I've been using swords in pvp more, and usually they are below average. Except the bolt caster. I'll be comparing it to a rocket launcher. Now the average launcher has two shots, which is two kills unless you get a cheeky multi kill. Now the bolt caster. 30 ammo, for the potential of 30 kills. The greatest downside is you have to play campy as hell to be effective, which mean rocket launchers have the advantage. Until you factor in the ability. 5 ammo per cast for 6 total. Now the bolts are basically rockets with a charge up time. They have an insane amount of aim assist, I've had the literally change course to hit someone. If you throw in s doorway anyone who runs through is -blam!-ed for the next three seconds. But even though it has the capacity for 6 kills it's still inferior due to the dots aspect and the wind up. But what about the block? And the new artifact? Without the artifact a sword can still tank any rocket, but with it it will shoot the rocket back for a free kill. And it works against tethers, and golden guns. If somebody sees you and goes "oh shit he's about to shank me" and then panic tethers, you can shoot that bad boy right back. And it can deflect a quiver hunter as well. And God only knows how many rockets. The second you reflect launch right into the r2 attack just to confirm the kill. Which puts it on a usefulness above rockets as it's the perfect counter for any of them. Also as a final thought, if you want to be an ass in elimination or skirmish wait till you know they almost have the revive then cast the bolt. Easy double kill and it's great for hate mail. Sorry if I'm incoherent I usually don't make posts. If you disagree tell me why, use your words.