Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

Sunbreak Switch Axe Builds (Master Rank)

★ TU4, TU5, and Bonus Update Available Now for PS, XBOX, and Game Pass!
Title Update 4 | Title Update 5 | Bonus Update
┗ Check out all our Best Builds For Every Weapon!
┗ TU4 Monsters: Velkhana | Risen C.G. Valstrax
┗ TU5 Monsters: Amatsu | Risen Shagaru Magala
┗ Bonus Update Monster: Primordial Malzeno

Monster Hunter Rise (Sunbreak) - Master Rank Switch Axe Builds
This is a guide to the best builds and equipment for Switch Axe in Monster Hunter Rise (MH Rise): Sunbreak. Learn about the best Switch Axe for Sunbreak and the best builds and Armor pieces to use with the Switch Axe for Low, High, and Master Rank.

All Switch Axe Guides
Switch Axe 1Trees & Full List Switch Axe 2How to Use Switch Axe 3Best Builds

Switch Axe Builds List & Progression

This is a quick section summarizing all the Switch Axe builds in this page. It is arranged from newest to oldest, and MR build progression is from bottom to top.

Click on the build name to see the build!

Master Rank Title Update Build Name
MR180+ BU Blood Awakening Elemental Build
MR180+ TU5 Heaven-Sent, Frenzied Bloodlust Build
MR160+ TU5 Heaven-Sent Dragon Conversion Build
MR160+ TU4 Dragon Conversion Elemental SwAxe
MR140+ TU3 Chaotic Gore Switch Axe
MR110+ TU2 TU2 Exhaust Build
MR10+ TU1 Exhaust Comfort Climber
MR10+ TU1 Lucent Narga DPS Climber
MR6+ Base Abyssal Torrent Dragon Climber
MR3-6 Base Mid-Game Rex Thrasher Exhaust
MR3-6 Base Mid-Game Nargacuga Critical Climber
MR1-2 Base Conqueress II Exhaust Starter Build

Ultra Endgame MR Build: MR100+

Blood Awakening Elemental Switch Axe Build (BU)

Recommended Elemental Switch Axes

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Volcanic SwitchVolcanic Switch
Volcanic Switch Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Fire Image 78
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Void Bringer AxeVoid Bringer Axe
Void Bringer Axe Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Water Image 74
②①ー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ThunderclapThunderclap
Thunderclap Switch Axe Sharpness
310 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Thunder Image 74
ーーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Splitear WeissSplitear Weiss
Splitear Weiss Switch Axe Sharpness
330 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Ice Image 54
③①ー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Silver SlasherSilver Slasher
Silver Slasher Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 49
④④④
Phial Type Element
Decorations

Recommended Armor Loadout

Armor Slots Skills
Risen Kushala GlareRisen Kushala Glare ③②①
Primordial MailPrimordial Mail ④④②
Burst Lv. 1
Primordial VambracesPrimordial Vambraces ④④②
Virtue / Prudence Coil Virtue / Prudence Coil ④②ー
Primordial GreavesPrimordial Greaves ④④ー
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with a ③②① slot
Rampage Decoration
Skills
Rampage Skill Element Exploit to increase elemental damage against each element
For the Thunder Build:
Swap between Wyvern Exploit, Anti-Aerial Species, Anti-Aquatic Species, or Fanged Exploit depending on the monster.
Element Attack Lv. 5 | Attack Boost Lv. 4
Weakness Exploit Lv. 3 | Element Exploit Lv. 3
Blood Rite Lv. 3 | Speed Sharpening Lv. 3
Partbreaker Lv. 3 | Wirebug Whisperer Lv. 3
Rapid Morph Lv. 3 | Protective Polish Lv. 2
Evade Extender Lv. 2 | Critical Boost Lv. 2
Intrepid Heart Lv. 1 | Power Prolonger Lv. 1
Frenzied Bloodlust Lv. 1 | Bloodlust Lv. 1
Burst Lv. 1 | Wind Mantle Lv. 1
For the Fire Build:
Protective Polish Lv. 3 | Teostra Blessing Lv.1
For the Water and Ice Build:
Protective Polish Lv. 3 | Kushala Blessing Lv.2
For Dragon Build:
Attack Boost Lv. 7 | Protective Polish Lv. 3
Coalescence Lv. 2

