Guns have always been a staple of action anime, providing a sense of danger and excitement that few other weapons can match. From classic western shootouts to high-tech sci-fi battles, anime with guns offer a wide range of experiences for viewers to enjoy.
Whether you’re a fan of gritty crime dramas or epic battles against supernatural foes, there’s something for everyone in the world of anime with guns.
This article has compiled a list of the top 25 best anime with guns to watch. These anime showcase the best of the genre, featuring a diverse cast of characters, thrilling gunfights, and captivating storytelling.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just starting to explore the world of anime, these shows will keep you on the edge of your seat. So lock and load, and get ready for some explosive action as we count down the top 25 best anime with guns.
Anime With Guns
In the anime world, there are a ton of great shows that feature guns. But which ones are the best? Here are our top picks for the best anime with guns.
1. Black Lagoon
Black Lagoon is an anime that follows the story of a group of mercenaries operating out of a city in the southernmost part of Thailand.
The city is full of crime and corruption, and the group takes on jobs from both legal and illegal clients. They use their skills and firepower to get the job done, no matter what the cost.
If you’re looking for an anime with plenty of action, gunplay, and violence. In that case, Black Lagoon is definitely worth checking out.
The characters are all incredibly badass, and the story is thrilling from start to finish. If you’re not a fan of subtitles, then you’ll be happy to know that Black Lagoon is available dubbed in English.
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2. Trigun
“Trigun” is a classic anime that has become a beloved favorite for many fans of the genre. The series follows Vash the Stampede, a legendary gunman with a $60 billion bounty on his head.
Despite his fearsome reputation, Vash is a pacifist at heart, preferring to use his skills to defuse dangerous situations rather than resorting to violence.
The anime features a wide range of guns, from Vash’s signature revolver to more futuristic weapons used by his enemies.
The show is known for its intense action scenes and unique blend of humor and drama, with Vash’s antics often providing a lighthearted counterpoint to the darker themes of the series.
In addition to its memorable characters and thrilling gunfights, “Trigun” is renowned for its philosophical themes, exploring questions of morality, justice, and violence. The series has become a cult classic among anime fans, and its influence can still be felt in the genre today.
3. Black Cat
“Black Cat” is a thrilling anime that combines action, adventure, and supernatural elements. The series follows the story of Train Heartnet, a skilled gunman and former member of an elite group of assassins known as the Chronos Numbers. After leaving the organization, Train becomes a bounty hunter and questions his former way of life.
The anime features a range of guns, from traditional revolvers to high-tech weapons bordering science fiction. The gunfights in the series are intense and visually stunning, with Train’s expert marksmanship and acrobatic abilities making for some truly memorable moments.
In addition to its action-packed scenes, “Black Cat” also strongly focuses on character development, exploring Train’s inner struggles and relationships with those around him.
The anime also delves into morality, loyalty, and redemption themes, making for a well-rounded and engaging story. With its blend of exciting gunfights and compelling characters, “Black Cat” is a must-watch for anime fans with guns.
4. Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass is a great anime with guns. The story is set in a future where the government can track and predict people’s psychological state, determining their likelihood of committing crimes.
People with high “Psycho-Pass” scores are considered potential criminals and are subject to surveillance and other forms of control. The main characters are members of a special unit that tracks down these potential criminals.
The animation and art style are top-notch, and the action scenes are some of the best you’ll see in any anime. Psycho-Pass is worth checking out if you’re a gunplay fan or just want to see a well-done sci-fi story.
5. Michiko to Hatchin (Michiko & Hatchin)
In a dystopian future, Michiko is a criminal on the run from the law. She meets Hatchin, a young girl who has been orphaned and is living in a foster home.
The two unlikely companions team up and embark on a journey to find Hatchin’s father. Along the way, they must outwit the authorities and dodge bullets as they battle through the mean streets of this dark and dangerous world.
Michiko & Hatchin is an anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its non-stop action and gritty setting, this show is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride, Michiko & Hatchin is worth checking out.
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6. Valkyria Chronicles
Valkyria Chronicles is a great anime with guns. The story follows Welkin and the members of Squad 7 of the Gallian Militia as they fight against the Imperial forces in an alternate history version of Europe during the early 1930s.
The series has excellent production values, with beautiful animation and detailed backgrounds. The characters are likable and well-developed, and the plot is exciting and engaging.
The action sequences are well-choreographed and thrilling, making Valkyria Chronicles a must-watch for anime fans with guns.
7. 91 Days
You have come to the right place if you want great anime with guns. “91 Days” is a great example of an anime that uses guns very excitingly. The story follows the 91 days leading up to the assassination of Mafia boss Angelo Lagusa.
