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Kirin: Bestiary
Monster Hunter: World

Kirin: Bestiary

Learn about Kirin in monster hunter world: its weaknesses, resistances, and attacks. Unlock Low Rank Kirin via the 'Gone in a Flash' quest.

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Learn about Kirin in monster hunter world: its weaknesses, resistances, and attacks. Unlock Low Rank Kirin via the 'Gone in a Flash' quest.

Kirin is unique as the only Elder Dragon with a Low Rank variant and is not initially an assignment target. To unlock the Low Rank Kirin quest, Gone in a Flash, you must have completed the First Wyverian's assignments (A Fiery Throne Atop the Forest and Horned Tyrant Below the Sands) and kept up with the Impatient Biologist's quests. After defeating Nergigante in the assignment A Wound and a Thirst, you can accept the High Rank Kirin quest, Lightning Strikes Twice, from the Impatient Biologist. Upon reaching Hunter Rank 49, the assignment Thunderous Rumble in the Highlands is given, which must be completed to reach Hunter Rank 50 and unlock regular Tempered Elder Dragon hunts.

Quests: Gone in a Flash (5*), Lightning Strikes Twice (8*), Thunderous Rumble in the Highlands (9*)

Variants: Low Rank / High Rank / Tempered (Threat Level 3)

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Kirin's only weak spot is its head, which takes full damage from Cut and Blunt weapons, and slightly less from Ammo. Its horn is breakable.

Kirin is resistant to Thunder damage and weak to Fire. It is also somewhat susceptible to Water and Ice damage.

Kirin is not very vulnerable to ailments, but Sleep and Blast are its strongest. It is immune to Paralysis, an ailment it can inflict on you.

Tips
  • Aim for Kirin's head, which is its only weak spot.
  • Prioritize Fire element weapons. Water and Ice are secondary options.
  • Equip gear with high Thunder Resistance. A score of twenty or higher is highly recommended to mitigate Kirin's powerful and rapid lightning attacks and prevent Thunderblight.
  • Consider Vitality Boost skills for Tempered Kirin to reach the 200 HP cap, as it can deal significant damage.
  • Lighter, faster weapons that allow for quick attacks and dodges, such as Bows, are generally more effective due to Kirin's mobility and the need to evade its attacks.
  • Armor pieces like the Thunder Charm, Ingot Mail, and Kadachi Greaves can help survivability.
  • Using Max Potions and Well-Done Steaks can compensate for sacrificed Health and Stamina buffs from elemental resistance gear.

Kirin Attacks:

Kirin, despite its horse-like appearance, is an Elder Dragon that utilizes potent thunder attacks. Its lightning attacks can deal heavy damage, stun, and inflict paralysis. Be aware that a lightning strike followed by another attack before you recover is possible.

Kirin has several lightning attacks:

  • Calls down bolts of lightning to strike random areas.
  • Unleashes a large circular blast of thunder, sometimes centered on itself.
  • Conjures a line of thunder, or multiple lines simultaneously.

Watch for glowing blue spots on the ground to predict where lightning attacks will land.

In addition to its lightning, Kirin can also perform:

  • Kicks with its hind legs.
  • Slashing attacks with its horn.
  • Leaping and charging attacks.

Mobility is key to evading these attacks. Weapons that limit movement or require long commitment times may be less ideal. The Bow is considered a good weapon choice, and the Hammer can also be effective in skilled hands.

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