In the realm of Destiny 2, the pulse rifle reigns supreme as a versatile and devastating weapon class. These kinetic energy-based rifles strike a perfect balance between range, accuracy, and stability, making them indispensable for both PvE and PvP encounters. Whether you’re clearing hordes of enemies or engaging in intense firefights, a well-crafted pulse rifle will serve as your steadfast companion, empowering you to overcome any challenge.
Among the vast arsenal of pulse rifles, certain standouts have emerged, earning recognition as the crème de la crème. The Messenger, a rapid-fire archetype, delivers an unrelenting torrent of precision shots, ideal for close-quarters combat and rapid target acquisition. For those seeking a more balanced approach, the Outbreak Perfected excels, boasting a unique perk that grants increased damage after precision kills, transforming it into a formidable force in both PvE and PvP. However, if raw power is your desire, the Graviton Lance reigns unchallenged, unleashing a devastating burst of explosive energy with each kill.
Ultimately, the choice of the best pulse rifle in Destiny 2 hinges upon your playstyle and preferences. Whether you favor rapid-fire precision, balanced versatility, or unbridled explosive power, there exists a pulse rifle meticulously crafted to amplify your combat prowess. So, draw upon these insights and embark on a journey to claim the pulse rifle that will elevate your Destiny 2 experience to unparalleled heights.
The Perfect Pulse for Any Situation
No Time to Explain
A legendary pulse rifle that can be acquired through the Vault of Glass raid. It has a unique perk called “temporal overlay,” which allows it to fire without consuming ammo for a short time after getting a precision kill. This makes it a very powerful weapon for sustained fire, especially in close-quarters combat. In addition, it has a high impact and stability, making it easy to control and land precision shots.
Recommended perks:
– Outlaw: Precision kills increase reload speed, making it even easier to maintain sustained fire.
– Headseeker: Precision hits do bonus damage, increasing the weapon’s overall damage output.
– Rangefinder: Increases the weapon’s range, making it more effective at longer distances.
Bad Juju
An exotic pulse rifle that can be acquired through the “Forsaken” expansion. It has a unique perk called “string of curses,” which increases the weapon’s damage and stability with each consecutive precision hit. This makes it a very powerful weapon for sustained fire, especially in PvE activities where there are many enemies to kill.
Recommended perks:
– Outlaw: Precision kills increase reload speed, making it easier to maintain sustained fire.
– Rampage: Kills with this weapon increase its damage, making it even more powerful.
– Kill Clip: Precision kills grant increased damage for a short time, making it especially effective against bosses.
Vigilance Wing
A legendary pulse rifle that can be acquired through the “Warmind” expansion. It has a unique perk called “resonance burst,” which causes the weapon to fire a burst of three rounds with increased damage and accuracy. This makes it a very powerful weapon for close-quarters combat, especially against multiple enemies.
Recommended perks:
– Outlaw: Precision kills increase reload speed, making it easier to maintain sustained fire.
– Rampage: Kills with this weapon increase its damage, making it even more powerful.
– Kill Clip: Precision kills grant increased damage for a short time, making it especially effective against bosses.
| Best Pulse Rifles for Destiny 2 |
|---|
| No Time to Explain |
| Bad Juju |
| Vigilance Wing |
Pulse Rifle Mastery: Tips and Tricks
Pulse rifles are a versatile and powerful weapon class in Destiny 2, capable of dealing consistent damage at mid-range. Master them with these tips and tricks.
Pulse Rifle Mastery: Advanced Techniques
Beyond the basics, there are advanced techniques that can elevate your pulse rifle gameplay:
Burst Firing
Pulse rifles fire in short bursts of three rounds. Mastering burst firing allows you to conserve ammo and maximize damage. The key is to release the trigger immediately after the third round to reset the recoil. This technique grants increased accuracy and stability. By alternating between bursts and quick taps, you can maintain a high rate of fire while avoiding excessive recoil.