Build Merits and Augments

Weapon Augments
Armor Augments Armor Augments for this build are not necessary. However, feel free to add as you please once you get comfortable with your build! Generally, you'd want to get better skills and more slots for your armor.
For damage, aim for any of the following:
Powder Mantle
Coalescence
Teostra's Blessing
For comfort, aim for any of the following:
Power Prolonger
Wind Mantle
Protective Polish
Frenzied Bloodlust
Build Merits and Notes
Blood Awakening is a new aggressive comfort skill introduced in the Bonus Update. It pairs with Blood Rite and helps in dealing with large monsters that inflict Bloodblight.
For sharpness management, Speed Sharpening and Protective Polish are included. Among the above Switch Axes, only Thunderclap lacks a slot, allowing you only two levels of Protective Polish. However, this skill can be augmented on armor to compensate.
Since this build runs purely on Element Phials, you can have at least one level of Power Prolonger to extend your weapon's charged state.
Silver Slasher for the Dragon Build boosts health gain when you are afflicted with Bloodblight or from the skill Blood Rite. It also boasts three ④ slots, giving way to even more possible skills.
Intrepid Heart is helpful when receiving Bloodblight as it significantly reduces damage and negates knockback when filled. Use caution since the gauge can be wasted if you are caught in a monster's roar.

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Heaven-Sent, Frenzied Bloodlust Elemental Switch Axe Build (TU5)

Recommended Elemental Switch Axe

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Volcanic SwitchVolcanic Switch
Volcanic Switch Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Fire Image 78
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Void Bringer AxeVoid Bringer Axe
Void Bringer Axe Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Water Image 74
②①ー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ThunderclapThunderclap
Thunderclap Switch Axe Sharpness
310 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Thunder Image 74
ーーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
DaoraDaora's Ajniha
Daora
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Ice Image 58
①ーー
Phial Type Power
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Wing of SanctityWing of Sanctity
Wing of Sanctity Switch Axe Sharpness
340 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 51
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations

* = check Build Merits below.

Recommended Armor Loadout

Armor Slots Skills
Risen Kushala GlareRisen Kushala Glare ③②①
Tempest RobeTempest Robe ④④①
Tempest SleevesTempest Sleeves ④④①
Virtue / Prudence Coil Virtue / Prudence Coil ④②ー
Tempest HakamaTempest Hakama ④④ー
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with a ②① slot or better
Secondary Skill Recommendations:
Rapid Morph Lv.2
Rampage Decoration
MH Rise - Elembane Jewel 3Elembane Jewel 3 x 1
For Thunder and Dragon Build:
MH Rise - Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aerial Jewel 2Anti-Aerial Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Fanged Exploit Jewel 2Fanged Exploit Jewel 2 x 1
Skills
Rampage Skill Element Exploit to increase elemental damage against each element
For the Dragon Build:
Swap between Wyvern Exploit, Anti-Aerial Species, Anti-Aquatic Species, or Fanged Exploit depending on the monster.
Element Attack Lv.5
Attack Boost Lv.7 | Critical Boost Lv.3
Weakness Exploit Lv.3 | Wirebug Whisperer Lv.3
Rapid Morph Lv.3 | Burst Lv.2-3
Heaven-Sent Lv.3 | Power Prolonger Lv.2-3
Evade Extender Lv.2 | Coalescence Lv.2
Intrepid Heart Lv.1-2 | Latent Power Lv.1
Bloodlust Lv.1 | Wind Mantle Lv.1
Frenzied Bloodlust Lv.1 | Shock Absorber Lv.1
Talisman with Recommended Secondary Skill:
Element Exploit Lv.2
see Build Merits

For the Fire Build: Teostra Blessing Lv.2
For the Water and Ice Build: Kushala Blessing Lv.2
For the Thunder and Dragon Build: Defiance Lv.1

Build Merits and Augments

Weapon Augments
Armor Augments Armor Augments for this build are not necessary. However, feel free to add as you please once you get comfortable with your build! Generally, you'd want to get better skills and/or open up more slots for your armor.
Replaceable skills already present in the armor:
Latent Power
For damage, aim for one of the the following:
Dragon Conversion
Powder Mantle
Element Exploit
Burst
For comfort, aim for one of the following:
Power Prolonger
Rapid Morph
Build Merits and Notes
*Note: If you acquired the recommended talisman with Rapid Morph Lv.2, replace the Quickswitch Jewel+ 4 with an Element Exploit Jewel+ 4. This will amplify your elemental damage even more against monsters weak to a certain element.
In Free Title Update 5, the heavenly armor of Amatsu descended from the skies. Three pieces of this armor introduced a new skill; Heaven-Sent. This skill bestows its users powers when they manage to not get caught in any attacks. At level 3, it negates sharpness loss, perfect for the Switch Axe's playstyle of constantly getting hits in. This would safely allow the omission of the Protective Polish from the build, opening it up to much more useful skills.
TU5 also introduced the armor of Risen Shagaru Magala, with the unique skill, Frenzied Bloodlust. This skill allows you to have one extra wirebug after overcoming the Frenzy Virus. The build is also equipped with the Wind Mantle skill and a level 3 Wirebug Whisperer from the Risen Kushala Daora Armor. Combining this all of this will grant you access to a lot of wirebugs, making silkbind attacks more readily available. Slash away with the Switch Axe!

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Heaven-Sent, Dragon Conversion Elemental Switch Axe Builds (TU5)

Recommended Elemental Switch Axe

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Volcanic SwitchVolcanic Switch
Volcanic Switch Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Fire Image 78
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Void Bringer AxeVoid Bringer Axe
Void Bringer Axe Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Water Image 74
②①ー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ThunderclapThunderclap
Thunderclap Switch Axe Sharpness
310 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Thunder Image 74
ーーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
DaoraDaora's Ajniha
Daora
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Ice Image 58
①ーー
Phial Type Power
Decorations
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Wing of SanctityWing of Sanctity
Wing of Sanctity Switch Axe Sharpness
340 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 51
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Decorations

* = check Build Merits below.

Recommended Armor Loadout

Armor Slots Skills
Valstrax Helm - EpochValstrax Helm - Epoch ④②ー
Tempest RobeTempest Robe ④④①
Tempest SleevesTempest Sleeves ④④①
Valstrax Coil - Epoch Valstrax Coil - Epoch ④①①
Tempest HakamaTempest Hakama ④④ー
Talisman Weakness Exploit 2 with a ②① slot or better
Secondary Skill Recommendations:
Rapid Morph Lv.2
Rampage Decoration
MH Rise - Elembane Jewel 3Elembane Jewel 3 x 1
For Thunder and Dragon Build:
MH Rise - Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aerial Jewel 2Anti-Aerial Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Fanged Exploit Jewel 2Fanged Exploit Jewel 2 x 1
Skills
Rampage Skill Element Exploit to increase elemental damage against each element
For the Dragon Build:
Swap between Wyvern Exploit, Anti-Aerial Species, Anti-Aquatic Species, or Fanged Exploit depending on the monster.
Element Attack Lv.5
Attack Boost Lv.7 | Critical Boost Lv.3
Weakness Exploit Lv.3 | Latent Power Lv.3
Stamina Surge Lv.3 | Rapid Morph Lv.3
Heaven-Sent Lv.3 | Power Prolonger Lv.2
Evade Extender Lv.2 | Burst Lv. 2-3
Intrepid Heart Lv.1-2 | Dragon Conversion Lv.2
Shock Absorber Lv.1
Talisman with Recommended Secondary Skill:
Element Exploit Lv.2
see Build Merits
For the Fire Build: Teostra Blessing Lv.2
For the Water and Ice Build: Kushala Blessing Lv.2
For the Thunder and Dragon Build: Defiance Lv.1

Build Merits and Augments

Weapon Augments
Armor Augments Armor Augments for this build are not necessary. However, feel free to add as you please once you get comfortable with your build! Generally, you'd want to get better skills and more slots for your armor.
Replaceable skills already present in the armor:
Stamina Surge
For damage, aim for one of the following:
Dragon Conversion (to max it out)
Powder Mantle
Element Exploit
Burst
For comfort, aim for one of the following:
Wind Mantle
Build Merits and Notes
*Note: If you acquired the recommended talisman with Rapid Morph Lv.2, replace the Quickswitch Jewel+ 4 with an Element Exploit Jewel+ 4. This will amplify your elemental damage even more against monsters weak to a certain element.
In Free Title Update 5, the heavenly armor of Amatsu descended from the skies. Three pieces of this armor introduced a new skill; Heaven-Sent. This skill bestows its users powers when they manage to not get caught in any attacks. At level 3, it negates sharpness loss, perfect for the Switch Axe's playstyle of constantly getting hits in. This would safely allow the omission of the Protective Polish from the build, opening it up to much more useful skills.
Risen Crimson Glow Valstrax's armor skill, Dragon Conversion, converts elemental resistances you get from attacking with the Blue Swap Scroll to elemental damage when you switch to the Red Swap Scroll. This is a powerful skill to use with elemental builds and for weapons that are able to land hits continuosly. Be sure to start fights with this build with the Blue Swap Scroll first and switch to Red only when the elemental resistance logo appears at the top of your health bar. Also take extra care when fighting with the Red Swap Scroll as your elemental resistances will all be 0.

