In the vast and chaotic world of Borderlands 2, few weapons are as iconic and devastating as the Unkempt Harold. This legendary pistol has earned a reputation among Vault Hunters for its raw power, unique projectile spread, and overall effectiveness in nearly every combat scenario. Whether you’re playing solo or taking on Hyperion’s toughest enemies in co-op, the Unkempt Harold stands out as one of the most sought-after weapons in the game. With its incredible damage output and versatility, this pistol often becomes a staple in endgame builds and farming strategies.
What Makes the Unkempt Harold So Special?
Legendary Stats and Performance
The Unkempt Harold is a legendary Torgue-manufactured pistol known for its explosive rounds and unique firing pattern. When fired, the gun shoots multiple projectiles in a horizontal fan, resulting in massive burst damage. The number of projectiles can vary, but when all hit a single target, the damage is staggering.
- Manufacturer: Torgue
- Weapon Type: Pistol
- Elemental Damage: Explosive only
- Magazine Size: Medium (varies by prefix)
- Firing Mode: Semi-automatic
Its explosive ammo scales with grenade damage bonuses, making it especially powerful in synergy with certain character skills and relics. The Unkempt Harold’s projectiles can hit the same target multiple times, effectively multiplying its damage output. This makes it a top-tier choice for boss fights and mobbing alike.
Where to Get the Unkempt Harold in Borderlands 2
Farming Savage Lee
The most common and reliable source for farming the Unkempt Harold is Savage Lee, an enemy found in the Three Horns – Divide area. He spawns near the Marrowfield area, and players often farm him repeatedly for a chance at the legendary drop.
- Location: Three Horns – Divide
- Enemy: Savage Lee
- Drop Rate: Approximately 10% for the Unkempt Harold
To farm effectively, make sure you’re playing on a difficulty level that allows for legendary drops, and fast travel back to Sanctuary or another nearby point to reset the area quickly. Many players recommend using the Fast Travel point in Three Horns – Divide to speed up the process.
Vendor Machines in Opportunity
Another popular method is checking Torgue vending machines during Torgue Campaign of Carnage DLC events. These machines can sell the Unkempt Harold for Torgue Tokens, though availability is random and resets periodically. It’s a slower method, but it provides an alternate way to get the gun if farming enemies feels too grindy.
Mission Rewards
Players can also obtain a version of the Unkempt Harold by completing the mission The Once and Future Slab. This method guarantees a Harold, though its stats and prefix may not be optimal. Still, it’s a great way to get a usable version early in your journey.
Best Prefixes and Variants
Optimal Prefix: Double Penetrating Unkempt Harold
While there are multiple prefixes the Unkempt Harold can come with, the ‘Double Penetrating’ prefix is widely considered the best. It causes the pistol to shoot two sets of projectiles per shot instead of one, effectively doubling its damage output at the cost of increased ammo usage.
Other notable prefixes include:
- Practicing: Improves accuracy
- Explicit: Increases weapon damage
- Brutal: Offers balanced stat enhancements
However, nothing quite matches the raw destructive power of the Double Penetrating version, making it the gold standard for most serious builds.
Best Character Builds for Unkempt Harold
Salvador the Gunzerker
Salvador is by far the most synergistic character when using the Unkempt Harold. With his Gunzerking ability, he can dual-wield two Harold pistols, unleashing an overwhelming stream of explosive damage. His skill trees especially Gun Lust and Rampage amplify ammo regeneration, reload speed, and damage bonuses, all of which turn the Harold into a true endgame weapon.
Krieg the Psycho
Krieg’s explosive-focused builds also pair well with the Unkempt Harold. Skills like Blood Bath and Fuel the Fire increase explosive damage and reload speed, allowing players to maintain high DPS in chaotic fights. Krieg’s melee-centric abilities can also complement the Harold’s close-range power.
Gaige the Mechromancer
While Gaige isn’t the most obvious match, her Anarchy skill tree can create high-damage outcomes when paired with the Unkempt Harold’s projectile spread. Accuracy suffers, but at close range, it barely matters due to the weapon’s wide hit pattern. Deathtrap can serve as a distraction while you lay waste with explosive rounds.
Tips for Using the Unkempt Harold Effectively
Aim for Close to Mid-Range
The Unkempt Harold’s projectile spread is horizontal, and the bullets fan out as they travel. To ensure maximum hits, try to use the weapon at close to mid-range, especially against large enemies. The closer you are, the more bullets will hit the same target, stacking explosive damage quickly.
Mind Your Ammo
This weapon consumes three ammo per shot six if you’re using the Double Penetrating variant. Ammo conservation is essential, so pairing it with ammo regen skills or relics can help you keep shooting longer during intense battles.
Use with Explosive Bonuses
Since the Harold deals explosive damage, it benefits from all grenade damage bonuses. Equip class mods, relics, and shields that increase grenade damage or explosive weapon power for best results. You’ll see a significant improvement in overall performance.
Unkempt Harold in Co-Op Play
Role in Multiplayer
In co-op gameplay, the Unkempt Harold excels as a front-line weapon. Its splash damage can take out multiple enemies or deal massive damage to bosses in coordination with teammates. Because of its high burst output, it’s often used to finish off shielded enemies or interrupt enemy healing phases.
Ammo Sharing Strategies
If multiple players are using explosive weapons, coordinate ammo use carefully. Running out during a tough boss fight can be catastrophic, so having one player run a support build with ammo regen skills can be a game-changer.
Why the Unkempt Harold Remains a Fan Favorite
Consistent Power
Unlike some legendaries that are only useful in early or mid-game, the Unkempt Harold remains viable from the moment you acquire it all the way through Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode. Its sheer damage potential and straightforward use make it accessible to new players while offering depth for veterans.
Versatility Across Builds
Because it synergizes with multiple skills and classes, the Unkempt Harold fits seamlessly into many different playstyles. Whether you prefer brute force, precision, or explosive mayhem, this pistol adapts easily to your preferences.
Iconic Status
The weapon’s explosive sound, signature projectile fan, and powerful impact have made it one of the most recognizable and beloved guns in Borderlands history. Few weapons feel as satisfying to shoot as the Unkempt Harold, making it a must-have in any serious Vault Hunter’s arsenal.
The Unkempt Harold in Borderlands 2 is more than just a legendary pistol it’s a symbol of what makes the game great. High damage, exciting visuals, and a rewarding farming process make it a favorite across all player levels. Whether you’re just getting started or diving deep into Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, finding the right Unkempt Harold can redefine your entire gameplay experience. Make sure to farm smart, choose the best prefix, and enjoy the explosive ride across Pandora.