Crafting Steps for Early Game Grenade Crossbow:

1. Base Selection

Start with any Crossbow that has "+1 to Level of Path of Exile 2 Currency Skill Gems" or an open Prefix. If none are available, buy a Normal base and roll it with Orbs of Transmutation until you get a useful modifier.

2. Orb of Augmentation

Add a second random mod - ideally one that increases attack speed or elemental damage.

3. Essence of Abrasion

Apply this Essence to turn the weapon into a Rare item with guaranteed flat physical damage.

4. Exalted Orb + Omen of Greater Exaltation

Use an Exalted Orb while the Omen is active to add two extra modifiers, reaching the six-mod limit.

Ideal Early-Game Modifiers:

% Increased Physical Damage
+1 to the Level of all Projectile Skill Gems
Adds # to # Physical Damage
Adds # to # Elemental Damage
% Increased Attack Speed

This setup ensures a strong start and smooth progression through the campaign.

If you struggle to find good bases, buy several Normal Crossbows and reroll them with Orbs of Transmutation. Alternatively, start a new character, rush to POE 2 Chaos Orbs for sale the Clearfell Encampment, and check the vendor - early-game rerolls can yield surprisingly strong results.