Nioh 3 – Best Weapons Tier List

In Nioh 3, choosing the right weapon can completely change how you approach combat. Each weapon offers a unique moveset, range, and playstyle, from the balanced swords of the Samurai to the high‑mobility Ninja blades.

Weapons are divided into two core combat styles:

• Samurai Style – Uses stances, Ki Pulses, guarding, and deliberate swordplay.
• Ninja Style – Focuses on speed, mobility, air attacks, dodging, and relentless pressure.

1. Nioh 3 Weapons Tier List

Below is the best weapon tier list in Nioh 3 based on their strengths and weaknesses.

2. S-Tier

These weapons have high DPS, excellent Ki pressure, and are easy to learn but hard to master. Their animations are fluid, mobile, and forgiving, making them dominant in both mob fights and boss encounters.

Sword

Samurai Sword combat

Sword is a core Samurai weapon with balanced reach, fast recovery, and strong fundamentals. It is the best weapon for learning Nioh’s core systems like Ki management, stance switching, and Ki Pulsing.

Strengths

• Balanced damage and speed
• Fast recovery after attacks
• Excellent Ki Pulse windows
• Reliable in almost all encounters

Weaknesses

• Limited range compared to Spears
• Lacks strong crowd control
• Requires good spacing and positioning

Combat Rotation

1. Open the Fight in Mid Stance: Begin combat in Mid Stance, as it provides the best balance between offense and defense. Open with Heaven Flash to quickly close the distance and prevent enemies from freely repositioning. Follow up with Quick Attacks to start applying steady pressure without overcommitting. Sword’s fast recovery allows you to remain safe even during the opening exchange.
2. Apply Ki Damage: Once initial contact is made, weave Sword Ki into your combo. This skill deals heavy Ki damage and is especially effective against guarding enemies. The goal here is not immediate HP damage, but to begin draining the enemy’s Ki so you can control the pace of the fight.
3. Ki Pulse: After completing your opening string, perform a Ki Pulse immediately. Sword benefits heavily from clean Ki Pulses, as they allow you to continue attacking without losing stamina. Proper Ki management here ensures you stay aggressive while avoiding exhaustion.
4. Mid Stance Loop: Continue cycling Quick Attacks into Flowing Shadow while staying in Mid Stance. Flowing Shadow advances forward with multiple hits, keeping enemies locked down and preventing escape. After each combo, Ki Pulse to maintain stamina and repeat the pressure loop. This is the Sword’s core gameplay rhythm.
5. Defensive Transition: If the enemy attempts to counterattack, use Shadow Sword to evade backward while dealing damage. This allows you to disengage without fully giving up pressure. Immediately Ki Pulse after Shadow Sword and return to Mid Stance to resume control.
6. Capitalize on Broken Ki: When the enemy’s Ki is depleted or they are clearly staggered, switch to High Stance. Use Morning Moon for heavy damage, then immediately Ki Pulse and follow with Iai Quickdraw. This sequence delivers strong burst damage while taking advantage of the enemy’s vulnerability.
7. Reset and Re-Engage: After the punish, dodge or guard to reset positioning, switch back to Mid Stance, and restart the pressure cycle. Sword excels when you repeat this flow rather than chasing risky finishers.

Tonfa

Tonfa combat

Tonfa is an S-Tier melee weapon in Nioh 3 built around extremely fast attacks, low Ki consumption, and relentless pressure. It excels at staying in an enemy’s face, rapidly draining Ki and forcing stagger states. Tonfa is especially powerful against bosses and tough enemies that rely on stamina, as it can shut them down through constant Ki damage.

