In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a truly unique weapon. While initially unconventional, its power is undeniable for those who master its melodic mechanics. This guide delves into the intricacies of the Hunting Horn, revealing how to maximize its potential.
Recommended Videos Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
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This blunt weapon isn't just about brute force; it's about strategic buffing, both for yourself and your allies. Mastering its melodies is key to success.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack producing Note 1. Use with a directional input for a Forward Smash. |
Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack producing Note 2. |
Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | Produces Note 2. Adding Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack adds another note. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Ideal for hitting targets behind you, moving the hunter backward during the attack. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Adding Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack adds another note. |
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack producing a note, varying depending on the button combination used (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effects. Stocked melodies play sequentially, or select a specific melody with R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat (R2/RT) followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) boosts and extends Melody Effects. Timing these with Melody Effect activation increases their power. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Creates an Echo Bubble, type depending on the equipped Hunting Horn. Up to three notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) can be added. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Plays the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody isn't overwritten. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) can be added during performance. Precise timing increases damage. |
Combos

Overhead Smash Combo
A reliable combo: Move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and its follow-up. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking desired songs, initiate Perform (R2/RT), followed by Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Best against incapacitated enemies: Start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform and an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips

Note Mastery
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. The top-right corner indicates the required command for each note. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes. Notes can even be played while riding your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack notes for songs and chain multiple songs for diverse buffs, tailoring them to the situation. Consider the performance time required.
Echo Bubble Utilization
Maximize Echo Bubble use for battlefield advantage. It provides three extra note inputs and amplifies damage. Increased evasion and movement speed within the bubble enhance survivability, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement Skill
Prioritize Self-Improvement to at least level 2 for a 20% attack boost, increasing damage output.
Special Performance Readiness
Always have a Special Performance ready, such as the Offset Melody, to counter monster attacks. Use the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and hold the stance, releasing it as the monster attacks to knock it down.
This comprehensive guide equips you to master the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game assistance.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.