The Ultimate High Damage Sword and Shield Build in Monster Hunter Now

Currently, there are only six weapon types available in Monster Hunter Now, the mobile adaptation of Capcom's immensely popular action RPG series. Players initially have access to the Sword and Shield, and later unlock additional weapons such as the Great Sword, Long Sword, and Hammer. Though the ideal weapon choice depends on individual playstyles, we have found the Sword and Shield to be our go-to option due to its user-friendly mechanics, defensive capabilities, and quick attacks.

This guide aims to showcase the finest Sword and Shield builds for Monster Hunter Now players to explore. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that, at the time of writing, we have only reached HR 36 and Chapter 11. Therefore, we advise taking our recommendations with a degree of caution. Crafting certain weapons may prove more challenging than others, and their availability may differ. The build presented in this guide should be relatively easy to replicate for those at the mid/early stage of the game in Monster Hunter Now.

Sword and Shield Build in Monster Hunter Now

The biggest challenge faced by Monster Hunter Now players is the time constraint of bringing a Large Monster's health down to zero. Dodging attacks alone is not sufficient; significant damage is necessary to defeat certain monsters. Consequently, this build will prioritize maximizing damage output. The following weapons should be considered a top priority:

Best Sword and Shields

Blooming Knife - Once the weapon reaches Grade 8, players will unlock the Sneak Attack Equipment Skill, enhancing damage when attacking monsters from the rear. It can be upgraded to level 5, thereby increasing damage output by 30%.

Girros Knife - Similarly, at Grade 8, this weapon gains access to the Sneak Attack skill, providing a damage boost when attacking from behind.

The Blazing Edge, a fire-based weapon in Monster Hunter, unlocks the Rising Tide skill at Grade 8. This skill boosts players' attack power and defense as the hunt timer dwindles.

​​​​​​​Best Armor for Sword and Shield Users

Monster Hunter, a franchise developed by Capcom, revolves around players embarking on action-packed quests to hunt down and defeat colossal creatures of diverse species. Renowned for their immersive gameplay experience, the main series games have consistently received acclaim from critics, particularly for their multiplayer feature.

The Kulu Vambraces provide players with both Last Stand and Critical Eye abilities. Critical Eye enhances Affinity, leading to increased damage from critical hits. Last Stand is also valuable, boosting defense in situations where players have low health.

Kulu Greaves - Enhance your Critical Eye with this equipment when it reaches Grade 2.

Barroth Helm - Gain the Defense Boost skill at Grade 2 and Offensive Guard at Grade 4. Offensive Guard significantly empowers players when they successfully block an attack.

Barroth Mail - Equipping this armor grants players the Offensive Guard ability, enabling them to deal significant damage after successfully guarding against attacks. Combine it with the Barroth Helm for an even more devastating effect.

Girros Mail - Unleashing when reaching Grade 6, the Sneak Attack ability boosts players' damage output when striking from the rear.

Girros Vambraces - Same as above, but the skill is unlocked from the start.

Luma Hat - Wearing this piece will make players' Special Gauge fill up faster.

Luma Vambraces - This one also has Concentration, filling up the Special attack meter at a faster pace.

Monster Hunter Now is available on mobile devices as a free download.