u/Prudent-Goal6544

I just recently swapped from a sub optimal GS build to a fully built GMT/LS swaxe build. I’ve been joining some hunts with my buddies and I’ve had damage trackers on just for myself to see and I can’t seem to get nearly as much damage as I was hoping for. In bigger hunts like gogmazios with less wounds and more movement I can’t get good damage off and even on hunts like Arkveld or Rey Dau I can’t seem to stack up as much damage as I was getting before. I get I don’t have the experience to back it up yet but I’ve really been frustrated with how far I’ve fallen behind. Any tips in the right direction will help.

What do you guys think is the coolest looking layered swaxe?

You’ve all been very helpful so far so I’d like to ask some questions about how exactly to flow and play this weapon:

1. What is the best way to deal damage?

- I’ve seen some people say the Triangle/Y combo is good, but do I just walk up to the monster, do that as much as I can, and call it a day (No full release, maybe some counters, and maintain uptime in sword mode as much as possible?)

2. When exactly should I charge power axe mode?

- Is it even necessary at all? Do I charge it during wound focus strikes as opposed to doing the FRS?

3. When should I FRS or ZSD?

- Is it taboo to use ZSD? I’ve seen some people say FRS isn’t as good as it was so when, if at all really, do I use it?

- I’m also aware that using either eats up switch gauge so how can I weave morphs to keep that up?

4. What is the best way to keep/maintain the Amp gauge/state and stay in sword mode?

- It feels like I’ve got to attack the monster for 3 minutes just to fill the gauge. Is there a combo that’s better for filling up the gauge?

5. How should I remain mobile and close distance?

- I know some morphs and some axe moves close distance but is there a strict code on how to do that better (like literally just rolling all the time) or do I just have to get a grasp for it on my own?

Sorry for how long and kind of “word-vomit”-esque this is. I’ve been a little stuck with the weapon and feel like I’m slamming a square shape into the circle hole while playing this weapon.