Reaching level 80 in World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King (WOTLK) is an achievement in itself, but the journey doesn't end there. One of the most frustrating aspects of gearing up your character is obtaining a decent weapon. While there are various BoE (Bind on Equip) items and World Epics available, getting your hands on a weapon above 200 item level can be a daunting task. However, with the introduction of Phase 4, a glimmer of hope emerges for those seeking a powerful weapon in WOTLK. This hope comes in the form of "The Battered Hilt."

The Battered Hilt: A Coveted Relic

The Battered Hilt is a unique item in WOTLK that can change the game for both new and experienced players. It drops from trash mobs and bosses in the three new heroics introduced in Phase 4. Players can also find it on the auction house. The allure of this item is not only in its 251-item level weapon but also in the achievement you earn when you complete the questline associated with it.

Whether you're a completionist aiming to achieve every goal in the game, a veteran looking to equip your alt character, or a new main in need of a substantial upgrade, obtaining a 251-item level weapon is a significant milestone. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to acquire The Battered Hilt and complete the associated questline.

The Questline Unveiled

The journey to obtain The Battered Hilt begins with obtaining the item itself. You can either farm it by participating in the new heroics or purchase it from the auction house. Once you have The Battered Hilt in your possession, your adventure truly begins. The questline that follows takes you on a thrilling journey, offering different rewards based on your class.

For those wielding swords, you'll have the option to choose from four 251-item level swords. However, if you're a druid, you'll be presented with four maces to select from. Each weapon offers powerful stats that rival the best gear obtainable from the Trial of the Crusader 25-man heroic mode, only with a slightly lower item level.

The Questline Steps

Accept the Quest: After acquiring The Battered Hilt, start by accepting the quest that goes with it.

Visit Quel'Delar's Rest: Head to Quel'Delar's Rest, located just south of the Argent Tournament Grounds. If you're playing as an Alliance character, hand it in to Caladis Brightspear, or if you're a Horde character, hand it in to Mor'alian Sunblaze.

Meet Crassus at Wyrmrest Temple: Your next destination is the top of Wyrmrest Temple. Here, you'll meet Crassus, and there might be a bit of roleplay as you wait for further instructions.

Journey to Dalaran: You will be sent to Dalaran, but the location in the city will differ based on your faction. Horde players will enter the inn of their faction area, and Alliance players will visit a library section near the emblem vendors.

Venture into Dalaran Sewers: Depending on your faction, head to the appropriate location in the Dalaran Sewers. Horde players will go to the emblem trade-in vendor area, and Alliance players will find themselves in the black market area. You'll be tasked with killing an NPC specific to your faction.

Return to the Quest Giver: Go back to the NPC who assigned you the quest in Dalaran and get the next set of instructions.

Visit Shandy Glossgleam in Dalaran: Find Shandy Glossgleam on a balcony above a shop in Dalaran's Threads of Fate area. You'll be asked to assist him in washing clothes in a quest similar to one in Sholazar Basin.

Use the Tabard: After you've completed the washing quest, you'll receive a tabard that disguises you as the opposite faction. This is crucial for the next part of the quest.

Return to Quel'Delar's Rest: Head back to Quel'Delar's Rest, but be ready for a bit of roleplay involving Blood Queen Lana'thel.

Complete the Heroics: Depending on your class and the weapon type you desire, you will be sent into one of the three new heroics: Pit of Saron, Forge of Souls, or Halls of Reflection. Complete the objectives within these instances.

Forge the Quest Item: In Pit of Saron, you'll need to gather Saronite Bars and acquire a hammer from Forge Master Garfrost. With the hammer and bars, forge the quest item you need.

Hand in the Quest: Outside the instances, you'll find NPCs to hand in the quest. The location depends on your faction, as indicated earlier.

Head to Forge of Souls: In Forge of Souls, you'll need to clear the instance and proceed to the altar of souls.

Complete Halls of Reflection: You'll be sent into Halls of Reflection, where certain classes can solo the content. If you're having trouble, consider asking friends to help you. If you fail, you can abandon the quest and try again.

Gain Thalorien's Blessing: Venture to the Isle of Quel'Danas to collect Thalorien's Blessing, completing a short quest that involves defeating waves of mobs.

Hand in the Quest: Return to the quest giver on the Isle of Quel'Danas.

Class-Dependent Hand-In: Depending on your class and the type of weapon you're pursuing, you will be directed to either the Violet Citadel in Dalaran or the Argent Tournament Grounds to complete the final part of the quest.

Obtaining a 251-item level weapon in WOTLK is a challenging but rewarding journey. The Battered Hilt questline takes players through various locations, engages them in exciting story elements, and provides powerful weapon and WoTLK gold rewards tailored to their class. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer to the world of Azeroth, this questline offers a unique opportunity to strengthen your character and earn an achievement to showcase your dedication to the game. So, embrace the adventure, gather your party if needed, and enjoy the ride as you chase after The Battered Hilt in Wrath of the Lich King.