Horizon Forbidden West Guide | Best Early Game Weapons

Progressing far enough in the main story to find better gear takes time, which can make battling machines with basic equipment frustrating. This guide highlights three weapons obtainable for free early in the game by completing a few side quests. These upgraded versions of frequently used weapons, such as the Hunter Bow, provide a noticeable advantage and bridge the gap to mid-game gear. Additionally, an outfit suggestion is included that’s worth upgrading to prepare for the mid-game.

Strongarm Hunter Bow

The Hunter Bow is a versatile weapon for taking off machine components and sniping enemies in rebel camps. However, the default version lacks power, with only 28 impact damage. It does offer decent tear damage, encouraging players to remove machine components during fights, but it falls short in raw damage output.

A better version can be obtained soon after leaving the Daunt. Head to a Rebel Outpost and defeat the small group of guards stationed there. Avoid engaging the larger rebel camp to the west if preferred. On the eastern side of the bridge platform, a chest holds the Strongarm Hunter Bow, an upgraded version of the default weapon.

This bow requires Clawstrider parts for full upgrades, so the default Hunter Bow may need to be used a bit longer. Once upgraded, the Strongarm Hunter Bow provides slightly better damage and tear stats. Its key advantage is the 30% Overdraw Damage perk, a mechanic that increases damage for fully drawn shots. While not as strong as Banuk Bows from Horizon Zero Dawn, this weapon offers a significant boost early on.

The bow’s Stealth Tear and Stealth Ranged+ skills are excellent for opening fights by removing components and dealing solid damage. Note that Acid Arrows from the default Hunter Bow are unavailable here, but the Fire Hunter Bow (recommended earlier) can cover this gap. Additionally, the Strongarm Hunter Bow offers a 5% critical hit chance bonus, making it a worthwhile upgrade before delving deeper into the Forbidden West.

Shock Warrior Bow

Another free weapon is the Shock Warrior Bow, which is easier to acquire. Visit the Hunting Grounds in the Daunt, where the Groundskeeper gifts this bow as thanks for helping his friend Thurlis in the main story. No trials need to be completed—simply talk to both characters to receive the weapon.

Though not the strongest option for shock damage, it’s vital since shock is a key elemental damage type. The Tripcaster given earlier is helpful for pre-battle setups but awkward during fights. Shock Warrior Bow’s arrows can hit shock canisters and trigger explosions, which is effective against machines like Longlegs.

The weapon is particularly useful against Clawstriders, stunning them to remove the components needed for upgrading the Strongarm Hunter Bow. Using the Burst Fire technique to fire three arrows at once further enhances its efficiency.

Kue’s Sharpshot Bow

Kue’s Sharpshot Bow, an upgraded version of the Sharpshot Bow, can be earned through the side quest "The Roots That Bind," available at Plainsong early in the storyline. This quest involves fighting some rebels and exploring the Drumroot cave to collect six metal pods from Widemaws. Although Burrowers and Widemaws patrol the area, patience makes collecting pods manageable.

This bow requires Clawstrider parts for upgrades. Once enhanced, it significantly improves tear damage, jumping from 38 to 80. Combined with its long range and precision, this is ideal for removing components. The bow also includes a 5% critical hit chance, serving as a reliable upgrade until a blue rarity Sharpshot Bow becomes available.

Also, check out our Horizon Forbidden West Review, and other guides below:

• Horizon Forbidden West Guide | How To Farm Metal Shards Early
• Horizon Forbidden West Guide | How To Defeat Machines Easily