Efficiently acquiring Blacksmith's Whetstones in Path of Exile 2 is essential for players aiming to maximize the quality and damage output of their martial weapons. These currency items, which improve weapon quality and thus increase base physical damage, can be somewhat rare, especially early in the game, so knowing the best farming methods is key.
The primary way to obtain Blacksmith's Whetstones is through random drops from enemies. Certain maps and zones yield more frequent drops, particularly from Act 3 onward on Cruel difficulty and in the endgame. High-density areas with many monsters, such as specific zones in Acts 2 and 5, are excellent farming spots because they increase the chances of weapon drops, which can then be salvaged or sold for whetstones.
Another reliable method involves using the Salvage Bench, which becomes available after completing the "Finding the Forge" side quest early in Act One. This bench allows players to dismantle weapons that already have quality to obtain Blacksmith's Whetstones. Since quality weapons are not always abundant as drops, a common strategy is to farm gold and purchase quality weapons from vendors. Some players even buy poe 2 currency to speed up this process, especially when vendor inventories offer multiple salvageable options. Many vendors have searchable inventories where you can filter items by quality, making it easier to find suitable weapons to salvage. This method is efficient because salvaging a few quality weapons can yield multiple whetstones, accelerating your stockpile.
Additionally, some league mechanics and map modifiers can increase the drop rate of crafting materials, including Blacksmith's Whetstones. Running maps with increased item quantity or specific strongboxes that drop weapons can further boost your chances. Players often combine these mechanics with farming high-tier maps or engaging in league-specific content like Delve, Heist, or Blight to maximize their haul.
For players who prefer not to farm extensively, Blacksmith's Whetstones are also available for purchase through the in-game Currency Exchange NPC, which unlocks after Act 3 on Cruel difficulty. This NPC allows trading of other currency items, such as Exalted Orbs, for whetstones, providing a convenient but potentially costly alternative. For those short on time, cheap poe 2 currency can also be used to make quick trades at the exchange or from vendors to stockpile essentials like whetstones.
In summary, the most efficient ways to farm Blacksmith's Whetstones in PoE 2 are:
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Farming high-density monster zones in Acts 2 and 5, especially on Cruel difficulty or higher.
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Unlocking and utilizing the Salvage Bench to dismantle quality weapons.
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Purchasing quality weapons from vendors to salvage for whetstones.
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Exploiting league mechanics and map modifiers that increase crafting material drops.
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Trading currency items at the Currency Exchange for whetstones when farming is impractical.
By combining these methods, players can steadily accumulate Blacksmith's Whetstones, ensuring their martial weapons remain sharp and powerful for the challenges ahead.