In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, its ability to provide potent buffs for both you and your allies makes it a favorite among experienced hunters. Mastering the Hunting Horn requires understanding its melodies and utilizing them strategically to gain the upper hand in battle. Let's explore how to unlock its full potential.
Recommended Videos: Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
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All Hunting Horn 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. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Allows for attacks from behind and moves the hunter backward. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack producing a note. The specific note depends on the button combination used (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effects. Stored melodies play sequentially; individual melodies can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat can be executed with R2/RT during multiple melodies, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend effects. Timing these with Melody Effects enhances their power. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Creates an Echo Bubble, the type determined by the equipped Hunting Horn. Up to three notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Plays a unique Melody Effect associated with the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody is not overwritten. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the performance. Proper timing increases damage. |
Hunting Horn Combos

Beyond its musical abilities, the Hunting Horn delivers powerful blunt force trauma. Here are some key combos:
Overhead Smash Combo
A fundamental 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
Effective against incapacitated enemies: Begin 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).
Hunting Horn Tips and Strategies

Mastering the Hunting Horn involves controlling buffs and timing attacks for maximum impact, especially in cooperative hunts.
Note Mastery
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. The top-right corner displays the note-command correspondence. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes during the second attack. Notes can even be played while mounted on your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack songs for multiple buffs, selecting buffs suited to the situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Bubble Utilization
Maximize Echo Bubble use. It provides three additional note inputs, amplifies damage, and boosts evasion/movement speed—crucial for survival, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement Skill
Prioritize the Self-Improvement skill to at least level 2 (20% attack boost).
Special Performance Readiness
Always have a Special Performance ready. For example, the Offset Melody can be prepped and used to knock down attacking monsters by activating the Special Performance (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) just as the monster connects.
This comprehensive guide should help you dominate with the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.