Final answer:
The best pre-Hardmode ranged weapons in Terraria are typically the Phoenix Blaster, Molten Fury, and Star Cannon, with the choice depending on playstyle, ammo availability, and whether the player prioritizes rate of fire, damage, or attack style.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best pre-Hardmode ranged weapons in Terraria are subject to players' preferences and playstyle, but some of the most powerful and popular options include the Phoenix Blaster, the Molten Fury, and the Star Cannon. The Phoenix Blaster is highly effective, combining a high rate of fire with solid damage output, making it useful for taking down multiple enemies at once or focusing damage on a single target.
The Molten Fury is the strongest bow pre-Hardmode, adding fire damage to its arrows, which can be useful against groups of enemies or bosses with high health. The Star Cannon is another powerhouse, with its ability to shoot fallen stars at extremely high speed, making it one of the highest single-target damage options available before Hardmode.
While these weapons are excellent, players should also consider ammunition availability and cost for these weapons, as the Star Cannon relies on fallen stars, which can be scarce. Alternative weapons might include the Demon Bow or the Boomstick, when players seek weapons with easier to manage ammo or different attack styles.