Mastering Two-Handed Weapons in Elden Ring: A Guide

In *Elden Ring*, mastering the art of two-handing your weapon can significantly enhance your combat prowess, allowing you to devastate your enemies with greater force. In this detailed guide, we'll explore the mechanics of two-handing, the strategic advantages it offers, the potential drawbacks, and recommend the best weapons for this technique.

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How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden RingWhy You Should Two-Hand in Elden RingThe Downsides of Using a Weapon in Two-HandsBest Weapons to Two-Hand in Elden Ring

How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

To initiate two-handing in Elden Ring, hold the E key on PC, the triangle button on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, then press the attack button for the weapon you wish to wield with both hands. It's crucial to verify your control settings if you've made any customizations, as they might differ from the default configuration.

This method is also effective while mounted on horseback, facilitating seamless transitions between different weapons or switching between melee and magic attacks. However, remember that for weapons requiring two hands due to Strength prerequisites, you must start two-handing before mounting your steed.

Related: How to Get Out of Roundtable Hold in Elden Ring

Why You Should Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Screenshot by The Escapist. Opting to two-hand your weapon in Elden Ring can be a game-changer for several reasons. Primarily, it boosts your Strength by 50 percent, amplifying the damage output of Strength-scaling weapons. This increased power can make a significant difference in combat.

Moreover, two-handing often alters the weapon's move set, potentially changing the damage type and providing new tactical options. It also enables you to wield heavier weapons that you might not be able to use otherwise, balancing your stats more effectively.

Another benefit is the enhanced efficiency of using Ashes of War. When two-handing, you can directly access the Ash of War of the weapon in your right hand, bypassing any shield skills and maximizing your combat utility.

The Downsides of Using a Weapon in Two-Hands

Screenshot by The Escapist. While two-handing is advantageous for Strength-focused builds in Elden Ring, it comes with its challenges. The change in attack patterns requires adjustment and strategic planning, as some situations may call for a different approach despite the potential damage reduction.

Additionally, two-handing might not be optimal for builds centered around Dexterity or other attributes. It's essential to experiment and determine what best suits your playstyle.

Best Weapons to Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Screenshot by The Escapist. For those looking to maximize the benefits of two-handing in Elden Ring, focus on large, Strength-scaling weapons. With the introduction of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, consider equipping the Two-Handed Sword Talisman to boost your damage when wielding swords in this manner.

Top choices for two-handing include Greatswords and Colossal Swords, as well as Great Hammers and other Colossal Weapons. Notable recommendations are the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight’s Greatsword, and the Giant-Crusher for non-sword options. Choose the weapon that aligns best with your combat strategy.

And that's a comprehensive guide on how to effectively two-hand weapons in Elden Ring.

Elden Ring is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

Update: This article was updated on 1/27/25 by Liam Nolan to provide more insight into how to two-hand weapons in Elden Ring.