This is a list of what weapons to get first in Elden Ring. Find out the best weapons to get first, as well as how and when you can first obtain them.

What Weapons to Get First

Click on any of the links to jump to the weapon's section!

Bloodhound's Fang

Bloodhound's Fang Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
18		17		0		0		0

Bloodhound's Fang is the most beginner friendly weapon to use in Elden Ring since it has a relatively low stat invesment (due to how two-handing works) while having the capability to scale well into late game.

On top of being easy to get, it can inflict Bleed (which chunks the HP of even the toughest bosses), all while equipped with Bloodhound's Finesse - a weapon skill that deals high damage while also being an "auto-dodge" due to its animation hitbox.

To get this weapon, go the the Forlorn Hound Evergaol in Limgrave (just south of the Agheel Lake South site of grace) and defeat the boss, Bloodhound Knight Darriwil. On death, he will drop this amazing Curved Greatsword.

Bloodhound's Fang Stats and Scaling

Claymore

World View					Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
16		13		0		0		0

Another starter weapon with even lower stat requirements to use is the Claymore. Offering amazing weapon reach without the stamina burden and slow moveset of colossals, this all-rounder is perfect for players looking to try out different Ashes of War for their playthrough.

The Claymore can be obtained from Castle Morne in the Weeping Peninsula south of Limgrave. The chest containing it will be inside the room you enter after climbing the mountain of bodies in the castle courtyard.

Claymore Location, Stats, and Scaling

Uchigatana

World View					Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
11		15		0		0		0

If you're looking to go for a DEX build, then the Uchigatana will be your best friend. Equipped with a fast attack moveset, the ability to proc Bleed, and a busted weapon skill in the form of Unsheathe, this starter katana is the best option for players who prefer a more nimble playstyle.

The Uchigatana can be obtained from the Deathtouched Catacombs in Limgrave. It will be on a balcony guarded by Skeleton Archers. It will also be one of the starter weapons of the Samurai class.

Uchigatana Location, Stats, and Scaling

Morning Star

Morning Star Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
12		8		0		0		0

Unlike the previous weapons, the Morning Star does not scale well into late game. However, its ability to proc Bleed, deal decent poise damage, and low stat requirements make it perfect for early game. Faith and INT builds that don't have enough Mind to spam spells in combat can two-hand this and use it as their starter weapon.

Pair this weapon with Wild Strikes and you'll easily be able to chunk the HP of large early game bosses like Margit and Godrick (and even Greyoll if you're looking to cheese them for the easy 90k runes).

The Morning Star can be obtained at the Weeping Peninsula. After crossing the Bridge of Sacrifice, follow the road until you see a broken carriage guarded by a Troll. The Morning Star will be inside a chest at the back of the carriage.

Morning Star Stats, Upgrades, and How to Get

Reduvia

Reduvia Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
5		13		0		0		13

The Reduvia has always been known for being the best early game Bleed weapon due to its ranged weapon skill - Reduvia Blood Blade. Despite its short range, the fast dagger moveset allows for faster Bleed buildup even without relying on the ranged weapon skill.

The biggest downside, however, is its hefty stat requirement. Of the 10 starting classes, only the Warrior and Bandit will be able to equip it immediately. Other classes will need to spend a few points in Arcane which can be a dealbreaker since it will require a respec to fix.

To get the Reduvia, you will need to defeat the NPC invader named Bloody Finger Nerijus. He will spawn along the river beside Murkwater Cave in Limgrave.

Reduvia Location, Stats, and Scaling

Great Turtle Shell

While the Great Turtle Shell no longer has 100 Phys Block, it is still a great starter shield since it offers a a passive stamina regen boost even while on your back. If you plan on two-handing colossal weapons in early game, then this shield is for you.

To get the Great Turtle Shell, head to the Castle Morne Rampart site of grace in the Weeping Peninsula. From there, use the Spirit Spring nearby to jump on top of the tower where you'll find the shield.

Great Turtle Shell Stats and Scaling

Zweihander

Zweihander Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
19		11		0		0		0

If you're a Strength enjoyer looking for an early game colossal weapon, then look no further than the classic Zweihander. With relatively low stat requirements to equip and an easy-to-learn moveset, this starter colossal weapon is primed for Ash of War infusions well into late game.

To get the Zweihander, you will need to head over to the Isolated Merchant's Shack at the Weeping Peninsula. Once there, spend 3500 Runes to purchase the Zweihander from the Isolated Merchant.

Zweihander Location, Stats, and Scaling

Meteorite Staff

World View					Map Location
Stat Requirements
STR		DEX		INT		FAITH		ARC
0		0		18		0		0

The Meteorite Staff is probably the best Glintstone Staff you can get if playing an early game Wizard build. With this staff, you can easily assemble an early game spellcasting setup that deals high magic and poise damage by simply getting Rock Sling.

However, to get the Meteorite Staff, you will need to brave the wilds of Caelid. Head to the Street of Sages Ruins to find both the Meteorite Staff and Rock Sling within some of the ruined buildings. Make sure to stay on Torrent to avoid the Scarlet Rot buildup.

Meteorite Staff Location, Stats, and Scaling

Elden Ring Related Guides

All Weapons List

Weapon Guides

List of Weapons by Stat Scaling

List of Weapons by Damage Types

Standard	Strike	Slash	Pierce
Magic	Fire	Holy	Lightning

List of Weapons by Status Effects

Bleed	Frost	Scarlet Rot
Sleep	Poison	Madness

List of Weapon Types