How These 18 Elden Ring Weapons Enhance Stagger Combos
Elden Ring’s stagger system rewards players who master the rhythm of hit timing and weapon mechanics. By exploiting high poise damage and tailored move sets, certain weapons can break enemy poise faster, opening them up for devastating critical follow-ups. Below are 18 must-try weapons that excel at enhancing stagger combos.
Great ClubWith its immense poise damage and wide swings, the Great Club crushes enemy poise in just a few hits. Its two-handed heavy attacks stagger most mid-tier bosses, giving you a window for r2 charged strikes.
Giant-CrusherAn upgraded version of the Great Club, the Giant-Crusher’s damage and poise surrender are unparalleled. Leveraging charged r2 attacks lets you stagger giant foes with ease.
Grafted Blade GreatswordThis colossal sword delivers massive poise damage with each overhead smash. Its unique skill, Ossae’s Might, buffs your next heavy strike to virtually guarantee a stagger on larger enemies.
Ghiza’s WheelDespite its odd shape, Ghiza’s Wheel hits relentlessly, stacking poise damage rapidly. Pair spinning attacks with a Flask of Wondrous Physick for increased stagger potential.
ZweihanderThe classic greatsword remains a popular choice. Its stagger-focused r2 heavy thrusts are perfect for breaking through both enemy shields and poise.
ClaymoreWith a balanced moveset, the Claymore offers charged swings that build poise damage steadily. Its horizontal r2 can stagger groups of foes in one fluid motion.
FlailThe Flail’s spiked chain deals continuous poise damage on every strike. Its thrust-based charge attack racks up stagger quickly, especially against heavily armored opponents.
Morning StarDesigned to inflict blunt trauma, the Morning Star’s r2 charge attack severely dents enemy poise. It’s an excellent choice for both status builds and staggering tactics.
Warhawk’s TalonsThese lightweight claws shine for rapid stagger combos. Successive light attacks apply bleed and chip away at poise, leaving foes open for a brutal finishing r2.
UchigatanaWhile known for bleed, the Uchigatana's swift horizontal slashes also contribute significant poise damage. Mixing horizontal and vertical combos keeps the pressure on enemies.
NagakibaA longer blade than the Uchigatana, Nagakiba’s extended reach allows you to stagger foes from a safer distance. Its poke-based r2 is perfect for precise, poise-breaking bursts.
Cross-NaginataCombining thrusts and sweeping slashes, the Cross-Naginata delivers stagger in both single targets and groups. Its jump attack adds extra poise damage on landing.
HalberdThe Halberd’s powerful sweeping attacks build poise damage quickly. Use its follow-up thrust after a sweep to secure a staggered opponent into a critical strike.
Crescent Moon SwordThis curved greatsword has a unique crescent slash that deals both damage and high poise break. Its skill, Moonlight Greatsword, charges heavy slashes with magic for added impact.
Black KnifeThough often used for stealth, the Black Knife’s dagger-like speed and successive hits apply poise damage surprisingly well when used in rapid succession.
Rotten Winged SwordWith its unique posture damage infusion, this sword churns out both rot buildup and poise break. Its repeated light attacks make it ideal for stagger-centric bleed builds.
TwinbladeDespite lower single-hit damage, the Twinblade’s multi-hit combos stack poise damage quickly. Chain light and heavy attacks to overwhelm enemy defenses.
GreatswordThis archetypal boss-killer also excels at staggering mid-weight enemies. Its charged heavy swing is one of the most reliable r2 poise breakers in the game.
Tips for Maximizing Stagger Potential
Combine stagger-focused weapons with buffs like Flame Grant Me Strength or Wildfire Blade to accelerate poise damage.
Equip talismans that boost poise damage or increase critical damage on staggered foes.
Coordinate with spirit ashes for distractions, letting you land uninterrupted heavy strikes.
Whether you’re hunting high-poise enemies or tackling dungeon bosses, these 18 weapons will transform your stagger game. As you collect and upgrade your arsenal, remember to balance resource management—if you’re ever low on runes or gear, you can look into elden ring runes for sale or pick up some cheap Elden Ring Items to keep your build optimized without over-grinding. Master stagger combos, and the Lands Between will bow before your relentless assault.