If you're diving into Path of Exile 2 (PoE 2), one of the early crafting tools you're going to encounter is the Blacksmith's Whetstone. This item can be a game-changer in the early stages of your journey, especially when you're trying to boost the quality of your gear without spending a fortune on rare items or advanced crafting materials. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about using Blacksmith's Whetstones effectively in your crafting adventures.

What is a Blacksmith’s Whetstone?

At its core, the Blacksmith's Whetstone is a basic crafting tool used to improve the quality of your weapons. This can significantly impact the performance of your gear early on, making your weapons more powerful and increasing your overall survivability in combat. It's an essential resource for those looking to get an edge in the early stages of the game, but understanding how to use it wisely is key.

How to Use Blacksmith’s Whetstone in PoE 2

To use a Blacksmith’s Whetstone, simply add it to the weapon crafting interface in your inventory. Each Whetstone will increase the quality of a weapon by 5%, up to a maximum of 20%. While the increase may seem small at first, it adds up over time, especially if you’re crafting multiple weapons to upgrade your arsenal.

When you’re early in the game, you won’t have access to high-level crafting materials, so using Blacksmith's Whetstones to enhance your weapons can be an effective way to stay competitive against tougher enemies. Whether you're crafting a basic sword, bow, or staff, the additional quality will make a noticeable difference.

When Should You Start Using Whetstones?

A common question players ask is when they should start using Whetstones. The simple answer is: as soon as possible. In PoE 2, weapon quality can directly affect your DPS (damage per second) and overall effectiveness in combat. Whether you’re exploring early zones or tackling tough bosses, having a high-quality weapon can make a significant difference.

If you're new to crafting in PoE 2, don’t hesitate to use Whetstones on any weapon that you're planning to use for a while. Since they're relatively easy to acquire and don’t cost a lot, they’re perfect for giving your gear a quick upgrade.

How to Get Blacksmith’s Whetstones

While PoE 2 has various methods for obtaining crafting materials, Blacksmith’s Whetstones can be found in a few key ways. You can purchase them from NPC vendors, loot them from monster drops, or receive them as rewards for completing certain quests. Keep an eye out for these opportunities as you level up, as they can be a real lifesaver.

Additionally, if you’re short on Whetstones, you can always check the marketplace for players who might be willing to trade or sell them. If you’re looking to save some time and you have the in-game currency to spare, it might be a good idea to purchase PoE 2 currency to buy crafting materials you need from other players. This could help you level up your crafting abilities faster without having to grind for every single resource.

Can I Stack Multiple Whetstones?

Yes, you can use multiple Blacksmith’s Whetstones on the same weapon to further increase its quality. However, keep in mind that each Whetstone only adds 5% quality, and there’s a cap of 20% quality improvement per item. After reaching the 20% threshold, you won’t be able to apply any more Whetstones to that weapon.

It’s also worth noting that certain high-tier weapons or rare items might require special crafting methods beyond simple Whetstones. As you progress through the game, you’ll gain access to more advanced crafting options that allow for more powerful upgrades.

How to Maximize Your Use of Blacksmith’s Whetstones

To make the most of your Blacksmith’s Whetstones, consider the following tips:

• Save them for important upgrades: Don’t waste your Whetstones on low-level or low-quality weapons. Instead, focus on enhancing your primary gear that you plan to keep for a while. Upgrading a weapon you’re about to replace soon is inefficient.

• Combine with other crafting methods: Use Whetstones in combination with other crafting tools and methods to improve the overall stats of your weapon. This can lead to more powerful results as you progress through PoE 2’s crafting systems.

• Don’t hoard them: If you’ve got a bunch of Blacksmith’s Whetstones sitting in your stash, don’t be afraid to use them. They’re easy to acquire and don’t carry a huge cost, so using them early on can help you build a solid weapon setup for your character.

Managing Your Currency for Crafting

If you find yourself running low on PoE 2 currency while crafting, it might be tempting to go ahead and purchase PoE 2 currency from third-party sites like U4N. However, before you decide to spend real money, take time to consider if you really need the boost. Crafting can be a time-consuming process, but if you're patient, you'll find plenty of resources and crafting tools along the way without needing to purchase extra currency.

In some cases, though, purchasing PoE 2 currency might speed up your progress and make crafting more accessible. It’s up to you to decide how much time and effort you want to invest in gathering crafting materials.

FAQ

1. How do I get more Blacksmith’s Whetstones? You can obtain Blacksmith’s Whetstones by looting them from enemies, purchasing them from vendors, or completing quests. They’re also available for trade from other players.

2. Can I trade Blacksmith’s Whetstones with other players? Yes, you can trade them with other players if they’re willing to exchange them for currency or other items.

3. Are Blacksmith’s Whetstones rare? No, Blacksmith’s Whetstones are common crafting materials that you can acquire relatively easily.

4. How much does it cost to purchase PoE 2 currency? The cost of purchasing PoE 2 currency can vary depending on where you buy it. If you're looking to speed up your crafting process, you might consider buying currency from third-party sellers.

5. Is using Blacksmith’s Whetstones worth it early in the game? Yes! Early on, every bit of weapon quality can make a huge difference in combat. Don’t hesitate to use Whetstones to enhance your weapons.

6. Can I use Blacksmith’s Whetstones on any weapon? You can use them on any weapon, but some high-tier or rare weapons may require special crafting methods beyond just Whetstones.

7. How many Whetstones should I use on one weapon? You can apply up to 4 Whetstones on a weapon, increasing its quality by 20%. Beyond that, you can’t apply more Whetstones.

8. Can I sell or buy Blacksmith’s Whetstones using PoE 2 currency? Yes, you can buy or sell Blacksmith’s Whetstones using PoE 2 currency with other players or from vendors.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to crafting better weapons and making the most of the early stages in PoE 2. Remember, Blacksmith’s Whetstones are just one part of the crafting puzzle—don’t be afraid to experiment with other materials and methods as you progress!