Exotic sidearms are some of the most versatile and powerful weapons in Destiny 2, offering unique perks and gameplay styles that can dramatically enhance a Guardian’s effectiveness in both PvE and PvP content. As a veteran Destiny 2 player with thousands of hours of experience, I’ve extensively tested every exotic sidearm in the game. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down the best exotic sidearms, how to obtain them, and how to use them effectively.
#Introduction to Exotic Sidearms in Destiny 2
Exotic sidearms are special secondary weapons that provide unique perks and abilities beyond standard legendary sidearms. They excel at close to mid-range combat and offer high mobility. What sets exotic sidearms apart is their game-changing perks that can enhance your entire build or playstyle.
The role of sidearms has evolved significantly since the launch of Destiny 2. Once considered niche weapons, exotic sidearms are now staples in many top-tier PvE and PvP builds. Their combination of high damage output, unique utility perks, and ease of use in close quarters make them invaluable in many scenarios.
For those new to Destiny 2 or looking to expand their exotic collection, our guide on how to get exotics in Destiny 2 provides valuable information on acquiring these powerful weapons.
#Top Exotic Sidearms for PvE
#Traveler’s Chosen
Traveler’s Chosen is arguably the most versatile exotic sidearm for PvE content. Its unique perk, Gathering Light, allows you to store stacks of energy with each kill. You can then consume these stacks to instantly recharge your grenade, melee, and class abilities.
Key features:
- Excellent for ability-focused builds
- Catalyst adds Full Auto and Osmosis perks
- High stability and aim assist
Traveler’s Chosen shines in content where ability uptime is crucial, such as Grandmaster Nightfalls or solo dungeon runs. Its ability to constantly regenerate your abilities makes it a top choice for Warlocks and Titans especially. Warlocks looking to optimize their builds can refer to our guide on the best Warlock armor in Destiny 2 to create perfect synergies with Traveler’s Chosen.
#Forerunner
Inspired by the iconic Halo Magnum, Forerunner is a powerhouse in both PvE and PvP. It uses special ammo and hits like a hand cannon, making it excellent for precision damage against tough enemies.
Key features:
- High precision damage
- Uses special ammo for increased damage
- Catalyst adds a powerful grenade ability
Forerunner excels in taking down Champions and other high-priority targets in PvE. Its precision damage rivals that of some special weapons, making it a strong choice for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle.
#Drang (Baroque)
While technically a legendary weapon, Drang (Baroque) deserves mention due to its synergy with the exotic hand cannon Sturm. In Solar 3.0 builds, Drang with the Incandescent perk becomes a powerhouse for add clear.
Key features:
- Synergizes with Sturm exotic hand cannon
- Can roll with Incandescent for massive add clear potential
- High stability and range for a sidearm
Drang (Baroque) with Incandescent is one of the best weapons for clearing groups of enemies quickly, making it invaluable in activities like Vanguard Ops or Gambit.
#Devil’s Ruin
Devil’s Ruin offers a unique charging mechanic that allows it to fire a powerful laser beam, stunning Unstoppable Champions without needing a mod.
Key features:
- Built-in Unstoppable rounds
- Powerful charged laser shot
- Effective in Solar 3.0 builds
While not as universally strong as some other options, Devil’s Ruin’s ability to stun Champions without a mod makes it a solid choice for high-level Nightfalls and Master raids.
#Rat King
Rat King offers a unique playstyle centered around invisibility and team play. Reloading after a kill grants invisibility, and its power increases when fireteam members also use it.
Key features:
- Grants invisibility on reload after a kill
- Increases in power with more fireteam members using it
- Excellent for stealth-focused builds
Rat King is particularly effective for Hunters in solo content or for coordinated fireteams in challenging PvE activities.
#Best Exotic Sidearms for PvP
#Forerunner
Forerunner’s high precision damage and special ammo usage make it a top contender in the Crucible. It can reliably three-tap Guardians at impressive ranges for a sidearm.
Key features:
- High damage at range
- Uses special ammo for increased lethality
- Excellent for aggressive playstyles
Skilled players can use Forerunner to dominate mid-range engagements, competing effectively with hand cannons and pulse rifles.
#Traveler’s Chosen
The ability regeneration of Traveler’s Chosen makes it a strong choice in PvP, especially for ability-focused builds. Constant ability uptime can give you a significant edge in Crucible matches.
Key features:
- Constant ability regeneration
- High stability for consistent shots
- Effective at close to mid-range
Traveler’s Chosen is particularly strong on subclasses that rely heavily on their abilities, such as Void 3.0 Warlocks or Arc 3.0 Titans.
#Trespasser
Trespasser, an Arc sidearm, excels in burst damage and can be devastating in the right hands. Its exotic perk increases precision damage after a kill, allowing for potential multi-kills.
Key features:
- High burst damage
- Increased precision after kills
- Synergizes well with Arc 3.0 builds
Trespasser is most effective when you can chain kills together, making it a strong choice for aggressive players who like to push engagements.
#Rat King
In PvP, Rat King’s invisibility perk can create opportunities for flanking and surprising opponents. It’s particularly effective in game modes like Survival or Trials of Osiris.
Key features:
- Grants invisibility on reload after a kill
- Increases in power with more fireteam members using it
- Allows for unique stealth tactics
Coordinated teams using Rat King can create chaos in the Crucible, appearing and disappearing to confuse and overwhelm opponents. For players who enjoy this style of play, exploring games like Destiny might offer similar team-based tactical experiences.