Every day is filled with intense action and suspense as the viewer tries to guess who will pull the trigger. Will it be Avilio, the protagonist seeking revenge for his family? Or will it be someone else entirely? With so many twists and turns, “91 Days” is a must-watch for any anime fan.
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8. Canaan
“Canaan” is an action-packed anime that follows the story of Canaan, a skilled mercenary with extraordinary abilities. The anime takes place in a city plagued by terrorism, and Canaan finds herself caught in the middle of a sinister conspiracy involving a deadly virus and a powerful organization.
One of the main draws of “Canaan” is its unique and diverse cast of characters, each with its own motivations and backstories. Canaan herself is a sharpshooter with incredible reflexes and an almost superhuman ability to anticipate her enemies’ movements.
Her ally, Maria Oosawa, is a young journalist who gets caught up in the action when she witnesses a terrorist attack firsthand. The anime features a variety of guns, from conventional pistols and rifles to futuristic weapons with high-tech features.
The gunfights in the series are intense and well-choreographed, with Canaan’s incredible abilities making for some truly exhilarating action scenes. With its compelling characters, complex plot, and exciting gunfights, “Canaan” is a must-watch for anime fans with guns.
9. Hellsing Ultimate
“Hellsing Ultimate” is a thrilling anime that tells the story of the Hellsing Organization, a secret group dedicated to protecting England from supernatural threats. The series centers around Alucard, a powerful vampire and organization member, and his apprentice, Seras Victoria, battling various enemies ranging from vampires to Nazis.
The anime is known for its intense action scenes and gory violence, with Alucard’s iconic dual pistols and Seras’ giant anti-tank rifle being two of the standout weapons in the series. The show’s animation is also top-notch, with fluid movements and detailed backgrounds bringing the world of “Hellsing Ultimate” to life.
Beyond the action, “Hellsing Ultimate” also explores themes of morality and humanity, with Alucard’s struggle to come to terms with his monstrous nature serving as a central plot point. Overall, “Hellsing Ultimate” is a must-watch for anime fans with guns and supernatural action.
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10. Gunslinger Girl
If you’re a fan of girls with guns, you’ll want to check out Gunslinger Girl. This anime is set in Italy and follows the story of a group of young girls the government recruited to be assassins. These girls have been subjected to intense training and conditioning and are now part of an elite group of killers.
While this anime has plenty of action, it’s also very character-driven, with each girl having her unique backstory and motivations. If you’re looking for an exciting and emotional anime with great shooting action, try Gunslinger Girl.
11. Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress
Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress was a great show that really knew how to deliver on the action front. The story follows a group of humans infected with a virus that turns them into zombies, known as Kabane.
These humans must band together to survive against the hordes of Kabane that are constantly attacking them.
However, they are not alone in their fight, as they are joined by a group of half-human, half-Kabane known as the Kabaneri. Together, they must work to find a way to stop the Kabane from spreading and taking over the world.
The show is full of intense action scenes, which are made even better because they are all hand-drawn. The animation is top-notch and really helps to bring the action to life.
The characters are all likable and easy to root for, which makes it easy to get invested in their struggle. If you’re looking for an anime with lots of gunfights and plenty of excitement. In that case, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress is worth checking out.
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12. Golgo 13 (TV)
Golgo 13 is an anime television series based on the manga of the same name. The story follows Duke Togo, a professional assassin who goes by the “Golgo 13” codename.
The series was originally broadcast in Japan from October 1968 to March 1971 and was later adapted into two live-action films in 1977 and 1983. The anime is notable for its use of firearms, as most of the characters are armed with some gun.
This includes Duke Togo, who is always seen carrying his trademark M16 rifle. Other characters sometimes wield handguns, submachine guns, and rocket launchers.
While the violence in Golgo 13 is not particularly graphic, it does feature some disturbing scenes, such as a character being shot in the head at point-blank range.
This can be unsettling for some viewers, but overall the series remains an intriguing crime drama with excellent gunplay.
13. Jormungand
Jormungand is an anime that follows the story of a young woman named Koko Hekmatyar, who is part of an international arms-dealing organization. The anime is full of intense action and gunfights, making it a great choice for anyone who loves a good shootout.
Koko is a skilled marksman and strategist, and watching her outwit her enemies is a true delight. If you’re looking for an anime with guns that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Jormungand is definitely worth checking out.
14. Noir
“Noir” is a classic anime series that follows the story of two female assassins, Mireille Bouquet and Kirika Yuumura, as they unravel a dark conspiracy involving their own pasts. The anime is known for its stylish visuals, haunting soundtrack, and unique portrayal of its two main characters.
