Sword and Shield Guide: Controls and Combos

The Sword and Shield (SNS) is a melee weapon in Monster Hunter Now. Learn how to use the Sword and Shield, how to unlock, as well as the recommended combos and tips on how to play the Sword and Shield!

Sword and Shield Basic Information

Beginner-Friendly Melee Weapon

The Sword and Shield is a melee weapon that has short animations for each of its move. This makes it easier for beginners to adjust mid-combo without thinking about animation commitments a lot.

Can Guard Using a Shield

The other half of the weapon is also a shield which makes it possible to block monsters' attacks. This makes the weapon a pretty safe weapon to start with, hence further solidifying its beginner-friendly status. Be wary though that the shield is not very powerful so some attacks can't be blocked.

Sword and Shield Controls

List of Controls

Official Introduction Video

Recommended Combos for the Sword and Shield

Basic Attack Combo

Guard to Back Step then Falling Bash

This combo provides high damage with a single hit. Since the entire combo is quite long though, it will be harder to respond and evade against monster attacks. It is generally recommended to use this combo when the monster is downed or KO'd.

Additionally, tapping the screen after successfully guarding an enemy attack will result in a falling bash.

Tips on How to Use the Sword and Shield

Summary

• Target the Monster's Head
• Alternatively, Stick to the Monster's Side
• Guard When You Can't Evade
• Perfect Dodge with a Backstep
• Delay the Falling Bash Finisher for Extra Invulnerability
• Use SP Attacks During Enemy Attacks

Target the Monster's Head

Repeatedly attacking a monster's head with the Sword and Shield can stun and cause it to fall down, creating an opening for attacks. This is especially userful in multiplayer, where everyone can use their SP Skills while the monster is down to deal huge damage.

Alternatively, Stick to the Monster's Side

If the head is hard to reach or the monster is just too aggressive, try sticking to the side. It is not optimal, but it is also a lot safer to do so. it is also easier to evade attacks when in this position.

Guard When You Can't Evade

In case it's already too late to evade a monster's attack, use your Shield to guard. This may not be as safe as evasion but is still better than taking the full brunt of the attack.

There is also a chance for you to connect a Falling Bash after successfully guarding an attack!

Perfect Dodge with a Backstep

The backstep from block can be use to perfect dodge, resulting in an instant full-charged falling bash combo. This is a risky move as the monster may proceed with another attack and catch you on the process of the combo.

How to Perfect Dodge

Delay the Falling Bash Finisher for Extra Invulnerability

You're invulnerable for a time while in the air during the falling bash combo so you can delay the finisher while in the air if the monster is performing an attack. Proceed with the shield dive finisher when the monster finishes the attack.

Use SP Attacks During Enemy Attacks

The Hunter is invincible while using their SP Skill, so make use of it while the enemy is attacking. This is a really long invincibility frame so make use of it.

How to Unlock the Sword and Shield

Unlocked from the Start of the Game

The Sword and Shield is unlocked at the start of the game and will be the Hunter's weapon for the majority of early game. More weapons will be unlocked as you progress the game though, so more options will open up for you!

Tips and Beginner's Guide

Monster Hunter Now Related Guides

Best Weapons Tier List

List of All Weapons and Guides

Close-Ranged Weapons
Sword and Shield Guide | List	Great Sword Guide | List
Long Sword Guide | List	Hammer Guide | List
Dual Blades Guide | List	Lance Guide | List
Charge Blade Guide | List	Gunlance Guide | List
Long-Ranged Weapons
Bow Guide | List	Light Bowgun Guide | List
Heavy Bowgun Guide | List