Skip to content

Silksong: Hunter Crest Guide (Location & Builds)

The Hunter Crest is the default starting Crest in Hollow Knight: Silksong. As Hornet’s initial equipment, it provides a perfectly balanced and versatile foundation, making it an ideal choice for new players learning the mechanics of Pharloom.

Hunter Crest Icon

Hunter Crest

"Stalk prey and attack with lethal strikes."

This Crest encourages experimentation, offering one slot for each primary Tool type and a reliable, straightforward moveset that is effective in most early-game situations.


The Hunter Crest is automatically equipped on Hornet at the very beginning of the game. You do not need to find or unlock it.


The Hunter Crest provides a quick and responsive set of attacks ideal for learning enemy patterns.

  • Standard Attack: A quick, precise slash directly forward.
  • Upward Attack: An arcing slash above Hornet, good for hitting aerial or jumping foes.
  • Dash Attack: A lunge attack where Hornet dashes into an enemy and bounces slightly off them upon impact.
  • Downward Attack: A swift, 45-degree downward stab while airborne. Effective for attacking from above but requires precision for pogoing.
  • Bind (Heal): The standard heal, consuming Silk to restore 3 Masks of health.

The Hunter Crest starts with one of each primary Tool slot. According to early findings, it has at least three additional upgrade slots that can be unlocked with Memory Lockets, allowing it to remain a viable, balanced option well into the mid-game.


The Hunter Crest’s greatest strength is its versatility. It’s a jack-of-all-trades that allows new players to safely learn the game.

  • Strengths: Balanced slot configuration allows for diverse builds. Fast and reliable moveset is easy to use.
  • Weaknesses: Lacks a specialized focus, meaning it can be outclassed by other Crests in specific situations.

This build utilizes the starting slots to provide a taste of everything Silksong’s Tool system has to offer.

  • Red Slot (🟥): String Shard - Increases Shell Shards dropped by foes, helping you save up for early shop items.
  • Blue Slot (🟦): Fractured Mask - Provides a small defensive buff, giving you more room for error.
  • Yellow Slot (🟨): Compass - Essential for navigating the unfamiliar lands of Pharloom.