The Switch Axe is a new weapon class added in Monster Hunter Tri
A powerful melee weapon, capable of such momentum that the hunter swinging it is dragged around by the momentum of each swing. Described as a marvel of technology capable of phantasmagoric might.
The weapon also shows transformation capabilities, one blade shifting while being sheathed as well as sliding to a different position to change its attack style. In its secondary form, the weapon behaves far differently than its standard variation, using a phial of specialized coating to add certain effects to the weapon. The weapon is also able to overload this phial, ending is a concentrated burst.
The true power of the weapon, however is its versatility of the different forms and using combos to link the two types together. Rather than dodge rolling, the Switch Axe has a quick step to the sides, allowing the user to keep focussed on their attack while keeping out of harm's reach.
Energy meter (yellow bar)
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It consists of two forms: Axe and Sword. In Axe mode, it's mobility is kin to that of a Long Sword. While in Sword mode it is reduced to the speed of a Great Sword. The time spent in Sword mode is limited to an energy meter found under the Sharpness indicator. Once this energy bar is depleted, the weapon will change back into Axe form and will need to be reloaded before going back into Sword form.
Each Switch Axe carries a different phial in Sword mode. The different phials are "Power Phial", "Paralysis Phial", "Element Phial", and "Dragon Phial".in MHF3 there will be poison phial and stamina reducing phial
axe mode:
sword mode under overload mode: