The Ranger excels at ranged combat using bows and poison, and this guide covers the key skills that form the foundation of a solid leveling build. Even with basic vendor gear and minimal POE 2 currency and items, these skills will carry you through the campaign and set you up for future upgrades.

Lightning Arrow

Overview:

Your first and most reliable skill, Lightning Arrow is versatile and effective from level 1. It deals decent damage, chains to nearby enemies, and can shock foes-causing them to take 20% increased damage (which can be boosted further via passives).

Synergies:

It works well with Herald of Thunder, which triggers additional lightning effects on shock kills.

Support Gems:

Recommended supports include Martial Tempo (for attack speed) and others as you upgrade gear.

Poisonburst Arrow

Overview:

A great skill for applying poison, Poisonburst Arrow deals damage over time that bypasses energy shields-especially useful against bosses and elites.

Mechanics:

Since you only get one poison stack by default, using support gems to increase stacks is key.

Support Gems:

Consider Comorbidity to increase stacks (up to two) and Persistence to extend poison duration, allowing you to maintain maximum stacks with rapid firing.

Escape Shot

Overview:

Though not used frequently in this guide, Escape Shot is an early-game skill that can freeze enemies-helpful for control when you need to slow down an aggressive foe.

Lightning Rod

Overview:

Lightning Rod deals area lightning damage and can improve subsequent Lightning Arrow damage.

Usage Tip:

Although less precise than Lightning Arrow, it's useful if you're leaning into a lightning elemental build. Consider using it to lead into your main attacks if you've invested in lightning passives.

Stormcaller Arrow

Overview:

Stormcaller Arrow is excellent for applying shock consistently on bosses. Keeping the shock up boosts damage significantly.

Key Note:

Watch your Pierce Chance-if the arrow pierces through the target and hits a wall, it won't apply shock. Keep Pierce Chance low if you plan to rely on this skill.

Snipe

Overview:

Snipe is a high-damage, charge-based skill that rewards precise timing.

Mechanics:

When fully charged, it guarantees a critical hit with an area effect-excellent for a lead-off attack.

Synergies:

Works exceptionally well with Herald of Ash, as the damage from ignites scales with overkill damage.

Support Gems:

Consider supports like Scattershot or Window of Opportunity to reduce charge time and boost damage.

Barrage

Overview:

Barrage is a cooldown-based skill that provides periodic extra damage.

Mechanics:

Its cooldown is influenced by your attack speed-a faster attack speed means more frequent Barrage activations.

Synergies:

It benefits from Frenzy Charges and can be enhanced by buffs like Combat Frenzy.

Usage Tip:

Simply slot it in your action bar and use it whenever it's off cooldown for a burst of damage.

Gas Arrow

Overview:

Gas Arrow is an efficient AOE poison skill that applies poison to a wide area without spamming multiple Poisonburst Arrows.

Mechanics:

It's great for initiating fights by applying poison broadly.

Usage Tip:

Lead off combat with Gas Arrow to coat enemies in poison, then follow up with either Poisonburst or switch to Lightning Arrow if you're focusing on the lightning route.

Alternatives:

While skills like Scatter Shot or Bursting Plague can complement it, Gas Arrow is generally sufficient for broad poison application.

Building Your Ranger with POE 2 Currency and Items

Even as a starter build, the Ranger will benefit greatly from investing your POE 2 currency wisely:

Gear Upgrades:

Look for bows with increased physical and lightning damage, and ensure your quiver has the right modifiers (like added damage and increased attack speed).

Armor:

Invest in armor that boosts evasion and provides life, while adding some strength to open up better armor options.

Jewelry:

Rings and amulets with Dexterity, added physical/elemental damage, and resistances will be key. Trading and crafting can help you acquire these upgrades.

Currency Farming:

Use mapping, crafting, and trading to build your stash. With more currency, you can consistently upgrade your gear, ensuring that your Ranger stays competitive throughout the campaign and into endgame.

Conclusion

With this build, you'll be able to clear enemies from a distance, apply persistent poison and high shocks, and quickly take down bosses. Enjoy your journey in Path of Exile 2 with your Lightning Arrow Deadeye build, and remember that smart investments in POE 2 currency and POE 2 items will help you steadily upgrade your gear as you progress. Good luck, Exile, and may your arrows always hit their mark!