Destiny 2 constantly evolves with new weapons, seasonal updates, and meta shifts. One of the latest additions to the sandbox that has players buzzing is the precision bow known as Raconteur. At first glance, it may not stand out compared to more aggressive or exotic bows in the game, but it has generated significant interest among both PvE and PvP players. Is Raconteur good in Destiny 2? The answer depends on how you plan to use it, the perks you roll, and your comfort with bow gameplay mechanics. To determine whether this bow deserves a place in your arsenal, it’s important to break down its stats, strengths, ideal perk combinations, and performance in various Destiny 2 activities.
Overview of Raconteur in Destiny 2
Weapon Archetype and Classification
Raconteur is a legendary precision-frame bow. This means its draw time is longer than lightweight frames, but it deals more damage per shot. Precision-frame bows in Destiny 2 are known for their high accuracy and consistent performance, especially in the hands of skilled players. Raconteur slots into the kinetic weapon category, which allows it to pair with powerful energy weapons for diverse builds.
Base Stats
- Draw Time: 684
- Impact: High
- Accuracy: Excellent
- Stability: Moderate
- Handling: Decent
- Reload Speed: Not applicable (bows don’t reload traditionally)
The stats alone position Raconteur as a solid option in its class. While it doesn’t completely outperform exotics like Le Monarque or Trinity Ghoul, its precision frame allows for high-damage shots and a consistent user experience.
How to Obtain Raconteur
Raconteur is a seasonal weapon, introduced during Destiny 2’s Season of the Deep. Players can obtain it through seasonal activities, focused engrams, or specific vendor rewards. The drop pool makes it reasonably accessible, and players can farm multiple rolls, increasing the chances of landing an ideal perk combination.
Raconteur Perk Pool and God Rolls
Barrel and String Options
- Elastic String Improves draw time, making it feel snappier in combat
- Natural String Balanced across the board, good for beginners
Column 3 Perks
- Archer’s Tempo One of the best bow perks in the game, reduces draw time after precision hits
- Perpetual Motion Boosts stability and handling with movement
- Hip-Fire Grip Useful in PvP for quick, accurate shots without ADS
Column 4 Perks
- Explosive Head Adds splash damage, great for PvE and flinch in PvP
- Successful Warm-Up Increases draw speed after a kill
- Opening Shot Improves accuracy on the first shot, ideal for dueling
PvE God Roll
Elastic String + Archer’s Tempo + Explosive Head
This roll focuses on rapid follow-up shots and area damage. Explosive Head gives you a bit of AoE damage, which helps with crowd control in PvE content.
PvP God Roll
Natural String + Hip-Fire Grip + Opening Shot
This combo boosts Raconteur’s opening duel capability and allows quick precision kills even without aiming down sights. For bow users who prefer a fast and aggressive style in Crucible, this is the roll to chase.
Performance in PvE Activities
Strike and Gambit Gameplay
In strikes and Gambit, Raconteur performs admirably. It can one-shot red bar enemies, and with Archer’s Tempo or Explosive Head, you can clear groups more efficiently than with standard precision bows. It’s not a top-tier boss DPS option, but it’s excellent for mid-range engagements and add-clear roles.
Nightfalls and Raids
While Raconteur won’t replace high-DPS options like rocket launchers or linear fusion rifles, it can be a supportive weapon for players who prefer bow playstyles. It’s useful for staggering enemies, picking off snipers, and even dealing consistent damage to champions when combined with bow-related artifact mods.
Performance in PvP Modes
Crucible Matchups
In PvP, Raconteur’s value depends heavily on accuracy and timing. Precision bows can be lethal when landing headshots, often downing opponents in two quick draws. Raconteur’s stats make it particularly reliable in one-on-one duels, and with the right perks, it competes well against more aggressive close-range options.
Draw Speed and Duel Potential
With perks like Archer’s Tempo or Successful Warm-Up, Raconteur’s draw time shortens significantly after the first kill or precision shot. This creates a fast feedback loop, allowing experienced bow users to chain kills efficiently. It’s not a beginner-friendly choice, but in the hands of the right player, Raconteur is deadly.
Pairing with Other Weapons
For optimal Crucible setups, Raconteur pairs well with sidearms, SMGs, or shotguns. These allow players to close the gap after a first shot or finish weakened enemies quickly. A common combo is Raconteur plus a lightweight frame shotgun, giving flexibility in both ranged and close encounters.
Comparison to Other Bows
Raconteur vs Le Monarque
Le Monarque is an exotic with poison damage and high utility, especially in PvP. Raconteur can’t match its exotic traits, but it offers greater perk variety and can fit more builds due to its legendary status.
Raconteur vs Arsenic Bite-4B
Arsenic Bite is a lightweight frame with faster draw but lower damage. Raconteur is better for players focused on precision kills and consistent damage output, while Arsenic Bite suits those who prioritize speed and mobility.
Raconteur vs Wish-Ender
Wish-Ender is an exotic bow with wall-penetrating arrows and is excellent in PvE. Raconteur doesn’t offer the same utility but is more versatile due to perk rolls and synergy with certain mods.
Final Verdict: Is Raconteur Good in Destiny 2?
Yes, Raconteur is a good weapon in Destiny 2, especially for players who appreciate precision and high-damage, methodical playstyles. In PvE, it’s a solid choice for clearing enemies and adding consistent pressure from a distance. In PvP, it shines when paired with movement perks and accurate aim, rewarding skilled bow users with fast kills and a competitive edge.
While it may not replace exotic bows in power level or flashiness, Raconteur carves out a space as one of the better legendary bows in recent seasons. Its ability to roll with Archer’s Tempo, Explosive Head, or Opening Shot means players can tailor it to their preferred activity. Whether you’re hunting Guardians in the Crucible or fighting through Nightfalls, Raconteur offers reliability, versatility, and enough punch to stay relevant in the current meta.