The Battlebranch

The Battlebranch stands as the best Normal unique polearm, offering a powerful combination of speed and sustain that carries players into Nightmare difficulty. The 30% IAS and 7% Life Stolen Per Hit make it significantly superior to other normal polearms.

Transition Weapon

What sets The Battlebranch apart is its ability to function well into early Nightmare. The high IAS helps reach better attack breakpoints, while life leech provides self-sustaining combat. The +10 Dexterity aids in meeting gear requirements and improving hit chance. Variable attack rating (+50-100) means a good roll significantly outperforms a poor one.

Best Uses

Equip this at level 25 on Barbarians, Paladins, or Frenzy builds pushing through Normal. It's excellent for Act 2 mercenaries who lack life leech from other sources. The weapon remains viable through level 40, making it one of the longest-lasting normal uniques.

Replace The Battlebranch with Insight runeword for mercenaries or when you find Bonehew or The Reaper's Toll. Until then, this is your go-to polearm.