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TU4 Dragon Conversion
Elemental Switch Axe Builds (MR160+)

Fire Switch Axe Build

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Volcanic SwitchVolcanic Switch
Volcanic Switch Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Fire Image 78
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Armor Slots Skills
Valstrax Helm - EpochValstrax Helm - Epoch ④②ー
Valstrax Mail - EpochValstrax Mail - Epoch ④④ー
Risen Kaiser BracesRisen Kaiser Braces ④④ー
Valstrax Coil - Epoch Valstrax Coil - Epoch ④①①
Risen Kaiser CuisseRisen Kaiser Cuisse ④①①
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration
Decorations
Skills
Rampage Skill Element Exploit to increase elemental damage against monsters weak to fire
or
Phial Switch Boost to increase morph attacks
Build Merits and Notes
Risen Crimson Glow Valstrax's armor introduced a new skill called Dragon Conversion. This skill converts elemental resistances you get from attacking with the Blue Swap Scroll to elemental damage when you switch to the Red Swap Scroll. This is a powerful skill to use with elemental builds and for weapons that are able to land hits continuosly. Be sure to start fights with this build with the Blue Swap Scroll first and switch to Red only when the elemental resistance logo appears at the top of your health bar. Also take extra care when fighting with the Red Swap Scroll as your elemental resistances will all be 0.
For weapon choice, the Magma Almudron Switch Axe was chosen due to its high Fire Element attribute and Element Phial. This will output significant elemental damage, especially with the included skills in the build. For additional fire damage, the build also includes at least two levels of Teostra Blessing, amping your fire damage to 10%.
The Level 2 Sharpness Boost Weapon Augmentation will put this weapon's sharpness to purple. With the Protective Polish skill equipped, sword and axe attacks are sure to deal more damage with each combo.
This build assumes that no Armor Augmentations have been made.

Water, Ice, and Thunder Switch Axe Build

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Void Bringer AxeVoid Bringer Axe
Void Bringer Axe Switch Axe Sharpness
320 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Water Image 74
②①ー
Phial Type Element
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Splitear WeissSplitear Weiss
Splitear Weiss Switch Axe Sharpness
330 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Ice Image 54
③①ー
Phial Type Element
Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ThunderclapThunderclap
Thunderclap Switch Axe Sharpness
310 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Thunder Image 74
ーーー
Phial Type Element
Weapon Augments
Armor Slots Skills
Valstrax Helm - EpochValstrax Helm - Epoch ④②ー
Valstrax Mail - EpochValstrax Mail - Epoch ④④ー
Risen Kushala GrandeRisen Kushala Grande ④②ー
Burst Lv. 2
Wind Mantle Lv. 1
Valstrax Coil - Epoch Valstrax Coil - Epoch ④①①
Risen Kushala CrusRisen Kushala Crus ④④ー
Burst Lv. 1
Wind Mantle Lv. 1
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with ②① slot
Rampage Decoration
For the Water and Ice Switch Axe:
MH Rise - Elembane Jewel 3Elembane Jewel 3 x 1 or
MH Rise - Switcher Jewel 3Switcher Jewel 3 x 1

For the Thunder Switch Axe:
MH Rise - Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aerial Jewel 2Anti-Aerial Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Fanged Exploit Jewel 2Fanged Exploit Jewel 2 x 1
Decorations
Hard Element Jewel+ 4 x1
Element Jewel 1 x1
MH Rise - Enhancer Jewel+ 4Enhancer Jewel+ 4 x1
MH Rise - Jumping Jewel+ 4Jumping Jewel+ 4 x1
MH Rise - Sharp Jewel+ 4Sharp Jewel+ 4 x1
MH Rise - Quickswitch Jewel+ 4Quickswitch Jewel+ 4 x1
MH Rise - Tenderizer Jewel 2Tenderizer Jewel 2 x3
MH Rise - Sharp Jewel 2Sharp Jewel 2 x1
MH Rise - Quickswitch Jewel 2Quickswitch Jewel 2 x1
MH Rise - Brace Jewel 1Brace Jewel 1 x1

Water and Ice Switch Axe Build:
MH Rise - Attack Jewel 2Attack Jewel 2 x1
MH Rise - Ironshell Jewel 1Ironshell Jewel 1 x2
Thunder Switch Axe Build:
MH Rise - Spiribird’s Call Jewel 1Spiribird’s Call Jewel 1 x1
Skills
Rampage Skill Element Exploit to increase elemental damage against monsters weak to fire
or
Phial Switch Boost to increase morph attacks
For the Thunder Switch Axe Build:
Swap between Wyvern Exploit, Anti-Aerial Species, Anti-Aquatic Species, or Fanged Exploit depending on the monster.
Elemental Attack Lv.5
Attack Boost Lv.7 (Lv.6 for the Thunder Switch Axe Build)
Weakness Exploit Lv.3 | Protective Polish Lv.3
Stamina Surge Lv.3 | Dragon Resistance Lv.3
Rapid Morph Lv.3 | Burst Lv. 3
Dragon Conversion Lv.3 | Latent Power Lv.2
Power Prolonger Lv. 2 | Evade Extender Lv. 2
Wind Mantle Lv.2 | Flinch Free Lv.1

Kushala Blessing Lv.2 (only for the Water and Ice Switch Axe Build)
Spiribird's Call Lv. 1 (only for the Thunder Switch Axe Build)

