Storied Hand Cannon, The Palindrome, has returned to Destiny 2 with Episode Heresy. Just like before, it’s a Nightfall-exclusive 140 RPM Adaptive Frame, but that’s where the similarities end for this iconic weapon.
Besides a suite of new perks for Guardians to hunt for, Bungie has changed the Palindrome’s element, with this version ditching the original Void element for Arc, drastically increasing its synergy with Heresy’s Artifact in the process.
Indeed, Palindrome’s refreshed perk pool is varied – albeit a little lacking in some departments – enough to warrant it being trialed in every area of Destiny 2’s sandbox. However, it’s PvP where this two-handed powerhouse is primarily going to call home.
Palindrome PvE & PvP god rolls – Meta analysis

Palindrome’s reprisal sees its element changed from Void to Arc.
As far as modern reprisals of golden oldies go, Palindrome’s perk pool is surprisingly slim. Options are therefore limited but the upshot is that hunting for a desired roll is that much easier.
For PvP, Explosive Payload and Opening Shot are the go-to options for their unconditional buffs to damage, range, and aim assist respectively. Alternatives include Outlaw and Magnificent Howl or Master of Arms for the first and second slots respectively, but these require a substantial amount of setup.
As with any Hand Cannon worth its salt in the Crucible, juicing range through Palindrome’s Masterwork and barrel are crucial to make it competitive with Exalted Truth, Fatebringer, and other meta alternatives.
PvE is a mixed bag. Explosive Payload is likely to remain your best choice in column one. Recycled Energy‘s ability regen paired with Rolling Storm could make it a sleeper hit for Arc builds but you’ll be giving up Heresy’s incredible Psychopomp to try and make the synergy work.
All in all, Palindrome remains a PvP Hand Cannon first and foremost, and it’ll be interesting to see if it can retake its place at the top of Destiny 2’s meta in a vastly different landscape.