The combat system in Sons of the Forest is primarily built around melee, as we’ve already discussed in a previous post (Sons of the Forest Combat Guide: Best Weapons, Tactics & Survival Tips) . Of course, you’ll also want to find some proper weapons rather than making do with your small axe or a crafted spear. So we’re covering every location where you can find melee weapons. We recommend reading our guide to the first three caves so you have the crucial items with you (Sons of the Forest caves: best order, locations & tips) . The shovel is especially useful at several of these spots for digging up items.
Sons of the Forest: Locations of all melee weapons (map & tips)
Most melee weapons are scattered across the map. Some are easy to find, others are well hidden and require certain key items. We’ve sorted the weapons by their damage — the further you read, the better they get. You start with two weapons: the knife and the tactical axe. They’ll see you through the opening hours, as the locals often leave you alone at first.
Golf club: The island was once a holiday paradise — the golf course in the north-eastern corner of the map makes that clear. Here you’ll find the weakest weapon in the game, but a fun leisure distraction. You can swing it in combat, but it’s more sensible for actual golfing or for completing your weapon collection. Later it can also be found in the residential bunker.
Guitar: Deals little damage but maximum style factor. It makes a sound when you hit and can even be played. To find it you need the shovel and the Maintenance Keycard. Go to the Entertainment bunker and look for the guitar on the second level.
Stun baton: Often underestimated, as it not only hits hard but also briefly stuns enemies — ideal for following up with a second weapon. From the forest start (freshwater source) just follow the stream downstream; before a small waterfall there’s a pile of skulls with the stun baton. Downside: it needs batteries.
Machete: One of the best early weapons. High damage and very high attack speed. If you spawn at the northern beach, follow the red smoke flare and take it off your unlucky colleague. Perfect against early cannibals.
Chainsaw: Of course it’s in. Deals high damage, but shines mainly as a building tool — trees fall in no time. Location: also in the Entertainment bunker. It doesn’t need fuel, but runs on batteries.
Modern axe: If the tactical axe feels too weak, grab this. Probably the best all-round tool: strong as a weapon, superb for chopping wood. Location: in an abandoned camp, not far from a GPS signal. Keep an eye out for a larger tent camp.
Katana: Very fast and high-damage — ideal for aggressive play. Location: residential bunker on the east side of the island, only accessible later in the game. Requirement: Maintenance Keycard (and for that, the shovel). Beware: the bunker is well guarded by mutants.
Firefighter axe: Unmatched in terms of raw damage. Slow but extremely strong — weaker enemies drop in a few swings. Also excellent for chopping wood. Location: Maintenance bunker in the north-west (shovel required). You’ll also find useful items here such as the Maintenance Keycard.
Crafting recipes for melee weapons: spear and skull club
You can craft two melee weapons yourself. In terms of damage, they sit between the machete and modern axe. As soon as you have the materials, it’s worth crafting both.
Skull club: Recipe: 1× skull, 1× stick, 1× rope. Very useful for the opening hours. You can find skulls without fighting — e.g. in caves or at campsites.
Spear: Probably the best early-game weapon. Works in melee (stabs, good reach) and as a thrown weapon. Also perfect for fishing or hunting small animals. Recipe: 2× sticks, 1× duct tape, knife to sharpen. Tip: After a throw, pick your spears back up straight away.
Conclusion: Best melee weapons and tips for getting started
With melee weapons you’re well equipped against most threats in Sons of the Forest. The further you progress, the better (but often more hidden) the weapons become. Deliberately explore bunkers, secure the shovel and Maintenance Keycard early, then upgrade step by step. Rent one of our Sons of the Forest servers and track down the weapons on this list together with your friends — so everyone ends up with their perfect favourite weapon.