Strengths

• Very fast attack speed
• Low Ki consumption
• Exceptional Ki damage and stagger potential
• Excellent against bosses and elite enemies
• Strong synergy with status effects and elemental buildup
• Recovery-cancel tools allow nonstop pressure

Weaknesses

• Very short range
• Requires staying close to enemies
• Punishing if you mismanage positioning
• Less effective if you disengage too often

Combat Rotation

1. Close Distance and Start Ki Pressure: Begin combat at close range and immediately engage with Light Attacks. Tonfa’s quick strikes allow you to test the enemy while starting to drain their Ki safely. Unlike burst weapons, Tonfa benefits from attacking early rather than waiting for perfect openings.
2. Continuous Light Chains: Once contact is made, continue chaining Light Attacks to apply steady Ki damage. Tonfa light attacks flow smoothly into follow-ups and recover quickly, letting you stay aggressive without burning through stamina. The goal here is not raw damage, but forcing the enemy’s Ki downward.
3. Demon Dance Control: After completing a light string, use Demon Dance to cancel your recovery animation. This allows you to either reposition slightly or immediately continue attacking. Demon Dance is the backbone of Tonfa gameplay, letting you remain glued to enemies while staying safe.
4. Pulverize Loop: From Demon Dance, chain directly into Pulverize. This skill delivers rapid multi-hit strikes that deal massive Ki damage. Continue looping Light Attacks → Demon Dance → Pulverize to maintain pressure. Enemies will quickly struggle to respond as their Ki drains.
5. Heavenly Chain: If the enemy attempts to move or counterattack, use Heavenly Chain to stay connected and maintain momentum. This skill helps you adjust positioning without fully disengaging, keeping Tonfa’s pressure intact.
6. Exploit Low Ki: Once the enemy’s Ki drops low, they will begin to stagger. At this point, increase aggression by repeating Pulverize chains and staying directly in melee range. Tonfa excels here, as staggered enemies cannot escape sustained pressure.
7. Survivability — Dodge Into Whiffs: Instead of backing away, dodge into enemy whiffs and circle around bosses. Tonfa is safest when close, not at range. Tight movement and lateral dodging keep you in control while avoiding heavy hits.
8. Status Application — Sustain Advantage: Throughout the fight, Tonfa naturally builds Poison or elemental status effects due to its multi-hit nature. These effects further amplify damage and pressure, especially during long boss encounters.
9. Reset and Re-Engage: If stamina runs low or the enemy creates space, briefly disengage, recover Ki, and immediately re-enter with light attacks. Tonfa loses strength when idle, so constant engagement is key.

3. A-Tier

These weapons have high damage potential, but require better execution and knowledge of mechanics to reach their full power.

Switchglaives

Switchglaive

Switchglaives are a Samurai melee weapon in Nioh 3 with excellent damage output and deep combo potential. The weapon revolves around stance-based transformations, making it highly effective against both regular enemies and bosses. Switchglaives reward players who master stance switching, timing, and Ki management.

Strengths

• High damage output across all stances
• Excellent combo depth and flexibility
• Strong against both mobs and bosses
• Long reach in High Stance (Scythe form)
• Powerful multi-stance chaining with Martial Arts
• Good mix of melee and ranged pressure

Weaknesses

• Requires frequent stance switching to perform optimally
• Steeper learning curve than most weapons
• Ki management can be punishing if mistimed
• Mistakes during stance transitions leave openings

Weapon Forms and Stances

Switchglaives transform based on stance, changing reach, speed, and attack behavior. Each stance alters your attack patterns, making stance flow the core of Switchglaive gameplay.

• Low Stance — Guillotine Form: Fast attacks, short reach, strong mobility
• Mid Stance — Glaive Form: Balanced range and speed, safest stance for pressure
• High Stance — Scythe Form: Long reach and high damage, best for punish windows

Combat Rotation

1. Mid Stance Control: Start in Mid Stance (Glaive form) to take advantage of balanced reach and safety. Use basic attacks to establish spacing and build pressure without overcommitting.
2. Switch Stance: Blade: Use Switch Stance: Blade to begin offense and transition smoothly into your next stance. This skill should be your main combo entry point.
3. The Path of Three: Flow into The Path of Three after your opener to chain attacks across multiple stances. This creates high-damage strings while maintaining offensive momentum.
4. Apply Pressure — Cyclone: Use Cyclone when enemies are committed or recovering. Its multi-hit nature helps control movement and extend pressure.
5. High Stance Scythe Form: When an enemy whiffs or runs low on Ki, shift into High Stance and use heavy attacks or Arc of Chaos to deal burst damage.
6. Arc of Chaos: Use Arc of Chaos to punish from mid range, finish weakened enemies, or force bosses to respect distance.
7. Pulse Timing: Practice separate Ki Pulse timing, as stance transitions often replace a standard Ki Pulse. Proper timing keeps your pressure safe and continuous.
8. Reset and Repeat: Reposition using Low or Mid Stance movement, then restart the rotation with Switch Stance: Blade.

