Destruction Warlocks in The Burning Crusade Classic dish out devastating damage, but only when they're geared properly. This guide walks you through the best gear choices from your first dungeon runs all the way to Sunwell Plateau, giving you everything you need to gear your Destruction Warlock effectively.

One thing to understand right away: there's no single "best" gear set that works for every situation. Your ideal setup depends on your talent specialization (Shadow Destruction versus Fire Destruction), your raid composition, and most critically, your current Hit Rating. This guide helps you navigate all those variables across every content phase.

Throughout this guide, certain items work specifically for either Shadow or Fire builds. Shadow Destruction Warlocks focus primarily on Shadow Bolt damage and benefit from Shadow-specific gear bonuses. Fire Destruction Warlocks use Incinerate and get more value from Fire-specific bonuses and the Spellfire tailoring set.

TBC Destruction Warlock — Destruction Warlocks are among the top DPS in TBC Classic when properly geared

Hit Rating Fundamentals

Before looking at any gear recommendations, you need to understand Hit Rating. It's the most important stat consideration for Destruction Warlocks.

Hit Cap Requirements

The Hit cap changes based on your target's level:

Level 73 Raid Bosses: Require +16% chance to hit
Level 70 Trash Mobs: Require only +3% chance to hit

You should typically gear for the boss Hit cap, though some players keep a separate trash-clearing gear set.

Sources of Hit Rating Beyond Gear

Your required gear Hit Rating depends on raid composition buffs:

Draenei Racial: Inspiring Presence grants 1% Hit to party members
Elemental Shamans: Totem of Wrath provides 3% Hit
Talents and Gems: Veiled Noble Topaz and Great Dawnstone provide Hit Rating

Pro Tip

The ideal caster group has 3 Warlocks (each with Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian if available), a Draenei Elemental Shaman, and a Balance Druid. This setup provides 200-221 Spell Damage, +8% Crit, and +4% Hit combined.

Practical Hit Management

Because Hit cap matters so much, many gear slots become interchangeable based on your current situation. Rings and trinkets work particularly well for fine-tuning your Hit Rating without messing up set bonuses. When you're evaluating gear, always consider if you can actually use the Hit Rating on an item. Any Hit beyond the cap is wasted itemization.

Aldor versus Scryers

Choosing between Aldor and Scryers has minimal impact on Destruction Warlock performance. Base your decision on personal preferences like elevator convenience, location, profession trainer access, or tabard aesthetics.

The Scryers Advantages

Scryers offer superior items for flexible gearing:

Scryer's Bloodgem (Revered): Trinket with Hit Rating, useful for adjusting total Hit
Seer's Signet (Exalted): Ring option that provides gearing flexibility

Better alternatives exist for both slots in later phases, but these items let you swap gear more freely to maintain Hit cap as your equipment changes.

The Aldor Advantages

Aldor provides a marginally superior shoulder enchant:

Greater Inscription of Discipline: Approximately 1-2 DPS higher than the Scryer equivalent (Greater Inscription of the Orb)

This difference is negligible in practice.

Shattered Sun Pendant Consideration

Shattered Sun Pendant of Acumen changes its proc effect based on faction alignment, but this neck only becomes available in Phase 5. By that point, superior alternatives exist regardless of faction choice, so it won't affect your decision.

Note

Pick whichever faction you prefer. Both choices work equally well for Destruction Warlock gearing.

Set Bonuses Overview

Understanding set bonuses is key for gear planning since they heavily influence which items you should prioritize.

Tier 4: Voidheart Raiment

The 2-piece and 4-piece bonuses from Voidheart Raiment provide substantial damage increases:

Shadow Destruction Warlocks should aim for the 4-piece bonus
Fire Destruction Warlocks can use 2-piece Tier 4 combined with the Spellfire tailoring set

The Tier 4 2-piece bonus remains valuable even into Phase 2, making shoulders and gloves common choices to maintain it while upgrading other slots.

Tier 5: Corruptor Raiment

The 4-piece bonus of Corruptor Raiment only affects base damage and loses value on multi-target fights (since you can't Shadow Bolt multiple targets at once) and on fights with movement (reducing uptime). Skip this set bonus entirely.

Spellfire Set (Fire Destruction)

The 3-piece Wrath of Spellfire bonus is extremely powerful for Fire Destruction Warlocks. Breaking this set becomes worthwhile only when you get either Vestments of the Sea-Witch or Belt of Blasting, items strong enough individually to justify losing the set bonus.

Tier 6: Malefic Raiment

Critical Note

The 4-piece Malefic Raiment bonus is the most significant set bonus in the expansion for Destruction Warlocks. It increases Shadow Bolt and Incinerate damage by 6%, equivalent to roughly 100+ Spell Power, more than double the value of 4-piece Tier 4, and exceeding the 3-piece Spellfire bonus.

You'll use this set bonus through the end of The Burning Crusade, though the specific pieces change in Sunwell Plateau when off-set Tier 6 pieces become available (Bracers of the Malefic, Belt of the Malefic, Boots of the Malefic).

Malefic Raiment Tier 6 Set — Malefic Raiment - the iconic Tier 6 set for Warlocks

Gemming Philosophy

Gem selection balances Hit Rating needs with maximum Spell Power while meeting Meta gem requirements.

Primary Gem Choices

Red Gems:

Runed Crimson Spinel (Epic, Phase 3+): Pure Spell Power
Runed Living Ruby (Rare): Pure Spell Power for pre-Phase 3

Orange Gems (Red/Yellow):

Potent Pyrestone / Reckless Pyrestone: Use for socket bonuses or Meta requirements
Veiled Noble Topaz: Hit Rating option

Yellow Gems:

Great Dawnstone: Pure Hit Rating when needed

Blue Gems (for Meta requirements):

Radiant Seaspray Emerald: Spell Power + Spell Penetration
Glowing Shadowsong Amethyst: Spell Power + Stamina
Glowing Nightseye: Budget option for Meta activation

Socket Bonus Evaluation

Most socket bonuses aren't worth activating unless they provide Spell Damage or Spell Hit. The +5 Spell Damage bonus on three-socket items typically doesn't offset using three pure Spell Power gems instead of matching colors.

Items with Yellow and Blue socket requirements offering +4 Spell Damage bonuses are often good candidates for meeting Meta requirements with minimal DPS loss.

Meta Gem

Chaotic Skyfire Diamond is your Meta gem of choice. Head slots with Meta sockets are preferred, and the socket bonus (typically +5 Spell Damage) is usually worth activating since you only need one additional gem beyond the Meta itself.

Pre-Raid Best in Slot

This section covers the best gear you can get before entering raid content, sourced from Normal and Heroic Dungeons, professions, BoE World Drops, and reputation vendors.

