Thorn
A cursed hand cannon that inflicts its victims with the lingering Mark of the Devourer, a poison-like effect of the Darkness.
Thorn is a legendary Exotic Hand Cannon renowned as one of the most dangerous weapons in the solar system. Originally a Guardian-made weapon, it was corrupted by the infamous Dredgen Yor and later recreated from its remnants by Guardians through a specific quest. The weapon is defined not just by its high damage output, but by a sinister ability to inflict Mark of the Devourer on its targets, turning every shot into a curse that lingers long after impact.
Quick Facts
- Faction origin
- Guardian-made, corrupted by Dredgen Yor
Lore & Background
Thorn was famously used by Dredgen Yor, a Guardian who fell to the Darkness, and later by other Guardians who sought to master its corrupting power. It was not wielded by Uldren Sov, who was the Prince of the Reef and creator of the Scorn, not a ruler on the Moon. Uldren was associated with the Ace of Spades, Cayde-6's hand cannon, and met his end in the Tangled Shore, not on the Moon. After Dredgen Yor's reign, the original Thorn was destroyed, and a new one was forged from its remnants through a quest in Destiny 1 and later from the Drifter in Destiny 2. Its presence in a Guardian's arsenal serves as a reminder that even those who oppose the Darkness can be tainted by its power, yet wield it for the light.
Reader's Guide
Thorn functions as a high-damage Exotic Hand Cannon with a unique passive ability known as 'Poisoned'. When a target is hit by Thorn's bullets, they begin to bleed Void energy. This bleeding effect deals damage over time and can be transferred to other enemies if the poisoned target is killed. In gameplay terms, this makes Thorn exceptionally effective for crowd control and finishing off weakened foes. The weapon does not require complex mechanics; its power lies in consistent accuracy. Every shot plants a seed of destruction that grows until the enemy falls or the poison runs its course. Originally wielded by Uldren Sov, Thorn is now accessible to all Guardians who have unlocked it through various activities. It remains a favorite for players who prefer a methodical, punishing playstyle, turning every encounter into a slow, inevitable demise for their enemies.
Did You Know?
- The weapon's damage over time effect is called Mark of the Devourer or Soul Devourer in Destiny 1, and Poison or Mark of the Devourer in Destiny 2, not 'Void Bleed'.
- It is one of the few Exotic weapons that cannot be acquired through random drops before completing its quest; after the initial quest, it can drop from random exotic engrams in Destiny 2.
- Thorn's design features a distinct, jagged barrel and a dark, ominous aesthetic fitting its Hive-corrupted origins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who corrupted the original version of this gun?
The weapon was originally crafted by Guardians but was later claimed and twisted by the Taken warlord Dredgen Yor.
Why is Thorn feared among other weapons?
Its unique ability to poison targets makes it exceptionally lethal, especially when dealing with groups or high-health enemies.
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