Splitstaves

Splitstave

Splitstaffs are a Ninja melee weapon in Nioh 3 that specialize in long reach, multi-hit blunt attacks, and heavy Ki pressure. The weapon excels at controlling space and wearing down enemy Ki from a safer distance. However, Splitstaffs consume more Ki than most Ninja weapons, making stamina management a key part of mastering the weapon.

Strengths

• Excellent enemy Ki damage
• Long reach for safe spacing and control
• Multi-hit attacks build pressure quickly
• Strong against tough enemies and bosses
• Effective at hitting enemies before they close distance

Weaknesses

• High Ki consumption
• Less forgiving stamina management
• Overcommitting leads to exhaustion
• Requires disciplined combo usage
• Punishing if attacks are spammed

Combat Rotation

1. Establish Safe Mid-Range Pressure: Begin at a distance where your Fluid Form hits reach enemies before they close in. Use Quick Attacks (hold button) to enter with extended range and multiple hits, consuming a bit more Ki but establishing pressure early. Quick use of Shin Crusher here will start draining enemy Ki fast.
2. Core Fluid Form Loop: After the opener, continue with Serpent Sweep (hold) to thrust forward while keeping staff extended. This move pushes forward and builds heavy Ki damage, letting you keep enemies at bay. Alternate Quick Attack (Extended) → Serpent Sweep → Shin Crusher to keep the combo flowing while managing Ki.
3. Shuffles and Hits: If enemies get close or try to rush you, use Darting Cloud to evade while maintaining offensive threat. This keeps you positioned at optimum range and helps reset Ki slightly without losing pressure.
4. Twin Phoenix Strings: When enemy Ki is low, close further and use Twin Phoenix and its follow-ups (Twin Phoenix II / III) to deal multi-hit blunt damage and drive them into stagger. Hold attack button to extend this combo’s range and hit count for maximum effect.
5. Radiant Moon: Against aerial or jumping foes, use Radiant Moon to close distance and strike from above. This is especially effective when enemies back off or reposition.
6. Fluid Form Usage: Remember that Fluid Form (holding attack button) increases hit count and Ki drain. Only use extended attacks when you’re confident the enemy won’t punish — the tradeoff is far greater Ki damage and control.
7. Regain Control: If Ki becomes low, briefly disengage, reposition with Darting Cloud or backpedal, then re-engage with Quick Attack extensions once your Ki stabilizes.

Dual Swords

Dual Swords Samurai

Dual Swords in Nioh 3 are a fast, Ninja-style dual-wield weapon built around relentless pressure, rapid multi-hit combos, and status application. Wielding a short blade in each hand, Dual Swords excel at Ki damage through sustained offense rather than single heavy hits.

When paired with Onmyo Magic, Talismans, and elemental effects, they become extremely effective at draining both enemy Ki and HP.

Strengths

• Extremely fast attack speed with smooth combo flow
• Excellent Ki damage through repeated multi-hit strings
• Strong synergy with elemental and status effects
• Many skills naturally chain into one another
• Excels at punishing guarded or Ki-depleted enemies

Weaknesses

• Short reach compared to Spears or Switchglaives
• Lower block stability — guarding recklessly is risky
• Requires constant Ki awareness due to nonstop attacking
• Overcommitting can leave you exposed if Ki runs out