Head Slot

Best Option: Spellstrike Hood (Tailoring)

Craftable and purchasable on the Auction House
Technically pre-BiS, but you'll replace it quickly with Voidheart Crown in Karazhan
Consider crafting Spellstrike Pants first since they last longer

Alternative Options:

Evoker's Helmet of Second Sight: Quest reward from "Teron Gorefiend, I am..."
Incanter's Cowl: Drops from Pathaleon the Calculator in The Mechanar
Hood of Oblivion: Drops from Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz
Mag'hari Ritualist's Horns: Horde-only quest reward from "Hero of the Mag'har"

Shoulder Slot

Best Option for Shadow Destruction: Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders (Shadoweave Tailoring, BoP)

Requires Tailoring with Shadoweave specialization
Can't be traded or purchased

Alternative Best Option: Plagueheart Shoulderpads

Classic Naxxramas item still excellent at level 70
Only available if you got it during Classic

Other Options:

Mana-Etched Spaulders: Drops from Quagmirran in Heroic The Slave Pens
Mantle of Three Terrors: Drops from Chrono Lord Deja in The Black Morass
Spaulders of the Torn-heart: Quest reward from "The Cipher of Damnation - The Third Fragment Recovered"

Fire Destruction or non-Tailors can pursue the Mana-Etched Regalia 2-piece set bonus for Hit Rating.

Back Slot

Best Option: Cloak of the Necropolis (Classic Naxxramas, Sapphiron)

Classic item, only available if you got it previously

Practical Best Options:

Sethekk Oracle Cloak: Drops from Talon King Ikiss in Sethekk Halls
Cloak of the Devoured: Classic AQ40 drop from C'Thun (if you have it)
Cloak of Entropy: BoE World Drop, available on Auction House

All listed cloaks are fairly close in value. Cloak of Entropy serves as an affordable placeholder while farming Sethekk Oracle Cloak.

Chest Slot

Best Option for Shadow Destruction: Frozen Shadoweave Robe (Shadoweave Tailoring, BoP)

Requires Tailoring with Shadoweave specialization

Best Option for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Robe (Spellfire Tailoring, BoP)

Part of the powerful Wrath of Spellfire 3-piece set bonus

Alternative Options:

Robe of the Crimson Order: BoE World Drop
Plagueheart Robe: Classic Naxxramas (Four Horsemen Chest)
Auchenai Anchorite's Robe: Quest reward from "Everything Will Be Alright" (Auchenai Crypts)
Mana-Etched Vestments: Drops from Epoch Hunter in Heroic Old Hillsbrad Foothills
Robe of Oblivion: Drops from Murmur in Shadow Labyrinth

If you need Hit, consider Auchenai Anchorite's Robe or the Mana-Etched 2-piece bonus.

Wrist Slot

Best Options:

Rockfury Bracers: Classic AQ40 quest reward, excellent if you can use the Hit Rating
Bracers of Havok: Tailoring craft, purchasable on Auction House, best general option

Alternative:

Crimson Bracers of Gloom: Drops from Omor the Unscarred in Heroic Hellfire Ramparts

Bracers of Havok are easy to get and remain competitive, making them the recommended choice for most players.

Hand Slot

Best Option for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Gloves (Spellfire Tailoring, BoP)

Part of the Wrath of Spellfire set

Other Best Options:

Gloves of Pandemonium: BoE World Drop
Dark Storm Gauntlets: Classic AQ40 drop from C'Thun (if you have it)

Hit Rating Options:

Mana-Etched Gloves: Drops from Omor the Unscarred in Heroic Hellfire Ramparts
Gloves of Oblivion: Drops from Warchief Kargath Bladefist in The Shattered Halls
Manaspark Gloves: Drops from Hungarfen in The Underbog

The Mana-Etched Regalia 2-piece bonus provides substantial Hit Rating.

Waist Slot

Best Option for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Belt (Spellfire Tailoring, BoP)

Best General Option: Girdle of Ruination (Tailoring)

Craftable and purchasable on Auction House
Can be expensive early in the expansion

Alternative Options:

Eyestalk Waist Cord: Classic AQ40 drop from C'Thun
A'dal's Gift: Quest reward from "How to Break Into the Arcatraz"
Sash of Serpentra: Drops from Warlord Kalithresh in The Steamvault (good if you don't need Hit)

Leg Slot

Best Option: Spellstrike Pants (Tailoring)

Craftable and purchasable on Auction House
Should be prioritized over Spellstrike Hood if you're choosing between them

Alternative Options:

Breeches of the Occultist: Drops from Aeonus in Heroic The Black Morass (technically best stats, but not worth farming specifically)
Leggings of Polarity: Classic Naxxramas drop from Thaddius
Fel Infused Leggings: Drops from Lord Kazzak (World Boss)
Trousers of Oblivion: Drops from Talon King Ikiss in Sethekk Halls
Mana-Etched Pantaloons: Drops from The Black Stalker in Heroic The Underbog

Feet Slot

Best Option for Shadow Destruction: Frozen Shadoweave Boots (Shadoweave Tailoring, BoP)

Part of the Frozen Shadoweave set

Best Option for Fire or Non-Tailors Needing Hit: Extravagant Boots of Malice

Drops from Tavarok in Heroic Mana-Tombs

Alternative Options:

Sigil-Laced Boots: Drops from Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz
Shattrath Jumpers: Quest reward from "Into the Heart of the Labyrinth" (Shadow Labyrinth)
Plagueheart Sandals: Classic Naxxramas quest reward (still excellent at 70)

Neck Slot

Best Options:

Brooch of Heightened Potential: Drops from Blackheart the Inciter in Shadow Labyrinth
Hydra-fang Necklace: Drops from Ghaz'an in The Underbog

Classic Options (if you have them):

Amulet of Vek'nilash: Classic AQ40 drop from Emperor Vek'nilash
Gem of Trapped Innocents: Classic Naxxramas drop from Kel'Thuzad
Choker of the Fire Lord: Classic Molten Core drop from Ragnaros

Ring Slots

Rings are excellent for balancing Hit Rating. Your best choices depend heavily on current gear.

Best Options:

Ashyen's Gift: Cenarion Expedition Exalted vendor
Sparking Arcanite Ring: Drops from Epoch Hunter in Heroic Old Hillsbrad Foothills
Seer's Signet: Scryers Exalted vendor
Seal of the Exorcist: Purchased with Spirit Shards (Terokkar Forest PvP vendor)

Classic Options:

Ring of the Eternal Flame: Classic Naxxramas trash drop
Ring of the Fallen God: Classic AQ40 quest reward
Band of the Inevitable: Classic Naxxramas drop from Noth the Plaguebringer
Seal of the Damned: Classic Naxxramas Four Horsemen Chest

Trinket Slots

Best Options:

Icon of the Silver Crescent: Purchased with 41 Badges of Justice, strongest on-use trinket for early phases
Quagmirran's Eye: Drops from Quagmirran in Heroic The Slave Pens

Your DoTs and pet damage don't benefit from the Haste proc on Quagmirran's Eye, but 60-80% of Destruction Warlock damage comes from Shadow Bolt, which benefits significantly.

Situational/Alternative Options:

Mark of the Champion: Classic Naxxramas quest reward, extremely powerful against Demons and Undead
Scryer's Bloodgem: Scryers Revered vendor, useful for Hit Rating adjustment
Neltharion's Tear: Classic Blackwing Lair drop from Nefarian, provides Hit if needed
The Restrained Essence of Sapphiron: Classic Naxxramas drop from Sapphiron
Arcanist's Stone: Drops from Epoch Hunter in Heroic Old Hillsbrad Foothills

Ideally, you won't need Hit from trinket slots and can use pure DPS options instead.

Weapon Slot

Best Option: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian (Classic Naxxramas)

While a personal DPS loss compared to alternatives, the party buff (+33 Spell Damage to all party members) makes it valuable through Phase 3
Only available to players who completed it during Classic

Other Best Options:

Blade of Wizardry: BoE World Drop, best pure stats but extremely expensive
Illidari-Bane Mageblade: Quest reward from "Quenching the Blade," best against Demon targets

Practical Recommendations:

Stormcaller (Horde) / Blade of the Archmage (Alliance): Thrallmar/Honor Hold Exalted vendor, free and accessible
Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena PvP reward, requires 1,850 rating
Eternium Runed Blade: Blacksmithing craft, available on Auction House

Budget Option:

Greatsword of Horrid Dreams: Drops from Murmur in Shadow Labyrinth
Continuum Blade: Keepers of Time Revered vendor

Due to the expense and rarity of true BiS options, most players should target Stormcaller/Blade of the Archmage first.

Off-Hand Slot

Best Option for Fire Destruction: Flametongue Seal (25 Badges of Justice)

Basically Khadgar's Knapsack with additional Critical Strike Rating

Best Option for Shadow Destruction: Khadgar's Knapsack (25 Badges of Justice)

Orb of the Soul-Eater has slightly more Shadow damage but doesn't benefit Immolate
Khadgar's Knapsack is recommended for this reason

Alternative:

Lamp of Peaceful Radiance: Drops from Harbinger Skyriss in The Arcatraz

Classic Options:

Sapphiron's Left Eye: Classic Naxxramas drop from Sapphiron
Royal Scepter of Vek'lor: Classic AQ40 drop from Emperor Vek'lor

Wand Slot

Best Option for Fire Destruction: Master Firestone (Conjured)

Easiest to get and best for Fire builds

Best Options for Shadow Destruction:

Doomfinger: Classic Naxxramas drop from Kel'Thuzad
The Black Stalk: Drops from The Black Stalker in Heroic The Underbog
Wand of Fates: Classic Naxxramas drop from Patchwerk (if needing Hit)

All pre-raid wands are relatively close in value.

Alternative:

Nether Core's Control Rod: Drops from Dalliah the Doomsayer in The Arcatraz

Voidheart Raiment Tier 4 — Voidheart Raiment - the Tier 4 set with powerful 2-piece and 4-piece bonuses

Phase 1 BiS: Karazhan, Gruul's Lair, and Magtheridon's Lair

Phase 1 introduces your first raid tier with Tier 4 set pieces and significant upgrades across all slots.

Head Slot

Best in Slot: Voidheart Crown

Drops from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan
You need this for the Tier 4 set bonus
Shadow Destruction aims for 4-piece T4
Fire Destruction can use 2-piece T4 with Spellfire set

Alternatives:

Spellstrike Hood: Tailoring craft, use until getting Voidheart Crown
Uni-Mind Headdress: Drops from Netherspite in Karazhan

Shoulder Slot

Best in Slot: Voidheart Mantle

Drops from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair
Primary slot for maintaining Tier 4 set bonus
No strong Phase 1 alternatives make this a high priority

Alternative for Shadow: Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders (Tailoring)

Solid until getting T4 shoulders

Fire Destruction lacks good alternatives and should prioritize T4 shoulders.

Back Slot

Best in Slot: Ruby Drape of the Mysticant

Drops from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan
Excellent all-around piece with Hit and Spell Damage

Alternative if Hit Capped: Ancient Spellcloak of the Highborne

Drops from Doom Lord Kazzak (World Boss)

Other Option:

Brute Cloak of the Ogre-Magi: Drops from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair

Chest Slot

Best in Slot for Shadow Destruction: Voidheart Robe

Drops from Magtheridon in Magtheridon's Lair
Required for 4-piece Tier 4 bonus

Best in Slot for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Robe (Tailoring)

Part of the 3-piece Wrath of Spellfire bonus

Alternatives:

Frozen Shadoweave Robe: For Shadow Destruction while waiting for T4
Robe of the Elder Scribes: Drops from Nightbane in Karazhan

Wrist Slot

Best in Slot: Bracers of Havok (Tailoring)

Craftable BoE with great stats and a socket
Easy to get from Auction House

Alternatives:

Elementalist Bracelets of Shadow/Fiery Wrath: BoE World Drop with appropriate suffix
Bands of Nefarious Deeds: Drops from Maiden of Virtue in Karazhan

Hand Slot

Best in Slot for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Gloves (Tailoring)

Best gloves in Phase 1 for Fire, even without set bonus

Best in Slot for Shadow Destruction: Voidheart Gloves

Drops from The Curator in Karazhan
Required for 4-piece Tier 4 bonus

Alternatives:

Anger-Spark Gloves: Drops from Doomwalker (World Boss), can use T4 Pants instead for set bonus
Soul-Eater's Handwraps: Drops from Magtheridon, best option if not needing additional Hit
Handwraps of Flowing Thought: Drops from Attumen the Huntsman in Karazhan, good Hit option

Waist Slot

Best in Slot for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Belt (Tailoring)

Roughly 10 Spell Damage ahead of alternatives, even better with set bonus

Best General Option: Girdle of Ruination (Tailoring)

Craftable BoE from world drop recipe

Alternative:

Belt of Divine Inspiration: Drops from High King Maulgar in Gruul's Lair

Leg Slot

Best in Slot: Spellstrike Pants (Tailoring)

Only beaten by Leggings of the Seventh Circle (World Boss drop)

Alternative:

Leggings of the Seventh Circle: Drops from Doom Lord Kazzak, slightly stronger but significantly harder to get
Voidheart Leggings: Drops from Gruul the Dragonkiller, use for 4-piece bonus if using World Boss gloves

Feet Slot

Best in Slot for Shadow Destruction: Frozen Shadoweave Boots (Tailoring)

Excellent Shadow damage and 2 sockets

Best in Slot for Fire or Non-Tailors: Boots of Foretelling

Drops from Maiden of Virtue in Karazhan

Alternative for Hit Needs:

Ruby Slippers: Drops from The Crone in Karazhan

Neck Slot

Best Options:

Brooch of Unquenchable Fury: Drops from Moroes in Karazhan, best if you can use the Hit fully
Adornment of Stolen Souls: Drops from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan, best if Hit capped

Alternatives:

Ritssyn's Lost Pendant: Karazhan trash drop, very close to Adornment of Stolen Souls
Brooch of Heightened Potential: Shadow Labyrinth, easier to get with solid Hit

Ring Slots

Rings remain excellent for Hit adjustment.

Best Options:

Band of Crimson Fury: Quest reward from "The Fall of Magtheridon"
Ashyen's Gift: Cenarion Expedition Exalted vendor
Ring of Recurrence: Drops from Chess Event in Karazhan
Violet Signet of the Archmage: The Violet Eye Exalted quest, even Friendly version is solid

Classic Option:

Ring of the Fallen God: Still relevant for Hit needs

Alternative:

Sparking Arcanite Ring: Heroic Old Hillsbrad Foothills, obtainable outside raiding

Trinket Slots

Best in Slot:

Quagmirran's Eye: Heroic The Slave Pens
Icon of the Silver Crescent: 41 Badges of Justice

Situational:

Mark of the Champion: Against Demons or Undead
Scryer's Bloodgem: If under Hit cap
Neltharion's Tear: Alternative Hit option

Weapon Slots

Best in Slot: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian

Party buff (+33 Spell Damage) remains valuable through Phase 3

Best Obtainable Options:

Talon of the Tempest: Drops from Doomwalker (World Boss), may be difficult to get
Bloodmaw Magus-Blade: Drops from Gruul the Dragonkiller in Gruul's Lair
Nathrezim Mindblade: Drops from Prince Malchezaar in Karazhan

PvP Option:

Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Season 1, not quite as good as raid options

Other Options:

Illidari-Bane Mageblade: Specifically against Demons
Blade of Wizardry: BoE World Drop, expensive
Eternium Runed Blade: Blacksmithing BoE

Two-handed staves generally don't provide enough stats to outweigh competitive 1H/OH combinations, except for Atiesh.

Off-Hand Slot

Best Options:

Flametongue Seal: 25 Badges of Justice, best for Fire (Khadgar's Knapsack with free Crit)
Khadgar's Knapsack: 25 Badges of Justice, best for Shadow

Alternatives:

Orb of the Soul-Eater: 25 Badges, slightly more Shadow damage but doesn't benefit Immolate
Jewel of Infinite Possibilities: Drops from Netherspite in Karazhan

Wand Slot

Best in Slot:

Tirisfal Wand of Ascendancy: Drops from Shade of Aran in Karazhan, best if needing Hit
Eredar Wand of Obliteration: Drops from Magtheridon, best if Hit capped

Alternative:

The Black Stalk: Heroic The Underbog, very close to best options
Nether Core's Control Rod: The Arcatraz
Master Firestone: Conjured, remains valid for Fire

Phase 2 BiS: Tempest Keep and Serpentshrine Cavern

Phase 2 introduces Tier 5 content. Key considerations: the Corruptor Raiment 4-piece bonus is not worth pursuing due to only affecting base damage and reduced value on multi-target and movement fights. Fire Destruction should break Wrath of Spellfire when getting Vestments of the Sea-Witch or Belt of Blasting.

Head Slot

Best in Slot: Destruction Holo-gogs (Engineering, BoP)

Requires Engineering profession
Strongest helm this phase

Best in Slot without Engineering: Hood of the Corruptor

Drops from Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern
Slightly stronger than Voidheart Crown only if maintaining 2-piece Voidheart via other slots

Alternatives:

Voidheart Crown: Still excellent for maintaining 2-piece T4
Cowl of the Grand Engineer: Drops from Void Reaver in Tempest Keep

Shoulder Slot

Best in Slot: Voidheart Mantle

Maintaining T4 2-piece in shoulders loses the least stats compared to alternatives

If You Already Have 2-piece Elsewhere:

Mantle of the Corruptor: Drops from Void Reaver in Tempest Keep
Mantle of the Elven Kings: Tempest Keep trash drop
Illidari Shoulderpads: Drops from Morogrim Tidewalker in Serpentshrine Cavern

Shadow Alternative: Frozen Shadoweave Shoulders (Tailoring)

Back Slot

Little changes from Phase 1:

Ruby Drape of the Mysticant: Still best if using Hit
Ancient Spellcloak of the Highborne: Still best if Hit capped

New Options:

Royal Cloak of the Sunstriders: Drops from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep, decent if Hit capped
Brute Cloak of the Ogre-Magi: Remains viable

Chest Slot

Best in Slot: Vestments of the Sea-Witch

Drops from Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern
Far ahead of all alternatives
Worth breaking Wrath of Spellfire for Fire Destruction

Alternatives:

Robe of the Corruptor: Drops from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep
Spellfire Robe: Still strong for Fire with set bonus intact
Robe of Hateful Echoes: Drops from Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern
Voidheart Robe: If needed for 2-piece elsewhere
Frozen Shadoweave Robe: Shadow alternative

Wrist Slot

Best in Slot: Mindstorm Wristbands

Drops from Al'ar in Tempest Keep

Near-Best: Ravager's Cuffs of Shadow/Fiery Wrath

Karazhan rare spawn drop, roughly equal depending on suffix roll

Alternatives:

Veteran's Silk Cuffs: Honor Points (Season 2), solid PvP option
Bracers of Havok: Remains viable
Elementalist Bracelets: BoE World Drop with appropriate suffix

Hand Slot

Recommended for T4 Bonus: Voidheart Gloves

Loses least stats while maintaining 2-piece

Best for Fire Destruction: Spellfire Gloves

Roughly equal to Anger-Spark Gloves without set bonus, better with it

Best Stats: Anger-Spark Gloves (Doomwalker World Boss)

Alternative:

Soul-Eater's Handwraps: Magtheridon, best without Hit needs
Handwraps of Flowing Thought: Karazhan, good for Hit
Gauntlets of the Sun King: Kael'thas, Tempest Keep
Gloves of the Corruptor: Leotheras the Blind, Serpentshrine Cavern

Waist Slot

Best in Slot: Belt of Blasting (Tailoring)

Strong upgrade over Girdle of Ruination
Worth breaking Wrath of Spellfire for Fire Destruction

Alternatives:

Cord of Screaming Terrors: Drops from The Lurker Below in Serpentshrine Cavern
Spellfire Belt: Still strong for Fire with set intact
Fire-Cord of the Magus: Tempest Keep trash drop, roughly equal to Spellfire Belt without set bonus
Girdle of Ruination: Previous phase option
Lurker's Cord of Shadow/Fiery Wrath: Karazhan rare spawn
Belt of Divine Inspiration: Gruul's Lair

Leg Slot

All Roughly Equal:

Leggings of the Corruptor: Drops from Fathom-Lord Karathress in Serpentshrine Cavern
Leggings of the Seventh Circle: Doom Lord Kazzak (World Boss)
Spellstrike Pants: Tailoring

If you already have one of the latter two from previous phases, let the T5 token go to other players.

