Monster Hunter Wilds Layered Weapons Guide (March 2026) Unlock & Equip
Finally! The wait is over, fellow hunters. After months of anticipation, Monster Hunter Wilds now lets players change the look of their weapons while using whatever weapon they like, thanks to Title Update 2. If you’ve been stuck staring at those same old Artian weapons while wishing you could rock your favorite monster designs, I’ve got fantastic news for you.
Layered Weapons are cosmetic weapon skins that you can equip to change the way your weapon looks, without changing its stats and other properties. This means you can finally match your weapon aesthetics with your carefully crafted layered armor sets without sacrificing that sweet, sweet damage output. Let me show you exactly how to unlock and equip these game-changing cosmetics.
How to Equip Layered Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds?
Let me walk you through the complete process of equipping layered weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds. Trust me, it’s easier than you might think!
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | June 30, 2025 (Title Update 2) |
| Unlock Requirements | Craft final weapon versions (Rarity 8) |
| Artian Weapons | Unlock layered versions through refinement |
| Access Location | Any tent → Appearance Tab |
| Palico Weapons | Craft High-Rank versions |
MHW Unlocking Layered Weapons Requirements
Before you can start customizing your weapon appearance, you’ll need to meet specific requirements. Here’s what I discovered during my extensive testing:
Standard Weapons
If you are looking to use a traditional crafted weapon for a layered weapon, it must be crafted to its highest rarity in order to be used. This typically means:
- Craft and upgrade weapons to Rarity 8
- To unlock a specific Layered Weapon, players will have to forge the Final Weapon of that Layered Weapon’s tree
- Complete the entire weapon tree for that specific design
Artian Weapons
The Artian weapon system works differently, and I actually prefer how they’ve implemented it:
- Upon obtaining a weapons refinement form, you will be granted the ability to use it as a layered weapon
- Base refinement: Unlocks basic layered appearance
- Tier 2-4 refinement: Unlocks middle refinement appearance
- Maximum refinement: Unlocks final design as layered weapon
Palico Weapons
Don’t forget about your furry companion! Unlocking Layered Palico Weapons will need you to craft the High-Rank version of the weapons you want to use as Layered skins.
Step-by-Step Guide to Equip Layered Weapons in MHW
Now for the meat and potatoes – here’s exactly how to equip your newly unlocked layered weapons:
- Access a Tent: Head to any camp and enter your personal tent
- Navigate to Appearance Tab: Now found as the first option, select Change Equipment Appearance
- Select Your Weapon: You’ll see your two equipped weapons listed above your armor slots
- Choose Your Design: Browse through your available layered weapon options
- Confirm Selection: Apply your chosen appearance
Pro Tips for Layered Weapons
- You can mix and match weapon appearances regardless of element or status
- Layered weapons work perfectly with layered armor for complete fashion hunting
- You can equip and change Layered Weapons in the Equipment Appearance menu which you can access when inside a tent or a Pop-up Camp
- Your selections save automatically – no need to manually save
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen plenty of hunters make these mistakes when trying to unlock layered weapons:
- Not Crafting to Maximum Rarity: Many players stop at Rarity 7, but you need to push to Rarity 8
- Ignoring Artian Refinement: Each refinement level unlocks different appearances
- Forgetting About Prerequisites: This system is only available starting in High Rank
- Overlooking Palico Weapons: Your cat deserves style too!
Platform-Specific Information
The layered weapon system works identically across all platforms:
- PC: Access through keyboard shortcuts or controller
- PlayStation 5: Use the touchpad for quick menu navigation
- Xbox Series X/S: Standard controller inputs apply
No matter which platform you’re hunting on, the process remains the same. Unlike cross-platform features in Monster Hunter World, layered weapons are a universal feature.
Advanced Customization Tips
Let me share some advanced tricks I’ve discovered for maximizing your fashion hunting:
Matching Sets
- Coordinate weapon appearances with specific armor sets
- Create themed loadouts for different monsters
- Use color-coordinated weapons with armor pigments
Artian Weapon Strategy
Since Artian weapons have become a core aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds’ end-game content, here’s how to make the most of their layered options:
- Refine strategically to unlock your preferred appearance tier
- Consider keeping multiple Artian weapons at different refinement levels
- Mix refined and non-refined appearances for unique looks
Photo Mode Integration
Once hunters have perfected their fit they can enhance and show off their designs with new photo mode options such as brightness settings and filter effects. Make sure to:
- Test different lighting with your layered weapons
- Use filters that complement your weapon’s design
- Hide UI elements for clean screenshots
Comparison with Previous Monster Hunter Games
For veterans wondering how this compares to previous titles, here’s what’s changed:
| Game | Layered Weapon Availability |
|---|---|
| Monster Hunter World | Post-launch addition |
| Monster Hunter Rise | Available earlier |
| Monster Hunter Wilds | Added in Title Update 2 |
The implementation in Wilds is arguably the most refined yet, with better integration into the overall customization system.
Future Updates and Roadmap
Looking ahead, here’s what we know about layered weapons in future updates:
Confirmed Features
- Title Update 2 (TU2) for Monster Hunter Wilds will be released on June 30, 2025
- More weapon designs will be added with each new monster
- Seasonal events may include exclusive layered weapon designs
Potential Additions
Based on previous Monster Hunter games, we might see:
- Collaboration weapon skins (like the Monster Hunter Rise weapon designs)
- Event-exclusive layered weapons
- DLC cosmetic weapon packs
FAQs
When were layered weapons added to Monster Hunter Wilds?
Title Update 2 introduces a host of tweaks and fresh content that further reinforce the Monster Hunter Wilds experience, including layered weapons on June 30, 2025.
Do I need to be in High Rank to use layered weapons?
Yes, the layered weapon system is only available once you reach High Rank, similar to layered armor.
Can I use layered weapons in multiplayer?
Absolutely! Other players will see your customized weapon appearance in all multiplayer sessions.
Do layered weapons affect my weapon’s stats?
No, layered weapons are purely cosmetic and don’t affect your weapon’s damage, sharpness, or any other statistics.
How many layered weapon designs can I unlock?
You can unlock as many as you craft! Each Rarity 8 weapon and fully refined Artian weapon adds to your collection.
Can I change layered weapons mid-quest?
No, you need to return to a tent or camp to change your weapon’s appearance.
Will more layered weapon options be added?
Yes! Each new monster and weapon tree added to the game will expand your layered weapon options.
Do layered weapons work with all weapon types?
Yes, every weapon type in Monster Hunter Wilds supports the layered weapon system.
Can I preview layered weapons before crafting?
Currently, you need to craft the weapon to unlock its layered appearance – there’s no preview system.
Are there any exclusive layered weapon designs?
The Monster Hunter Rathalos Telecaster, created by the legendary guitar-maker Fender to celebrate the Monster Hunter 20th anniversary, makes an appearance in Monster Hunter Wilds starting August 27 as an in-game gesture, though this is a gesture rather than a weapon skin.
Conclusion
There you have it – everything you need to know about equipping layered weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds! With Title Update 2 finally bringing this highly requested feature, we can all enjoy the true endgame: looking absolutely fabulous while hunting monsters.
Remember to craft those weapons to Rarity 8, experiment with different combinations, and most importantly, have fun expressing your unique hunter style. The addition of layered weapons truly completes the fashion hunting experience in Monster Hunter Wilds.
Want to stay updated on the latest Monster Hunter Wilds content? Make sure to bookmark this guide as I’ll update it with new layered weapon options as they’re released.
Happy hunting, and may your weapons always match your armor!