All Perks are unique in the effect they add. There are lots of different types of perks, some give protection, and others give damage buffs. Then you get the ones that add different benefits. On most gear, you get a random perk slot. So, if you have a weapon you like but it doesn't have that perk you can always grind to obtain it on that weapon. Keep in mind that not all perks are suitable or applicable to all gear.

How good are swords in New World?

Swords are amazing if the player is comfortable using them. Swords are paired with shields most of the time and are most commonly used by Damager, Tank, or more recently Paladin Builds. It’s the first weapon you play with when you join the game and it is easy and reliable to play with.

1. Keenly Jagged, The Butcher

Causing bleed can be an amazing effect that can help you deal great amounts of damage. Bleed causes steady damage for a few seconds which could allow you to get out infront of your enemy. Extra damage is always a good thing, don’t you agree?

Effect

• Inflicts Bleed on critical hits, dealing 10% weapon damage per second for 6s (7s cooldown).

My opinion on this perk is that it is great for all builds, and it can be useful in many situations. Keenly Jagged is one of the greatest bleed effect perks available in the game. 

My analysis is that this perk is one of the best perks for causing damage over time. It will allow you to inflict damage that could bring with it the killing blow.

If your angle is precision, this is the blade you seek. It is honed to bring with it devastation without pause and will surely serve your purpose well.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Magnify ( to highest attribute).
• Hemorrhage: Bleeds last 33% longer (Works on both weapons).
• Jagged Whirls: Whirling blade inflicts bleed, dealing 10% weapon damage for 6s.
• Empowering Whirling Blade: When 3 more enemies are within its radius while performing a Whirling Blade attack, gain 52% base damage.
• Keenly Jagged: Inflicts Bleed on critical hits, dealing 10% weapon damage per second for 6s (7s cooldown).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: For one it’s an Artifact which makes it totally OP, that is if you know how to use it to its fullest. It causes catastrophic bleed damage which makes it easier to bring death to your foes. It is the best sword to cause great amounts of damage.

2. Hated, Stalagmite

Being hated by your foe can give your allies a little bit of help. Hated causes agro allowing you to draw your foes to you. When all the attention is on you, your friends can strick without worry.

Effect

• Generate 159% more threat.

In my opinion, this perk is great for a Tank or Paladin Builds. It adds the effect of aggroing the enemy and this is what those Builds excel at. If your armor is suitable for these builds taking damage is your game.

My analysis is that the effect this perk adds can be increased by adding a carnelian gem. So, if you want a stronger pull, use a gem to increase its power.

Where, oh where, did this masterpiece come from? No one knows its origin, it could be from below or within, wield it with pride warrior.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.
• Requirement: Level 61.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Strength.
• Enchanted: Light and Heavy attacks deal +5% damage.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Hated: Generate 159% more threat.
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: This sword has the effect of hatted and a little bit of extra damage which makes it a great sword selected by only a few builds. It may be on the heavier side but it packs a punch.

3. Empowering Leaping Strike, Primal Straightsword of the Ranger

Damage, damage, and more damage, one of the most important tools at our disposal in the game. Take on all your enemies and destroy them, you will cause more damage than normal.

Effect

Sword

• Sword attacks deal +33% damage to targets Slowed by Leaping Strike’s Cowardly Punishment upgrade.

Other Gear

• Sword attacks deal +19% damage to targets Slowed by Leaping Strike’s Cowardly Punishment upgrade.

In my honest opinion damage is very important in the game as it can be the difference between you surviving or dying. Having a strong hit is needed if you want to survive.

My analysis is that the more damage you do the better your chances of conquering the game are. Come in hitting hard and leave your mark.

Once part of a great beast, this sword knows its way. It may appear skew but know it is straight as can be.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Dexterity.
• Keenly Empowered: Gain 10% Empower for 5s on a critical hit (10s cooldown).
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Empowering Leaping Strike: Sword attacks deal +33% damage to targets Slowed by Leaping Strike’s Cowardly Punishment upgrade.
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: the damage of this sword is an amazing benefit with the right random perk it can be unstoppable. You may have to grind a bit to get what is required but kn

4. Mortal Fortification, Verglas Sword of the Ranger

Fortify is a protection perk, it increases your damage absorption. This can make a huge difference in how long you can last in a fight.

Effect

• Gain 30% Fortify for 20s on kill (1s cooldown).

In my opinion, this perk is one of the best protection perks in the game. This perk is great for almost all builds. 

My analysis is that this perk is perfect when matched with a perk that causes damage. Select the perk you use with it according to the weapon you select.

Feel the glowing power this mighty weapon brings forth from the Glacial Tarn. Forged from ancient materials such as steel and Ice, it gives perfection new meaning.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Dexterity.
• Vicious: +7% critical damage.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Mortal Fortification: Gain 30% Fortify for 20s on kill (1s cooldown).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: Well I would recommend all of the Verglas gear as they are amazing. It offers protection and extra damage. Additionally, it brings you a high gear score.

5. Empowering Whirling Blade, The Dueler

Whirling blade is a great ability this perk adds to the damage that it causes.

Effect

Sword

• When 3 or more enemies are within its radius while performing a Whirling Blade attack, gain 52% base damage.

Other Gear

• When 3 or more enemies are within its radius while performing a Whirling Blade attack, gain 33% base damage.

In my expert opinion, this perk is only useful to anyone who loves to play with Whirling Blade ability. This perk can be used on other gear but you will still need the sword to apply its effect. My analysis is that it can be used for most builds that use swords. Keep in mind the perk, ability, and weapon will vary the effectiveness.

