How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

Mastering the art of wielding a weapon in two hands can significantly enhance your combat prowess in *Elden Ring*. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the mechanics of two-handing weapons, the advantages it offers, the potential drawbacks, and the best weapons to use with 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 two-hand weapons in Elden Ring, you'll need to hold E on PC, triangle on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, and then press the attack button for either your left or right-hand weapon, depending on which you wish to use with both hands. It's crucial to verify these controls if you've customized your settings, as they may differ from the default configuration.

This method also applies when you're on horseback, allowing seamless weapon switching between melee and magic. However, if your weapon demands two-handing due to Strength requirements, you must initiate this before mounting your horse. Remember, while riding, you're not truly two-handing unless you started before mounting.

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

Why You Should Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Two-handing your weapon in Elden Ring comes with several compelling benefits. The most notable advantage is the increased damage output. By two-handing, your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, which significantly enhances the power of Strength-scaling weapons.

Additionally, two-handing often alters the weapon's move set, potentially changing the damage type based on your grip. This Strength boost also enables you to wield heavier weapons that might otherwise be inaccessible, allowing you to maintain a balanced Strength level while still using formidable weapons like greatswords.

Moreover, two-handing can improve the efficiency of your Ashes of War. If you're using a sword and shield setup, your weapon skill defaults to the shield's ability, such as parry. By two-handing your right-hand weapon, you gain access to its unique Ash of War, enhancing your combat versatility.

The Downsides of Using a Weapon in Two-Hands

While two-handing is advantageous for Strength builds in Elden Ring, it's not without its drawbacks. The altered attack patterns require time to master, and you may need to adjust your strategy based on the environment. Sometimes, sacrificing some damage for a more situationally effective attack can be beneficial.

Two-handing is primarily suited for Strength-focused builds, so if you're pursuing a Dexterity or other build type, you might find it less advantageous. Experimentation is key to determining what works best for your playstyle.

Best Weapons to Two-Hand in Elden Ring

For optimal two-handing in Elden Ring, focus on large weapons that scale well with Strength. With the Shadow of the Erdtree update, consider equipping the Two-Handed Sword Talisman to boost your damage when wielding a sword in two hands.

Recommended weapons for two-handing include Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and other Colossal Weapons. Specifically, the Greatsword, Zweihander, and Fire Knight's Greatsword are excellent choices. For those not focused on swords, the Giant-Crusher is a formidable option.

And that's a comprehensive guide on how to 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.