Build Merits and Augments

Weapon Augments
Build Merits and Notes
Risen Crimson Glow Valstrax's armor introduced a new skill called Dragon Conversion. This skill converts elemental resistances you get from attacking with the Blue Swap Scroll to elemental damage when you switch to the Red Swap Scroll. This is a powerful skill to use with elemental builds and for weapons that are able to land hits continuosly. Be sure to start fights with this build with the Blue Swap Scroll first and switch to Red only when the elemental resistance logo appears at the top of your health bar. Also take extra care when fighting with the Red Swap Scroll as your elemental resistances will all be 0.
For weapon choice, the Switch Axes that have the highest elemental attribute and Element Phial type were chosen to maximizes the elemental damage the build can dish out. This way, any monster that is weak to a specific element should down as soon as possible, making the quest easier (and quicker!).
The Level 2 Sharpness Boost Weapon Augmentation will put this weapon's sharpness to purple. With the Protective Polish skill equipped, sword and axe attacks are sure to deal more damage with each combo.
This build assumes that no Armor Augmentations have been made.

Dragon Switch Axe Build

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Wing of SanctityWing of Sanctity
Wing of Sanctity Switch Axe Sharpness
340 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 51
③ーー
Phial Type Element
Weapon Augments
Armor Slots Skills
Valstrax Helm - EpochValstrax Helm - Epoch ④②ー
Valstrax Mail - EpochValstrax Mail - Epoch ④④ー
Valstrax Braces - EclipseValstrax Braces - Eclipse ④ーー
Valstrax Coil - Epoch Valstrax Coil - Epoch ④①①
Valstrax Greaves - EclipseValstrax Greaves - Eclipse ③①ー
Resentment Lv. 3
Dragonheart Lv. 1
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration
Decorations
Skills
Rampage Skill Valstrax Soul to increase dragon element damage when in dragonblight
Build Merits Risen Crimson Glow Valstrax's armor introduced a new skill called Dragon Conversion. This skill converts elemental resistances you get from attacking with the Blue Swap Scroll to elemental damage when you switch to the Red Swap Scroll. This is a powerful skill to use with elemental builds and for weapons that are able to land hits continuosly. Be sure to start fights with this build with the Blue Swap Scroll first and switch to Red only when the elemental resistance logo appears at the top of your health bar. Also take extra care when fighting with the Red Swap Scroll as your elemental resistances will all be 0.
The Dragonheart skill synergizes well with the Dragon Conversion Skill. With Title Update 4 introducing the Dragon Spirit Jewel, you can now slot in this skill to make it easier to activate, gaining additional elemental resistances and attack power!
For weapon choice, the Crimson Glow Valstrax Switch Axe was choses due to its high raw damage and large white sharpness. This made it safer to omit the Protective Polish skill since you won't be sharpening as much.
This build assumes that no Armor Augmentations have been made. Should you do some, we suggest targeting a skill that doesn't fit your playstyle and replacing it with a better skill. With this in mind, it is possible to max out Dragonheart with augmentation for this build.

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TU3 Chaotic Gore Magala Switch Axe Build (MR140+)

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Frevel/SursisFrevel/Sursis
Frevel/Sursis Switch Axe Sharpness
340 0 -30% / 15%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 44
③①ー
Phial Type Power
Armor Slots Skills
Risen Kaiser HornsRisen Kaiser Horns ③②ー
Risen Kaiser MailRisen Kaiser Mail ②②ー
Risen Kushala GrandeRisen Kushala Grande ④②ー
Burst Lv. 2
Wind Mantle Lv. 1
Sinister Grudge Tassets Sinister Grudge Tassets ④②①
Arc Greaves / Storge GreavesArc Greaves / Storge Greaves ③②ー
Razor Sharp Lv. 1
Spare Shot Lv. 1
Bloodlust Lv. 1
Talisman Attack Boost Lv.3; one ②① slot
Rampage Decoration
Decoration
Skills
Build Merits and Notes
Free Title Update 3 introduced the Chaotic Gore Magala Weapons. These weapons benefit massively from the Bloodlust skill; by overcoming the Frenzy virus, the weapons' afiinity will turn from negative to positive. Paired with Weakness Exploit, this weapon can easily reach 100% affinity on weak spots. Coalescence will also provide an added boost in damage, as it activates after overcoming the Frenzy virus.
Powder Mantle complements the aggressive, chain attacks of the Switch Axe. The combos on this weapon can activate this skill quickly. Then, the blast damage from the blue aura will provide a boost to your DPS, as long as you time it right!
Wind Mantle works well with the Switch Axe. Using silkbind attacks, such as the Elemental Burst Counter and the Switch Charger will activate it, lowering the cooldown of your wirebugs significantly. This will make use of all of what Switch Axe has to offer in utility.
We equipped this build with the Mail of Hellfire for an extra boost in damage. You would mainly stay at the Red Swap Scroll while attacking, since this build focuses primarily on raw damage. However, it will also decrease your armor this way, so one point of this skill is enough.
This build assumes that no Armor Augmentations have been made.

