Resident Evil 9 Requiem: How to sharpen the Hatchet in the story and LMDF

May 9, 2026 - 02:52

If you are struggling to make that rusty blade cut through the horrors in Resident Evil 9 Requiem, you are not alone. The hatchet is a brutal weapon, but it loses its edge fast. Whether you are playing the main story or the punishing Leon Must Die Forever DLC, knowing how to sharpen it is the difference between a clean kill and a messy death.

In the story campaign, you will find a grindstone early on in the abandoned lumber mill. It is tucked behind a locked gate that requires the Rusty Gear key. Once inside, interact with the wheel. You do not need to craft anything. Just press the action button and watch the sparks fly. The hatchet will gain a temporary damage boost and a higher chance of dismemberment for about 10 swings. Use it wisely on armored enemies.

The Leon Must Die Forever DLC changes the rules. There is no grindstone. Instead, you must find Whetstone items scattered in breakable crates or dropped by the tougher Regenerators. These are one-use items. Open your inventory, select the Whetstone, and choose "Combine" with the hatchet. This will restore its sharpness to full but does not give the extra damage bonus from the story mode. Timing is everything here. Do not waste a Whetstone on a half-dulled blade. Wait until the weapon icon shows a crack, then sharpen it immediately before a boss fight.

Remember, the hatchet is your best friend against the Molded variants in LMDF. A sharp hatchet can stagger them long enough for a follow-up kick. Keep it sharp, keep moving, and do not let the silence fool you. The next enemy is always listening.