For those with a lot of time, I suggest the cheese strategy. Firstly, you'll need a left hand weapon capable of equipping a bloodgem. Secondly, you'll need to farm Pulsing Blood Gemstones. These gemstones allow your character to heal continuously without the use of blood vials or the Choir bell. Thirdly, farm enough to get a lost BowBlade. This is the best one as it has a Circle gemstone engraving, allowing to put both a pulsing on your gun and weapon. Unless you're lucky enough to get a radial as well, but the lost is a better, more assured bet. Fourth, enjoy your infinite bullets in exchange for your time. Though you won't do too much damage at one time, you have infinite bullets. This also allows you to continuously use some Hunter Tools for continuous damage, and extend usage of the more expensive ones. For example, with blood bullets you can effectively infinitely use the Hunter's Bone. Might as well have fully learned it, because now you can infinitely cast it! Augur of Ebrietas, while not the most damage, can also parry and backstab at range, and this only uses one bullet per use. Executioners glove does about as much as 3 charged R2 shots, yet they're slower, but they have more tracking and cost about the same. A Call Beyond and Tiny Tonitrus cost about 1, 2 quick silver bullets respectively. Combining all of this with Oedon Writhe and Blood Rapture, you have absolute infinite casting.

What is the recommended level to have my bloodtinge and skill at for this weapon to really hit hard?

Is it possible to get the alternate versions of the dlc weapons from chalice dungeons without buying the dlc?

The first swing of the charge attack won't stagger enemies for viscerals. Instead, it still cause the enemy to stumble a bit so that they won't turn around instantly. This means that if you don't land the second hit, you won't backstab.

I am wondering how the mechanism of the bowblade works? I've been looking at the bowblade and can't seem to figure out how it transforms from a sword to a bow? The reason for asking is I am intending to actually build a replica that can transform. Anyone who can help explain the mechanism would be much appreciated. Thanks!

So, just started a build with 2x Cursed Fools damp blood gems ( 34,4% atk up at full health) and a 27% atk up triangle one. This is gonna take some time though.

when you use this weapon in the bow mode it does not decrease its durability, so make sure to use those gems that give a nice atk bonus at the cost of durability.

This weapon shines in chalice dungeons especially in battles with small sized bosses like the keeper of the old lords. Just shoot away and keep distance, that is all.

I tried using the monocular to do some sniping and it doesn't always hit if the enemy is at a certain distance.