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TU2 Exhaust Build (MR110+)

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ReconqueressReconqueress
Reconqueress Switch Axe Sharpness
340 30 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
-
①①①
Phial Type Exhaust 36
Armor Slots Skills
Arc Helm / Storge HelmArc Helm / Storge Helm ③ーー
Coalescence Lv. 2
Bloodlust Lv. 1
Risen Mizuha RobesRisen Mizuha Robes ④ーー
Flaming Espinas GripFlaming Espinas Grip ④②ー
Archfiend Armor Ura Archfiend Armor Ura ④ーー
Burst Lv. 2
Risen Mizuha GaitersRisen Mizuha Gaiters ④①①
Talisman Weakness Exploit Lv.2, with ②① slots
Rampage Decoration
Decorations
Skills
Build Merits and Notes
Take advantage of Title Update 2's new skill with this Exhaust Switch Axe build! Tire out monsters with Stamina Thief while getting improved damage from Buildup Boost.
Offensive staples Critical Boost, Weakness Exploit, and Burst are included in the build, with Coalescence and Dereliction to help with boosting the Reconqueress' affinity. QoL skills are also fitted in the build, with the likes of Evade Window and Evade Extender.
Handicraft and Razor Sharp are also added into the mix to give it a sliver of purple sharpness.

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Endgame MR Build: MR 6+

Exhaust Comfort Climber

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
ReconqueressReconqueress
Reconqueress Switch Axe Sharpness
340 30 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
-
①①①
Phial Type Exhaust 36
Weapon Augments
Armor Slots Skills
Rathalos Helm XRathalos Helm X ④ーー
Dignified JacketDignified Jacket ②①ー
Golden LunebracesGolden Lunebraces ④②①
Astalos Coil Astalos Coil ②①ー
Flaming Espinas HeelFlaming Espinas Heel ④①ー
Attack Boost Lv. 1
Burst Lv. 2
Talisman Critical Eye 3 with ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration
Decorations
Skills
Rampage Skill Phial Switch Boost
Build Merits and Notes
While this build is somewhat mediocre in terms of damage, it more than makes up for it with comfort. Max points in Power Prolonger extends the Switch Axe's Amped State from 45s to 90s. When Reconqueress is paired with Speed Sharpening, Protective Polish, and a Sharpness Augment we are given a full minute of uninterrupted Purple Sharpness. Apart from Elemental Burst Counter, the Switch Axe can only rely on evasion for defense. Hence, we slotted Evade Extender and Evade Window into the build. Also notable are the value points in Flinch Free and Intrepid Heart, which allows us to attack continuously without being interrupted. This combo works particularly well with our maxed out Burst.
If you have the resources, and are interested in Qurious Augments, we highly recommend rolling for Buildup Boost, as this significantly increases the damage dealt by Exhaust Phial Switch Axes.
This set emphasizes comfort over large damage numbers. It is meant to be used for climbing the MR ladder, and can scale into late game content once you unlock Risen Elder Dragons and their materials.

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Lucent Narga DPS Climber

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
MizarMizar's Asterism
Mizar
340 0 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Poison Image 18
④②ー
Phial Type Power
Weapon Augments
Armor Slots Skills
Golden LunehelmGolden Lunehelm ②②ー
Foray Lv. 1
Burst Lv. 2
Chaotic Mail / Nephilim MailChaotic Mail / Nephilim Mail ③①ー
Critical Eye Lv. 2
Strife Lv. 1
Malzeno BracesMalzeno Braces ④ーー
Nargacuga Coil X Nargacuga Coil X ②ーー
Ingot Greaves XIngot Greaves X ①①ー
Talisman Attack Boost 3 with ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration
MH Rise - Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2Anti-Wyvern Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aerial Jewel 2Anti-Aerial Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2Anti-Aquatic Jewel 2 x 1 or
MH Rise - Fanged Exploit Jewel 2Fanged Exploit Jewel 2 x 1
Upgrade the weapon's rampage slot via Qurio Augment.
Decorations
Skills
Rampage Skill Swap between Wyvern Exploit, Anti-Aerial Species, Anti-Aquatic Species, or Fanged Exploit depending on the monster.
Build Merits and Notes
Full points in offensive meta skills such as Attack Boost, Critical Eye, Critical Boost, and Weakness Exploit allow this build to dish out significant amounts of damage. The inclusion of Burst pushes our damage even higher because of how quickly the Switch Axe can land attacks. Furthermore, our weapon's poison element allows this build to deal boosted amounts of damage via Foray and Status Trigger.
Mizar's Asterism has a low amount of both purple and white sharpness, so expect to sharpen your weapon quite often during your hunts. To alleviate this issue, we are running a full set of Speed Sharpening jewels and Protective Polish Lv.2. This combo provides 1 minute of uninterrupted purple sharpness. Because of how high our total affinity is, you can consider swapping out Sharp Jewel+ 4 and Expert Jewel 2 for Mastery Jewel+ 4 and Mastery Jewel 2 in order to receive a full set of Master's Touch.
For Qurious Crafting augments, consider rolling for Wind Mantle, as it synergizes well with the Switch Axe's traditional playstyle and our build's Wirebug Whisperer. Alternative DPS focused augments include Buildup Boost and Powder Mantle which have since been included in TU4's augment pool.

