Destiny 2: How to Unlock Sunshot
Sunshot Destiny 2 is one of the most iconic Exotic Hand Cannons, offering a powerful combination of explosive Solar damage and enemy tracking. Whether you're clearing waves of enemies in PvE or applying pressure in PvP, Sunshot's Sun Blast explosions make it a devastating tool in any Guardian’s arsenal.
This guide covers how to obtain Sunshot, unlock its Exotic Catalyst, and optimize its performance for maximum efficiency across all activities.
What is Sunshot?
Sunshot is an Exotic Solar Hand Cannon in Destiny 2, known for its explosive rounds and ability to highlight damaged enemies. This weapon excels in area-of-effect damage, making it an invaluable tool for clearing groups of enemies in PvE while also pressuring opponents in PvP.
Its intrinsic ability to cause Solar explosions upon kills makes it particularly effective in Nightfall strikes, Raids, and Gambit encounters where crowd control is essential. With the introduction of Solar 3.0, Sunshot Destiny 2 synergizes well with Scorch and Ignition effects, further amplifying its destructive power.
In PvP, its explosive damage provides an edge in combat by forcing opponents out of cover and revealing their locations, making Sunshot a reliable option for aggressive playstyles and team-based engagements.
How to Get Sunshot
Unlike some other Exotics, Sunshot does not have a dedicated quest and cannot be obtained through the Monument to Lost Lights. Instead, it can be acquired through multiple methods, including world drops, vendor purchases, and activity rewards. Below are the best ways to get Sunshot:
Random Exotic Engrams
- Sunshot has a chance to drop from any exotic engram obtained through world drops, Nightfalls, or high-tier activities.
- Prime Engrams also have a chance to reward Sunshot if the player does not already own it.
Xur’s Weekly Inventory
- Xur, the mysterious vendor who appears every weekend, may sell Sunshot in his rotating inventory.
- If Sunshot is available, it can be purchased in exchange for Legendary Shards.
Fated Engram from Xur
- If you have not yet acquired Sunshot, purchasing a Fated Engram from Xur increases the likelihood of obtaining it.
- Fated Engrams grant an exotic weapon or armor piece that you do not already own.
Activity Rewards
- Sunshot has a chance to drop from Nightfalls, Raids, and Legend Lost Sectors.
- Certain seasonal events and exotic loot pools may also include Sunshot as a reward.
Destiny 2 Sunshot Catalyst
The Sunshot Catalyst is an essential upgrade for this Exotic Hand Cannon, enhancing its range, stability, and overall effectiveness. This Catalyst allows Sunshot to become an even stronger force in both PvE and PvP, making it easier to land precision shots and control recoil. With these enhancements, Sunshot maintains its high-impact explosions while improving handling, making it a more reliable choice for Guardians who want both power and consistency in their gameplay.
The Sunshot Catalyst significantly enhances the weapon’s stats, adding:
- +27 Range – Improves accuracy and damage falloff distance.
- +18 Stability – Reduces recoil and improves handling.
How to Get the Destiny 2 Sunshot Catalyst
- The Catalyst is a random drop from Vanguard Ops, Crucible, and Gambit.
- Playing Competitive Crucible matches increases your chances of obtaining the Catalyst.
- The drop is completely RNG-based, so repeated activity completion is required.
How to Upgrade the Catalyst
To fully activate the Catalyst, you must complete:
- 500 Kills with Sunshot – Any enemy defeated with Sunshot counts.
- 1,000 Kills with Sun Blast – Enemies killed by the weapon’s explosion effect also contribute.
Best Places to Farm Catalyst Kills
- Shuro Chi (Last Wish Raid) – A high-density enemy encounter ideal for quick Catalyst progress.
- Grasp of Avarice (Dares of Eternity Opening Area) – Another great spot for farming grouped enemies.
- Altars of Sorrow (Moon) – Features large waves of enemies that respawn quickly.
Sunshot Destiny 2 Stats and Perks
Weapon Stats
Destiny 2 Sunshot Perks
Sunburn
Sun BlastThese perks make Sunshot extremely effective for clearing groups of enemies in PvE and putting pressure on opponents in PvP by marking them and causing explosive damage.
Why Use Sunshot?
Sunshot is a standout Exotic Hand Cannon in Destiny 2 due to its explosive Solar damage, ability to highlight targets, and synergy with Solar 3.0 builds. Its unique perks make it a top-tier option for both PvE and PvP players looking for a powerful primary weapon that excels in wave clear, crowd control, and high burst damage.
PvE Strengths:
- Exceptional for clearing waves of enemies due to its explosion effect.
- Works well with Solar 3.0 builds, enhancing Scorch and Ignition effects.
- Effective against Hive and Taken Thralls, making it ideal for activities like Nightfalls.
- Pairs well with Exotic armor pieces like Ophidian Aspect (Warlock) and Mechaneer's Tricksleeves (Hunter) to enhance handling and reload speed.
PvP Strengths:
- Explosive rounds apply pressure in 1v1 engagements.
- Highlights damaged enemies, allowing easier tracking and team follow-ups.
- Improved range and stability with the Catalyst make it more viable in high-tier Crucible.
- Strong against passive playstyles, forcing opponents to reposition due to area-of-effect damage.
Conclusion
Sunshot remains one of the best Exotic Hand Cannons in Destiny 2, thanks to its explosive Solar damage, enhanced range with the Catalyst, and versatility across PvE and PvP. The weapon’s unique ability to clear large groups of enemies while marking targets makes it particularly effective in high-end content like Grandmaster Nightfalls and Raids. Its fast fire rate and high handling allow for quick follow-up shots, making it a strong choice for aggressive playstyles in PvP.
For Guardians looking to maximize its potential, pairing Sunshot with Solar Fragments that enhance Scorch effects or Exotic armor pieces that improve reload speed can further amplify its performance. Whether you're farming endgame PvE activities, tackling seasonal events, or dominating in Crucible, Sunshot remains an essential and powerful weapon in any loadout. Enhance your Destiny 2 experience with our Boosting services.
FAQ
Yes, Sunshot is excellent for PvE, particularly for clearing waves of enemies due to its explosive Solar damage. It works exceptionally well with Solar 3.0 builds, amplifying Scorch and Ignition effects.
Sunshot is a strong choice in PvP due to its explosive rounds, target highlighting, and increased range with the Catalyst. Its area-of-effect damage can force opponents out of cover and create opportunities for follow-up shots.
Change Log
- 10.03.2025 - Destiny 2: How to Unlock Sunshot published.