#Unique Exotic Sidearms
#Final Warning
Final Warning is a Strand sidearm introduced with the Lightfall expansion. It features a unique lock-on mechanic that can track targets, making it highly effective in PvE.
Key features:
- Lock-on targeting system
- High damage output in PvE
- Synergizes with Strand subclasses
While primarily a PvE weapon, skilled players can also use Final Warning effectively in PvP, especially in close-quarters maps.
#Indebted Kindness
Indebted Kindness, obtainable from the Warlord’s Ruin dungeon, fires micro-rockets instead of standard bullets. This gives it exceptional add-clear potential in PvE.
Key features:
- Fires explosive micro-rockets
- High damage per shot
- Excellent for clearing groups of enemies
The unique firing mechanism of Indebted Kindness makes it a fun and effective choice for various PvE activities, from strikes to raids.
#How to Obtain Exotic Sidearms
Most exotic sidearms in Destiny 2 can be obtained through specific quests, random drops, or purchased from the Monument to Lost Lights in the Tower. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Traveler’s Chosen: Available from the Monument to Lost Lights for 1 Exotic Cipher, 125,000 Glimmer, and 1 Ascendant Shard.
- Forerunner: Obtained through the “Magnum Opus” quest in the Dares of Eternity activity.
- Devil’s Ruin: Available from the Monument to Lost Lights for similar costs to Traveler’s Chosen.
- Rat King: Requires completion of the “Rat King’s Crew” quest, which involves completing activities with fireteam members.
- Trespasser: Currently obtainable through random exotic engram drops.
- Final Warning: Obtained through the Lightfall campaign and subsequent quest.
- Indebted Kindness: Random drop from the Warlord’s Ruin dungeon.
For more information on acquiring exotics and other rare items, our guide on Destiny 2 emblems provides insights into obtaining these collectibles, which often coincide with exotic weapon quests.
#Tips for Using Exotic Sidearms Effectively
- Master the range: Sidearms excel at close to mid-range. Learn the optimal engagement distances for your chosen sidearm.
- Pair with complementary weapons: Use a longer-range primary or special weapon to cover sidearms’ weakness at distance. For example, pairing an exotic sidearm with a god roll Falling Guillotine can create a powerful close-range loadout.
- Utilize vertical space: Sidearms maintain accuracy while jumping, allowing for aerial plays.
- Learn the unique perks: Each exotic sidearm has unique mechanics. Practice to master these for maximum effectiveness.
- Build around your sidearm: Many exotic sidearms synergize well with specific subclasses or exotics. Experiment with different builds to find optimal combinations.
#Comparing Exotic Sidearms: Strengths and Weaknesses
Sidearm
Strengths
Weaknesses
Traveler’s Chosen
Ability regeneration, versatility
Limited range
Forerunner
High precision damage, range
Special ammo dependency
Devil’s Ruin
Built-in Unstoppable, laser beam
Charge time for laser
Rat King
Invisibility, team synergy
Requires coordination for max effectiveness
Trespasser
High burst damage, Arc synergy
Requires kill to maximize perk
Final Warning
Lock-on mechanic, Strand synergy
Less effective in PvP
Indebted Kindness
AoE damage, add clear
Less precision in single-target damage
#Future of Exotic Sidearms in Destiny 2
Bungie continues to introduce new and innovative exotic sidearms with each major expansion. The addition of weapons like Final Warning and Indebted Kindness shows a commitment to creating unique gameplay experiences within the sidearm category.
As the game evolves, we can expect to see more exotic sidearms that synergize with new subclass reworks and offer novel mechanics. The key to staying ahead in Destiny 2 is to adapt to these new weapons and find creative ways to incorporate them into your builds.
#Conclusion
Exotic sidearms in Destiny 2 offer a diverse range of playstyles and capabilities. From the ability-regenerating Traveler’s Chosen to the precision-focused Forerunner, there’s an exotic sidearm to suit nearly every Guardian’s preferences.
The key to mastering these weapons lies in understanding their unique perks, optimal ranges, and synergies with your builds. By incorporating the right exotic sidearm into your loadout, you can significantly enhance your effectiveness in both PvE and PvP content.
Remember, the “best” exotic sidearm often depends on your playstyle, the activity you’re tackling, and your overall build. Experiment with different options to find the perfect fit for your Guardian. Don’t forget to complement your exotic sidearm with other powerful gear, such as Ghost Shells in Destiny 2, which can provide additional benefits to your loadout.
#FAQs About Exotic Sidearms in Destiny 2
- Are exotic sidearms worth using over other exotic weapons? Yes, in many situations. Exotic sidearms offer unique perks that can enhance your entire playstyle, often providing benefits beyond raw damage output.
- Which exotic sidearm is best for beginners? Traveler’s Chosen is an excellent starting point due to its versatility and forgiving nature. It’s effective in both PvE and PvP, and its ability regeneration is useful for all classes.
- Can exotic sidearms compete with hand cannons in PvP? Absolutely. Weapons like Forerunner and Trespasser can be highly competitive in the Crucible when used effectively. They often offer faster time-to-kill at close ranges.
- How often do new exotic sidearms get added to Destiny 2? Typically, Bungie introduces 1-2 new exotic sidearms with each major yearly expansion, with occasional additions during seasonal content.
- Are there any exotic sidearms that use primary ammo? Yes, most exotic sidearms use primary ammo. Forerunner is a notable exception, using special ammo instead.
By mastering these exotic sidearms and understanding their unique roles, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenge in Destiny 2, whether it’s high-level PvE content or competitive PvP matches.
