How to Get Wolfsbane Exotic Axe – Full 2026 Guide
Are you ready to wield Destiny 2’s first-ever Exotic Axe? The Wolfsbane has arrived with the Ash & Iron update, and I’m here to guide you through every step of obtaining this game-changing weapon. As a Guardian who’s spent countless hours mastering exotic missions, I’ll share everything you need to know about acquiring Wolfsbane, unlocking its powerful catalysts, and maximizing its potential in both PvE and PvP activities.
Quick Overview: Wolfsbane Exotic Axe (2026)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Weapon Type | Exotic Axe (Heavy Sword) |
| Damage Type | Solar |
| Acquisition Method | Complete Heliostat Exotic Mission |
| Craftable | Yes, at the Enclave |
| Release Date | October 7, 2026 |
| Catalysts Available | 4 (Time-gated releases) |
| Intrinsic Upgrades | Resurgence Directive II, III, IV |
How to Get Wolfsbane Exotic Axe?
The journey to obtaining Wolfsbane begins with the Heliostat Exotic Mission, introduced in the Ash & Iron Major Update. This mission represents a significant milestone as it introduces the first axe-type weapon to Destiny 2’s arsenal. Here’s exactly how you can get your hands on this powerful exotic weapon.
Step 1: Access the Heliostat Mission
To start your Wolfsbane journey, you’ll need to locate the Heliostat Exotic Mission in your Director. Follow these steps:
- Open your Director and navigate to the Pinnacle Ops tab
- Look for Exotic Missions in the submenu
- Select Heliostat from the available missions
- Your first completion is locked to Normal difficulty with fixed modifiers
- Launch the mission and prepare for an exciting adventure through the Plaguelands
Pro Tip: Your first clear must be completed on Normal difficulty to ensure you receive Wolfsbane as a reward. Once completed, you’ll unlock higher difficulty tiers with customizable modifiers for future runs.
Step 2: Complete the Heliostat Mission Walkthrough
The Heliostat mission is an engaging experience that takes you through various mechanics and challenges. Let me break down each section to help you navigate it successfully.
Heliostat Psionic Protection Buff
As you enter the mission, you’ll encounter a glowing orange device emitting damaging pulses. These pulses will quickly kill you without protection. Here’s what to do:
- Locate the rally flag-like circle nearby
- Stand in it to acquire the Psionic Protection buff
- This buff allows you to safely pass through the damaging pulses
- Keep an eye out for additional Psionic Protection buff stations throughout the mission
Heliostat Radiolarian Fusion Meter
Progress deeper into the structure until you encounter a Minotaur at the bottom of a staircase. Here’s how to handle this section:
- Defeat the Minotaur to reveal a white zone on the ground
- Stand in the white zone to charge your Radiolarian Fusion meter
- Once fully charged, follow the Psion to a blocked doorway
- Use your charged fusion to open the doorway and proceed
Heliostat Access the Bunker
In the next chamber, you’ll need to activate four glowing blue buttons. Here’s the strategy:
- The first button is located in the center of the ceiling
- Defeat waves of enemies until Minotaurs appear
- Use the white zones dropped by Minotaurs to recharge your Radiolarian Fusion
- Open blocked doorways with your Psion’s help
- Enter each new room and shoot the blue button on the ceiling
- Repeat until all four buttons are activated (one in main room, three in side rooms)
Heliostat Descend
After activating all buttons, drop through the hole in the center of the room into a blue-lit water area:
- Find the terminal glowing with green text and a green diamond
- Activate the terminal and turn around
- Enter the diamond-marked door (the only safe one – others are trapped)
- Navigate the hallway with platforms, jumping to the third platform on the left wall
- Continue to two yellow platforms, jump to the longer one
- Enter the door, turn left, and drop down the hole
- Summon a Psion using the nearby terminal
- Cross the corridor to another terminal and press Execute Partner Hack
- In the new room, send your Psion to hack again
- Check the middle terminal to note a red symbol
- Match this symbol on the terminal with three monitors and activate it
- Wait for the elevator to descend, then shoot four blue buttons as you fall to disable electrical barriers
Heliostat Enter the Security Code
This section requires memory and precision:
- Defeat the Cabal and enter the main building with red monitors
- Memorize the three symbols shown from left to right
- Three side rooms contain similar monitors
- Enter each room, summon your Psion to hack, and activate the matching symbols in the same sequence
- Some rooms require shooting grates and navigating vents to reach the correct monitors
- Look for “Security Code Fragment Accepted” confirmation
- After completing all three, clear the new wave of Cabal enemies
- Open the chest that spawns and activate the nearby green terminal to power the elevator
Heliostat Override the Gravlift
Take the elevator upward and navigate the jumping puzzle section:
- Summon Psion when needed for radiation protection
- Progress through until you reach a glass hallway with two green terminals and orange teleporters
- Activate both terminals, teleport through, and follow the green glow
- Ride the grav lift up to reach the final boss room
Heliostat Final Boss Battle
The final encounter requires coordination and strategy:
- Eliminate Vex and Minotaurs to recharge your Radiolarian Fusion
- Use the energy to open side rooms where Psions can hack terminals
- Once both hacks are done, start dealing damage to the Cabal boss
- When the boss becomes immune, find and kill the Vex Wyvern to remove the damage shield
- Stay close to Psions for protection from radiation damage
- Continue cycling through this process until the boss is defeated
Important Note: Bungie has acknowledged a known issue where breaking Vex crystals in the Heliostat mission may not grant Wolfsbane intrinsics to all players in the fireteam. This is being investigated as of March 2026.
Step 3: Receive Your Wolfsbane
Upon successfully completing the Heliostat mission for the first time, you’ll receive Wolfsbane immediately as your reward. Congratulations, Guardian! You now possess Destiny 2’s first Exotic Axe.
Wolfsbane Exotic Perks and Traits
Wolfsbane introduces unique mechanics centered around Quicksilver nanites that heal, recharge, and enhance your combat capabilities. Let me break down its impressive arsenal of perks and traits.
Intrinsic Perk: Resurgence Directive
The base intrinsic perk of Wolfsbane provides excellent sustain and utility:
- Light attacks generate Sword energy and have the chance to spawn seeking Quicksilver nanites
- These nanites heal the wielder upon attaching, providing excellent survivability
- This makes Wolfsbane perfect for aggressive playstyles where you’re constantly in melee range
Exotic Trait: Nano-Assault
This is where Wolfsbane truly shines with its unique mechanics:
- Quicksilver nanites attach to the wielder and charge the blade
- When fully charged, press the reload button to overclock the attached nanites
- This enhances the blade’s offensive capabilities significantly
- Light attacks deal increased damage to targets
- Fully charged Heavy attacks create a flaming Quicksilver swarm-nado that devastates enemies
Wolfsbane Intrinsic Upgrades
Wolfsbane features four levels of intrinsic upgrades that enhance its base stats:
Resurgence Directive (Base)
- Standard version with no additional upgrades
Resurgence Directive II
- Stability: 5
- Guard Resistance: 5
- Ammo Capacity: 2
Resurgence Directive III
- Impact: 2
- Guard Endurance: 5
- Ammo Generation: 5
- Ammo Capacity: 2
Resurgence Directive IV (Maximum)
- Impact: 3
- Stability: 2
- Guard Resistance: 2
- Guard Endurance: 5
- Ammo Generation: 5
- Ammo Capacity: 2
How to Unlock Wolfsbane Intrinsic Upgrades?
To maximize Wolfsbane’s potential, you’ll want to unlock its intrinsic upgrades. Here’s how to obtain each level:
Resurgence Directive II
- Start the Heliostat Exotic mission
- Complete the first main encounter
- Proceed to the traversal section
- Destroy 3 Vex nodes using Wolfsbane
- Complete the mission to unlock Resurgence Directive II
Resurgence Directive III
- Complete the Heliostat Exotic Mission’s second main encounter
- Head to the large platforming section
- Destroy three Vex nodes using Wolfsbane
- Use the gravlift to reach the higher level
- Find three Vex nodes (one on the right, two on the left)
- Destroy all nodes with Wolfsbane
- Complete the mission to unlock Resurgence Directive III
Resurgence Directive IV
- Reach the final boss room of the Heliostat Exotic Mission
- Locate and destroy three Vex nodes using Wolfsbane
- Complete the mission to unlock the maximum Resurgence Directive IV
Wolfsbane Exotic Catalysts
Wolfsbane features four powerful catalysts that expand on its nanite and healing mechanics. These catalysts are time-gated, with new ones becoming available each week.
