Home News How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

Author : Eric Mar 06,2025

Mastering Two-Handed Weaponry in Elden Ring: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide delves into the mechanics and strategies of two-handing weapons in Elden Ring, exploring its advantages, drawbacks, and optimal weapon choices.

JUMP TO:


How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring | Why Two-Hand in Elden Ring? | The Downsides of Two-Handing | Best Weapons for Two-Handing

How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

To wield weapons with both hands in Elden Ring, press and hold E on PC, Triangle on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, then initiate an attack. This applies to both left and right-hand weapons. Note that if you've customized your controls, verify these default settings. This method also works while mounted, allowing for seamless weapon switching between melee and magic, but remember that weapons requiring two hands due to Strength requirements must be two-handed before mounting.

Why Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring?

Scorpion River Catacombs entrance in Elden Ring.

Screenshot by The Escapist.
Two-handing significantly boosts damage output. Your Strength stat receives a 50% increase, amplifying the effectiveness of Strength-scaling weapons. Moreover, the attack animations often change, sometimes altering damage type. This allows access to weapons otherwise unfeasible, maintaining manageable Strength stats while still wielding powerful weapons. Finally, two-handing ensures your equipped Ash of War is from the weapon in your main hand, rather than a shield.

The Downsides of Two-Handing

Smithscript Hammer in Elden Ring.

Screenshot by The Escapist.
While beneficial for Strength builds, two-handing presents trade-offs. Attack patterns change, demanding adjustment and strategic planning. The damage increase might not always outweigh the loss of a shield's defensive capabilities. Experimentation is key to determine its suitability for different build types.

Best Weapons for Two-Handing in Elden Ring

Church of the Bud in Elden Ring.

Screenshot by The Escapist.
Generally, large Strength-scaling weapons excel when two-handed. Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons are prime candidates. Consider the Two-Handed Sword Talisman (available in Shadow of the Erdtree) for an additional damage boost to swords. Popular choices include the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and the Giant-Crusher for non-sword options.

Conclusion

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of two-handed combat in Elden Ring. Experimentation and understanding the nuances will unlock its full potential.

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 two-handed weapon combat in Elden Ring.

Latest Articles More
  • Watch Tottenham vs. Man Utd Europa Final Free

    Has there ever been a more dramatic conclusion to a dismal football season? Both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have suffered through disappointing domestic campaigns, languishing in uncharacteristically low league positions.TL;DR: How to wa

    Dec 25,2025
  • Destiny 2, Star Wars Crossover Revealed

    Destiny 2's Year of Prophecy roadmap has been revealed, showcasing a Star Wars-inspired expansion pass. This article breaks down everything coming to the game this year and what each available edition offers.Destiny 2 Year of Prophecy RoadmapRoadmap

    Dec 24,2025
  • Slayaway Camp 2 Launches on iOS, Android

    Following its initial Netflix Games launch in December 2023, the blood-soaked puzzle sequel Slayaway Camp 2 has arrived on iOS and Android platforms. Players can now purchase the game outright through the App Store and Google Play Store, continuing t

    Dec 24,2025
  • Blizzard's Overwatch: Fans Find Joy Again

    Clash Royale players are celebrating as the Inferno Dragon finally gets its long-awaited Evolution form. Nine years after its introduction without evolutionary capabilities, this legendary fire-breather has received a game-changing power boost. To c

    Dec 23,2025
  • PoE 2: Loot Filter Setup for Consoles

    Quick AccessHow to Link Your Path of Exile 2 and Console AccountsFinding and Using Loot FiltersLoot filters are incredibly useful in Path of Exile 2, especially when items begin dropping in large quantities. They minimize on-screen clutter while emph

    Dec 23,2025
  • MageTrain: Pixel Roguelike Hits Android

    Tidepool Games has launched MageTrain, a lightning-fast pixel art roguelike for Android that blends Snake gameplay with auto-battler mechanics. Fans of Nimble Quest will recognize its core inspiration.MageTrain Gameplay ExplainedMageTrain merges Snak

    Dec 22,2025