Axe's Power Phial. It branches off from the Ore tree but leads into the Great Jagras Tree. To get it to Tier II, you'll need Tzitzi-Ya-Ku Claws, and more Great Jagras parts for Tier III. At its max, it deals 490 damage with four levels of sharpness. Exhaust Phials are good for staggering monsters!
• Bone Axe: If you're looking for a solid starting point from the Bone Tree, this is it. It keeps things simple with three sharpness levels across all tiers, and they're pretty much the same no matter the upgrade level. Maxing it out to Tier III will cost you 2 Monster Hunter Bone S, 2 Ancient Bones, and another 1000 'z'. It clocks in at 385 damage at Tier III and also uses a Power Phial.

So, those are your initial options! Each one gives you a slightly different flavor to start with. Don't worry too much about picking the 'perfect' one right now; just pick what looks cool and start experimenting. The real fun comes when you start chaining those Axe and Sword attacks together!