Available Catalysts
Attrition Orbs Refit (Available Week 1: October 7, 2026)
- Effect: Dealing sustained damage creates an Orb of Power
- How to Obtain: Interact with data pad and console at the beginning of Heliostat mission, then complete the mission
Relentless Strikes Refit (Available Week 2: October 14, 2026)
- Effect: Landing three light-attack hits within a short time grants Sword ammo
- How to Obtain: Time-gated release – complete mission when available
Burning Ambition Refit (Available Week 3: October 21, 2026)
- Effect: Dealing sustained damage scorches the target. Dealing damage to a scorched target inflicts scorch
- How to Obtain: Time-gated release – complete mission when available
Subroutine: ~Recursion (Available Week 4: October 28, 2026)
- Effect: Quicksilver nanites grant more health the greater your stacks of Nano-Assault are. Taking damage while Nano-Assault is active has the chance to generate nanites nearby
- How to Obtain: Time-gated release – complete mission when available
Detailed Catalyst Acquisition Guide
How to Get Attrition Orbs Catalyst?
- Start the Heliostat Exotic mission
- After defeating the first group of enemies, you’ll come across a radioactive reactor
- Summon the shielding Psion and head past the reactor
- Look for a datapad across from the second device, hidden behind a pile of crates
- Interact with the console on the other side of the hallway, just behind the shielding Psion’s next spawn point
- Complete the mission to receive the Attrition Orbs catalyst
Important: You don’t have to complete all catalyst steps in a single run. You can pick up the datapad in one run, interact with the terminal in another, and complete the mission in a third – you’ll still get credit for the catalyst.
Is Wolfsbane Craftable?
Yes! Wolfsbane is fully craftable at the Enclave on Mars. This means you can:
- Level up the weapon by accumulating completions and solving puzzles
- Craft multiple copies with different perk combinations
- Unlock enhanced perks through mission challenges
- Create your perfect “God Roll” tailored to your playstyle
To craft Wolfsbane, you’ll need to:
- Complete the Heliostat mission at least once
- Level up the weapon by using it in activities
- Complete specific challenges within the Heliostat mission
- Visit the Enclave on Mars to shape and reshape your Wolfsbane
Wolfsbane Performance Analysis (March 2026)
After extensive testing and community feedback, here’s how Wolfsbane performs in different activities:
PvE Performance (B-Tier)
In PvE activities, Wolfsbane offers a fun and unique experience but has some limitations:
Strengths:
- Excellent self-healing through Quicksilver nanites
- Unique Nano-Assault mechanic provides burst damage potential
- Good sustainability for extended encounters
- Fun and satisfying to use with the swarm-nado effect
Weaknesses:
- Nano-Assault takes time to charge, making it less effective for quick encounters
- Damage output doesn’t match top-tier legendary swords or The Lament
- The swarm-nado effect is visually impressive but deals underwhelming damage
- Better options available for major damage and ad-clear
PvP Performance (C-Tier)
In PvP, Wolfsbane faces significant challenges:
Strengths:
- Unique weapon type can catch opponents off guard
- Healing nanites provide some sustain in fights
- Heavy attack can be effective in tight spaces
Weaknesses:
- Classified as a heavy weapon, limiting its utility
- Ammo constraints make it difficult to consistently proc Nano-Assault
- Slower than most competitive heavy weapons
- Outperformed by established PvP heavy weapons
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on my experience and community feedback, here are common mistakes Guardians make when pursuing Wolfsbane:
1. Skipping Psionic Protection
Many players rush through the mission without properly managing the Psionic Protection buff, leading to unnecessary deaths. Always ensure you have the buff before entering pulse zones.
2. Ignoring Radiolarian Fusion
Some players forget to charge their Radiolarian Fusion meter, preventing progress through certain sections. Always defeat Minotaurs and stand in the white zones to charge this essential mechanic.
3. Not Memorizing Security Codes
The security code section requires memorization. Take your time to memorize the three symbols and their order, or write them down if needed.
4. Attempting Solo Without Preparation
While the mission can be completed solo, it’s significantly easier with a fireteam. Consider bringing friends if you’re struggling with certain sections.
5. Missing Catalyst Opportunities
Remember that catalyst steps don’t need to be completed in a single run. Take your time and collect the required components across multiple mission completions.
Pro Strategies for Wolfsbane
To maximize your effectiveness with Wolfsbane, consider these advanced strategies:
1. Nano-Assault Timing
Learn to time your Nano-Assault activation for maximum impact. Save it for major targets or when surrounded by groups of enemies to make the most of the swarm-nado effect.
2. Synergy with Solar Builds
Wolfsbane works exceptionally well with Solar 3.0 builds. Combine it with abilities that enhance solar damage, healing, or restoration effects for maximum effectiveness.
3. Ammo Management
Since Wolfsbane is a heavy weapon, ammo management is crucial. Use light attacks primarily and save heavy attacks for when Nano-Assault is charged or for critical targets.
