How to Master 13 Weapon Skills in Elden Ring

[FrozenRider]

Elden Ring is filled with layers of depth, and weapon skills are one of the most exciting aspects of its combat system. Whether you’re a seasoned Tarnished or just stepping into the Lands Between, mastering weapon skills can dramatically change the way you approach both PvE and PvP. This guide breaks down 13 essential weapon skills in Elden Ring, offering tips on how to use them effectively and how they can synergize with your build, Elden Ring Runes, and Elden Ring Items.
1. Lion’s Claw

This somersaulting attack can be learned from the Lion Guardian in Fort Gael. Lion’s Claw is especially effective on heavy weapons and scales well with strength builds. The quick animation and hyper armor make it perfect for interrupting enemy attacks.

Tip: Use it after a jump attack for surprise pressure in PvP. Investing Elden Ring Runes in strength pays off here.
2. Flaming Strike

A great pick for fire-based builds, Flaming Strike coats your weapon in flames and follows up with a fiery slash. It’s excellent for enemies weak to fire and works wonders against undead.

Tip: Pair with fire-scaling Elden Ring Items like the Flame Art infusion or Fire Scorpion Charm for extra damage.
3. Bloodhound’s Finesse

This stylish backflip slash comes with great mobility. It's a must-have for dexterity builds and pairs nicely with curved swords.

Tip: After using the skill, immediately chain into Bloodhound’s Step or a light attack to keep your momentum.
4. Sword Dance

A flurry of spinning slashes, Sword Dance shines in close quarters. The rapid hits can stagger humanoid enemies and even bosses.

Tip: Use in combination with weapons that have bleed buildup for maximum efficiency, then use Elden Ring Runes to level dex or arcane accordingly.
5. Flaming Slam

Used mostly on colossal weapons, this skill is slow but devastating. It infuses your strike with fire and has a large area of effect.

Tip: Best used when fighting mobs or during boss recovery animations. Make sure to use Elden Ring Items that boost fire or charge attack power.
6. Giant Hunt

Ideal for players using great spears or colossal weapons, Giant Hunt is a high-damage thrust that can pierce armor and deal massive poise damage.

Tip: The forward lunge can punish flask users in PvP and break enemy stances in PvE.
7. Storm Blade

This ranged wind slash can close gaps or hit enemies from a safe distance. It’s excellent on smaller weapons that benefit from added reach.

Tip: Upgrade the weapon consistently with Elden Ring Runes and keep your dexterity and strength balanced to make full use of this skill.
8. Unsheathe

A katana-exclusive weapon skill, Unsheathe delivers lightning-fast strikes that can crit enemies before they react. It’s a signature move of the Uchigatana and Nagakiba.

Tip: Time your Unsheathe right after an enemy’s swing to counterattack with precision.
9. Black Flame Tornado

This skill is found on the Godskin Peeler and delivers an AOE swirl of black flame. It’s strong against larger groups and enemies weak to fire or faith-based attacks.

Tip: Pair it with Elden Ring Items that enhance Godslayer Incantations or black flame effects for massive synergy.
10. Gravitas

This gravity-based attack pulls enemies toward you and deals area damage. It’s a great crowd-control tool and opens up room for follow-up attacks.

Tip: Ideal for PvP ambushes or mob control. Cast Gravitas near ledges for environmental kills.
11. Flaming Strike

Another fire-based option, this adds fire damage to your weapon and executes a fiery follow-up. Best used in quick succession against groups or fire-vulnerable enemies.

Tip: Buffs like Flame, Grant Me Strength stack well, allowing you to get more value from each hit.
12. Hoarfrost Stomp

Once notorious for its power, Hoarfrost Stomp creates a chilling shockwave that spreads in front of you. It’s excellent for builds that use frostbite status.

Tip: Use it mid-combat to build pressure and force spacing. Investing Elden Ring Runes into intelligence can amplify its effect when used with cold-infused weapons.
13. Phantom Slash

This unique skill calls forth a spectral warrior to mimic your attack. It deals serious damage and adds an unpredictable element to your moveset.

Tip: Best used when enemies are locked onto your main character, allowing the phantom to land free hits. Pair it with gear that boosts Ashes of War potency.


Mastering these 13 weapon skills isn’t just about picking your favorite — it’s about knowing when to use them, how they interact with your build, and which Elden Ring Items and stats enhance their effects. Whether you’re farming Elden Ring Runes, fighting bosses, or dueling other Tarnished, these skills give you the tactical edge you need.

Experiment freely and adjust based on your playstyle — after all, in Elden Ring, adaptability is often your greatest weapon.