EDIT: Sorry i had a typo, its hold L and press X/B to cycle through coatings not R.\r
Also I want to apologize, the melee attack is used to cut tails, very important if you solo Bow for the main game!\r
\r
I went as deep as I think is acceptable for newcomers. Learn critical distance, its likely the reason why your hunts are taking so long, and use those power phials, too!\r
\r
Bow is a low-maintenance fun gunner weapon but you do need to be more mindful about aiming in MH4G due to verticality.