How to Get and Use the Scythe Long Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds

The "Grim Reaper" aesthetic has long been a favorite among the Monster Hunter community. Whether you are looking to complete a specific cosplay or simply want your hunter to look like a harbinger of doom, the scythe design offers a distinct visual flair that standard katanas lack. In Monster Hunter Wilds , Capcom has leaned into this demand by reintroducing one of the most iconic weapon designs in the series' history.

This article explores the various ways to obtain a scythe, the technical stats of the top-tier options, and how the new gameplay mechanics in Wilds —such as Focus Mode and the revamped Spirit Gauge—interact with these unique weapon models.

Does Monster Hunter Wilds Have a Dedicated Scythe Weapon Class?

A common question among new players is whether "Scythe" is its own category, similar to the Great Sword or Dual Blades. The answer is no; there is no dedicated scythe class. Instead, scythes are visual variants of existing weapon types. The Long Sword (LS) is the most frequent host for this aesthetic due to its sweeping animations and reach, which naturally mimic the harvesting motion of a scythe.

According to community discussions on Steam , many fans have advocated for a dedicated class that utilizes "sweet spot" mechanics—where hitting with the tip of the blade deals bonus damage. While Capcom has not implemented a new class, the Long Sword's current mechanics in Wilds approximate this feel, especially when using the new Focus Strikes that target specific monster wounds.

Beyond the Long Sword, you can find scythe-like designs in the Switch Axe (notably the Gore Magala line) and occasionally the Great Sword. However, the Long Sword remains the premier choice for those seeking the traditional "reaper" silhouette.

How to Unlock the Gogmazios Long Sword Scythe

The most authentic scythe in Monster Hunter Wilds is the weapon line derived from Gogmazios . This massive, tar-covered Elder Dragon makes its return in Title Update 4 (TU4) , bringing with it some of the most visually striking gear in the game. The weapon, often referred to as the Headsman's Tally or Gloomweaver , is widely considered one of the best-looking items for endgame players.

Unlocking this weapon requires players to progress through the main story of Wilds and reach the Master Rank (or equivalent endgame tier) content introduced in the fourth update. You will need to participate in the "Oil Basin" expeditions or specific Event Quests to encounter Gogmazios.

Materials Needed to Craft the Headsman’s Tally

Crafting the scythe is a multi-stage process. You cannot simply forge the final version; you must evolve it through the "Headsman" weapon tree. Based on early reports from community showcases , the following materials are typically required:

1. Slay Gogmazios: You must successfully complete the TU4 urgent quest to unlock the crafting recipe at the Smithy.
2. Collect Gloomweavers: These are rare drops obtained by breaking the wing-arms of Gogmazios during the fight.
3. Gather Halberd-scales: These are common body carves, but you will need a significant quantity (usually 12-15) for the final upgrade.
4. Wilds Specific Materials: The final tier requires "Heavy Oil Crystals," which are found in the high-rank nodes of the Oil Basin locale.

Gogmazios Long Sword Stats and Meta Viability

The Gogmazios Long Sword isn't just for show; it stands out as a top choice for players who prefer raw damage builds. In the current 2026 meta, the fully upgraded version boasts a base 248 Raw Damage . While it lacks high elemental properties, it often features a hidden Sleep status or a small amount of Fire damage, depending on the specific branch of the tree.

One of its strongest attributes is its Natural Purple Sharpness . In Monster Hunter Wilds , maintaining high sharpness is critical for preventing deflections against armored monsters like the new Doshaguma variants. The Gogmazios scythe offers a generous sliver of purple sharpness, making it highly competitive with other endgame options like the Wyvern Blade "Maple."

Comparing the Gogmazios Scythe to the Paid Alien DLC Skin

For players who do not want to wait until Title Update 4, Capcom offers a paid cosmetic alternative. The "Alien" DLC weapon skin has caused some confusion in the community. While it is marketed as an organic, extraterrestrial design, its unsheathed form is a glowing, biomechanical scythe.

Feature	Gogmazios Scythe	Alien DLC Skin
Acquisition	In-game Crafting (TU4)	Paid Store Purchase
Visual Style	Gothic / Mechanical	Organic / Glowing
Sheathed Look	Folded on back	Attached like a parasite
Meta Viability	High (Endgame Stats)	Cosmetic Only (Applies to any LS)
Cost	Free (In-game effort)	Approx. $3.99 USD

As noted on Reddit , the Alien DLC skin is a popular choice for those who want the scythe look immediately. However, the Gogmazios version is generally preferred by purists for its "transforming" animation—the blade clicks into place when you draw the weapon, providing a satisfying mechanical feel.

How to Use the Scythe Look on Any Long Sword with Layered Weapons

One of the most impactful features in Monster Hunter Wilds is the Layered Weapon system. This allows you to keep the stats of a top-performing weapon (like a high-affinity Rathalos LS) while using the visual model of the scythe. This is the primary way players maintain their "Grim Reaper" look without sacrificing efficiency.

To unlock the Gogmazios Layered Weapon, you must typically defeat the "Hazard" or "Tempered" version of the monster, which arrives shortly after the initial TU4 release. Once you have the "Gogmazios Ticket," you can visit the Smithy's Layered Equipment menu. This is particularly useful if the Gogmazios weapon's natural Sleep status doesn't fit your specific build, allowing you to apply the scythe skin to a more versatile Raw or Blast weapon.

Best Scythe Alternatives for Other Weapon Classes

If you aren't a fan of the Long Sword's counter-heavy gameplay, you can still achieve a similar look with other weapon classes. However, these options come with certain caveats that the community has noted in recent months.