Hip Firing
In close-quarters combat, hip firing can be more effective than aiming down sights. This is especially true for high-stability pulse rifles. Hip firing allows for faster target acquisition and improved mobility, making it ideal for clearing rooms or engaging in chaotic situations. To improve your hip-fire accuracy, practice against stationary targets before taking on live opponents.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Burst Firing | Release the trigger after the third round to reset recoil and increase accuracy. |
| Hip Firing | Shoot without aiming down sights for faster target acquisition and improved mobility. |
Comparing the Top Pulse Rifles in Destiny 2
Pulse rifles are versatile and adaptable weapons in Destiny 2, known for their balanced stats and reliable performance at medium ranges. With a wide range of options available, choosing the best pulse rifle can be a daunting task. Here’s a comparison of some of the top pulse rifles in the game:
No Time to Explain
No Time to Explain is an Exotic pulse rifle that stands out due to its unique perk, Future Perfect. This perk allows players to shoot bullets that contain future versions of themselves, which explode upon impact, dealing additional damage.
Beyond its unique perk, No Time to Explain offers a solid base of stats, with a competitive rate of fire and stability. Its Timed Payload perk also grants bonus damage to precision shots after a short delay, making it potent in both PvE and PvP.
Overall, No Time to Explain is an exceptional pulse rifle that rewards precision and timing. Its unique Future Perfect perk makes it a standout choice for players seeking an exotic weapon with a unique playstyle.
Graviton Lance
Graviton Lance is another Exotic pulse rifle that has become a popular choice in both PvE and PvP. Its unique perk, Black Hole, causes precision kills to create a singularity that deals additional damage to nearby enemies.
Graviton Lance also boasts excellent stability and range, making it a reliable weapon in a variety of situations. Its Cosmology perk further enhances its PvE performance by granting bonus damage to targets affected by Void abilities.
With its combination of consistent damage output, crowd control capabilities, and exotic perk, Graviton Lance is a versatile and highly effective pulse rifle that excels in both PvE and PvP encounters.
Additional Top Pulse Rifles
Beyond No Time to Explain and Graviton Lance, here’s a brief overview of some other top pulse rifles in Destiny 2:
| Pulse Rifle | Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vigilance Wing | Kills cure and reload; Precision shots deal extra damage | PvP, especially in close-quarters engagements |
| Outbreak Perfected | Fires nanites that spread to nearby enemies; Precision kills reload the magazine | PvE, especially against large groups of enemies |
| Sacred Provenance | Precision final blows grant bonus damage for a short time | PvP and PvE, offering a balanced and consistent option |
| Chattering Bone | Precision kills reload the magazine from reserves | PvE, especially in high-density enemy encounters |
| Syncopation-53 | Landing three precision shots in a row grants bonus damage for a short time | PvP and PvE, rewarding precision and consistent aim |
Exotic Pulse Rifles: A Guide to the Best
Pulse Rifles are a versatile weapon type in Destiny 2, offering a balance of range, accuracy, and stability. Exotic Pulse Rifles take this formula and elevate it to new heights, providing unique perks and abilities that can make all the difference in combat. Here’s a guide to the best Exotic Pulse Rifles in Destiny 2:
Vex Mythoclast
The Vex Mythoclast is a returning Exotic Pulse Rifle from Destiny 1, and it’s just as powerful in Destiny 2. This weapon fires a continuous beam of energy that deals massive damage and can penetrate through enemies. Additionally, the Vex Mythoclast gains a bonus to damage and stability when the user aims down sights.
Graviton Lance
The Graviton Lance is a unique Exotic Pulse Rifle that fires a burst of three rounds. Each round creates a small black hole that sucks in nearby enemies and deals damage over time. The Graviton Lance is particularly effective against groups of enemies, as it can quickly clear out entire rooms with its void explosions.
Bad Juju
The Bad Juju is a returning Exotic Pulse Rifle from Destiny 1, and it’s known for its ability to generate ammo over time. This weapon fires a four-round burst, and each kill adds a stack of String of Curses. After 10 stacks, the Bad Juju gains a significant boost to its damage and range, making it a powerhouse in both PvE and PvP.
Outbreak Perfected
The Outbreak Perfected is a unique Exotic Pulse Rifle that fires a seven-round burst. Each round deals damage and leaves behind a SIVA nanite that latches onto nearby enemies. These nanites deal damage over time and can spread to other enemies, creating a chain reaction of explosions. The Outbreak Perfected is a great choice for taking down tough bosses or clearing out hordes of enemies.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pulse Rifle for Your Playstyle
Pulse rifles are a versatile weapon type in Destiny 2, offering a balanced mix of range, accuracy, and stability. Choosing the right pulse rifle for your playstyle can significantly enhance your performance in both PvE and PvP encounters.
