How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

Mastering the art of two-handing weapons in *Elden Ring* is key to obliterating your foes. This guide breaks down exactly how to do it, and why you might want to.

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

How to Two-Hand Weapons in Elden Ring

To two-hand a weapon, simply hold E on PC, Triangle on PlayStation, or Y on Xbox, then press your attack button. This selects either your left or right-hand weapon, depending on which you want to wield with two hands. If you've customized your controls, double-check your settings. This method also works for switching weapons while mounted, handy for those who use multiple weapons or switch between melee and magic. However, remember that if a weapon requires two-handing due to Strength requirements, you must initiate the two-handing *before* mounting your steed; simply mounting won't automatically two-hand the weapon.

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

Why You Should Two-Hand in Elden Ring

Two-handing offers significant advantages. The most obvious is increased damage. Your Strength stat receives a 50% boost, significantly amplifying the effectiveness of Strength-scaling weapons. Beyond raw power, two-handing often alters move sets, sometimes even changing damage types. This Strength boost also unlocks weapons normally beyond your reach, allowing for more build flexibility. Finally, it optimizes Ash of War usage. With a sword and shield, your weapon skill defaults to the shield. Two-handing your right-hand weapon grants direct access to its Ash of War, adding crucial tactical options.

The Downsides of Two-Handing

While generally beneficial for Strength builds, two-handing has drawbacks. Attack patterns change, demanding adjustment and strategic planning. Sometimes, sacrificing raw damage for situationally more effective attacks is worthwhile. Also, its effectiveness diminishes outside of Strength-focused builds; experimentation is key to finding what works best for your chosen playstyle.

Best Weapons for Two-Handing in Elden Ring

Large, Strength-scaling weapons are ideal: Greatswords, Colossal Swords, Great Hammers, and Colossal Weapons. Since the *Shadow of the Erdtree* update, the Two-Handed Sword Talisman significantly boosts damage when two-handing swords. Specific recommendations include the Greatsword, Zweihander, Fire Knight's Greatsword, and the Giant-Crusher (a solid non-sword option).

That's how to effectively two-hand weapons in *Elden Ring*. Experiment and find what works best for your build and playstyle.

*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-handing weapons in Elden Ring.*