Bungie and Destiny 2 may face criticism for various aspects, but weapon design is undeniably their strong suit. Take the Barrow-Dyad SMG, for instance; this weapon stands out as a remarkable creation, especially when enhanced with its Catalyst.
The Barrow-Dyad is a close-quarters crowd-control Strand SMG proficient at dispatching waves of enemies in intense situations. While unlocking this weapon requires some effort, the rewards are palpable for those seeking a stylish new Exotic SMG.
Once you’ve added the Barrow-Dyad to your arsenal, you’ll likely want to pursue its unique Catalyst. After all, empowering your weapon is a no-brainer. There are several versions of the Barrow-Dyad Catalyst, although not all are accessible until Act 2.

Unlocking the Barrow-Dyad Catalyst in Destiny 2
There are four unique Barrow-Dyad Catalysts available in Destiny 2, each granting you the ability to enhance your weapon in distinct ways:
- High-Impact Reserves
- Hatchling
- Target Lock
- One-For-All
While these Catalysts may not have the charm of bespoke Exotic Perks, their versatility is commendable. However, as of Act 2 of the Heresy Episode, only the High-Impact Reserves Catalyst is obtainable, with the others reserved for Act 3 progression.
To unlock the Barrow-Dyad Catalyst, first complete the entirety of the Dyadic Ascension Exotic Quest. This quest upgrades your Barrow-Dyad SMG to its most powerful form before you apply the Catalyst, making it a worthwhile journey. Afterward, perform an Expert run of the Court of Blades activity with the Barrow-Dyad equipped.
Completing this task initiates a new quest titled “A Needle’s Path,” which requires you to use precision-focused weapons alongside the Barrow-Dyad in the Court of Blades. Prepare a loadout featuring only the Barrow-Dyad alongside Sniper Rifles, Linear Fusion Rifles, and Scout Rifles for optimal results. Keep in mind that if you haven’t fully ranked up your Path of Resolve or completed the Dyadic Ascension Exotic Quest, you must do so as part of “A Needle’s Path.” Nevertheless, it’s a quick process if you’ve prepared beforehand.
Successfully completing the run of the Court of Blades with the correct loadout will reward you with the High-Impact Reserves Catalyst for the Barrow-Dyad from the final activity reward chest. After that, return to the Enclave on Mars to re-craft your Barrow-Dyad with High-Impact Reserves applied.
As for the three additional Catalysts, they will be part of the exciting content arriving in Heresy Act 3, scheduled to launch on April 1st.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I unlock the Barrow-Dyad SMG in Destiny 2?
To unlock the Barrow-Dyad SMG, you must complete a series of quests within the game, specifically the Dyadic Ascension Exotic Quest and subsequent objectives.
What are the benefits of using the Barrow-Dyad Catalyst?
The Barrow-Dyad Catalyst enhances the weapon’s effectiveness, providing various perks that improve its performance in combat.
When will the remaining Barrow-Dyad Catalysts be available?
The remaining Catalysts will be released in Act 3 of the Heresy Episode, expected on April 1st.
Can I use the Barrow-Dyad SMG in all game modes?
Yes, the Barrow-Dyad SMG is suitable for a variety of game modes, including PvE and PvP settings, due to its crowd-control capabilities.
What is the significance of the High-Impact Reserves Catalyst?
The High-Impact Reserves Catalyst significantly increases the weapon’s damage output, making it a crucial upgrade for players aiming for higher performance in battles.