Burst Fire vs. Full Auto
Pulse rifles can be categorized by their firing mode. Burst fire rifles fire a short, three-round burst, while full auto rifles fire continuously until the trigger is released. Burst fire rifles offer greater accuracy and recoil control, while full auto rifles provide higher DPS potential.
Range
Range is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a pulse rifle. Long-range rifles allow you to engage enemies from afar, while short-range rifles are more effective in close-quarters combat.
Stability
Stability affects how much your rifle will recoil when firing. High-stability rifles are easier to control and maintain accuracy, especially during sustained fire.
Reload Speed
Reload speed can make a significant difference in the heat of battle. Rifles with fast reload times allow you to get back into action quickly, minimizing your exposure to enemy fire.
Perks
Perks are special abilities that can enhance the performance of your pulse rifle. Some of the most desirable perks include Outlaw (increases reload speed), Kill Clip (increases damage after kills), and Rangefinder (increases range).
| Burst Fire | Full Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Higher | Lower |
| DPS | Lower | Higher |
| Recoil | Lower | Higher |
By considering these factors, you can choose a pulse rifle that perfectly complements your playstyle and helps you achieve optimal performance in Destiny 2.
The Current Meta: Which Pulse Rifles Reign Supreme?
In the ever-evolving meta of Destiny 2, pulse rifles remain a staple choice for both PvE and PvP combat. Their versatility, accuracy, and range make them a formidable force in any engagement.
1. No Time to Explain
This exotic pulse rifle is a time-bending wonder that fires in a three-burst pattern. Its unique perk Rewind Again rewinds time after a kill, restoring lost ammo and reloading the magazine. This makes it an incredible choice for sustained fire.
2. BxR-55 Battler
This legendary pulse rifle is known for its high stability and range. Its perk Headseeker grants increased precision damage against enemy heads, making it a headshot machine.
3. The Messenger
Another exotic pulse rifle, The Messenger, offers excellent handling and reload speed. Its perk Desperado increases the weapon’s rate of fire and stability after a kill, allowing for rapid and precise bursts.
4. Crisis Inverted
This legendary pulse rifle is a versatile all-rounder. Its perk Kill Clip grants increased damage after a kill, making it a viable choice for both PvP and PvE.
5. Hailing Confusion
This kinetic pulse rifle is a standout in PvP. Its perk Surplus increases handling and stability after a kill, making it easier to land follow-up shots.
6. Extraordinary Rendition
The Extraordinary Rendition is arguably the most dominant pulse rifle in the current PvP meta. Its combination of high stability, range, and the perk Killing Wind, which grants increased mobility and range after a kill, makes it an absolute terror in the Crucible. Its optimal time-to-kill, combined with its ease of use, has solidified its place as the go-to weapon for skilled and casual players alike.
With its pinpoint accuracy, versatile burst pattern, and range, the Extraordinary Rendition excels in both mid-range and long-range engagements. Its ability to secure kills quickly and efficiently has earned it a reputation as the pulse rifle to beat in the current PvP meta.
How to Build the Perfect Pulse Rifle for PvE
1. Choose the Right Archetype
Pulse rifles come in three archetypes: Rapid-fire, High-Impact, and Adaptive. Rapid-fire pulses have the highest rate of fire and lowest impact, while High-Impact pulses have the lowest rate of fire and highest impact. Adaptive pulses fall somewhere in between. For PvE, High-Impact pulses are generally the best choice, as they deal the most damage per burst.
2. Consider the Stability and Handling
Stability and handling are crucial for pulse rifles. A high stability stat will help to keep your recoil under control, while a high handling stat will make your pulse rifle feel more responsive.
3. Choose the Right Perks
There are a number of perks that can make a pulse rifle more effective in PvE. Some of the best perks include Rampage, Outlaw, and Kill Clip. Rampage grants a bonus to damage after each kill, Outlaw increases reload speed after precision kills, and Kill Clip grants a bonus to damage after reloading.
4. Use the Right Mods
Mods can be used to further enhance the performance of your pulse rifle. Some of the best mods for pulse rifles include Counterbalance Stock and Backup Mag. Counterbalance Stock reduces recoil, while Backup Mag increases magazine size.