Both Mireille and Kirika are skilled marksmen, with Mireille’s choice of weapon being a Beretta 92FS and Kirika’s being a Walther P99. The anime features numerous action scenes that showcase their skills, including intense shootouts and stealthy assassinations.
Beyond the action, “Noir” also delves into the complex relationship between Mireille and Kirika as they struggle to come to terms with their pasts and roles in the conspiracy they uncover.
The anime also explores themes of identity, memory, and redemption, making it a compelling watch for anime fans with guns and deep storytelling.
15. Aoharu x Kikanjuu (Aoharu x Machinegun)
Aoharu x Kikanjuu, also known as Aoharu x Machinegun, is a 2015 Japanese anime television series based on the manga series of the same name by Hiromi Nakata.
The story revolves around a high school girl named Hotaru Tachibana, who is mistaken for a boy and joins a host club.
The series was directed by Yoshiyuki Fujiwara and written by Takao Yoshioka, with character designs by Masakazu Ishikawa. Ken Ito composed the music, and the animation studio Bridge worked on the anime adaptation.
The anime aired in Japan from July to September 2015 and was simulcasted by Crunchyroll. The English dub of the anime premiered on FunimationNow on March 7, 2016.
Aoharu x Kikanjuu received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the show’s humor and characters, while others found it generic and uninteresting.
However, the general consensus was that the show was watchable and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a funny and lighthearted anime with guns. Aoharu x Kikanjuu is worth checking out!
16. Sword Art Online II
With the release of Sword Art Online II, the anime genre’s popularity has inevitably increased. This is mainly because the show is set in a virtual world where players can control their characters with their minds.
While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it is undoubtedly an impressive feat of animation and storytelling. The show follows the story of Kazuto Kirigaya, better known as Kirito, as he becomes embroiled in a new adventure after the first season’s events.
As expected, plenty of guns can be found in this anime. While they may not always be used in the most traditional sense, they are still integral to the story.
17. Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online
In the virtual world of Gun Gale Online, players take on the role of a custom avatar who can choose to be male or female.
They are then placed in a lobby with other players, where they can chat and prepare for their next battle. The game aims to complete various quests and tasks while engaging in Player vs. Player (PvP) combat.
The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where most of the population has been wiped out by a deadly virus. The few survivors have taken refuge in a game called Gun Gale Online. In this virtual world, players must cooperate to survive and thrive.
If you’re looking for an anime featuring guns, action, and adventure, look no further than Gun Gale Online. This exciting anime will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
18. Gunsmith Cats
Gunsmith Cats is an action-packed anime series that revolves around the lives of two bounty hunters, Rally Vincent and Minnie May Hopkins, who own a gun shop in Chicago.
The series is known for its high-octane car chases and intense gunfights, which makes it a must-watch for all anime lovers who enjoy the thrilling action.
The story follows the duo as they take on various cases that involve dangerous criminals and gun smuggling rings. Rally is a skilled marksman, and her accuracy with a gun is unmatched.
Minnie is an explosives expert and uses her knowledge to create unique and effective bombs that help them take down their targets. Together, they make an unstoppable team that always gets the job done.
The series is also known for its attention to detail regarding firearms. Each gun used in the anime is accurately portrayed, and the creators have gone to great lengths to ensure that the guns and their capabilities are realistic.
The animation style and soundtrack add to the overall experience, making it a must-watch for all anime and gun enthusiasts.
19. Black Bullet
In a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is infected with a deadly virus that turns them into psychotic monsters, the only hope for humanity’s survival is a group of young women known as “Bullets” who have been genetically engineered to be immune to the virus.
These women use their superhuman abilities to protect the last remaining humans from the monsters. Black Bullet is an action-packed anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The fast-paced story and intense action scenes will surely please any gun-based anime fan.
20. Gungrave
“Gungrave” is a classic anime series that revolves around the story of Brandon Heat, a notorious gang member who is killed and later resurrected as a powerful undead creature known as “Beyond the Grave.” With the help of his friend and fellow gang member, Harry McDowell, Brandon sets out to exact revenge on those who wronged him.
The anime features an impressive arsenal of guns, ranging from traditional handguns to heavy-duty machine guns and rocket launchers. The action-packed gunfights are a highlight of the show, with each battle choreographed to perfection.
Aside from the gunfights, “Gungrave” also offers an engaging storyline with well-developed characters. The show explores loyalty, betrayal, and redemption themes, making it more than just a mindless action anime.
