Which skills matter most for an early game Sword & Shield?

Burst 2, Poison Duration Up 1, Quick Sheathe 3 are what the starter sets stack — they work with the base weapon and need no rare decorations.

When should I drop the early game Sword & Shield set?

Replace it once you reach the next HR bracket or as soon as the progression pieces are craftable.

Back to Sword & Shield guide

Sword & Shield · melee · dps

Sword & Shield Early Game Build

The early-game Sword & Shield set below is built around Bone Slicer and G. Arkveld Helm (head), G. Arkveld Mail (chest), G. Rathalos Vambraces (arms), G. Ebony Coil (waist), G. Rathalos Greaves (legs). It activates Quick Sheathe 3, Burst 2 and Poison Duration Up 1, which is the cheapest skill package that still covers the weapon's core damage loop while you are short on decorations.

early

HR Starter

Weapon

Bone Slicer

Armor

Head: G. Arkveld Helm
Chest: G. Arkveld Mail
Arms: G. Rathalos Vambraces
Waist: G. Ebony Coil
Legs: G. Rathalos Greaves

Activated Skills

Quick Sheathe 3Burst 2Poison Duration Up 1

Sword & Shield Early Game FAQ

What is the best early game Sword & Shield build?: Start on Bone Slicer with G. Arkveld Helm (head), G. Arkveld Mail (chest), G. Rathalos Vambraces (arms), G. Ebony Coil (waist), G. Rathalos Greaves (legs). That combination activates Quick Sheathe 3, Burst 2 and Poison Duration Up 1.
Which skills matter most for an early game Sword & Shield?: Burst 2, Poison Duration Up 1, Quick Sheathe 3 are what the starter sets stack — they work with the base weapon and need no rare decorations.
When should I drop the early game Sword & Shield set?: Replace it once you reach the next HR bracket or as soon as the progression pieces are craftable.