Black

Black is a budget weapon runeword in Diablo 2 Resurrected designed for Smite Paladins tackling Uber Tristram. Created with Thul + Io + Nef in any 3-socket club, hammer, or mace, it delivers the essential 40% Chance of Crushing Blow needed to shred boss health bars.

Crushing Blow Specialist

Black's standout feature is its massive 40% Crushing Blow, which deals percentage-based damage to bosses. Combined with 15% Increased Attack Speed, this makes Black the go-to budget weapon for Uber Smiters who need to kill Mephisto, Diablo, and Baal without expensive gear. The runeword also provides +120% Enhanced Damage, +200 to Attack Rating, and Level 4 Corpse Explosion charges for utility.

Best Base and Uses

Flail is the best base due to its naturally fast attack speed (-10), allowing Smiters to hit crucial breakpoints with Fanaticism aura. The Knockback modifier is annoying for regular melee builds but irrelevant for Smiters since Smite already knocks back enemies. All three runes drop from Nightmare Countess, making this extremely affordable. Use Black until you can afford Grief or Last Wish for endgame progression.