The Barrow-Dyad, a potent Strand SMG, has quickly developed into one of the most sought-after weapons in D2. With its unique perks and four Exotic Catalysts, this weapon can dominate both PvE and PvP encounters. However, unlocking these catalysts isn’t as simple as acquiring the weapon. It requires accomplishing intricate quest steps, gathering Taken Osseous Fragments, and enduring some time-gated progression.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you have to know about obtaining these Catalysts, including step-by-step quest instructions and all Osseous Fragment locations.
All Barrow-Dyad Exotic Catalysts and Their Perks
Table of Contents
Every Exotic Catalyst adds a special perk to the weapon, enhancing its power:
- High-Impact Reserves Refit – The final rounds in the magazine inflict increased damage.
- Hatchling Refit – Accurate final hits or quick eliminations create a Threadling at the target.
- One for All Refit – Striking 3 targets boosts damage for a considerable time.
- Target Lock Refit – The damage grows the more time this weapon stays aimed at a target.
🔹 Important: Bungie has confirmed that only 2 catalysts will unlock in Act 2 (March 12), while the remaining two become available in Act 3 (April 1). This means players cannot acquire all catalysts immediately.
Step 1: Accomplish The Taken Path Quest
Prior to pursuing the catalysts, you must unseal the weapon itself by completing The Taken Path Exotic Quest.
- This quest is tied to the Derealize Exotic Mission and is required before progressing further.
When the weapon is in your inventory, you can begin the catalyst unlocking process.
Step 2: Claim the Diadic Ascension Quest
Once you’ve obtained the weapon, visit Eris Morn’s apartment and interact with the Taken Slab to claim the Diadic Ascension Exotic Quest.
Requirements to Progress:
✔ Lvl up the Taken Slab vendor to Rank 5. ✔ Gather 6 Taken Osseous Fragments in The Nether.
🔹 Time-Saving Tip: The Taken Slab vendor demands leveling multiple times, so ensure you’re completing seasonal activities to speed up progress.
Step 3: Gather the First 6 Taken Osseous Fragments
Taken Osseous Fragments are dispersed across The Nether and divided into three regions:
The Trenchway
- #1: Near the spawn point on the right side.
- #2: Beneath a framework situated to the far left.
- #3: On a shelf close to the entrance zone.
- #4: On a platform in the middle before the large pit.
- #5: On the far left ledge near a Solar objective location.
- #6: On the far right, requiring platforming on invisible platforms.
✅ After gathering 6 fragments, you can unlock the 1st Intrinsic Upgrade: Steel Your Nerves.
Step 4: Continue Upgrading
Unlock ‘Unbreakable Will’ (Lvl 9 Vendor)
✔ Lvl up the Taken Slab vendor to Rank 9. ✔ Gather 6 more Taken Osseous Fragments in The Nether.
Unlock ‘Moment of Clarity’ (Lvl 12 Vendor)
✔ Lvl up the Taken Slab vendor to Rank 12. ✔ Gather the final 6 Taken Osseous Fragments in The Nether.
🔹 Pro Tip: Some fragments are harder to reach due to platforming challenges and enemy spawns. If you’re struggling, consider teaming up with LFCarry’s pro players for assistance!
The “Writ: Path of Ambition” Questline
To gain access to the final set of Barrow-Dyad catalysts, players must finish the Writ: Path of Ambition questline.
Step 1: Locate the Hidden Taken Worm
- Enter The Nether Explorer Activity (King’s Fall raid opening area).
- Locate the Taken Worm in Hall of Souls, beneath a framework near the Court of Oryx entrance.
- Recovering it up unlocks the Writ: Path of Ambition Quest.
Step 2: Accomplish the Mission
- Launch the Writ: Path of Ambition quest and follow the waypoint through a jumping puzzle on Taken orbs.
- After completion, interact with the Taken Slab in Eris Morn’s apartment to unlock the new “Ambition” vendor upgrade tree.
How to Get the Exotic Catalysts
Step 1: Finish Court of Blades (Expert Difficulty)
- Equip the Barrow-Dyad SMG before finishing the activity.
- Successfully completing Court of Blades (Expert) unlocks the Sharp Osseous Spine quest.
Step 2: Begin the A Needle’s Path Quest
- Interact with the Taken Slab in Eris Morn’s apartment.
- Finish Court of Blades (Expert) again, but only using Scout Rifles, Linear Fusion Rifles, or Sniper Rifles.
- The Barrow-Dyad must be equipped while completing this quest.
🔹 Note: Some catalysts may require additional RNG-based activities beyond Court of Blades. Players should watch for Bungie’s official updates or track their progress in-game.
Once you’ve finished A Needle’s Path, the High-Impact Reserves Refit Catalyst unlocks. To equip it, visit The Enclave and reshape your weapon with the new Catalyst.
Community Verdict: Is Barrow-Dyad Worth the Grind?
Pros 🟢 | Cons 🔴 |
Unique Exotic Perks – Threadling synergy, One for All, and High-Impact Reserves make it versatile. | Time-Gated Catalysts – Players frustrated that all catalysts aren’t available immediately. |
Strand Synergy – Works well in Strand builds, especially with Hatchling Refit. | Underwhelming Without Catalysts – Feels weaker compared to other top-tier Exotics. |
Good Handling & Stability – Smooth and easy to control, making it effective in PvE. | Mediocre DPS – Struggles against tougher enemies without catalysts. |
Pairs Well with Prismatic Builds – Offers solid utility in Lightfall’s subclass combinations. | Tedious Quest Steps – Collecting Taken Osseous Fragments is time-consuming. |
Potential for Strong Late-Game Scaling – If all catalysts are unlocked, it could be a meta contender. | SMG Competition – Faces stiff competition from existing Strand SMGs like The Immortal. |
🔹 Overall Verdict:
The Barrow-Dyad has solid potential, but many players feel its power is locked behind time-gated catalysts. While it works well in Strand builds, it struggles to compete with stronger SMGs until fully upgraded.
Dominate with LFCarry’s Pro Boosting Services!
Unlocking the Exotic Catalysts is an extensive process that requires precise execution, high-level gameplay, and weeks of grinding. But why struggle alone?
🔥 Get instant access to all catalysts with LFCarry’s pro boosting services! Our team of top-tier Destiny 2 experts will handle the grind for you, so you can jump straight into the action with a fully upgraded Barrow-Dyad!
✅ Skip the grind and unlock all catalysts fast! ✅ Finish all difficult quest steps effortlessly! ✅ Maximize your power and dominate endgame content!
🎯 Don’t waste time—gear up now with LFCarry! Click here to start your boost today!
Read also:
Darya Chavez is a gaming journalist passionate about delivering the latest news from the world of video games. With a sharp eye for industry trends and updates, she keeps players informed about upcoming releases, events, and major game changes.