The damage is fine. Like you said, it can't be over the top better. And maybe in PVP, it's usable. But that's only pvp. You can't really use it in the Nightfall or anywhere where a few hits and you're dead. Great, so now it's a pvp weapon and the balance is off, right? Isn't that their goal? Balance? Thorn sucks. If you can't see that there are legendary guns that are worlds better, I can't help you.