In Destiny 2, weapon types are crucial to a Guardian’s effectiveness in combat, given their distinct functionalities and ammunition mechanics. The three primary weapon classes—Primary, Special, and Heavy—each serve unique roles that significantly shape gameplay dynamics.

Weapon Classes Overview

1. Primary Weapons
– Ammo Type: Infinite
– Ideal Use: Primary weapons are the backbone of your loadout and are primarily used for routine combat, particularly against weaker enemies known as red-bar mobs. Their design enables players to engage in extended firefights without the concern of running out of ammunition.
– Examples:
– Hand Cannons: Offer a balance of damage and range, making them effective for precision shots at moderate distances.
– Auto Rifles: Excellent for sustained fire, ideal for taking down numerous foes.
– Scout Rifles: Best for long-range engagements, where accuracy is critical.
– Sidearms: Deliver high damage at close range, serving as effective secondary options.
– Pulse Rifles: Provide a good mix of damage and rate of fire, versatile across various ranges.
– Submachine Guns: Great for aggressive play styles and close-quarters combat.
– Combat Bows: Introduce a unique mechanic with precision damage and ammo conservation.

2. Special Weapons
– Ammo Type: Limited
– Ideal Use: Special weapons typically deliver high burst damage and have specific utility applications. They shine in mid-range combat situations or against tougher enemies that demand quick eliminations.
– Examples:
– Sniper Rifles: Perfect for picking off high-value targets from a long distance with precision.
– Shotguns: Best for close encounters, providing massive damage at short ranges.
– Fusion Rifles: Effective for mid-range attacks that can obliterate enemies if aimed correctly.

3. Heavy Weapons
– Ammo Type: Limited
– Ideal Use: Heavy weapons are designed for dealing substantial damage, typically used against bosses and larger groups of enemies. Their area-of-effect capabilities make them invaluable during intense combat scenarios where timing and burst damage are essential.
– Examples:
– Rocket Launchers: Excellent for high burst damage against bosses and crowd control when facing multiple opponents.
– Machine Guns: Provide sustained firepower, useful for taking down foes with durable health bars.
– Swords: Unique in offering close-quarter engagements with high damage potential.
– Grenade Launchers: Versatile with both direct impact and area damage capabilities.

Summary Table

| Weapon Class | Ammo Type | Ideal Use | Examples |
|————–|———–|——————————————–|—————————————————–|
| Primary | Infinite | Routine combat, dealing with standard enemies | Hand Cannons, Scout Rifles, Auto Rifles, Sidearms |
| Special | Limited | Mid-range combat, precision damage | Sniper Rifles, Shotguns, Fusion Rifles |
| Heavy | Limited | High damage, boss fights, crowd control | Rocket Launchers, Machine Guns, Swords, Grenade Launchers |

Strategic Implications
The classification of weapons in Destiny 2 encourages players to strategize their loadout and manage ammunition resources effectively. Adaptability in selecting the appropriate weapon class based on the enemy type—ranging from common foes to powerful bosses—is key to maximizing combat efficiency. Utilizing Primary weapons to conserve Special and Heavy ammo for challenging encounters enhances overall gameplay dynamics, ensuring Guardians remain prepared for any situation that arises.