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Abyssal Torrent Dragon Climber

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Abyssal TorrentAbyssal Torrent
Abyssal Torrent Switch Axe Sharpness
350 0 -20%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Dragon Image 15
ーーー
Phial Type Element
Armor Slots Skills
Death Stench Brain XDeath Stench Brain X ③ーー
Archfiend Armor BauloArchfiend Armor Baulo ③②ー
Resentment Lv. 1
Burst Lv. 1
Rathalos Braces XRathalos Braces X ②ーー
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Earplugs Lv. 2
Nargacuga Coil X Nargacuga Coil X ②ーー
Death Stench Heel XDeath Stench Heel X ②①ー
Talisman Rapid Morph Lv.2; with two ② slots or better
Rampage Decoration
Decoration
Skills
Rampage Skill Phial Switch Boost
Build Merits and Notes
Start the endgame off strong with Gaismagorm's Abyssal Torrent! This R10 weapon's healthy purple sharpness and high base attack are bolstered through Attack Boost, Weakness Exploit, and Critical Boost, while the negative affinity is offset with Critical Eye Lv.4. Protective Polish and Speed Sharpening are added to easily maintain sharpness. Staple QoL skills are also added in for comfort as you climb up the endgame.

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Master Rank Build (Mid Game): MR 3-6

Mid Game Rex Thrasher Exhaust Build

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Rex ThrasherRex Thrasher
Rex Thrasher Switch Axe Sharpness
340 0 -20%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
-
ーーー
Phial Type Exhaust 28
Armor Slots Skills
Malzeno HelmMalzeno Helm ②②ー
Kaiser Mail XKaiser Mail X ①①ー
Lunagaron BracesLunagaron Braces ②①ー
Nargacuga Coil X Nargacuga Coil X ②ーー
Death Stench Heel XDeath Stench Heel X ②①ー
Talisman Rapid Morph Lv.2; with two ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration Swap depending on target:
Decoration
Skills
Rampage Skill Depends on Rampage Decoration:
Wyvern Exploit
Anti-Aerial Species
Anti-Aquatic Species
Fanged Exploit
Build Merits and Notes
The later stages of the midgame gave us enough pieces to tame Tigrex's Switch Axe tree once again! Rex Thrasher's -20% affinity is negated by Critical Eye Lv.4, while damage is bolstered by staples such as Weakness Exploit, Attack Boost, and Agitator. The weapon's sharpness is maintained through Master's Touch and Protective Polish. Lastly, overall mobility is bolstered through Evade Extender and Rapid Morph.

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Mid Game Nargacuga Critical Climber

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Crescent Moon+Crescent Moon+
Crescent Moon+ Switch Axe Sharpness
280 0 40%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
-
②ーー
Phial Type Poison 19
Armor Slots Skills
Almudron Helm XAlmudron Helm X ②②ー
Zinogre Mail XZinogre Mail X ①①①
Rathalos Braces XRathalos Braces X ②ーー
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Earplugs Lv. 2
Anjanath Coil X Anjanath Coil X ④①①
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Death Stench Heel XDeath Stench Heel X ②①ー
Talisman Evade Extender Lv.2; with one ② slot or better
Rampage Decoration
Decoration
Skills
Rampage Skill Spiribird Doubled
Build Merits and Notes
We are temporarily ditching exhaust phials at the early stages of the mid game in favor of purple sharpness and high affinity! Damage is bolstered through Attack Boost, Weakness Exploit, and Critical Boost. A steady blend of QoL skills is also added to ensure you stay in the fight longer. You can instantly hop over to Nargacuga's weapon tree as soon as you clear Garangolm.