Combat Rotation

1. Start Pressure Immediately: Begin combat with quick attacks to establish pressure. Dual Swords perform best when you start attacking early, rather than waiting for perfect openings. Use Cherry Blossom to close distance safely if the enemy is slightly out of range.
2. God of Wind Loop: Once in range, chain God of Wind → God of Wind II repeatedly. These fast-advancing slashes rapidly drain enemy Ki while keeping you mobile. This is your main pressure tool against guarded or defensive enemies.
3. Moon Shadow Trigger: When enemies block your attacks, immediately follow up with Moon Shadow. This skill is designed specifically to punish guarding enemies and will shred their Ki far faster than normal hits.
4. Water Sword Dump: Once the enemy’s Ki is low or broken, commit to Water Sword. This skill delivers a massive number of hits in a short time, making it perfect for: Draining the last of enemy Ki, applying elemental or poison buildup, and dealing burst damage during stagger.
5. Sign of the Cross: After a Ki break or knockdown, sheath briefly and execute Sign of the Cross for a high-damage finisher. This is your strongest burst option and works best when enemies are staggered or recovering.
6. Reset or Re-engage — Ki Awareness: If your Ki drops low, disengage immediately using dodges or Mind’s Eye. Dual Swords thrive on aggression, but getting greedy leads to punishment. Re-engage once Ki stabilizes and restart the pressure loop.

Ninja Swords

Ninja Sword

Ninja Swords in Nioh 3 are a Ninja-exclusive melee weapon focused on fast slashes, forward momentum, and sustained Ki damage. They excel at mid-range pressure and stamina drain, sitting between Talons’ extreme speed and Tonfa’s raw Ki destruction.

Strengths

• Fast slashing attacks with strong Ki damage
• Excellent mid-range pressure with forward-moving skills
• Smooth transitions between light and heavy attacks
• Strong stagger potential once enemy Ki drops
• Synergizes well with Ninjutsu tools and ranged harassment

Weaknesses

• Not the fastest Ninja weapon (Talons outperform)
• Not the highest Ki damage dealer (Tonfa outperform)
• Requires close positioning without overcommitting
• Relies heavily on movement and dodging for defense
• Punishing if Ki management is ignored

Combat Rotation

1.  Mid-Range Engagement: Start fights just outside enemy melee range. Use Swallow Slash to close distance safely and establish immediate pressure. This keeps you aggressive without committing too deep.
2. Build Ki Pressure: Chain light attacks into strong attacks to steadily drain enemy Ki. Ninja Swords shine when you mix fast slashes with heavier follow-ups instead of spamming one button.
3. Shadow Cyclone: Once the enemy begins guarding or slowing down, use Shadow Cyclone. The multi-hit spin rapidly eats through Ki and prevents enemies from easily counterattacking.
4. Stagger Setup — Sky Piercer: When enemy Ki drops low, use Sky Piercer to stagger or launch them. This creates a brief control window that lets you reposition or continue pressure safely.
5. Kurama Sword Dance: During stagger or low-Ki moments, commit to Kurama Sword Dance. This skill delivers rapid hits and significant Ki damage, often pushing enemies directly into a full Ki break.
6. Iai Slash: After a Ki break or knockdown, sheath briefly and unleash Iai Slash for burst damage. This works best when enemies cannot retaliate.
7. Reset or Extend: If your Ki dips low, disengage immediately with dodges or Haze, then re-enter with Swallow Slash. Ninja Swords rely on movement, not blocking, to stay alive.
8. Ninjutsu Integration: Between rotations, throw Kunai, Shuriken, or bombs to maintain pressure from range, force movement, or finish off weakened enemies before re-engaging.

Spears

Spear

The Spear is a Samurai melee weapon in Nioh 3 that excels at long-range pokes, spacing, and battlefield control. Thanks to its superior reach and versatile thrust-and-sweep moveset, the Spear allows you to pressure enemies safely while controlling positioning.

Strengths

• Excellent range and spacing control
• Strong crowd control through sweeping attacks
• Versatile stance-based combos
• Reliable Ki damage through repeated thrusts
• Safe poke-heavy playstyle for beginners and experts

Weaknesses

• Lower burst damage compared to Axes or Odachi
• Requires spacing discipline to avoid whiffs
• Less forgiving if enemies close in unexpectedly
• Damage depends heavily on maintaining optimal distance

