List of PoE 2 Ammunition Skill Gems

In Path of Exile 2, the introduction of the Mercenary class brings a dynamic ammunition system that enhances gameplay through strategic combat choices. The Mercenary wields a crossbow and has access to various ammunition types, each designed to provide unique effects and utilities tailored to different combat scenarios. This article explores the ammunition mechanics, types, and strategies for maximizing their effectiveness in battle.

Crossbow's default attack skill Crossbow Shot does not cost any mana to fire while all other ammunition skills only cost mana when reloading the crossbow. (Note that an exception exists for skills such as Hailstorm Rounds which load ammunition passively; in that case, the mana cost will be applied to Crossbow Shot directly.)

List of Ammunition Skill Gems

Ammunition is a gem tag for Crossbow skills. Using a Crossbow Ammunition Skill replaces your Crossbow's basic Attack with the skill indicated. The Ammunition Skill itself does not fire the Ammunition, only load it into your Crossbow.

Ammunition in Path of Exile 2 is not merely a resource but a core mechanic that influences how players approach encounters. Each type of ammunition offers distinct properties, allowing players to adapt their strategies based on the enemies they face. The ability to switch between different ammo types mid-combat adds a layer of complexity and depth, making the Mercenary one of the most versatile classes in the game.

• Armour Piercing Rounds (1) Tags: Attack, Ammunition, Projectile, Physical
• Fragmentation Rounds (1) Tags: Attack, Ammunition, Projectile, Payoff
• Permafrost Bolts (1) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Cold
• High Velocity Rounds (3) Tags: Attack, Ammunition, Projectile, Physical, Payoff
• Incendiary Shot (3) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Fire
• Galvanic Shards (5) Tags: Attack, Ammunition, Projectile, Lightning, Chaining
• Ice Shards (5) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Sustained, Cold
• Rapid Shot (5) Tags: Attack, Ammunition, Projectile, Fire
• Explosive Shot (7) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Fire, Detonator
• Glacial Bolt (7) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Cold, Duration
• Stormblast Bolts (9) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Lightning, Duration
• Hailstorm Rounds (11) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Sustained, Cold
• Shockburst Rounds (11) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Lightning, Payoff
• Plasma Blast (13) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Lightning, Channelling
• Siege Cascade (13) Tags: Attack, AoE, Ammunition, Projectile, Sustained, Fire, Payoff

Ammunition skills (or "Ammo") are crossbow exclusive Projectile Attack skills that load a clip of bolts or rounds. Ammunition skills determine which type of bolts or rounds are used to effect of the crossbow attack.

Example: Armour Piercing Rounds

Crossbows

Crossbows are Two-Handed ranged weapons that require Strength and Dexterity to equip. Crossbow basic Attacks can be modified with Ammunition Skills.

Multiple Projectiles fired from a single Crossbow skill can all hit the same target, and single-Projectile skills fire additional Projectiles in sequence rather than in a spread.

Grenade

Grenade is a gem tag on some Crossbow skills. Grenades have a cooldown and a fuse duration, rather than the reload mechanics of ammunition skills.

Grenade Skills are only usable when wielding a Crossbow. They have cooldowns, but generally deliver high damage or powerful utility.

Grenade Skills have a fuse duration and will generally not explode until the fuse has expired, so they are strongest when you aim carefully and predict enemy movements.

Grenades cannot Fork or Chain.

Ammo Switching

To fully utilize the Mercenary's potential, players must master the art of switching between ammo types. Here are some strategies for effective ammo management:

1. Hotkey Assignments: Assign different ammo types to specific hotkeys for quick access during combat. This allows for seamless transitions between ammo types without interrupting your flow.
2. Understanding Reload Mechanics: Each time you switch ammo types, your character reloads the crossbow with the new type. Be mindful of your Mana usage, as reloading consumes resources.
3. Combining Ammo Types: Plan your combos by equipping complementary ammo types. For instance, start with an area-control type like Explosive Bolts to manage groups, then switch to high-damage options like Armour Piercing Ammo for single targets.
4. Monitor Ammo Count: Keep an eye on your remaining shots for each ammo type displayed on your hotbar. Efficient management ensures you’re always prepared for any encounter.
5. Adaptability: Use the flexibility of the ammo system to counter various enemy types effectively. Switching to Permafrost Ammo against fast-moving foes can slow them down, while Incendiary Ammo can clear out weaker mobs quickly.

The ammunition system in Path of Exile 2 adds significant depth to gameplay, especially for players who choose the Mercenary class.