Board Thread:Questions and Answers/@comment-67.82.63.221-20121222174453/@comment-174.71.1.148-20130212001955

I always preferred a great sword or lance so I could easily get horns and tail. The great sword is exceptional at knocking him over if you can get between his legs and learn when and where to roll to avoid attacks.

I've been playing since the first MH and never really cared much for traps, but if I were to use them, I would likely use the time to get the tail off. His tail is harder to get than his horns since he'll be willing to keep his head toward you most of the time.