The Top 10 Shotguns in Destiny 2: A Guardian’s Guide

Introduction

Shotguns have always been a fundamental weapon of a Guardian’s arsenal in Destiny 2, offering devastating close-quarters firepower. In this guide, we’ll delve into the top 10 shotguns in Destiny 2 that every Guardian should consider for their loadout. Whether you’re facing hordes of enemies in PvE or battling it out in the Crucible, these shotguns are sure to make a significant impact.

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

1. Weapon’s Archetype, Range, Impact, Traits and Perks are crucial factors when choosing the best Shotgun in Destiny 2.
2. The top 10 Shotguns in Destiny 2 include: Fatebringer, Sunshot, Thorn, Epochal Integrations, Zaouli’s Bane, Eriana’s Vow, Malfeasance.
3. To master the Shotguns in PvE and PvP content you should focus on positioning, maintaining a close-range combat & landing the pellets constantly.

Choosing the perfect Shotgun can be quite daunting for players who aren’t deeply familiar with the perks & traits intricacies. Thankfully, we suggest you consider professional assistance to receive the best Destiny 2 services and obtain the perfect weapon loadout for your Guardian in no time.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR SHOTGUN

When selecting the perfect Shotgun in Destiny 2, it’s crucial to consider several factors that can impact your weapon’s capabilities in PvE or PvP content. Here are the key aspects to keep in mind:

Archetype and RPM (Rounds Per Minute): Different shotguns have varying fire rates, impacting their playstyle. For example, lightweight shotguns typically have a higher RPM, making them better suited for aggressive playstyles, while precision shotguns may have a slower fire rate but higher impact.

Perks: Pay attention to the perks available for shotguns. These can greatly influence their effectiveness. Look for perks like “Slideshot” (which reloads the weapon partially upon sliding), “Quickdraw” (for faster draw times), and various damage-dealing perks. Consider perks that enhance handling, stability, and range.

Range and Impact: These are crucial stats for shotguns. Range determines how far your shots can effectively reach, and impact influences how much damage each pellet does. Balancing these two factors is important for finding a shotgun that suits your preferred engagement distances.

Ammo Economy: Consider the shotgun’s ammo economy. Shotguns use special ammo which can be limited in PvP or in certain PvE scenarios. Remember to also consider your personal playstyle and preferences.

Some players may prioritize mobility and quick-draw capabilities, while others may focus on maximizing range and damage output.

Top 10 Shotguns in Destiny 2

Below, we present the most popular Shotguns used in Destiny 2, our recommended perks and loadouts, and how to maximize their potential in PvE & PvP environments.

No.1: The Chaperone

The Chaperone is a standout shotgun that has earned its place in many Guardians’ loadouts. What sets it apart is its unique exotic perk, “The Roadborn,” which rewards precision kills with increased precision damage and handling.

This means that a skilled marksman can chain together deadly shots with impressive speed. Its long barrel and precision frame also make it surprisingly effective at mid-range engagements, giving it a versatility that few shotguns can match.

No.2: Heritage

The Heritage quickly became a Top-Tier shotgun that you are able to get your hands on through the Deep Stone Crypt raid. It’s an impressive craftable weapon that has a perfect synergy across its perk pool and stats. The legendary shotgun performs incredibly in both PvE and PvP content with the right choices, making it a good-to-go weapon for any type of content in Destiny 2.

No.3: Mindbender’s Ambition

Mindbender’s Ambition is a sought-after shotgun, known for its exceptional range and impact. What makes it truly formidable, however, are its curated rolls. The combination of “Rifled Barrel” for increased range and “Quickdraw” for lightning-fast handling makes it a force to be reckoned with in the Crucible. In PvE, it can clear out waves of enemies with ease, thanks to its high damage output.

No.4: Fractethyst

Fractethyst is a legendary shotgun with a storied history in Destiny 2. It has impressive stats across the board, with exceptional status damage. What makes it truly special is its unique trait pool which tightens the god roll choices, allowing for devastatingly accurate shots even at considerable distances. This shotgun is a favorite among Guardians for its ability to reliably dispatch foes in both PvE and PvP scenarios.

No.5: Found Verdict

The Found Verdict is a versatile shotgun that excels in both close-quarters combat and mid-range engagements. With the right perks, it can be a powerhouse in both PvE and PvP activities. Its well-balanced stats and the potential for impressive rolls make it a reliable choice for Guardians seeking a dependable shotgun for any situation.

The Found Verdict has a vast variety of traits you can choose from, but going specifically for the Timelost (Adept) version of the weapon can boost your weapon’s stats dramatically due to the enhanced mod that can be attached into it.

No.6: Astral Horizon

Astral Horizon is a highly coveted shotgun due to its impressive range capabilities. It’s a Kinetic shotgun that can dominate in the Crucible, especially when paired with the right perks like “Opening Shot” and “Quickdraw.” In the hands of a skilled Guardian, Astral Horizon can shut down opponents from distances that many other shotguns simply can’t reach.

No.7: Matador 64

Matador 64 is a unique shotgun that can be found in the Grasp of Avarice Dungeon, known for its combination of high impact bullets and the “Opening Shot” perk, allowing it to hold a devastating shot in the magazine on your first hit.

This makes it a standout choice for activities where sustained fire is crucial, like in Gambit or high-level PvP encounters. Its high damage output and unique perk combination make it a favorite among Guardians.

No.8: The Fourth Horseman

The Fourth Horseman is a unique shotgun with a distinctive perk called “Thunderer.” This exotic perk allows it to fire all of its rounds in rapid succession with a single trigger pull.

The perk makes it an absolute beast in close-quarters combat, able to unleash a devastating barrage of buckshot in the blink of an eye. It’s especially effective in situations where a high burst of damage is needed, making it a popular choice in both PvE and PvP encounters.

No.9: Retold Tale

The Retold Tale is a legendary shotgun known for its reliability and adaptability. It shows off a balanced set of stats, making it suitable for a wide range of scenarios. What sets it apart are its perk options, which allow Guardians to customize it to their playstyle.

Whether you prefer increased range, faster reloads, or enhanced stability, the Retold Tale can be tailored to suit your needs. This versatility makes it a popular choice for Guardians looking for a dependable shotgun in various activities.

No.10: Gunnora’s Axe

Gunnora’s Axe is a unique shotgun that stands out for its precision. It features the “Opening Shot” perk, which grants improved accuracy and range on the opening shot of an attack.

This makes it a valuable tool for Guardians who excel at landing critical shots, especially in PvP scenarios. While it may not have the raw power of some other shotguns, its precision-focused perks make it a niche choice that can be devastating in the right hands.

Conclusion

In the world of Destiny 2, a Guardian’s choice of shotgun can mean the difference between victory and defeat. From the precision of The Chaperone to the devastating firepower of The Fourth Horseman, these shotguns have earned their place in the arsenal of Guardians across the system.

Whether you’re seeking to dominate the Crucible or face down the most formidable foes in PvE encounters, there’s a shotgun on this list that’s ready to answer the call. Armed with one of these top-tier shotguns, you’ll be well-equipped to face any challenge that Destiny 2 throws your way.

Safe travels, Guardian, and may your shots always find their mark.