Mastering Bow Techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds: Essential Moves and Combos

While close-range weapons are undoubtedly exciting, the bow in *Monster Hunter Wilds* offers an equally thrilling experience with its unique mechanics. Mastering the bow can be challenging due to its steep learning curve, but understanding its functionality can transform you into a formidable hunter.

Monster Hunter Wilds Bow Weapon Guide

Screenshot via The Escapist

Unlike other weapons in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the bow requires you to meticulously manage your stamina bar. Each attack you execute consumes stamina, with light attacks using less and charged attacks taking a significant toll on your stamina reserves.

To execute a basic attack, simply left-click on your mouse or press the R2/RT button on your controller. The bow also allows for various combos, such as the Dragon Piercer and Thousand Dragons. Below is a comprehensive list of controls for using the bow across different platforms:

If you're new to wielding the bow in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, it's advisable to spend some time in the training ground. This will allow you to practice different combos and familiarize yourself with the controls before engaging with monsters in combat.

Related: Monster Hunter Wilds Weapon Tier List (Best Weapons to Use)

Attack Monster's Weak Spots

One of the key advantages of using the bow is the ability to target a monster's weak points with precision. Utilize the Focus Fire: Hailstorm technique to fire arrows that automatically hone in on these vulnerable areas. After focusing your sight, red spots will appear on the enemy, indicating their weak points. Simply hold down Shift or R1/RB to lock onto these targets and maximize your damage output.

Use Coatings

Screenshot via The Escapist

Coatings are another crucial element of the bow in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. These special concoctions enhance your arrows' effects. No need to craft them; your character will automatically generate coatings as you hit enemies with regular arrows. Keep an eye on the blue gauge in the bottom right corner of your screen.

To utilize coatings effectively, continue using regular attacks until the gauge is full. Then, press R, Triangle, or Y to apply the coating to your arrows. Different bows can use various coatings, but each can only utilize two types at a time. Here’s a rundown of the available coatings:

• Power Coating – Increases the overall damage of your arrows.
• Pierce Coating – Enhances the Dragon Piercer ability to pierce through armor.
• Close-Range Coating – Boosts damage when you're up close and personal.
• Paralysis Coating – Gradually inflicts Paralysis on the target.
• Exhaust Coating – Slowly causes Stun and Exhaustion.
• Sleep Coating – Gradually induces Sleep in the monster.
• Poison Coating – Slowly inflicts Poison.
• Blast Coating – Gradually causes Blast damage.

Use Tracer Arrow

The Tracer Arrow is another strategic tool available when using the bow in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. This arrow adheres to a monster for a limited duration, allowing subsequent arrows to home in on the tracer. It's an effective way to create weak spots on the monster. However, using the Tracer Arrow consumes coating points, so use it judiciously.

Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.