Does Sunshot Have Explosive Rounds? The Definitive Answer & FAQ Guide

The direct answer is yes, Sunshot does have explosive rounds, or rather, rounds that cause an explosion on impact. This is one of the Sunshot’s defining characteristics and a major part of what makes it such a popular and effective hand cannon in Destiny 2. The exotic perk, Sunburn, ensures enemies killed with Sunshot explode in a ball of solar energy. This explosive effect not only deals damage to nearby enemies but also applies Solar scorch, further enhancing its ad-clearing potential.

Understanding Sunshot’s Explosive Capabilities

Sunshot’s explosion is not just cosmetic; it deals significant solar damage to surrounding targets. This makes it incredibly useful for clearing groups of weaker enemies, or for softening up tougher targets before engaging them directly. The explosive radius is substantial enough to affect multiple enemies clustered together, making it a potent weapon in both PvE and, in certain situations, PvP.

How the Explosion Works

The explosion is triggered specifically when an enemy is killed by Sunshot. Simply damaging an enemy with Sunshot won’t cause them to explode. The explosion is a separate instance of damage, meaning it can critically hit independent of the initial shot. This feature is crucial for maximizing Sunshot’s damage output and area-of-effect potential.

What Makes Sunshot Unique?

While other weapons in Destiny 2 might have explosive perks or abilities, Sunshot’s explosion is intrinsically tied to its identity and its exotic perk. It’s the core reason why players choose Sunshot, offering a satisfying combination of precision shooting and destructive area control. Furthermore, the Sunburn perk also grants increased range, accuracy, and reload speed which stacks on top of the explosion benefits, making Sunshot an extremely versatile weapon.

Sunshot Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide even more in-depth information about Sunshot:

1. What kind of damage does Sunshot deal?

   Sunshot deals solar damage. This makes it effective against enemies with solar shields and can synergize well with solar subclass builds.

2. Does the Sunshot explosion cause Scorch?

   Yes, Sunshot applies Scorch with each kill, thanks to the Sunburn perk. This greatly enhances Sunshot’s utility with solar 3.0 subclass builds, allowing for ignitions.

3. Is Sunshot good in PvE?

   Absolutely. Sunshot excels in PvE, particularly in activities with large numbers of weaker enemies. Its explosive rounds make it a fantastic ad-clearing weapon.

4. How does Sunshot perform in PvP?

   Sunshot can be effective in PvP, although it requires more precision and strategic positioning. The explosion can catch enemies off guard, but generally speaking it is not regarded as a top-tier PvP weapon due to range limitations.

5. Can the Sunshot explosion chain react?

   Yes. If multiple enemies are killed within close proximity by Sunshot, their explosions can chain react, leading to a cascade of destruction.

6. Does Sunshot require any specific catalyst?

   Yes, Sunshot does have a catalyst, which grants the weapon +27 range and +30 stability.

7. Where does the Sunshot catalyst drop from?

   The Sunshot catalyst drops from almost any activity in the game: Strikes, Crucible, Gambit etc. It is a random drop, so be patient.

8. How do I complete the Sunshot catalyst?

   You need to kill 500 enemies with Sunshot. Any enemy will do.

9. Does Sunshot benefit from Solar Surge weapon mods?

   Yes. Since Sunshot deals Solar damage, it benefits from Solar Surge mods on your legs armor, which increase weapon damage when using a Solar subclass.

10. Does Sunshot have any specific mods that work particularly well with it?

    While there aren’t any mods specifically designed for Sunshot, mods that improve reload speed or target acquisition can enhance its overall performance. Mods that grant more ammo, or are general hand cannon mods also work well.

11. What’s the optimal range for using Sunshot?

    Sunshot is most effective at close to medium range. Its damage falloff at longer ranges can make it less reliable. The catalyst does provide an enormous range bonus (+27), making Sunshot more effective at longer ranges.

12. How does Sunshot compare to other Exotic hand cannons?

    Sunshot’s unique explosive capabilities set it apart from other exotic hand cannons. While weapons like Ace of Spades focus on precision and individual kills, Sunshot emphasizes area damage and ad-clearing. Thorn is more of a damage over time and utility weapon. Each hand cannon excels in different areas.

13. Can Sunshot’s explosion break enemy shields?

    Yes, Sunshot’s explosion can break enemy shields, particularly those vulnerable to Solar damage.

14. Does the blast radius of Sunshot’s explosion increase with any mods or perks?

    No, the blast radius of Sunshot’s explosion is fixed and cannot be increased through mods or perks.

15. Is Sunshot worth using in Grandmaster Nightfalls?

    Sunshot can be used in Grandmaster Nightfalls, especially if you have a Solar-focused build. However, its effectiveness is somewhat limited due to the high health and damage resistance of enemies. It is certainly viable in some circumstances.

Mastering Sunshot: Tips and Tricks

To truly excel with Sunshot, consider these tips:

• Prioritize precision shots: Land your shots accurately to ensure kills and trigger the explosive effect.
• Position yourself strategically: Use cover and anticipate enemy movements to maximize the impact of the explosions.
• Synergize with your subclass: Use Solar subclasses and fragments to amplify Sunshot’s damage and effects.
• Take advantage of chaining explosions: Aim for groups of enemies to create devastating chain reactions.
• Utilize the catalyst: Acquire and complete the catalyst to boost Sunshot’s range and handling, significantly improving its overall performance.

Conclusion: Embracing the Explosive Power of Sunshot

Sunshot’s explosive rounds are a core part of its identity, making it a satisfying and effective weapon in Destiny 2. By understanding how the explosion works, and by taking advantage of its unique properties, you can unlock the full potential of this iconic hand cannon. Whether you’re clearing hordes of enemies in PvE or engaging in tactical firefights in PvP, Sunshot’s explosive power is sure to leave a lasting impression.