In Path of Exile 2, Blacksmith's Whetstones are a vital currency item used to increase the quality of martial weapons, such as swords, bows, and axes. Weapon quality directly enhances the base physical damage of these weapons, making whetstones an essential resource for players aiming to maximize their damage output and overall effectiveness in combat.

Each Blacksmith's Whetstone increases weapon quality by about 2% to 4% per use, up to a maximum of 20%. This quality boost acts as a multiplier on the weapon’s base physical damage, meaning a weapon with 20% quality deals 20% more base physical damage than the same weapon without quality. Because this increase applies before other damage modifiers, it synergizes well with many build-enhancing effects, significantly amplifying your damage potential.

Blacksmith's Whetstones are primarily obtained as random drops from monsters, chests, and other loot sources. They become more common starting in Act 3, Cruel difficulty, and throughout the endgame, making these stages ideal for farming whetstones. For those who want to save time or skip the grind, some players turn to cheap poe 2 currency options available through trusted platforms, allowing quicker access to whetstones without relying solely on drops.

To apply a Blacksmith's Whetstone, simply right-click the whetstone in your inventory and then left-click the weapon you want to upgrade. Each application increases the weapon’s quality by a small random amount until it reaches the 20% cap. It’s most effective to apply whetstones to rare or unique weapons with strong base stats or valuable modifiers, as the quality boost will have the greatest impact on these items.

It’s important to note that Blacksmith's Whetstones only affect martial weapons—melee and ranged physical weapons. For caster weapons like wands, staves, and scepters, a different currency called Arcanist's Etcher is used to increase quality. This distinction ensures that quality upgrades are tailored to weapon type and build focus.

Increasing weapon quality not only boosts damage but also contributes to a smoother progression through tougher content. The added physical damage from quality can make a noticeable difference in clearing speed and survivability, especially when combined with other damage multipliers and modifiers.

If you're short on time or need to upgrade immediately, trading for whetstones or purchasing them through poe 2 currency for sale offers a practical alternative to farming. This method ensures you always have the resources needed to keep your weapons at peak performance without delays.

Blacksmith's Whetstones are a key tool for enhancing your martial weapons in Path of Exile 2. By saving and applying them strategically to your best weapons, you can significantly increase your damage output and better prepare for the challenges of the endgame. Prioritize quality upgrades on weapons you intend to use long-term, and maintain a steady supply by farming or leveraging the currency market as needed. This approach ensures your arsenal remains sharp and effective throughout your journey.