
When imagining a weapon that merges elements of a crossbow, an old powder gun, and a hint of an automatic rifle, one might envision the Heavy Bowgun from Monster Hunter Wilds. This unique, foldable ranged weapon presents a distinct play style that, while not universally appealing, offers gamers an exciting experience worth exploring.
The Heavy Bowgun can be viewed as a more powerful alternative to its lighter counterpart. This upgraded version delivers substantial firepower but comes at the cost of reduced mobility. Players often find that mastering the Heavy Bowgun demands commitment to practice, making it a more complex option compared to the Light Bowgun.
Ideal Playstyle for the Heavy Bowgun

Success with the Heavy Bowgun is heavily dependent on a player’s strategic positioning, particularly in chaotic battles. The time taken to switch this weapon in and out can be punishing, leaving little margin for error. Low mobility demands that players abandon any expectations of a run-and-gun approach.
Unlike its lighter variant, the Heavy Bowgun lacks any traditional combo attacks. However, it does include special shot capabilities that can be advantageous in specific scenarios. When players wield this weapon, they are restricted to walking—prompting the necessity to unequip it for faster movement.
Tackling solo challenges with the Heavy Bowgun is feasible but often results in a slower pace, especially when confronting agile bosses that frequently evade shots. Likewise, engaging in combat with smaller, fast-moving enemies can also prove challenging.
On the upside, the Heavy Bowgun does not require the same level of maintenance as melee weapons; it remains deadly throughout the battle without the need for sharpening. This trait can be notable in prolonged encounters.
Fire Modes, Charged Attacks, and Additional Features

The Heavy Bowgun offers two distinct fire modes, akin to those found in the Light version, yet there are notable differences in functionality. The normal fire mode closely resembles that of the Light Bowgun, providing an array of ammo types, some of which are unique to the Heavy Bowgun.
In its enhanced fire mode, however, things change. This mode utilizes a set ammunition type with an infinite reserve. Though unnamed in-game, its performance aligns with the normal ammo used in the regular fire mode. Players must be cautious, as overheating will restrict the use of this mode until it cools down.
The charged attack with the Heavy Bowgun utilizes specialized rounds. By entering aim-down-sights mode (ADS) with R2/RT/RMB
and holding R1/RB/Shift
, players can prepare a powerful burst fire attack. Notably, the player must remain stationary during this charge, limiting movement but allowing for a well-placed shot, along with an evasion option that propels them slightly forward.

Unlike the Light Bowgun, which features a trap setup move, the Heavy Bowgun incorporates a guard function that allows players to mitigate incoming damage during close encounters. This tactical maneuver, executed with Triangle + Circle / Y + B / R + F
, is crucial for survival in tight situations, given the weapon’s weight.
Lastly, it is essential to highlight that the Heavy Bowgun experiences less vertical recoil than its lighter sibling, facilitating easier target acquisition during ADS mode.
Exploring Ammo Types for the Heavy Bowgun

Understanding the various ammo types is crucial, as each has its effective range. Players can determine their ammo’s effectiveness by observing the orange aura around the ADS crosshair, signifying they are within optimal firing distance for maximum damage output.
Here’s a breakdown of the ammo types available for the Heavy Bowgun:
- Normal Ammo: Fires three projectiles per trigger pull with infinite reserve.
- Pierce Ammo: Effective against armor, dealing multiple hits based on enemy type; infinite reserve.
- Spread Ammo: Powerful in close-quarters; infinite reserve.
- Sticky Ammo: Lodges in targets and detonates; can stun with headshots.
- Poisons Ammo: Inflicts poison; tougher monsters may require multiple hits for effect.
- Thunder Ammo: Inflicts substantial damage on Thunder-weak monsters.
- Recover Ammo: Creates a healing cloud where it lands.
- Demon Ammo: Boosts attack damage in the impacted area.
- Tranq Ammo: Essential for capturing monsters in traps.
- Slicing Ammo: Releases sharp blades, effective for severing tails.
- Cluster Ammo: Breaks into multiple projectiles on impact.
- Wyvern Ammo: High destructiveness at close range.
- Paralysis Ammo: Causes paralysis; may need multiple hits on stronger foes.
- Sleep Ammo: Induces sleep; may require several hits on resilient monsters.
- Dragon Ammo: Deals high damage to Dragon-weak enemies.
- Armor Ammo: Enhances armor in the affected zone.
- Exhaust Ammo: Reduces a monster’s stamina.
- Water Ammo: Strong against Water-weak opponents.
- Flaming Ammo: Effective against Fire-weak monsters.
- Freeze Ammo: Causes significant damage to Ice-weak creatures.
Players can obtain ammo through vendors or by crafting in personal tents. Crafting requires gathering materials and recipes. Keep in mind that each Bowgun model has specific compatible ammo types. Always double-check available ammo types for your Heavy Bowgun before proceeding.
Ammo prices vary; elemental ammo typically costs around 20 Zenny each. Vendors offer different selections, necessitating story progression to unlock additional camps and vendors. Crafting recipes are similarly tied to exploration and story advancements.
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