Combat Rotation

1. Establish Optimal Range: Begin combat just outside enemy melee range. Use basic thrust attacks or Chidori to poke safely and test enemy reactions. The goal is to pressure without letting enemies close the gap.
2. Thrust Control Loop: Once spacing is set, chain basic thrusts → Spear Shove. Spear Shove staggers enemies and chips away at Ki, making it harder for them to retaliate or advance.
3. Twisting Spear: When enemies commit to advancing or attacking, use Twisting Spear. This skill deals solid Ki damage and keeps enemies locked in front of you while maintaining distance.
4. Windmill Sweep: Against multiple enemies or aggressive rushdowns, activate Windmill. The wide spinning arc controls space and prevents enemies from surrounding you.
5. Spearfall: After dodging an enemy attack or during a Ki-depleted state, use Spearfall to punish. This is your main high-damage commitment and should only be used when openings are guaranteed.
6. Pole Kick: If enemies slip too close, interrupt them with Pole Kick to regain spacing. Immediately follow with a thrust or dodge backward to reset distance.
7. Reset and Re-Engage: After each pressure sequence, reposition slightly to maintain ideal range. Spears are strongest when enemies are always one step away from landing hits.

4. B-Tier

Weapons in this tier can provide decent DPS and high mobility. These weapons have lower damage than the spear and sword, but are still effective when used properly.

Odachi

Odachi Ninja combat

The Odachi is a Samurai‑style greatsword in Nioh 3 known for its crowd control, staggering power, and long‑reaching, wide swings. This heavy blade excels at breaking enemy Ki and stamina, controlling space with large sweeping attacks, and punishing openings with devastating blows.

Strengths

• Exceptional Ki damage and stagger potential
• Long reach lets you poke safely from mid‑range
• Wide sweeping attacks are strong against groups
• High damage finishers in High Stance
• Excellent at breaking guards and creating openings

Weaknesses

• Slow attack speed
• High Ki consumption
• Missing attacks leaves you vulnerable
• Requires precise timing to avoid punishment
• Less fluid than lighter weapons in tight spaces

Combat Rotation

1. Establish Range and Ki Awareness: Start engagements by using safe horizontal sweeps like Hanging Moon or Twin Tempest from mid‑range to pressure enemies as they approach. Odachi’s long reach lets you threaten before they can close.
2. Sweeping Strings: Once the enemy commits, continue pressure by chaining Twin Tempest into Sweeping Tail. These attacks deliver multiple hits that erode enemy Ki while controlling space.
3. Ray of the Sun: When enemies begin to stagger or back off after pressure, follow with Ray of the Sun from High Stance. This thrust hits hard and creates openings for heavier finishers.
4. Earth Splitter: After establishing openings or breaking enemy Ki, use Earth Splitter for heavy burst damage. This skill transitions from stance to finisher and deals massive Ki and HP damage when timed correctly.
5. Manage Ki: Odachi consumes a lot of Ki, so insert Ki Pulses after heavy strings whenever safe. This prevents overexhaustion and keeps follow‑ups available.
6. Reversal and Deflect: If you mistime an attack or an enemy counters, use Reversal Step to dodge backward and land a counter strike. Deflect Stance can also be used to negate incoming hits if timed precisely.
7. Reset Positioning: Once a punish or combo finishes, reset spacing with backward steps or reposition to mid‑range. Odachi is at its best when enemies must run into your range rather than you chasing them.

Talons

talons Ninja style

Talons are a Ninja‑exclusive melee weapon in Nioh 3 defined by high mobility, rapid combo flow, and devastating close‑range pressure. With very fast attack speed and strong combo potential, Talons excel at wearing down enemy Ki and triggering stagger states.

Strengths

• Extremely fast attack and movement speed
• Strong combo flow with both ground and aerial follow‑ups
• Excellent Ki drain through rapid jabs and slashes
• Can quickly transition into big damage after Ki break
• Good reposition options via Ninja mobility tools

Weaknesses

• Very short range
• Requires close proximity — vulnerable if spacing is lost
• Lower block stability — defense must rely on dodging
• Some combos are tight‑timing and require practice