5. Masterworks
Masterworking a pulse rifle will grant it a bonus to its stats. The best masterwork stat for pulse rifles is Range, as it will increase the effective range of your weapon.
6. Find the Right Weapon
Here are some of the best pulse rifles for PvE in Destiny 2:
|
Name |
Archetype |
Best Perk |
|
|
The Messenger |
High-Impact |
Rampage |
|
|
Graviton Lance |
Rapid-Fire |
Kill Clip |
|
|
Coldheart |
Adaptive |
Outlaw |
7. Additional Tips for Success
In addition to the tips above, here are a few more things you can do to improve your performance with a pulse rifle in PvE:
- Use cover whenever possible. This will help to protect you from enemy fire and give you time to line up your shots.
- Burst fire your pulse rifle. This will help to conserve ammo and keep your recoil under control.
- Go for headshots. Headshots deal bonus damage, so try to aim for the head whenever possible.
- The Messenger
- No Time to Explain
- The Last Dance
- Vigilance Wing
- Bad Juju
Essential Mods for Enhancing Pulse Rifle Performance
Targeting Adjuster
This mod increases the stability and accuracy of your pulse rifle while aiming down sights. This is essential for precision engagements and will help you to land more shots on target.
Counterbalance Stock
This mod reduces the recoil of your pulse rifle. This will make it easier to follow-up shots and control the weapon during sustained fire.
Extended Mag
This mod increases the magazine size of your pulse rifle. This will allow you to fire more shots before needing to reload, which can be critical in combat.
High-Caliber Rounds
This mod increases the stagger damage of your pulse rifle. This will make it more difficult for enemies to move and shoot back.
Outlaw
This mod increases the reload speed of your pulse rifle after getting a precision kill. This is a great perk for aggressive playstyles and can help you to chain kills.
Kill Clip
This mod increases the damage of your pulse rifle after getting a kill within a short time frame. This is a powerful perk for clearing out groups of enemies and can help you to win firefights.
Rampage
This mod increases the damage of your pulse rifle for each consecutive kill you get. This is a great perk for sustained engagements and can help you to dominate in long fights.
Overflow
This mod increases the reload speed of your pulse rifle and grants you bonus stability for a short period of time after picking up ammo. This is a useful perk for maps with plenty of ammo pickups and can help you to stay in the fight longer.
| Mod | Effect |
|---|---|
| Targeting Adjuster | Increased stability and accuracy while aiming down sights |
| Counterbalance Stock | Reduced recoil |
| Extended Mag | Increased magazine size |
| High-Caliber Rounds | Increased stagger damage |
| Outlaw | Increased reload speed after a precision kill |
| Kill Clip | Increased damage after a kill within a short time frame |
| Rampage | Increased damage for each consecutive kill |
| Overflow | Increased reload speed and bonus stability after picking up ammo |
PvP Pulse Rifle Strategies: Dominating the Crucible
Master the Art of Burst-Fire Control
9. Weapons with Variable Burst Assist
Table of Burst Assist Weapons
| Weapon | Bursts |
|—|—|
| Bad Juju | 3 |
| No Time to Explain | 3 |
| Revision Zero | 3/4/5 |
Certain pulse rifles possess the perk “Variable Burst Assist,” granting players the ability to modify the number of bursts fired consecutively. This versatility enables optimal burst sequences based on target range and engagement style. For instance, firing three-burst sequences at close range enhances rate of fire while maintaining accuracy; conversely, five-burst sequences at long range provide greater stability and bullet spread reduction. Proficiency in adjusting burst count maximizes efficiency and lethality in diverse combat situations.
The Future of Pulse Rifles in Destiny 2
Pulse Rifles, a ubiquitous weapon type in Destiny 2, have undergone significant transformations over the game’s lifespan. From the iconic Graviton Lance to the recently introduced Empirical Evidence, pulse rifles have captivated players with their balance of precision, range, and stability.
1. The Meta Shift
The meta in Destiny 2 constantly evolves, and pulse rifles have played a pivotal role in shaping it. From the days of Outbreak Perfected to the rise of Hung Jury, certain pulse rifles have defined the competitive landscape. As new seasons and expansions emerge, we can expect the meta to continue to shift, potentially bringing new pulse rifles to prominence.