Alternative:

Voidheart Leggings: Gruul's Lair, for T4 set bonus needs
Trousers of the Astromancer: High Astromancer Solarian in Tempest Keep

Feet Slot

Best in Slot: Boots of Blasting (Tailoring, BoP)

Roughly Equal Alternatives:

Boots of the Shifting Nightmare: Drops from Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern
Glider's Foot-Wraps of Shadow/Fiery Wrath: Karazhan rare spawn
Frozen Shadoweave Boots: Tailoring, Shadow alternative
Velvet Boots of the Guardian: Drops from The Lurker Below in Serpentshrine Cavern
Boots of Foretelling: Karazhan
Ruby Slippers: Karazhan

Neck Slot

Buff Necklaces (provide group benefits):

Eye of the Night (Jewelcrafting): Effectively strongest during buff uptime, assign one player
Chain of the Twilight Owl (Jewelcrafting): Alternative buff necklace

Best Personal DPS: The Sun King's Talisman

Drops from Kael'thas Sunstrider in Tempest Keep

Alternatives:

Adornment of Stolen Souls: Karazhan, still excellent
Ritssyn's Lost Pendant: Karazhan trash
Veteran's Pendant of Conquest: Honor Points (Season 2)
Brooch of Unquenchable Fury: Karazhan
Brooch of Heightened Potential: Shadow Labyrinth
Pendant of the Lost Ages: Drops from Morogrim Tidewalker in Serpentshrine Cavern

Ring Slots

Best in Slot: Ring of Endless Coils

Drops from Lady Vashj in Serpentshrine Cavern
New strongest ring option

Other Best Options:

Band of Eternity: Quest reward from "Sage's Pledge"
Band of Crimson Fury: Magtheridon quest reward
Ashyen's Gift: Cenarion Expedition Exalted
Ring of Recurrence: Karazhan Chess Event
Band of Al'ar: Drops from Al'ar in Tempest Keep

Alternative:

Violet Signet of the Archmage: The Violet Eye Exalted
Ring of the Fallen God: Classic, still solid for Hit
Sparking Arcanite Ring: Heroic Old Hillsbrad

Trinket Slots

No major changes:

Best: Quagmirran's Eye + Icon of the Silver Crescent
Situational: Mark of the Champion (vs Demons/Undead), Scryer's Bloodgem (Hit)

New Option:

Sextant of Unstable Currents: Drops from Fathom-Lord Karathress, not competitive for single target but decent for AoE
Neltharion's Tear: Alternative Hit option

Weapon Slots

Best in Slot:

Merciless Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Points (Season 2)
Fang of the Leviathan: Drops from Leotheras the Blind in Serpentshrine Cavern

Both are stronger than previous phase World Boss options.

Alternatives:

Talon of the Tempest: Doomwalker, close in value
Bloodmaw Magus-Blade: Gruul's Lair
Nathrezim Mindblade: Karazhan

Two-Handed Options:

Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian: Party buff keeps it relevant
Merciless Gladiator's War Staff: Arena Points (Season 2)
The Nexus Key: Drops from Kael'thas Sunstrider, relatively close to 1H+OH combinations

Off-Hand Slot

Best in Slot: Fathomstone

Drops from Hydross the Unstable in Serpentshrine Cavern

Alternatives:

Flametongue Seal: Still best for Fire after Fathomstone
Khadgar's Knapsack: Still solid for Shadow
Orb of the Soul-Eater: Shadow alternative
Jewel of Infinite Possibilities: Karazhan

Wand Slot

Best in Slot: Wand of the Forgotten Star

Drops from High Astromancer Solarian in Tempest Keep
Now stands out as clearly strongest

Alternatives:

Tirisfal Wand of Ascendancy: Karazhan, best if needing Hit
The Black Stalk: Heroic Underbog
Eredar Wand of Obliteration: Magtheridon, equal to The Black Stalk if Hit capped
Master Firestone: Conjured, remains valid for Fire

The Skull of Gul'dan - the most coveted trinket for Destruction Warlocks in Phase 3

Phase 3 BiS: Black Temple and Mount Hyjal

Phase 3 marks the arrival of Tier 6 Malefic Raiment. The 4-piece bonus is the biggest upgrade this phase, increasing Shadow Bolt and Incinerate damage by 6%, equivalent to 100+ Spell Power. Prioritize getting this bonus as soon as possible.

Critical Note

Priority Items This Phase:

The Skull of Gul'dan: Biggest DPS gain aside from T6 4-piece. Lasts entire expansion. Highest priority from all items.
Malefic Raiment 4-piece: Core damage increase
Zhar'doom, Greatstaff of the Devourer: Major weapon upgrade (though Tempest of Chaos + Chronicle of Dark Secrets is close)

Head Slot

Best in Slot: Hood of the Malefic

Drops from Archimonde in Hyjal Summit
You need this for 4-piece bonus (plus you get cosmetic wings!)

Alternative Best: Cowl of the Illidari High Lord

Drops from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple
Slightly better stats but loses set bonus value

Other Options:

Destruction Holo-gogs: Engineering, still strong
Hood of the Corruptor: Serpentshrine Cavern
Voidheart Crown: Karazhan

Shoulder Slot

Best in Slot: Mantle of the Malefic

Drops from Mother Shahraz in Black Temple
Second piece for your 4-piece journey

Strong Alternatives:

Blood-cursed Shoulderpads: Drops from Gurtogg Bloodboil in Black Temple
Hatefury Mantle: Drops from Anetheron in Hyjal Summit
Mantle of Nimble Thought: Tailoring BoP

Previous Phase Options:

Voidheart Mantle: With 2-piece bonus
Mantle of the Corruptor: Tempest Keep
Mantle of the Elven Kings: Tempest Keep trash

Back Slot

All new cloaks come from Black Temple:

Best in Slot: Nethervoid Cloak

Black Temple trash drop
Highest technical value but heavy on Hit Rating (which Phase 3 gear already provides plenty of)
Advantage: soloable trash, may be useful early in phase or when transitioning to Sunwell gear

Practical Best Options:

Shroud of the Highborne: Drops from Illidan Stormrage, roughly 4 Spell Power better in BiS but better suited for healers
Cloak of the Illidari Council: Drops from High Nethermancer Zerevor, about equal to Shroud

Previous Phase Option:

Ruby Drape of the Mysticant: Karazhan, still solid

Chest Slot

Best in Slot: Vestments of the Sea-Witch

Serpentshrine Cavern, especially valuable if you got it in Phase 2

Alternative for 4-piece: Robe of the Malefic

Drops from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple
Use if you have Leggings of Channeled Elements instead

Other Options:

Robes of Rhonin: Drops from Archimonde in Hyjal Summit
Robe of the Corruptor: Tempest Keep
Robe of the Shadow Council: Drops from Teron Gorefiend in Black Temple

Wrist Slot

Best in Slot: Bracers of Nimble Thought (Tailoring)

Crafted BoE, hands down the best option

Strong Alternatives:

Focused Mana Bindings: Drops from Shade of Akama in Black Temple
Cuffs of Devastation: Drops from Rage Winterchill in Hyjal Summit

PvP Option:

Vindicator's Silk Cuffs: Honor Points (Season 3)

Previous Phase:

Mindstorm Wristbands: Tempest Keep
Ravager's Cuffs: Karazhan rare spawn

Hand Slot

Best in Slot: Gloves of the Malefic

Drops from Azgalor in Hyjal Summit
Core piece for 4-piece bonus

Best Stats: Anger-Spark Gloves (Doomwalker)

Roughly equal or slightly better pure stats but doesn't contribute to set bonus

Alternatives:

Spellfire Gloves: Fire Destruction
Soul-Eater's Handwraps: Magtheridon
Handwraps of Flowing Thought: Karazhan
Gauntlets of the Sun King: Tempest Keep
Gloves of the Corruptor: Serpentshrine Cavern

Waist Slot

Best in Slot: Belt of Blasting (Tailoring)

Still strongest on paper, but heavy Hit Rating may be wasted with Phase 3 gear abundance

Non-Hit Alternatives:

Anetheron's Noose: Drops from Anetheron in Hyjal Summit, useful once Hit capped from other gear
Waistwrap of Infinity: Drops from Supremus in Black Temple

Other Options:

Cord of Screaming Terrors: Serpentshrine Cavern
Spellfire Belt: Fire Destruction
Fire-Cord of the Magus: Tempest Keep trash

Leg Slot

Best Options (depends on chest choice):

Leggings of the Malefic: Drops from The Illidari Council in Black Temple, use if you have Vestments of the Sea-Witch
Leggings of Channeled Elements: Drops from Kaz'rogal in Hyjal Summit, use if you have Robe of the Malefic
Leggings of Devastation: Drops from Mother Shahraz in Black Temple

Previous Phase:

Leggings of the Seventh Circle: World Boss
Spellstrike Pants: Tailoring
Leggings of the Corruptor: Serpentshrine Cavern

Feet Slot

Best in Slot: Slippers of the Seacaller

Drops from High Warlord Naj'entus in Black Temple
Highest value and no Hit Rating (valuable given Phase 3 gear)

Alternatives:

Blue Suede Shoes: Drops from Kaz'rogal in Hyjal Summit
Boots of Blasting: Tailoring, similar value to Blue Suede Shoes
Boots of the Shifting Nightmare: Serpentshrine Cavern

Previous Phase Options:

Frozen Shadoweave Boots: Tailoring
Glider's Foot-Wraps: Karazhan rare spawn
Velvet Boots of the Guardian: Serpentshrine Cavern

Neck Slot

Best in Slot: Translucent Spellthread Necklace

Drops from Essence of Anger in Black Temple
Most valuable stats if using Hit Rating fully

If Hit Capped:

Hellfire-Encased Pendant: Black Temple trash, Fire Destruction
The Sun King's Talisman: Tempest Keep

Buff Necklace:

Eye of the Night: Jewelcrafting, strongest during buff uptime

Ring Slots

Best in Slot: Ring of Ancient Knowledge

Black Temple trash drop
Not unique, you can equip two
Every caster wants this; may take time to get your second copy

Pro Tip

With a raid ID cleared to Mother Shahraz, you can solo single trash mobs using Swiftness of Zanza to outpace their speed buff (added in Classic). Takes 6-8 minutes per kill, requiring reset after 3-4 mobs. Slow and tedious but possible.

Other Best Options:

Ring of Captured Storms: Drops from High Warlord Naj'entus in Black Temple
Band of the Eternal Sage: Scale of the Sands Exalted quest (even Friendly version is solid)
Ring of Endless Coils: Serpentshrine Cavern

Alternatives:

Ring of Recurrence: Karazhan
Band of Crimson Fury: Magtheridon
Corruptor's Signet: Drops from Shartuul in Blade's Edge Mountains

Trinket Slots

Best in Slot: The Skull of Gul'dan

Drops from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple
Highest priority item this phase
Biggest DPS gain aside from T6 4-piece
Exceptional for AoE DPS
Lasts entire expansion

Second Trinket Options:

Quagmirran's Eye: Heroic Slave Pens
Icon of the Silver Crescent: Badges of Justice
Dark Iron Smoking Pipe: Brewfest seasonal event
Mark of the Champion: Against Demons/Undead

Alternatives:

Darkmoon Card: Crusade
Sextant of Unstable Currents: Serpentshrine Cavern

Weapon Slots (One-Handed)

Best in Slot: Tempest of Chaos

Drops from Archimonde in Hyjal Summit
Combined with Chronicle of Dark Secrets, slightly behind Zhar'doom
Advantages: sets you up for Sunwell (more Haste-focused gear), prepares for Phase 5 BiS weapons

Alternatives:

Vengeful Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Points (Season 3)
The Maelstrom's Fury: Drops from High Warlord Naj'entus in Black Temple
Merciless Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Points (Season 2)
Fang of the Leviathan: Serpentshrine Cavern
Talon of the Tempest: Doomwalker World Boss

Weapon Slots (Two-Handed)

Best in Slot: Zhar'doom, Greatstaff of the Devourer

Drops from Illidan Stormrage in Black Temple
Every caster DPS wants this
Particularly strong for Warlocks, bigger DPS gain than for other classes
Main advantage over 1H+OH: alternatives have high Hit Rating, which Phase 3 gear already provides

Alternative: Atiesh, Greatstaff of the Guardian

Party buff remains valuable though stats fall behind

Off-Hand Slot

Best in Slot: Chronicle of Dark Secrets

Drops from Rage Winterchill in Hyjal Summit
Great stats despite potentially wasted Hit Rating

Alternatives:

Blind-Seers Icon: Drops from Shade of Akama in Black Temple
Fathomstone: Serpentshrine Cavern
Flametongue Seal: Badges of Justice, Fire Destruction
Khadgar's Knapsack: Badges of Justice
Orb of the Soul-Eater: Badges of Justice

Wand Slot

Best in Slot: Wand of the Forgotten Star

Tempest Keep, remains strongest

Alternatives:

Wand of Prismatic Focus: Drops from Gurtogg Bloodboil in Black Temple, best if needing Hit
Eredar Wand of Obliteration: Magtheridon
Master Firestone: Conjured
Tirisfal Wand of Ascendancy: Karazhan
The Black Stalk: Heroic Underbog

Phase 4 BiS: Zul'Aman

Phase 4 introduces Zul'Aman, a 10-player raid on a 3-day lockout. Key new items are less contested due to smaller raid size and faster reset.