Combat Rotation

1. Pressure First: Start with Lightning Step or Evade Root to close distance without overcommitting. Immediately initiate pressure with Whirling Tiger to begin draining enemy Ki while keeping mobility high.
2. Rapid Ground Strings: Once in close range, chain light attacks into Whirling Tiger repeatedly. These fast multi‑hit strings will heavily chip away at enemy Ki while preventing them from retaliating.
3. Flying Fist: When enemy Ki begins dropping or they try to retreat, leap into Flying Fist. This aerial strike deals solid damage and extends your combo, catching enemies off guard as they try to reposition.
4. Earthshaker: After landing from the aerial follow‑up, continue pressure with Earthshaker to stagger and control the fight on the ground. This helps maintain combo flow and prevents the enemy from resetting their stance.
5. Rising Claw/Tornado Dance: Once the enemy’s Ki is low or broken, use Rising Claw to lift them, then follow immediately with Tornado Dance. This sequence delivers consistent damage while keeping enemies locked down during their vulnerable state.
6. Mobility and Reset: After the combo finishes or if your Ki dips low, use Lightning Step or Phantom Leap to safely reposition and reset the fight. Talons thrive when you control spacing, so don’t stay in pressure loops if your stamina is depleted.
7. Cicada Shell: If the enemy counters or you eat a heavy attack, trigger Cicada Shell to gain a temporary defensive edge and reposition. Use this opportunity to regroup before re‑engaging.

Axes

Pickaxe (Axe weapon)

Axes are a Samurai‑style heavy melee weapon in Nioh 3 that deliver massive damage and outstanding stagger potential. Their wide, crushing blows deal both HP damage and Ki damage, making them excellent against bosses and large enemies.

Strengths

• Huge damage per hit
• Excellent stagger and Ki pressure
• Many skills are uninterruptible, dealing reliable follow‑up damage
• Great for punishing openings and finishing off heavy foes
• Strong utility and effects in certain Martial Arts skills

Weaknesses

• Slow attack speed and long wind‑ups
• Missing swings leaves you exposed
• High Ki cost — poor stamina management is dangerous
• Not suited for quick or evasive combat
• Requires timing and patience

Combat Rotation

1. Wait for a Clear Window: Unlike fast weapons, do not rush attacks with Axes. Begin by observing enemy movement and staggering patterns. Only engage with a slow, deliberate attack when an enemy finishes an animation or pushes into an opening.
2. Spinning Crusher — Wear Down Ki: Once you see an opening, use Spinning Crusher. This multi‑hit swing aggressively chips away enemy Ki while keeping you safe thanks to its large hit count. Follow up with Earthsplitter for heavier damage once the Ki bar is visibly low.
3. Earthsplitter: When an enemy’s attack finishes or their Ki breaks, follow immediately with Earthsplitter. This skill hits hard and often catches enemies mid‑recovery, resulting in maximum stagger and damage.
4. Skyward Bash: If the enemy recoils or tries to flee after Ki pressure, use Skyward Bash to maintain aggression and force them back into a committed animation. This set‑up is excellent for combo follow‑ups or finishing blows.
5. Maintain Ki: Axes have heavy Ki consumption, so insert Ki Pulses after each committed combo if safe. Good stamina management here is critical because running out of Ki near a boss or thick mob can lead to punishment.
6. Raging Tide: Once the enemy’s Ki is severely depleted or broken, use Raging Tide as a high‑damage finisher. This skill hits multiple times and is excellent for dealing heavy damage to both bosses and groups at close range.
7. Breaker Stance: If an enemy continues aggression, consider entering Breaker Stance to absorb and retaliate. From here, you can use Reversal Chop to counterattack while maintaining durability.
8. Reset and Re‑Engage: After finishing a heavy combo or taking a risk, step back briefly to recover Ki or reset distance. Axes work best when you pick openings rather than force them.

Dual Ninja Swords

Ninja Dual Swords

Dual Ninja Swords are a Ninja‑exclusive melee weapon in Nioh 3 that emphasizes high mobility, rapid slashes, and relentless combo pressure. Wielding two short blades, this weapon thrives in close‑range combat and keeps enemies off balance by chaining fast hits and repositioning frequently.

