Bonehew

Bonehew is an elite unique Ogre Axe that serves as a solid mercenary weapon with massive damage and two open sockets for customization. The +270-320% Enhanced Damage combined with two sockets makes it a viable alternative to Insight until you can afford better options.

Socket Customization

The two sockets are Bonehew's defining feature. Most players socket two Amn runes for life leech since the weapon provides none natively, ensuring mercenary sustainability. Alternatively, Shael runes increase attack speed to reach better breakpoints, though this requires life leech from other gear like Tal Rasha's helm or Vampire Gaze.

Bone Spear Novelty

The 50% Chance to Cast Level 16 Bone Spear on Striking is unique to Bonehew but ultimately cosmetic. The Bone Spear damage is negligible in Hell difficulty and won't meaningfully contribute to clear speed. The Level 14 Corpse Explosion charges are similarly underwhelming - if you wanted Corpse Explosion, you'd play a Necromancer.

When to Use

Bonehew works from levels 64-80 on Act 2 mercenaries as a damage-focused option. It outperforms most runewords in pure physical damage but lacks the utility of Insight's Meditation aura or Infinity's Conviction. An ethereal Bonehew with two Amn runes becomes a powerful budget option that can last through Hell difficulty.