How to get the Thorn Catalyst in Destiny 2

Thorn is one of the most iconic Exotics in Destiny’s history, and it finally has its own Catalyst in Destiny 2.

Like all Exotic Catalysts, the Thorn Catalyst makes the gun objectively better, adding new features to an already pretty excellent hand cannon — especially if you’re a PvP fan. Unfortunately, getting the Thorn Catalyst for yourself can be quite the grind if you aren’t lucky.

In this Destiny 2: Season of the Wish guide, we’ll help you pick up the Thorn Catalyst for yourself so you can trick out one of the game’s most iconic weapons.

How to get the Thorn Catalyst in Destiny 2

If you’ve been keeping up with Destiny 2 recently, you know Bungie has been adding new Catalysts for old Exotics and chucking them into the ritual playlists. Unfortunately, the Thorn Catalyst is no different, meaning it’s going to be a pretty big pain in the ass to get.

In the Catalyst collection menu, you’ll see that the Thorn Catalyst comes from Strikes, Gambit, or the Crucible. Grab some bounties — as well as maybe a few friends — and get ready for a grind. Essentially, you’ll need to just run one of these activities until the Thorn Catalyst drops for you. It could take one or two matches or runs, or it could take 10 hours, so mentally prepare yourself for a long journey.

As for which activity is fastest, they’re all pretty close. Gambit matches can be pretty quick these days, but Crucible probably wins out in pure efficiency. Personally, I prefer to run Strikes to get my Catalysts each season, as I don’t want to spend that much time in either of the other two activities and I know I’ll be able to finish off my Vanguard reputation grind once Grandmaster Nightfalls come around later in the season.

What does the Thorn Catalyst do in Destiny 2?

Image: Bungie

If you’re primarily a PvE player and have been praying for Thorn to get a PvE-focused Catalyst, I have bad news and amazing news. The bad news is that Thorn’s Catalyst is entirely PvP-focused, but the amazing news is that Thorn received a PvE buff in Season of the Wish that doesn’t require the Catalyst at all. As of this season, picking up a Remnant overflows the magazine, meaning you essentially never have to reload in PvE.

As for the Catalyst, it grants you bonus range and stability. After you pick up a Remnant, you’ll increase that range bonus further and buff up your mobility and handling. This Catalyst essentially just makes a very strong PvP weapon even stronger, and solves one of Thorn’s biggest problems in the Crucible: range. If you’re a Thorn fan and a Trials lover, this is a must-have Catalyst.