Strengths

• Extremely fast attack speed
• High combo pressure with many small hits
• Excellent at draining enemy Ki/stamina
• Great mobility via dashes and dodges
• Skills chain fluidly into one another
• Strong follow‑ups from openings

Weaknesses

• Very short reach — must be up close
• Lower block stability — defense must rely on mobility
• Can exhaust Ki if combos are overcommitted
• High tempo playstyle demands constant positioning

Combat Rotation

1. Close Distance with Momentum: Start by closing the gap using Phantom Dash or Blade Steps so you’re immediately in melee range. Then open with Shadow Slice — this advancing slash gets you into the enemy quickly and starts your combo rhythm.
2. Chain into Spinning Drill: Once in range, immediately follow Shadow Slice with Spinning Drill. This skill hits rapidly, dealing heavy Ki damage while keeping the combo flow high. The goal here is to start draining enemy Ki before they react.
3. Cloudsplitter Follow‑Up: After Spinning Drill connects, continue into Cloudsplitter. This forward dash + slash keeps you on the offensive, carrying momentum into additional hits and keeping pressure constant.
4. Spinning Gale: When enemy Ki is dropping but not broken yet, weave in Spinning Gale to maintain multi‑hit pressure. This wide spinning attack hits multiple times and continues draining Ki while you stay mobile.
5. Abscission Burst: Once the enemy’s Ki drops low or they stumble, commit to Abscission. This mid‑combo burst deals high Ki damage and often staggers enemies, allowing you to follow with extra light attacks or reposition.
6. Phantom Dash/Cicada Shell: If the enemy backs off, use Phantom Dash to close distance. If you eat a hit or need to reset, trigger Cicada Shell after a dodge to gain temporary defense while you reposition.
7. Reset Combo: When your Ki gets low or you need a breather, use Evade Root to exit and re‑enter combat fluidly. Follow with Shadow Slice to restart your pressure loop.

Hatchets

Hatchets

Hatchets are a Ninja‑style weapon in Nioh 3 that blend ranged throws with close‑quarters melee. They’re one of the few Ninja weapons that let you attack from a distance before diving in for melee follow‑ups, offering a unique hybrid playstyle.

Strengths

• Capable of ranged hatchet throws to soften or interrupt enemies before melee.
• Effective for mid‑range pressure unlike most Ninja weapons.
• Quick repositioning and hit‑and‑run flexibility.
• Decent mix of Ki damage and chip damage depending on skill usage.

Weaknesses

• Short-range melee options are generally weaker than other Ninja weapons.
• Hatchet throws do not count as melee attacks for some damage bonuses, complicating damage scaling.
• Not the best at sustained pressure compared to Tonfa/Talons.
• Requires juggling between ranged throws and close in melee.

Combat Rotation

1. Open the Fight: Start at mid‑range and charge a Dual Hurl (hold attack button) to throw one or both hatchets before enemies close. This chips Ki and HP from a safer distance, forcing reactions. If a fast enemy approaches, use Dual Hurl Light to shorten wind‑up or Dual Hurl Shadow for extra throw distance.
2. Mountain Climber Engage: After the initial throw, use Mountain Climber to leap in while keeping pressure. This helps you close and maintain offensive momentum. Once close, follow up with light melee attacks to start melee pressure.
3. Wolf’s Rage & Biting Hail: Chain your quick melee hits into Wolf’s Rage when enemies counter or guard. Wolf’s Rage deals strong guard‑breaking damage and can reset pressure flow. Use Biting Hail post‑evade to reposition while throwing an additional hatchet.
4. Chain Hurl Follow‑Ups: As the enemy’s Ki drops, reposition back to mid‑range and use Chain Hurl / Chain Hurl II to continue throwing without needing to be in melee range. This helps keep pressure while you manage Ki and spacing.
5. Mountain Hawk: Once the enemy’s Ki is low or they stagger, commit to a close‑range melee sequence and finish with Mountain Hawk. This follow‑up throw hits shortly after a quick attack and helps both finish Ki and deal HP damage.
6. Reset and Re‑engage: If your Ki drops or enemies close aggressively, back off using Evade or Cicada Shell. Use these to reposition and regain control, then re‑establish ranged throws with Dual Hurl to reset pressure.

5. C-Tier

Weapons in this tier have low DPS, and the animation can slow down the mobility. These weapons are not recommended if you plan to dominate enemies in combat.

Cestuses

Leather Cestus fist combat

Cestuses are Samurai-style fist weapons in Nioh 3 that focus on fast, multi-hit melee attacks. They excel at breaking enemy Ki quickly and maintaining aggressive pressure in close quarters. While fast, they lack range and raw damage compared to higher-tier weapons, making them less optimal for dominating battles.