Overall, “Gungrave” is a must-watch for fans of gun-centric anime. Its unique blend of action and drama and its impressive use of firearms makes it a standout genre series.
21. Arifureta
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest is a Japanese light novel series written by Ryo Shirakome and illustrated by Takayaki.
It was serialized online between 2013 and 2016 on the user-generated novel publishing website Shōsetsuka ni Narō. Overlap Bunko acquired it for print publication, and 11 volumes were released on September 25, 2019.
The story centers on 17-year-old Hajime Nagumo, who is transported to another world with his classmates when the king summons them to defeat the demon king who threatens the world.
However, Hajime is betrayed and left behind when his classmates abandon him in a cave to die. He survives thanks to a crystalline shard that fuses with his arm, giving him inhuman strength and abilities. He then embarks on a journey to find his classmates and take revenge against them.
Arifureta has been praised for its action scenes and complex worldbuilding. The series has sold over 1 million copies in Japan and has been licensed for English release by J-Novel Club.
An anime television series adaptation produced by White Fox aired from July 8 to September 30, 2019.
22. SAO: Gun Gale Online
Sao: Gun Gale Online is a Japanese light novel series written by Keiichi Sigsawa and illustrated by Kouhaku Kuroboshi. The series follows Karen Kohiruimaki, a university student who plays the VRMMORPG Gun Gale Online.
The series has been published by Dengeki Bunko since April 2014 and has been adapted into an anime television series from April to June 2018. A spin-off manga series titled Sao: Progressive began publication in October 2014.
Sao: Gun Gale Online is set shortly, where people can access an immersive virtual reality world known as “Gun Gale Online” (GGO). The game focuses on gunplay and requires players to use a variety of firearms.
Karen Kohiruimaki is a tall girl who stands out in her class because of her height. When she starts playing GGO, she meets a player named Pitohui, who helps her get used to the game. However, she soon discovers that Pitohui is not who she seems to be…
23. GATE
“GATE” is an action-packed anime in a fantasy world where a portal has opened up to modern-day Japan. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces are sent through the gate to explore the new world and establish diplomatic relations.
Still, they soon find themselves embroiled in a conflict with the inhabitants of the fantasy world. The anime features various firearms, from standard-issue military weapons to exotic magical firearms wielded by the fantasy world’s inhabitants.
One of the standout characters in the anime is the female protagonist, Second Lieutenant Youji Itami, a skilled marksman and a member of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.
Her proficiency with firearms is on full display as she leads her team in battle, taking down enemies with her trusty pistol and rifle. She can also hold her own against the more exotic firearms used by the fantasy world’s inhabitants.
The anime’s action sequences are fast-paced and thrilling, with the use of firearms adding an extra layer of excitement. The anime also explores the political and social implications of the clash between two vastly different worlds, creating a thought-provoking viewing experience. If you’re looking for an anime with guns and plenty of action, “GATE” is definitely worth checking out.
24. No Guns Life
In a world where guns have become ubiquitous, Juzo Inui is a “Handicapper,” with the unique ability to neutralize any gun he encounters. Working for Berühren Corporation, Inui uses his power to take on dangerous jobs that require disarming opponents without resorting to violence.
But when he meets a young boy named Tetsuro, who has been augmented with mechanical parts and left to fend for himself, Inui may have found someone who can change his life forever.
No Guns Life is a compelling story of self-discovery and redemption, set in a future world where guns are everywhere and peace is scarce. With its stylish art and intriguing premise, No Guns Life is an anime that should not be missed.
25. City Hunter
In City Hunter, guns are everywhere. The main character, Ryo Saeba, is a professional “city hunter” who cleans up the streets of Tokyo. He’s got a sharp tongue, a quick trigger finger, and a heart of gold.
The women in his life are just as tough as he is. His partner, Kaori Makimura, is also a city hunter. She’s fiercely independent and takes no crap from anyone – especially Ryo.
The other woman in Ryo’s life is his boss, Reika Matsui. She’s the head of the city hunter agency and knows how to handle herself in a fight. If you’re looking for an anime with lots of action and gunplay, you’ll want to check out City Hunter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, anime has no shortage of exciting gun-wielding action. From classic series like Trigun and Cowboy Bebop to newer titles like Black Lagoon and GATE, there is something for everyone in this list of the top 25 best anime with guns.
Whether you’re a fan of intense shootouts, compelling characters, or intricate plotlines, an anime in this list will surely captivate you. These anime showcase the different ways that guns can be used in a story and how they can add an extra layer of depth to the characters and their journeys.
Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or just starting to explore this genre, these anime are worth checking out if you want some thrilling gun action.
