In this article, we explain what the best statistics are for Survival Hunters (WoW MoP 5.3), how the class benefits from each of them, and what your reforging strategy should be. We also detail what the various caps are and why they should be attained. The statistics priority is important as it influences reforging strategies as well as itemisation choices (gear, enchants, and gems).

Make sure to check our Gear Optimisation Guide, which serves as a support guide for this article.

The other articles of our Survival Hunter guide can be accessed from the table of contents on the right.

This guide has been reviewed and approved by Kennyloggins, a leading figure in the Hunter community, who raids in Blood Legion.

1. Basics↑top

The stat priority for a Survival Hunter is:

1. Agility;
2. Hit Rating and Expertise Rating (until 7.5% each);
3. Critical Strike Rating;
4. Haste Rating;
5. Mastery Rating.

These statistics have been obtained by combining common sense, in-game testing, and simulations using Simulation Craft.

If you are unsure what the optimal reforging strategy is for the above priority, you can Ask Mr. Robot for a personalised optimisation of your character's gear, by filling the form below.

2. Getting a Better Understanding↑top

2.1. Statistics Explanations

Agility is your primary statistic. You should look for it in all of your upgrades. It provides you with Attack Power, which determines the damage your abilities do, and it increases your critical strike chance.

Hit Rating decreases the chance that your ranged attacks will miss their target (7.5% against a raid boss). Therefore, your goal is to reach the 7.5% hit cap (see section below), which will ensure that your attacks never miss.

Expertise Rating decreases the chance that your ranged attacks will be dodged (7.5% against a raid boss). Therefore, your goal is to reach the 7.5% expertise cap (see section below), which will ensure that your attacks are never dodged.

Critical Strike Rating increases your chance to critically hit with all spells and abilities.

Haste Rating increases your attack speed and your Focus regeneration.

Mastery Rating, through Mastery: Essence of the Viper, increases the damage done by all your abilities, with the exception of your auto attacks and Kill Shot.

2.2. Hit Cap

At level 90, most races require 2,550 Hit Rating to reach the melee hit cap. Draenei, thanks to Heroic Presence, only need 2,210 Hit Rating.

2.3. Expertise Cap

At level 90, most races require 2,550 Expertise Rating to reach the expertise cap. Dwarves and Trolls, thanks to Crack Shot and Dead Eye respectively, only require 2,210 Expertise Rating.

3. Changelog↑top

• 20 May 2013: Patch 5.3 update: nothing to change.