Final Fantasy XIII weapons

Final Fantasy XIII introduces the most advanced and unique types of weaponry in the main series. Most of the weapons have a dual-function and can be switched into another weapon, such as the double-bladed spear used by Fang that can be split into a three-section staff. Others are unorthodox in nature, like the modified coats used by Snow.

Weapons have their own level and EXP gained through certain components. Once a weapon has gained enough experience it can be upgraded, using specific components, to a second tier and ultimately to a third tier weapon. Note that for each character, while different weapons all upgrade to the same model at the end of the upgrade path, the "ultimate model" retains properties of the base models. Thus for example, Lightning may have an Omega Weapon that boosts her Magical Attack while having another Omega Weapon that refills a small amount of ATB gauge when attacking. All Tier 3 Weapons, like the Nirvana for Vanille, give a +1 ATB Bonus.

List of Weapons
Each weapon has passive abilities which always apply when equipped, but some weapons also have synthesized abilities which only apply when equipped with certain accessories.

Gunblades
Gunblades are used by Lightning. As the name implies, these weapons have two modes that can be switched (but not directly by the player); Gun-mode allows Lightning to fire projectiles and Blade-mode lets her perform melee attacks. While not used they can be folded and put into a holster.

Pistols
Sazh uses a pair of pistols as his weapons of choice. He can combine them into an assault rifle to deal more powerful damage.

Coats
Snow fights barehanded, but he actually uses modified coats that enhance his strength and endurance. Different models have different emblems, which disappear when not participating in battle. The type of models also determine the visual effect created each time Snow delivers a physical hit to the enemy.

Boomerangs
Boomerangs are Hope's weapons of choice. Due to the futuristic technology, they appear to be remotely controllable even after being thrown, capable of dealing multiple hits before returning to their owner. They can also be folded and stored away when not needed.

Rods
Vanille utilizes foldable rods in battle. They normally serve as a magic conjuring device, but the hooks on the wires attached to them can also deal damage by latching on and pulling, working similarly like a fishing rod.

Spears
Fang fights with spears. They are all two-bladed and can be split into a three-section staff called a San Setsu-Kon for more flexible attacks.