In Horizon Forbidden West, the right bow can make all the difference in your journey. Hunter bows are particularly versatile, offering a balanced mix of power, range, and speed. Here’s how to get the best hunter bows in the game, so you can take down any threat with ease.

1. Death-Seeker’s Shadow
The Death-Seeker’s Shadow is widely considered one of the best hunter bows in Horizon Forbidden West. This legendary bow excels in both raw damage and handling, making it an essential tool for skilled players.
To obtain this bow, you must progress through the main storyline until you reach the Kulrut mission. Once completed, the Arena becomes accessible. Here, you’ll need to gather 80 Arena Medals by participating in challenges. With these medals, head over to Dukkah, who will offer you the Death-Seeker’s Shadow in exchange for your hard-earned rewards.
2. The Sun Scourge
Another top-tier hunter bow is The Sun Scourge. This legendary bow specializes in elemental damage, offering multiple arrow types that can exploit enemy weaknesses, including fire, acid, and shock.
To acquire The Sun Scourge, you’ll need to complete the side quest “The Wings of the Ten.” This quest becomes available later in the game, after you’ve advanced through much of the main storyline. Once completed, The Sun Scourge is yours, providing you with a powerful weapon that can adapt to nearly any combat scenario.
3. Nora Legacy
For those who prefer a balanced approach, the Nora Legacy hunter bow is a fantastic option. While not as powerful as the legendary bows, it offers a good mix of speed and precision, making it perfect for early and mid-game encounters.
The Nora Legacy bow is available as a pre-order bonus or can be obtained through certain in-game promotions. Though not as potent as the legendary options, it serves well for players who appreciate a more traditional hunting experience with reliable performance.
4. The Strongarm Hunter Bow
If you’re still early in your journey, the Strongarm Hunter Bow is an excellent choice. It’s an uncommon bow, but it offers great utility for those just starting out in the Forbidden West.
You can find this bow during the side quest “The Bristlebacks.” The quest will lead you to a Rebel Camp called “The Deadfalls,” where you’ll find the Strongarm Hunter Bow. While it won’t carry you through the entire game, it’s a solid option until you’re ready to upgrade to more powerful gear.
5. Upgrading Your Bows
To maximize the potential of your hunter bows, you should focus on upgrading them. Upgrades enhance damage, handling, and unlock new ammo types. Each upgrade requires specific resources, which can be gathered by exploring the open world, defeating machines, and completing quests.
It’s important to note that legendary bows, like the Death-Seeker’s Shadow and The Sun Scourge, offer the most significant upgrades. Investing resources into these weapons can drastically improve your combat effectiveness, allowing you to tackle even the toughest foes with confidence.
6. Combat Tips for Hunter Bows
Mastering the use of hunter bows involves more than just acquiring the best ones. Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of these weapons:
- Aim for Weak Points: Each machine in Horizon Forbidden West has specific weak points. Use your Focus to identify these areas and aim your shots accordingly for maximum damage.
- Use Elemental Arrows: Against machines with elemental weaknesses, always opt for elemental arrows. The Sun Scourge is particularly effective here, offering multiple elemental options to exploit.
- Upgrade Skills: In the Hunter skill tree, focus on abilities that enhance your precision, reload speed, and damage output. These skills synergize well with the power of hunter bows.
Choosing the right hunter bow in Horizon Forbidden West is crucial for navigating the dangers of the Forbidden West. Whether you’re using the legendary Death-Seeker’s Shadow or the elemental Sun Scourge, each bow offers unique advantages that can turn the tide in battle. Remember to upgrade your bows and master your combat skills to ensure you’re always ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.