Strengths

• Extremely fast attack speed
• Multi-hit combos build Ki pressure quickly
• High mobility in melee range
• Excellent for staggering or interrupting enemies
• Good flow into Martial Arts skills for combo extensions

Weaknesses

• Very short range — must stay in enemies’ faces
• Low raw damage compared to S‑ or A-tier weapons
• Vulnerable if you mismanage positioning or dodge timing
• Less effective against heavily armored foes

Combat Rotation

1. Open the Fight: Start by closing the gap with Phantom Dash to get within melee range quickly. Immediately initiate with Beyond Infinity — its rapid multi‑hit nature is perfect for draining enemy Ki early without overcommitting.
2. Expand Hits With Dancing Kick: After the initial punch string lands, follow up with Dancing Kick to extend your combo and continue wearing down the enemy’s Ki while remaining in close range. These fast hits keep enemies staggered and limit their ability to retaliate.
3. Flying Fist: Once you’ve applied enough early pressure, use Flying Fist to launch into a mid‑combo aerial strike. This is especially useful if the enemy tries to back off or reposition during your assault.
4. Battering Ram: After the aerial follow‑up, transition into Battering Ram for a heavy, committed strike. Battering Ram deals both Ki and HP damage and can help push a struggling enemy further toward stagger or break.
5. Fracture Foe: When the enemy’s Ki is significantly depleted or momentarily breaks, use Fracture Foe as a finisher. This strong blow capitalizes on openings and often leads to extended stagger or guard breaks, setting up your next rotation.
6. Defensive Reset: If you feel the enemy is about to counterattack or your Ki is low, use Evade Root to exit and reposition, then Cicada Shell to gain temporary defensive bonuses while you prepare to re‑engage.
7. Fists of Reckoning: When in High Stance or after a Quick Attack, unleash Fists of Reckoning to deliver a flurry of punches for additional pressure and Ki buildup. This is especially useful in a reset or stagger window.

Kusarigama

Kusarigama

The Kusarigama is a Ninja‑style melee weapon in Nioh 3 that combines ranged pulls and close‑quarters slashes. Using a chain and sickle, it features one of the longest reach options among Ninja weapons and can drag enemies toward you before punishing them up close.

Strengths

• Excellent range and control thanks to chain reach and pulls
• Can drag enemies to you for follow‑ups
• Works well for crowd control and spacing‑based play
• Decent multi‑hit combos with Ki buildup
• Flexible mix of ranged initiation and close combat follow‑ups

Weaknesses

• Lower raw damage compared to higher‑tier weapons
• Requires good timing and spacing awareness
• Not as straightforward to combo as faster weapons
• Takes practice to avoid whiffed attacks and punishment

Combat Rotation

1. Ranged Pull to Close Gap: Start from mid‑range by throwing your chain with Serpent Strike. If the enemy is large or stationary, this will automatically pull them toward you and close distance without exposing you to attacks. This initiates combat on your terms.
2. Foot Sweep Setup: After pulling your foe in with Serpent Strike, immediately use Foot Sweep when close to knock them off balance. This creates a brief opening where their Ki is vulnerable before they can react.
3. Leaping Strike: Once Foot Sweep lands or after a successful pull combo, jump in with Leaping Strike to hit from above and continue pressure. This covers distance fast and adds hits to build Ki damage.
4. Whirlwind: If multiple enemies are approaching or a single target is backing off after your initial hits, use Whirlwind. This swings your Kusarigama in a wide circle and finishes by throwing the weight forward — effective at both breaking Ki and controlling space.
5. Close and Repeat: After Whirlwind or a close‑range string, reposition using dodges or lateral movement. Kusarigama thrives when you attack from range, pull, then punish up close — never just blindly rush.
6. Grind Ki — Drag and Punish: If an enemy tries to keep distance, repeat Serpent Strike or Black Vines to drag them in again before they can react. Once they’re staggered or Ki‑broken, you can finish with another Foot Sweep → Leaping Strike sequence.
7. Reset and Maintain Control: If your Ki dips low or enemies start countering, back off slightly, let Ki recover, then re‑engage with a ranged pull. Kusarigama works best as a flow‑based weapon: pull → sweep → leap → whirlwind → reposition.

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