4. Team Support
In group activities, use Wolfsbane’s healing nanites to support your fireteam. Position yourself to allow nanites to attach to nearby allies for additional sustain.
5. Catalyst Optimization
Each catalyst offers different benefits. Experiment with all available catalysts to find which one best suits your playstyle and the activities you frequently engage in.
Platform-Specific Information (2026)
Wolfsbane is available across all Destiny 2 platforms, but there are some platform-specific considerations:
PC (Steam & Epic Games Store)
- Keyboard and mouse controls offer precise aiming for heavy attacks
- Higher frame rates can make timing Nano-Assault activations easier
- Consider rebinding keys for easier access to Nano-Assault activation
Console (PlayStation & Xbox)
- Controller vibration provides excellent feedback for nanite attachment
- Aim assist can help with tracking targets during melee combos
- Consider adjusting sensitivity for better control in close-quarters combat
Stadia (While Available)
- Streaming latency may affect timing-sensitive mechanics
- Visual quality settings may impact visibility of nanite effects
- Ensure stable internet connection for the best experience
Related Content and Resources
For more Destiny 2 content and to enhance your overall gaming experience, check out these related articles:
- Destiny 2 Exotic Weapons Tier List (September 2026) – See how Wolfsbane ranks against other exotic weapons
- Destiny 2 Xur Location & Exotics Guide September 2026 – Find Xur and his exotic offerings each week
- Destiny 2 Ash & Iron: Complete September 9 Preview 2026 – Learn more about the update that brought Wolfsbane
- Ultimate Destiny 2 Warlock Buffs Guide 2026 Ash & Iron – Discover how Ash & Iron affects Warlock gameplay
- Ultimate Destiny 2 Weekly Reset Guide September 2026 – Stay updated with weekly content and activities
FAQ
How do I start the Heliostat mission to get Wolfsbane?
Navigate to the Pinnacle Ops tab in your Director, select Exotic Missions, and choose Heliostat. Your first completion must be on Normal difficulty.
Is Wolfsbane craftable?
Yes, Wolfsbane is fully craftable at the Enclave on Mars. You can shape and reshape it with different perks after unlocking its pattern.
How many catalysts does Wolfsbane have?
Wolfsbane has four catalysts: Attrition Orbs Refit, Relentless Strikes Refit, Burning Ambition Refit, and Subroutine: ~Recursion. They’re released weekly.
What damage type is Wolfsbane?
Wolfsbane is a Solar damage weapon, making it excellent for Solar 3.0 builds and activities with Solar burn modifiers.
Can I get Wolfsbane on multiple characters?
Yes, you can complete the Heliostat mission on each character to receive Wolfsbane. Additional copies cost 3,000 Glimmer and 2 Enhancement Cores.
Why isn’t my Wolfsbane dealing much damage?
Wolfsbane’s damage potential comes from properly timing Nano-Assault activations. Make sure to charge it fully and use it strategically.
Are there any known issues with Wolfsbane?
Bungie has acknowledged an issue where breaking Vex crystals in Heliostat may not grant intrinsics to all fireteam members. This is being investigated.
How long does it take to complete the Heliostat mission?
The Heliostat mission typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete on your first run, depending on your skill level and familiarity with the mechanics.
Can I farm Wolfsbane for better rolls?
Since Wolfsbane is craftable, you can create multiple versions with different perk combinations at the Enclave once you’ve unlocked its pattern.
Is Wolfsbane good for endgame content?
While fun and unique, Wolfsbane is currently considered B-tier for PvE and C-tier for PvP. It’s more of a novelty weapon than a meta choice for high-end activities.
Final Thoughts
Wolfsbane represents an exciting addition to Destiny 2’s arsenal as the first-ever Exotic Axe. While it may not top the meta charts for endgame content, it offers a unique and enjoyable playstyle that’s perfect for Guardians who love close-quarters combat and innovative mechanics.
The journey to obtain Wolfsbane through the Heliostat mission is engaging and rewarding, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The time-gated catalyst system provides ongoing content and reasons to return to the mission in the coming weeks.
Whether you’re a collector looking to add every exotic to your arsenal or a player who enjoys unique weapon mechanics, Wolfsbane is definitely worth pursuing. Its self-healing capabilities, Nano-Assault system, and craftable nature make it a versatile addition to any Guardian’s loadout.
Remember to bookmark this guide and check back regularly as I’ll update it with new information, catalyst release details, and any balance changes that may affect Wolfsbane’s performance. Happy hunting, Guardian!