Runewords vary on their suitability for different classes and specs, as well as utility for the various Mercenaries. Any Runeword that says it needs 'mace' and doesn't list other mace-like weapons (clubs, hammers, and scepters) needs to have the weapon choices explained more fully to avoid trying to make this in the wrong weapon type. Steel's major downside is that you won't use it for that long - but even a few levels with this will give you a great head start, so it's still worth making. That said, some also keep it as a swap weapon for tougher bosses, since the Open Wounds bleed effect works wonders on difficult enemies.

Its utility doesn't last long, as better options become available in not so many levels. Baby's First 'Real' Weapon is also easy to make, with easily-obtained runes and only two sockets required. There just aren't many weapons in this level range with these kinds of abilities: enhanced damage, Increased Attack Speed, Open Wounds, and increased attack rating. Steel has the distinction of being the lowest-level Runeword in the game, obtainable as early as level 13.

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