In Path of Exile 2, a few builds (like our PoE 2 Best Summoner Build – Highest Damage Boost) deliver the thrilling combination of speed, versatility, and raw power. So, welcome to the Lightning Crossbow Build in PoE 2. Designed specifically for Witchhunter and Deadeye ascendancies, this build leverages lightning-based attacks to clear maps and obliterate bosses. Whether you prefer the explosive clear speed of the Witchhunter or the precision and mobility of the Deadeye, this guide has everything you need to dominate T18+ content and conquer all Uber bosses.
Key Features of the PoE 2 Lightning Crossbow Build
- High Damage Output: Devastate enemies with galvanic shards and shock burst rounds.
- Versatile Playstyle: Switch between Witchhunter and Deadeye for tailored performance. That’s why we call this the Best PoE 2 Build for Witchhunter and Deadeye.
- Efficient Clear Speed: Benefit from Tailwind and additional projectiles for smoother gameplay.
- Scalable Endgame Potential: Transition from budget-friendly gear to top-tier investments.
Core Mechanics and Ascendancy Choices
Witchhunter
- Strengths: Explosive damage with a Decimating Strike and built-in AoE.
- Utility: Exceptional for early investment builds with strong burst potential.
- Late Game Considerations: Less effective at high investment levels compared to Deadeye.
Deadeye
- Strengths: Tailwind for increased movement and skill speed, additional projectiles for clear.
- Utility: Point Blank for damage amplification and superior mobility.
- Late Game Viability: Scales better with high-end gear, making it ideal for prolonged farming or bossing.
Skill Gems and Links for Witchhunter and Deadeye Build
Main Skill – Galvanic Shards
- Gem Setup:
- Galvanic Shard
- Lightning Infusion
- Conduction
- Fork
- Primal Arrowman
- Heft (6th Link)
Support Skills
- Shock Burst Rounds:
- Added Lightning Damage
- Concentrated Effect
- Martial Tempo
- Plasma Burst (Optional):
- Ambush
- Inevitable Critical
- Long Shot
Utility and Auras
- Herald of Thunder
- Herald of Ash
- Wind Dancer
- Precision (for added accuracy)
Passive Tree and Notable Nodes
- Key Ascendancy Nodes:
- Tailwind: Boost movement and attack speed, enhance evasion.
- Point Blank: Amplifies damage when close to enemies.
- Wind Ward: Reduces incoming damage when Tailwind is active.
- Notable Passive Nodes:
- Lightning Rod: Makes non-critical hits lucky for higher damage consistency.
- Electrocution: Increases maximum lightning damage.
- Cluster Jewels:
- Prioritize attributes such as increased reload speed and projectile damage for smoother gameplay.
Lightning Crossbow Build Gear and Itemization
Core Weapon: Crossbow
- Recommended Stats:
- High physical damage
- Flat lightning damage
- Attack speed
- Additional projectiles
Armor and Accessories
- Helmet, Boots, Gloves:
- Focus on life, resistance, and movement speed.
- Amulet and Rings:
- Look for life, flat physical damage, and lightning damage.
- Ensure resistance caps, especially chaos resistance for the endgame.
Jewels:
- Boost reload speed, lightning damage, and ailment infliction.
Playstyle and Tips
- Maintain Tailwind Stacks: Always use a skill to keep Tailwind active for speed and evasion.
- Positioning is Key: Leverage Point Blank for maximum damage during boss fights.
- Optimize Reload Speed: Faster reload translates to more consistent damage output.
- Adapt Your Build: Switch between Witchhunter and Deadeye depending on your gear and playstyle preferences.
Pros and Cons of PoE 2 Best Lightning Crossbow Build
Pros:
- Insane clear speed and damage output.
- Flexible for different content, from mapping to bossing.
- Scales well with investments.
Cons:
- Gear-dependent for optimal performance.
- Chaos resistance can be challenging to cap.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a build that combines electrifying power, versatility, and efficiency, the Lightning Crossbow Build in PoE 2 is an excellent choice. Whether you’re tearing through maps or facing off against uber bosses, this build delivers on all fronts. With the right gear and mastery of mechanics, you’ll become an unstoppable force in Wraeclast.