Notable New Items

Hex Shrunken Head: Trinket from Hex Lord Malacrass, pairs with The Skull of Gul'dan
Brooch of Nature's Mercy: Neck from Akil'zon, technically healing item but Haste makes it technically BiS for DPS
Mana Attuned Band: Ring from timed event chest, strongest ring with Hit Rating
Carved Witch Doctor's Stick: Wand from Badges of Justice, excellent stats plus Blue socket for Meta requirements

Gear Changes from Phase 3

Most slots remain unchanged from Phase 3 BiS. Key additions:

Trinket: Hex Shrunken Head replaces second trinket slot

The Skull of Gul'dan + Hex Shrunken Head becomes the iconic pairing

Neck: Brooch of Nature's Mercy

Despite being a healing item, Haste makes it technically strongest (if Translucent Spellthread Necklace Hit is wasted)
Healers may need it longer; luckily Zul'Aman's 3-day lockout helps availability

Ring: Mana Attuned Band

Same stats as Ring of Ancient Knowledge plus Hit Rating
From timed event chest

Wand: Carved Witch Doctor's Stick (25 Badges of Justice)

Great stats without Hit
Blue socket with +2 Spell Damage, perfect for Meta requirements

Back: Shadowcaster's Drape

Timed event reward, roughly equal to other Phase 3 options

Other Zul'Aman Options

Head: Hood of Hexing

Hex Lord Malacrass, good stats but lacks Meta socket and head slot is ideal for T6 4-piece

Shoulders: Mantle of Ill Intent

Timed event, actually a downgrade from Phase 3 alternatives

Chest: Robe of Departed Spirits

Halazzi, decent but below Phase 3 options

Wrist: Fury of the Ursine

Nalorakk, solid option

Feet: Footpads of Madness

Jan'alai, weaker alternative to Slippers of the Seacaller

Weapons:

Blade of Twisted Visions: Zul'jin, solid 1H option
Wub's Cursed Hexblade: Jan'alai, another 1H option

Ring: Signet of the Quiet Forest

Timed event, decent non-Hit option

Phase 5 BiS: Sunwell Plateau

Phase 5 represents the final tier of The Burning Crusade. Major changes include new Tier 6 off-pieces (Bracers, Belt, Boots of the Malefic) that let you maintain the 4-piece bonus while upgrading other slots.

Malefic Raiment Configuration Changes

With new off-pieces available, you now need only one original T6 piece plus the three new pieces:

Best combination: Mantle of the Malefic + Dark Conjuror's Collar + off-pieces
Alternative: Hood of the Malefic + Amice of the Convoker + off-pieces
Third option: Keep Leggings of the Malefic + use both new head and shoulders (slightly weaker but easier if drops don't cooperate)

Profession Considerations for Phase 5

Enchanting: Always recommended for Enchant Ring - Spellpower

Second Profession Choice:

Tailoring: Sunfire Robe (BiS chest, requires rare recipe from Sunwell trash)
Jewelcrafting: Pendant of Sunfire (BiS neck option)

Both options create nearly identical BiS setups:

Tailoring route: Sunfire Robe + Amulet of Unfettered Magics
Jewelcrafting route: Pendant of Sunfire + Fel Conquerer Raiments

Sunfire Robe with Amulet of Unfettered Magics is slightly better for Horde (due to Hit on amulet). Pendant of Sunfire with Fel Conquerer Raiments is slightly stronger for Alliance and for trash.

Engineering: Annihilator Holo-gogs are strong but not better than raid alternatives, use until getting Dark Conjuror's Collar

Head Slot

Best in Slot: Dark Conjuror's Collar

Drops from Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau
Use with Mantle of the Malefic for ideal 4-piece configuration

Alternatives:

Cowl of the Illidari High Lord: Black Temple, no Hit, opens gearing options
Annihilator Holo-gogs: Engineering, equal to Cowl without Hit
Hood of the Malefic: Hyjal Summit, use with Amice of the Convoker
Helm of Arcane Purity: Trade-in with Sunmote

Shoulder Slot

Best in Slot: Amice of the Convoker

Drops from Grand Warlock Alythess in Sunwell Plateau
Stronger than Mantle of the Malefic individually, but the combination matters

Best for 4-Piece: Mantle of the Malefic

Black Temple, use with Dark Conjuror's Collar

Alternatives:

Shoulderpads of Knowledge's Pursuit: Trade-in with Sunmote
Hatefury Mantle: Hyjal Summit
Blood-cursed Shoulderpads: Black Temple
Mantle of Nimble Thought: Tailoring

Back Slot

Best in Slot: Tattered Cape of Antonidas

Drops from Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau
Straight upgrade over previous Haste cloaks

Previous Phase Options remain viable:

Nethervoid Cloak: Black Temple trash
Cloak of the Illidari Council: Black Temple
Shroud of the Highborne: Black Temple
Shadowcaster's Drape: Zul'Aman

Chest Slot

Best in Slot Options:

Sunfire Robe (Tailoring): Requires rare recipe from Sunwell trash, expensive but technically strongest
Fel Conquerer Raiments: Drops from M'uru in Sunwell Plateau

Which to Pursue: Depends on profession choice and neck slot pairing (see Profession Considerations above)

Alternative:

Robes of Ghostly Hatred: Trade-in from Robes of Faltered Light (healer item) with Sunmote, let healers have priority
Vestments of the Sea-Witch: Serpentshrine Cavern, still strong

Wrist Slot

Best in Slot: Bracers of the Malefic

Drops from Kalecgos and Eredar Twins in Sunwell Plateau
Major upgrade AND enables other slot upgrades through 4-piece flexibility

Alternative:

Bracers of Nimble Thought: Tailoring, previous BiS

Hand Slot

Best in Slot: Handguards of Defiled Worlds

Drops from Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau
One of the bigger per-item upgrades this phase
Requires having Malefic off-piece to replace Gloves of the Malefic

Alternatives:

Gloves of Tyri's Power: Trade-in with Sunmote (from healer item, let healers have priority)
Sunfire Handwraps: Tailoring crafted BoE, easier to get than raid drops
Anger-Spark Gloves: World Boss
Gloves of the Malefic: Hyjal Summit, use until getting off-pieces
Studious Wraps: 60 Badges of Justice
Enslaved Doomguard Soulgrips: 75 Badges of Justice

Waist Slot

Best in Slot: Belt of the Malefic

Drops from Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau
Key piece for 4-piece flexibility

Alternative:

Belt of Blasting: Tailoring, previous BiS

Leg Slot

Best in Slot: Leggings of Calamity

Drops from Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau
Biggest gain for single target AND AoE DPS (high Haste and Crit)

Alternative:

Pantaloons of Growing Strife: Trade-in with Sunmote (from healer item)
Leggings of Channeled Elements: Hyjal Summit
Leggings of the Malefic: Black Temple, use if maintaining 4-piece through legs instead
Corrupted Soulcloth Pantaloons: 100 Badges of Justice, catch-up option

Feet Slot

Best in Slot: Boots of the Malefic

Drops from Felmyst in Sunwell Plateau
Final Malefic off-piece

Alternative:

Slippers of the Seacaller: Black Temple, previous BiS

Neck Slot

Best Options (depends on profession):

Pendant of Sunfire (Jewelcrafting): Use with Fel Conquerer Raiments
Amulet of Unfettered Magics: Drops from Eredar Twins, use with Sunfire Robe

