The host techniques help him to control elements and his internal energy better, while the Unification of Heart, Mind, and Weapon helps him control his armament better.
He first got the Unification of Heart, Mind, and Weapon technique when he was at the peak of the first mortal coil. He got it from the Beast Hunting Center in Agate City so that he would be able to control his bow and other weapons better. He has achieved that now and more.
The rank 2 Unification of Heart, Mind, and Weapon is equivalent to the first stage of oneness with the sword, and the rank 3 version of Unification of Heart, Mind, and Weapon is equivalent to the second stage of oneness with the sword.