I may not care much to duel, but holding this impeccable piece of steel revitalizes the champion in me.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Constitution.
• Empowering Whirling Blade: When 3 or more enemies are within its radius while performing a Whirling Blade attack, gain 52% base damage.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Mortal Lifesteal: +10% Health on kill (1s cooldown).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: It's got a boost to one of its abilities which adds to the damage you cause to your foe. Then adding the health gain you get, makes it perfect.

6. Contagious Reverse Stab, Root

Reducing the debuffs you have is very useful as it can save you in your time of need. 

Effect

Sword

• Hitting a target transfers 2 active debuffs from yourself to the target. Reverse Stab deals +18% damage.

Other Gear

• Hitting a target transfers 2 active debuffs from yourself to the target. Reverse Stab deals +11% damage.

In my honest opinion, this perk can be useful if added to your sword and an extra piece of gear. If you want this effect but not on your sword, know that this is possible. 

My analysis is that this is a great perk all around. If you love dueling or adding a sword to your weapons, it is one to have.

No matter how far an enemy may drive you, know your roots are planted strong. Creep back, my friend.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Constitution.
• Contagious Reverse Stab: Hitting a target transfers 2 active debuffs from yourself to the target. Reverse Stab deals +18% damage.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Lifestealing: Heal for 7.1% of the damage you deal (Does not trigger off persistent damage or DoT effects).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: Reduced debuffs are great on their own if you add the health you get from dealing damage to the enemie it's amazing. Select your powers with care as this perk can be truly helpful.

7. Trenchant Rend, Finger of Suetekh

This is a great perk for any melee type of weapon. It applies rend to your foes, as well as decreasing their armor.

Effect

• Heavy melee attacks inflict Rend for 7s, reducing the target’s armor by 16% (12s cooldown).

In my opinion, this perk is good at what it does which is to break down the enemy's armour. Damaging your foe's armor will bring you closer to a win.

My analysis is that this is perfect for multiple builds. However, a damager may profit more from the effect it brings to the table.

Comprehension flies out the window once you behold the power running through this mighty weapon.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.e.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.
• Requirement: Level 61.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Strength.
• Trenchant Rend: Heavy melee attack inflicts Rend for 7s, reducing the target’s armor by 16% (12s cooldown).
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Keen Speed: Gain 20% Haste for 7s on a critical hit (7s cooldown).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: Being fast and deadly is what this sword offers you. Its power is exceptional and it isn’t as heavy as some swords out there.

8. Mortal Refreshment, Enduring Will

Feel refreshed as your cooldown increases, lean in and you can strike with your abilities again. Reduced cooldowns are essential for a lot of DPS builds.

Effect

• Reduce all cooldowns by -10% on kill (1s cooldown).

In my honest opinion, this perk can save your team or your life. It allows you to do a lot more damage as your cooldowns are reduced. 

My analysis is that this is an almost needed perk for a damager. Once you start a battle, you need to strike repeatedly and at a quick rate making this ideal.

Place your feet solid on the ground you fight for. Allow your weapon to be a part of you.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.
• Requirement: Level 61.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Strength
• Thwarting Strikes: +7% damage while you have active Grit.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Mortal Refreshment: Reduce all cooldowns by -10% on kill (1s cooldown).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: It's great as it has a chance at a high gear score. It also has added damage as well as a reduced cooldown. It provides you with all you need when required.

9. Lifestealing, Reputation

Steal the life from your fallen foes, as you heal yourself by dealing damage to your foe. This is an amazing benefit to you.

Effect

• Heal for 7.1% of the damage you deal (Does not trigger off persistent damage or DoT effects).

In my expert opinion, this perk is a great health back perk. Its effect might not sound that great but trust me it has a reasonable effect.

My analysis is that this perk is good for all builds. It can carry you through some of the most vital moments in battle.

Size is not the only benefit it holds. Feel the weight and know the damage it brings.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%. DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Constitution.
• Vicious: +7% critical damage.
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Lifestealing: Heal for 7.1% of the damage you deal (Does not trigger off persistent damage or DoT effects).
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: Its added constitution and the health perk give you a mega health boost. The extra crit damage is just a bonus. It is one of those swords everyone must try once.

10. Keen Speed, Jackalope Antler

Speed is an underestimated advantage. Run around your foes and deal great damage to them.

Effect

• Gain 20% Haste for 7s on a critical hit (7s cooldown).

In my opinion, Haste is a great effect. Keen speed allows you to move faster and if used right this could both save your life and take the life of your enemies. 

My analysis is that this is a great perk for Builds that rely on speed and dodging. It may not be as suitable for tanks or damagers though.

A tale for a time long before. It may have made its way across the lands and realms, thee who seek may find the wonders it holds.

Weapon Stats

All weapon stats are sourced from the New World website for accuracy.

Gear Score 650-700.

• 64 Base Damage.
• 7.0% Critical Hit Chance.
• 1.30 Critical Damage Multiplier.
• 36.0 Block Stamina Damage.
• 36.0 Stagger Damage.
• 22% Block Stability
• 210 SlashDamage.
• Bind On Pickup.
• Named Item.
• Tier V.
• Scales With: STR 90%, DEX 65%.
• 3.0 Weight.
• 3000 Durability.
• Requirement: Level 61.

Weapon Perks

• +38 Strength.
• Keen Speed: Gain 20% Haste for 7s on critical hit (7s cooldown).
• Empty Socket: Add a gem to get its effect.
• Empowering Leaping Strike: Sword attacks deal +33% damage to targets Slowed by Leaping Strike’s Cowardly Punishment upgrade.
• Random Perk if gear score is [600-625] or [675-700].

Why it's great: Run fast and strike hard, sounds like a great combo to me. Take charge and feel the strength. Maybe it's not for you, but maybe it is, have you tried it?

You may also be interested in:

• [Top 10] New World Best Life Staffs In The Game
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