In Elden Ring, weapons are divided into two main categories when it comes to upgrading materials: somber and non-somber. While somber weapons are usually special, unique, and tied to boss souls or questlines, non-somber weapons are the more traditional armaments found throughout the Lands Between. These weapons are upgradeable with standard Smithing Stones and can often be infused with Ashes of War, allowing for greater customization. Understanding the advantages, types, and best options for non-somber weapons can help players tailor their builds more effectively for PvE and PvP scenarios.
What Are Non-Somber Weapons?
Standard Weapons and Smithing Stones
Non-somber weapons in Elden Ring are those that are upgraded using regular Smithing Stones, as opposed to Somber Smithing Stones. These weapons usually have a maximum upgrade level of +25 and allow players to freely change the weapon’s affinity using Ashes of War. This flexibility makes them extremely valuable for players who enjoy experimenting with different builds, damage types, and playstyles.
Non-somber weapons include a wide array of weapon types, such as:
- Straight Swords
- Greatswords
- Axes and Greataxes
- Polearms
- Spears
- Daggers
- Whips
- Fists and Claws
- Curved Swords
These weapons can be found as loot, purchased from merchants, or dropped by enemies and NPCs. Their accessibility and upgrade flexibility make them essential tools for most players in their journey through Elden Ring.
Advantages of Non-Somber Weapons
Customizable with Ashes of War
One of the biggest strengths of non-somber weapons is the ability to change their Ashes of War. Players can replace a weapon’s special skill with a different one, altering both the weapon’s moveset and scaling. This allows for detailed fine-tuning of a weapon to fit a Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, or Faith-based build.
Higher Upgrade Ceiling
Non-somber weapons upgrade all the way to +25, offering a steady progression path through the game. While somber weapons only go to +10, the more frequent upgrade intervals of standard weapons provide more room to grow and adjust as you explore tougher regions or face stronger bosses.
Greater Build Versatility
With the option to infuse affinities such as Keen, Heavy, Quality, Flame Art, or even Poison, players can tailor their non-somber weapon to match their stats and play style. This is especially helpful for hybrid builds or when optimizing for specific enemy weaknesses.
Popular Non-Somber Weapons in Elden Ring
Uchigatana
Starting weapon for the Samurai class, the Uchigatana is a reliable and versatile katana that scales well with Dexterity. It can be infused with Ashes of War and upgraded to +25 using standard Smithing Stones. Bleed build-up makes it particularly effective in both PvE and PvP.
Claymore
A classic greatsword found early in the game, the Claymore offers balanced damage, good reach, and a strong moveset. It’s perfect for both Strength and Quality builds and supports a wide range of Ashes of War, making it a fan-favorite among players who prefer versatility.
Great Club
For those who favor raw Strength and high stagger potential, the Great Club is an excellent choice. Though slower than other weapons, its sheer impact can break enemy poise and shield guards, especially when paired with a Heavy affinity and Strength scaling.
Morning Star
This mace features built-in bleed damage and is an excellent early-game weapon for Strength/Faith hybrid builds. It can be upgraded and infused with holy or fire affinities to counter undead enemies effectively.
Spear
Spear weapons are ideal for cautious players who prefer to keep enemies at bay. With the ability to poke while blocking, and compatibility with a range of Ashes of War, a standard spear can be a deadly tool when fully upgraded.
Where to Find Smithing Stones
Regular Sources
Smithing Stones are scattered throughout the Lands Between, often found in mines, caves, or dropped by certain enemies. Players can also find Bell Bearings that allow Twin Maiden Husks in the Roundtable Hold to sell specific Smithing Stones.
- Smithing Stone [1-4]: Found in early-game areas like Limgrave and Liurnia.
- Smithing Stone [5-8]: Located in later regions like Altus Plateau and Mountaintops of the Giants.
- Smithing Stone [9]: Used to reach the highest upgrades (+25), often found in late-game zones.
Bell Bearings
To make upgrading more convenient, players can obtain Smithing Miner’s Bell Bearings and offer them to the Twin Maiden Husks. This unlocks infinite purchasing of certain tiers of Smithing Stones. It’s a reliable way to upgrade multiple non-somber weapons without needing to constantly search the world for stones.
Infusing Ashes of War
Changing Weapon Affinities
Infusing an Ash of War lets players alter a weapon’s damage type and scaling. For example, applying a Keen infusion will increase Dexterity scaling, while Heavy enhances Strength scaling. Infusions let players further specialize their builds and maximize damage output based on their chosen stats.
Notable Ashes of War for Non-Somber Weapons
- Flaming Strike: Adds fire damage and buffs next attack
- Bloodhound’s Step: High mobility with quick evasive dash
- Sword Dance: Fast spinning attack that hits multiple times
- Poison Moth Flight: Applies poison and can be used on light weapons
- Royal Knight’s Resolve: Temporarily boosts next melee attack damage
These Ashes of War can be found across the map and equipped at any Site of Grace or Smithing Table once the Whetstone Knife and elemental whetblades are collected.
When to Use Non-Somber Over Somber Weapons
Early and Mid-Game Flexibility
Non-somber weapons shine in the early and mid-game phases due to how common their upgrade materials are. They’re ideal for players who want to experiment with builds and change playstyles on the fly. Having multiple non-somber weapons for different situations can give a strategic advantage.
Build Synergy
Somber weapons often come with fixed skills and damage types, which can be limiting for hybrid or unconventional builds. Non-somber weapons allow greater synergy by adapting to the player’s current stats or game needs, making them more practical in long-term campaigns.
PvP Loadouts
In competitive PvP, non-somber weapons are preferred by many due to their unpredictability. With the ability to swap Ashes of War between duels and adjust affinities based on the opponent’s defense, they offer a dynamic edge in one-on-one encounters.
Non-Somber Weapons
Non-somber weapons in Elden Ring are more than just a fallback option; they are essential tools for players who value flexibility, customization, and long-term progression. With the ability to swap out Ashes of War, infuse elemental affinities, and push upgrades to +25, these weapons provide an incredibly rich gameplay experience. Whether you’re a new Tarnished exploring Limgrave or a veteran fighting through the toughest bosses, having a well-upgraded non-somber weapon in your arsenal can be the key to survival and victory. Experiment, customize, and find the weapon that fits your journey best.