How to upgrade nail in Hollow Knight?

Learning how to upgrade nail in Hollow Knight is essential for surviving the challenging encounters that await in Hallownest's depths. Your nail serves as your primary weapon, and upgrading it significantly increases your damage output against enemies and bosses.

Finding the Nailsmith

To upgrade your nail, you'll need to locate the Nailsmith in the City of Tears. He's found in his shop on the left side of the city, accessible after obtaining the Shopkeeper's Key or using alternate routes through the sewers. The Nailsmith is the only character who can perform nail upgrades throughout your journey.

Nail Upgrade Requirements

Sharpened Nail (First Upgrade)

- Cost: 250 Geo

- Requirement: Pale Ore (1 piece)

- Damage Increase: From 5 to 9 damage

Channelled Nail (Second Upgrade)

- Cost: 800 Geo

- Requirement: Pale Ore (1 additional piece)

- Damage Increase: From 9 to 13 damage

Coiled Nail (Third Upgrade)

- Cost: 2,000 Geo

- Requirement: Pale Ore (1 additional piece)

- Damage Increase: From 13 to 17 damage

Pure Nail (Final Upgrade)

- Cost: 4,000 Geo

- Requirement: Pale Ore (1 additional piece)

- Damage Increase: From 17 to 21 damage

Collecting Pale Ore

Pale Ore is the rare material needed for upgrades. You can find it in various locations including the Ancient Basin, Crystal Peak, Deepnest, and the Colosseum of Fools. Some pieces require defeating challenging enemies or completing difficult platforming sections.

Each upgrade dramatically improves your combat effectiveness, making previously tough enemies much more manageable. With proper nail upgrades and strategic gameplay, you'll be well-equipped to face Hallownest's most formidable challenges and uncover all of the kingdom's dark secrets.