Destiny 2: How to Get Thorn Catalyst (& What It Does)

When it comes to weapons in Destiny 2, there are few as iconic as Thorn. It was part of all the promotional artwork and was highlighted numerous times even before Destiny 1 was released. While Thorn technically has had a catalyst since Season 6 of Destiny 2, it has not been available for players to obtain.

As more Seasons were released, players wondered when (or even if) this catalyst would see the light of day. With the release of Season of the Wish, this long awaited catalyst made its official debut. Here is how you can get the catalyst for Thorn to enhance this infamous weapon.

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By Andrea Trama

How to Get the Thorn Catalyst

While some catalysts can be obtained by completing quests, especially with older seasonal Exotics, that is not the case for Thorn. The Thorn catalyst primarily drops from core playlists. Whether it is Crucible, Gambit, or Vanguard Ops, you have a chance of getting the Thorn catalyst every time you complete an activity. The drop rate is very low, so there is no guarantee that you will see it drop right away.

Even if a catalyst does drop, there is a chance it won't be the Thorn catalyst. As a result, you will be entirely at the mercy of RNG in terms of whether they get the catalyst or not. Some players will get it right away while others will never see it drop.

Fortunately, there is another way to get the Thorn catalyst. Every weekend, Xur will appear at the Tower and will sell a variety of Exotic goods. He always sells two catalysts, and there is always a chance that it could be the Thorn catalyst that is for sale. Catalysts cost 71 Strange Coins, so make sure to have saved them in advance or be close to 71. Strange Coins drop from core playlist activities, and you will typically get two to four per completion.

What Does the Thorn Catalyst Do?

destiny 2 how to get the thorn catalyst screenshot of catalyst effects

Once you've obtained the catalyst for Thorn, you will then need to get 500 kills with the weapon to activate the catalyst and enhance Thorn. Once you've done so, Thorn gains the following.

Range	+15
Stability	+5
Airborne Effectiveness	+5

Refined Soul: Kills and absorbing a Remnant grants additional increased weapon range, as well as increased mobility and handling.

While this isn't a drastic change, an extra 15 to range is great for a hand cannon. Combine that with the additional range when Refined Soul procs, and you will have an easier time hitting a target. Combined with Necrotic Grips, Thorn is a great weapon for any poison build and the catalyst makes it even better.

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