Alternatives:

Translucent Spellthread Necklace: Black Temple
Guardian's Pendant of Subjugation: Honor Points
Sin'dorei Pendant of Conquest: Eredar Twins
Brooch of Nature's Mercy: Zul'Aman
Shattered Sun Pendant of Acumen: Shattered Sun Offensive Exalted

Buff Necklace: Eye of the Night (Jewelcrafting)

Ring Slots

Best in Slot:

Ring of Omnipotence: Drops from M'uru in Sunwell Plateau
Loop of Forged Power: Jewelcrafting crafted, easier to get than raid drops

Alternatives:

Mana Attuned Band: Zul'Aman timed event
Ring of Captured Storms: Black Temple
Ring of Ancient Knowledge: Black Temple trash
Fused Nethergon Band: 60 Badges of Justice

Trinket Slots

Best in Slot:

Shifting Naaru Sliver: Drops from M'uru in Sunwell Plateau
The Skull of Gul'dan: Black Temple, remains BiS

Keep Available: Hex Shrunken Head

Useful for swapping when other trinkets are on cooldown between trash pulls

Situational: Mark of the Champion (vs Demons/Undead)

Weapon Slots (One-Handed)

Best in Slot: Sunflare

Drops from Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau
Combined with Heart of the Pit = best weapon combination for rest of expansion

Alternatives:

Tempest of Chaos: Hyjal Summit, having this from Phase 3 smooths transition
Brutal Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Points
Vengeful Gladiator's Spellblade: Arena Points
The Maelstrom's Fury: Black Temple
Scryer's Blade of Focus: 150 Badges of Justice
Wub's Cursed Hexblade: Zul'Aman
Blade of Twisted Visions: Zul'Aman

Weapon Slots (Two-Handed)

Best in Slot: Grand Magister's Staff of Torrents

Drops from Felmyst in Sunwell Plateau
Unique application for Affliction in WotLK: Corruption can crit, and crit rate is locked at cast time (including refreshes), so having high-crit weapon to swap after casting Corruption provides lasting benefit

Alternative:

Zhar'doom, Greatstaff of the Devourer: Black Temple, previous BiS

Off-Hand Slot

Best in Slot: Heart of the Pit

Drops from Brutallus in Sunwell Plateau
Combines with Sunflare for BiS weapon setup

Alternative:

Chronicle of Dark Secrets: Hyjal Summit, having this from Phase 3 smooths transition
Blind-Seers Icon: Black Temple
Fetish of the Primal Gods: 35 Badges of Justice
Fathomstone: Serpentshrine Cavern

Wand Slot

Best in Slot: Wand of the Demonsoul

Sunwell Plateau trash drop
One of the easier significant upgrades this phase
No Hit Rating, no set concerns

Alternatives:

Wand of the Forgotten Star: Tempest Keep
Carved Witch Doctor's Stick: 25 Badges of Justice

Sunwell Plateau - the final raid tier of The Burning Crusade

Enchanting Recommendations

Permanent Enchants by Slot

Slot	Enchant	Notes
Head	Glyph of Power	Sha'tar Revered
Shoulders	Greater Inscription of Discipline	Aldor Exalted (slightly better)
Shoulders (Alt)	Greater Inscription of the Orb	Scryers Exalted (nearly equal)
Back	Enchant Cloak - Subtlety	Threat reduction
Chest	Enchant Chest - Exceptional Stats	Best overall option
Wrist	Enchant Bracer - Spellpower	Standard choice
Hands	Enchant Gloves - Major Spellpower	Primary choice
Hands (Alt)	Enchant Gloves - Spell Strike	Alternative for Hit needs
Legs	Runic Spellthread	Better than Mystic Spellthread
Feet	Enchant Boots - Boar's Speed	Movement speed + stats
Rings	Enchant Ring - Spellpower	Enchanting profession only
Weapon (Shadow)	Enchant Weapon - Soulfrost	Shadow Destruction
Weapon (Fire)	Enchant Weapon - Sunfire	Fire Destruction

Badge of Justice Priority

Early Phases (1-2)

Icon of the Silver Crescent (41 Badges): Strongest on-use trinket
Flametongue Seal / Khadgar's Knapsack (25 Badges): Off-hand based on spec

Phase 4+

Carved Witch Doctor's Stick (25 Badges): Excellent wand with Meta-friendly socket

Phase 5 Catch-Up

Corrupted Soulcloth Pantaloons (100 Badges): If missing T6 legs
Tormented Demonsoul Robes (100 Badges): If missing T6 chest
Epic Gems (15 Badges each): Crimson Spinel, Pyrestone, primary use for badges this phase

Leotheras the Blind Tanking Set

Warlocks assigned to tank Leotheras need the Infernoweave set for Fire Resistance:

Full set costs 100 Badges of Justice
Provides 200 Fire Resistance across 4 pieces

Wrath of the Lich King Profession Preparation

If you're planning ahead:

Tailoring: Cloak of Embroidery (+295 Spell Power proc enchant) valuable for all PvE specs
Engineering: 340 Haste on-use enchant plus various utilities
Jewelcrafting: +48 Spell Power from unique gems, particularly valuable for Demonology due to Demonic Tactics buff scaling

Recommended combinations:

Most specs: Tailoring + Engineering
Demonology: Consider Tailoring + Jewelcrafting for maximum Spell Power

Phase-by-Phase Priority Summary

Pre-Raid

Spellstrike Pants (craft first, lasts longer than Hood)
Frozen Shadoweave set pieces (Shadow) or Spellfire set (Fire)
Reputation rings and Badge trinket

Phase 1

Voidheart 4-piece (Shadow) or 2-piece + Spellfire (Fire)
Quagmirran's Eye + Icon of the Silver Crescent

Phase 2

Vestments of the Sea-Witch (breaks Spellfire, still worth it)
Belt of Blasting
Fathomstone
Maintain Voidheart 2-piece through shoulders/gloves

Phase 3

The Skull of Gul'dan (highest priority)
Malefic Raiment 4-piece (biggest set bonus in expansion)
Zhar'doom OR Tempest of Chaos + Chronicle of Dark Secrets
Ring of Ancient Knowledge (x2 eventually)

Phase 4

Hex Shrunken Head
Mana Attuned Band
Brooch of Nature's Mercy (if healers don't need)
Carved Witch Doctor's Stick

Phase 5

Malefic off-pieces (Bracers, Belt, Boots)
Sunflare + Heart of the Pit
Shifting Naaru Sliver
Dark Conjuror's Collar + Amice of the Convoker OR Hood of the Malefic + Mantle of the Malefic
Leggings of Calamity
Handguards of Defiled Worlds

This guide covers all gear choices for Destruction Warlocks throughout The Burning Crusade Classic. Your specific BiS will vary based on current Hit Rating, raid composition, and available drops. Use this guide as your foundation while adapting to your personal situation.