Why the Gore Magala Switch Axe Might Disappoint You

The Gore Magala Switch Axe is a classic "scythe" weapon. In Axe Mode , the blade extends into a beautiful, curved scythe. However, many players on Steam and Reddit have expressed frustration that the weapon feels "short and stubby" compared to the Long Sword version. Furthermore, when you switch to Sword Mode , the scythe shape disappears, transforming into a standard glowing blade. If you want a permanent scythe look, the Long Sword remains a more consistent choice.

Great Sword Scythe Options for Heavy Hitters

There are a few Great Swords that adopt a scythe-like silhouette, such as the Death's Gaze line. These weapons are massive and provide a "Heavy Reaper" feel. While they lack the speed of the Long Sword, the sheer impact of a True Charged Slash with a giant scythe is visually impressive. These are typically unlocked through endgame research quests involving the "Bones" category of materials.

Mastering the Scythe Long Sword with New Wilds Mechanics

Playing with a scythe in Monster Hunter Wilds feels different than in previous titles due to the engine's focus on fluid movement and environmental interaction. The Long Sword, in particular, has received significant updates that make the scythe's "hooking" animations feel more impactful.

How Focus Mode Changes Your Scythe Gameplay

The new Focus Mode is a significant advancement for the series. By holding the Focus button, you can aim your attacks with precision. For scythe users, this is a visual treat. The Focus Strike: Unbound Thrust involves a lunging motion where the hunter "hooks" the monster with the tip of the blade and pulls back. When using a scythe model, this animation looks incredibly natural, as if you are literally reaping the monster's spirit.

According to the Fextralife Wiki , Focus Strikes are the primary way to burst "wounds" on a monster's body. Successfully bursting a wound with a scythe Focus Strike provides a massive boost to your Spirit Gauge, allowing you to reach the Red level much faster than standard combos.

Managing the New Timer-Based Red Spirit Gauge

In Wilds , the Long Sword's Spirit Gauge has been reworked. The Red Gauge is now timer-based rather than being consumed by every Spirit Helm Breaker. This means that once you reach the "Red Glow" on your scythe, you have a set window of time to deal maximum damage. This change encourages a more aggressive playstyle, fitting the relentless theme of a reaper. You can extend this timer by performing successful counters or landing specific Focus Strikes, making the gameplay loop feel like a race against time.

Community-Favorite Scythe Cosplay and Modding Options

The scythe is more than just a tool for hunting; it is a centerpiece for character customization. The Monster Hunter community is known for its creativity, and the scythe has sparked several popular trends.

Creating a Ruby Rose RWBY Cosplay Build

One of the most popular uses for the Gogmazios Long Sword is a cosplay of Ruby Rose from the series RWBY . To achieve this look, players often pair the scythe with the Odogaron Armor (or its Wilds equivalent), which features a red and black aesthetic with a flowing cape. By using the Layered Armor system, you can maintain high-tier skills like Critical Eye and Quick Sheathe while looking exactly like the iconic scythe-wielder.

Using Hugo’s Scythe Mod for Custom Visuals

For PC players, the modding scene offers even more variety. Hugo's Scythe Mod is a popular choice that replaces the Zoh Shia Long Sword with a high-fidelity scythe model from Zenless Zone Zero . While this is only visible to the player (and others with the mod), it provides a way to use a scythe long before reaching Title Update 4. Always remember to play in offline mode or with trusted friends when using visual mods to avoid any potential compatibility issues.

The "Pickaxe Irony" in Weapon Design

A humorous point of discussion in the community is what many call the "Pickaxe Irony." Capcom famously gave the Long Sword a scythe skin, but they gave the Hammer a giant Pickaxe skin. Many players argue that the scythe's vertical "reaping" motion would actually fit the Hammer's moveset better, while the Long Sword's horizontal slashes are more suited to a traditional blade. Despite this, the scythe remains firmly in the Long Sword's camp, much to the delight of LS mains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Gogmazios Long Sword available in the base game of Monster Hunter Wilds?

No, the Gogmazios Long Sword is not part of the initial launch roster. It is added to the game as part of Title Update 4 (TU4). You will need to update your game to the latest version and reach the appropriate Master Rank to access the quest.

Can I get a scythe weapon without paying for DLC?

Yes, the Gogmazios weapon line is a completely free, earnable item within the game. While there is a paid "Alien" scythe skin in the store, the in-game Gogmazios version is widely considered one of the best-looking options and does not require real-world currency.

Does the scythe have a different moveset than a regular Long Sword?

No, the scythe is purely a visual skin for the Long Sword. It uses the exact same animations, counters, and Spirit Gauge mechanics as any other katana in the game. The only difference is the visual "hooking" effect during certain attacks like the Focus Strike.

What is the best armor to pair with a scythe build?

For a scythe-focused build, you should prioritize skills that complement the Long Sword's playstyle. Quick Sheathe Level 3 is essential for faster Special Sheathes, while Critical Eye and Weakness Exploit help leverage the high raw damage of the Gogmazios blade. If you are using the scythe for a Ruby Rose cosplay, the Odogaron set is a top-rated choice for its aesthetics.

How do I unlock Layered Weapons in Wilds?

Layered Weapons are typically unlocked in the endgame after completing the main story. You will need to gather specific "Guide" materials from the various locales and defeat high-level versions of the monsters whose look you wish to replicate. For the Gogmazios scythe, this requires a special ticket from its TU4 event quest.