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Master Rank Build (Early Game): MR 1-2

Conqueress II Exhaust Starter Build

Weapon ATK DEF Affinity
Conqueress IIConqueress II
Conqueress II Switch Axe Sharpness
260 30 0%
Element
/ Status
Slots Rampage Slots
Exhaust Image 32
①①①
Phial Type Exhaust 32
Armor Slots Skills
Ingot Helm XIngot Helm X ④①ー
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Windproof Lv. 1
Volvidon Mail XVolvidon Mail X ①ーー
Earplugs Lv. 1
Jump Master Lv. 1
Rapid Morph Lv. 1
Velociprey BracesVelociprey Braces ③①ー
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Anjanath Coil X Anjanath Coil X ④①①
Attack Boost Lv. 2
Volvidon Greaves XVolvidon Greaves X ①ーー
Talisman Weakness Exploit Lv. 2
Rampage Decoration
Decorations
Skills
Build Merits and Notes
Start off strong in Sunbreak's Master Rank with this aggressive SA build. Damage across the board is boosted, regardless of which switch skills and playstyle you prefer. Exhaust Phials will also be instrumental in keeping MR monsters in check, while skills such as Speed Sharpening and Evade Extender offer solid QoL improvements for the SA.

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Best Skills for Switch Axe

Best Damage Skills

These skills make it possible to deal extra damage! Aim for these skills for maximum DPS to defeat those monsters easier and finish those quests faster!

Best Skills Explanation
Burst
★★★
Activate this skill with ease, thanks to the Switch Axe's continuous combos. This will help further improve the weapon's already-impressive DPS.
Available in Sunbreak Base Game
Element Attack
★★★
Sunbreak featured buffs for elemental damage, making elemental builds viable. Max out this skill to increase damage against monsters. Works best with Element Phial Switch Axes!
Fire | Water | Ice | Thunder | Dragon
Weakness Exploit
★★★
A staple skill for any meta builds. Use this skill to increase your DPS while attacking weakspots!
Attack Boost
★★★
Focusing on this skill increases attack values, which can contribute greatly to DPS! Max it out or get at least 4 levels if you can!
Element Exploit
★★
Amplify your elemental damage even more with this skill. A single point of it is enough to deal significant damage.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 1
Status Trigger
★★
With the Switch Axe's continuous combos, this skill is ideal for Status Builds. Best paired with Evade Window.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 1
Dragon Conversion
★★
When activated, this skill from the Risen Crimson Glow Valstrax Armor will benefit elemental builds, increasing DPS even further!
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 4
Powder Mantle
★★
This skill from the Risen Teostra Armor provides the Switch Axe with additional blast damage every time it activates, contributing greatly to DPS.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 3
Dereliction
★★
Using the Red Scroll increases the Switch Axe's elemental values while using the Blue Scroll increases attack power, improving overall damage. Just be wary of your health!
Available in Sunbreak Base Game
Adrenaline Rush
A perfectly timed evade will give you boost in your damage. Works well with Evade Window equipped.
Buildup Boost
Increases your attack by 20%. Along with Status Trigger, this is an ideal skill to consider with Status Builds.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 2
Stamina Thief
Ideal for Switch Axes with Exhaust Phials.

Best Comfort Skills

These are skills that make managing weapon mechanics a lot easier. Damage is only part of the equation - taking time to slot in comfort skills that increase consistency & comfort will also increase overall DPS!

Best Skills Explanation
Rapid Morph
★★★
A Switch Axe build is not complete without this skill. Rapid Morph speeds up morph speed and damage. This will let you combos more efficiently, which will contribute significantly to your DPS!
Evade Extender
★★★
More distance covered per dodge means you can easily get out of harms way or move to a better position faster to hit enemy weakspots.
Protective Polish
★★★
Switch Axe combos depletes sharpness fast. Always consider maxing this skill out to keep your sharpness high, up to a maximum of 90 seconds!
Wirebug Whisperer
★★★
Maxing this skill out makes your Wirebugs more readily available, allowing you to do more silkbind attacks with your Switch Axe.
Speed Sharpening
★★
Reduces a cycle for sharpening with each level. Synergizes well with the Protective Polish skill.
Wind Mantle
★★
This skill from the Risen Kushala Armor will recharge your Wirebugs faster, giving you more utility with your Switch Axe.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 3
Defiance
★★
Three levels of this skill prevent most roars, tremors, and winds from interrupting your charged attacks. The Cornerstone Jewel is a level 1 decoration, so slot it in whenever possible!
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 1
Flinch Free
★★
Useful especially in multiplayer where minor attacks can interrupt your attacks, especially when trying to charge your weapon!
Power Prolonger
Makes the Amped State of your Switch Axe last longer. Only equip this skill when you're having a hard time doing the Elemental Burst Counter.
Evade Window
Longer invincibility frames greatly improves the Switch Axe's survivability since the Switch Axe can't guard and must only rely on evasion. The optimal level for this skill is 3, so only slot it in whenever you have the chance!
Handicraft
Increases sharpness. Slot this skill in only when necessary!
Intrepid Heart
Whenever the gauge above your health bar is full, this skill can be useful in preventing monster attacks from interrupting your combos, making it possible to pull off an extra charged attack before you can regroup.
Available in Sunbreak Free Title Update 2

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