Despite featuring basic mechanics, no weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds is as balanced as the Sword and Shield, which provides decent combos, mobility, and blocking ability. It is one of the most versatile options in the Action RPG from CAPCOM and a perfect choice for those who favor balanced gameplay.

Because it is simpler in some aspects, the Sword and Shield is also among the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds for beginners or those who want to learn the combat mechanics in a simpler way. Its combos are easy to master, and even without as much variety as other choices, it can still produce satisfying results.

monster-hunter-wilds-weapons-game-rant-hammer-1
Monster Hunter Wilds: Hammer Guide

Hammer is a heavy damage dealer in Monster Hunter Wilds with some amazing combos.

What Is The Best Playstyle For The Sword And Shield In Monster Hunter Wilds?

Sword & Shield, one of the best beginner weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds, balancing offense, defense, and item use

Even if the reach and damage of the Sword and Shield are not among the best in Monster Hunter Wilds, its versatility makes it a compelling choice. It offers quick attack speed, and the ability to guard or dodge creature strikes leads to unique possibilities in many encounters, encouraging varied approaches.

Furthermore, even though it is often used to block enemy attacks, the shield can be an effective offensive tool that complements the combos of the Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds. During combat, it can strike foes, and enough hits to a monster’s head may stun it for a few seconds, allowing for free follow-up attacks.

monster-hunter-wilds-weapons-game-rant-long-sword
Monster Hunter Wilds: Long Sword Guide

Monster Hunter Wild's Long Sword has fast attacks, mobility, and a damage multiplier to make it both fun and powerful.

Thus, the Sword and Shield appeals to those who value versatility and seek a simpler approach while still chaining multiple attacks in each sequence. It is also a safe pick for newcomers because it has a friendly learning curve and offers another way to block enemy attacks, ensuring consistent defense.

How To Use The Sword And Shield In Monster Hunter Wilds

Given its versatility, Monster Hunter Wilds players should learn to wield the Sword and Shield offensively while switching to defense when possible. There are still a few strikes available when the shield is raised, so balancing both stances is key to fully using this flexible setup, especially in tougher fights.

In addition, hunters should learn to alternate sword slashes with shield blows to increase the chance of knocking foes down and gaining a window for extra damage. Another key feature of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items without sheathing, by holding R2/RT/R, making this weapon an excellent support option in multiplayer.

Basic Controls For The Sword And Shield

Command

PC

Xbox

PS5

Chop

Left Click

Y

Triangle

Lateral Slash

Right Click

B

Circle

Advancing Slash

Left Click + Right Click

Y + B

Triangle + Circle

Guard

(Hold) R

(Hold) RT

(Hold) R2

Guard Slash

R + Right Click

RT + B

R2 + Circle

Sliding Swipe

R + Left Click

RT + Y

R2 + Triangle

Use Item

R + E

RT + X

R2 + Square

Basic Combos For The Sword And Shield

Combo

PC

Xbox

PS5

Basic Combo

W/A/S/D, Left Click, Left Click, Left Click, Left Click

Left Stick, Y, Y, Y, Y

Left Stick, Triangle, Triangle, Triangle, Triangle

Powerful Combo

Right Click, Right Click, Right Click, Left Click + Right Click, Hold Left Click + Hold Right Click

B, B, B, Y + B, Hold Y + Hold B

Circle, Circle, Circle, Triangle + Circle, Hold Triangle + Hold Circle

Monster Stunning Combo

W + Right Click, Right Click, Right Click, Left Click + Right Click

Left Stick + B, B, B, Y + B

Left Stick + Circle, Circle, Circle, Triangle + Circle

Charged Slash Combo

Focus Mode + S + Hold Right Click, Left Click, Right Click, Left Click + Right Click

Hold LT + Left Stick Down + Hold B, Y, B, Y + B

Hold L2 + Left Stick Down + Hold Circle, Triangle, Circle, Triangle + Circle

Mastering these combos for the Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds is a strong start for those who want to maximize its potential in battle. It also prepares fighters for advanced attacks, such as Perfect Rush, which deals significant damage but requires precise execution. This move demands careful timing for full impact.

  • PC: S, Right Click, Left Click, Left Click, Left Click, Left Click
  • Xbox: Back + B, Y, Y, Y, Y, Y
  • PS5: Back + Circle, Triangle, Triangle, Triangle, Triangle, Triangle

This attack starts with a backward evade and follows with rapid strikes. If the final blow lands, it can be extended with further hits, and holding Left Click/Y/Triangle briefly until the character glows red boosts damage, although timing is crucial. Missing this window often leads to significantly weaker overall performance.

Before facing some more powerful enemies, players should use the training area in Monster Hunter Wilds to get accustomed to these combos.

Tips And Tricks For Using The Sword And Shield In Monster Hunter Wilds

Screenshot of Sword & Shield combos in Monster Hunter Wilds desert training area

Although it is versatile and easy to learn, the Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds can become even more potent with certain tactics. These methods maximize damage and help maintain consistent offense during engagements. They also build on its core strengths while keeping the learning curve straightforward and welcoming.

The Shield Does Not Reduce Weapon Sharpness

One major advantage of adding the shield to attack sequences in Monster Hunter Wilds is that it does not reduce the sword’s sharpness. Fighters can stay in battle longer without retreating to use a Whetstone, keeping the blade effective for higher damage. This advantage supports steady offense and better resource management.

Focus Strike Is Very Useful

After using the Focus Attack of the Sword and Shield, which makes the hunter latch onto a target, there is a small follow-up with a slash or a shield bash. Each option affects the creature differently, so mixing them is a smart way to expand the potential of this weapon.

Do Not Forget To Evade Attacks

Although the Shield can defend against some enemy blows, it is not as sturdy as a Lance shield. Stronger strikes may push the bearer back, so evading remains critical. The best method is the backstep, done by pressing S + Right Click on PC, Back + B on Xbox, or Back + Circle on PS5.

Rating block community and brand ratings Image
Monster Hunter Wilds Tag Page Cover Art
Display card tags widget Display card system widget
Systems
Display card community and brand rating widget Display card open critics widget
Top Critic Avg: 89 /100 Critics Rec: 95%
Display card main info widget
Released
February 28, 2025
ESRB
T For Teen // Violence, Blood, Crude Humor
Developer(s)
Capcom
Publisher(s)
Capcom
Display card main info widget end Display card media widget start
Monster Hunter Wilds Press Image 1
Display card media widget end

WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info