Edit: Thread name changed due to community retardation (not all, obviously, some put up an amazing argument, and have ultimately answered my original question) The throwing knife gets a buff when brawler is active, which is a melee boost. But for example, during the Iron Banner and crucible bounties, shoulder charge counts as a melee kill, but throwing knives do not. I know its a 'ranged weapon' but still sits in the melee slot. And it still considered the hunter's melee ability, just like the titan and warlock have flame punch, energy drain melee, etc