2. Exotic Enhancements
Exotic pulse rifles offer unique abilities that can dramatically alter gameplay. These weapons, such as Bad Juju and Vigilance Wing, often come with game-changing perks like increased damage output, reduced recoil, or even self-reloading capabilities. With the introduction of new exotic pulse rifles, we can expect even more innovative and powerful abilities to enhance our arsenals.
3. High-Impact Pulse Rifles
High-impact pulse rifles, such as the Shadow Price and Revision Zero, offer devastating per-shot damage at the expense of a slower rate of fire. These weapons excel at mid-range encounters, where they can quickly eliminate enemies with precision shots.
4. Lightweight Pulse Rifles
Lightweight pulse rifles, like The Messenger and Timelost Fatebringer, are characterized by their high rate of fire and exceptional mobility. These weapons are ideal for close-quarters combat, where constant damage output and quick evasive maneuvers are paramount.
5. Adaptive Pulse Rifles
Adaptive pulse rifles, such as the Sacred Provenance and Empirical Evidence, offer a versatile balance of impact, range, and stability. These weapons can adapt to a variety of situations, making them a reliable choice for both PvE and PvP content.
6. Rapid-Fire Pulse Rifles
Rapid-fire pulse rifles, like the Outbreak Perfected and Suros Regime, unleash a relentless barrage of bullets. These weapons excel in close to mid-range encounters, where they can overwhelm enemies with sheer volume of fire.
7. Precision Pulse Rifles
Precision pulse rifles, like the Graviton Lance and Arctic Haze, prioritize accuracy and stability. These weapons reward players with increased damage on precision hits, making them excellent choices for long-range engagements.
8. Vanguard Ritual Weapons
Vanguard Ritual Weapons, such as the Shadow Price and Timelost Fatebringer, offer unique and powerful perks that are unobtainable from other sources. These weapons are a testament to the pinnacle of pulse rifle design and are highly sought after by end-game players.
9. Seasonal Mods
Seasonal Mods provide temporary enhancements to weapons, and pulse rifles are no exception. These mods can augment a variety of stats, such as range, stability, or magazine size. By experimenting with different mods, players can customize their pulse rifles to suit their playstyles and specific encounters.
10. New Pulse Rifles in Lightfall
As Destiny 2 continues to evolve, we can expect the introduction of new pulse rifles with unique perks and design. The upcoming expansion, Lightfall, will undoubtedly bring a wave of new weaponry, including pulse rifles, to expand our arsenal and shape the future of this iconic weapon type.
| Pulse Rifle | Impact | Range | Stability | Rate of Fire | Magazine Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sacred Provenance | 31 | 64 | 55 | 340 (Adaptive) | 36 |
| Empirical Evidence | 28 | 69 | 57 | 340 (Adaptive) | 36 |
| Shadow Price | 34 | 71 | 50 | 360 (High Impact) | 32 |
| The Messenger | 25 | 50 | 45 | 600 (Lightweight) | 32 |
| Outbreak Perfected | 26 | 60 | 45 | 600 (Rapid-Fire) | 32 |
The Best Pulse Rifles in Destiny 2
With dozens of pulse rifles to choose from in Destiny 2, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Some players prefer high-impact rifles for their ability to take down enemies quickly, while others prefer low-impact rifles for their faster fire rate. Ultimately, the best pulse rifle for you will depend on your individual playstyle and preferences.
However, there are a few pulse rifles that stand out above the rest. These rifles offer a great balance of power, accuracy, and stability making them suitable for a wide range of players. Some of the best pulse rifles in Destiny 2 include:
People Also Ask About Best Pulse Rifles Destiny 2
What are the best legendary pulse rifles in Destiny 2?
Some of the best legendary pulse rifles in Destiny 2 include The Messenger, The Last Dance, Vigilance Wing, and Bad Juju.
What is the best exotic pulse rifle in Destiny 2?
The best exotic pulse rifle in Destiny 2 is No Time to Explain.
What pulse rifles are good for PvP?
Some of the best pulse rifles for PvP include The Messenger, The Last Dance, and Vigilance Wing.
What pulse rifles are good for PvE?
Some of the best pulse rifles for PvE include No Time to Explain, Bad Juju, and Vigilance Wing.
What is the best pulse rifle for beginners?
The Messenger is a great pulse rifle for beginners. It is easy to use, accurate, and has a decent rate of fire.
