Quick Answer: The best DLC weapons from Shadow of the Erdtree are the Backhand Blade Smithscript Cirque (PvP staple), Milady (Light Greatsword), Dryleaf Arts (martial arts fists), Bloodfiend’s Arm (Strength colossal), and the Sword Lance. Eight new weapon classes were introduced — Light Greatswords, Throwing Blades, Beast Claws, and Backhand Blades are the most build-defining.
The Shadow of the Erdtree expansion introduced a wave of new weapon types and powerful blades to Elden Ring. This guide ranks the best DLC weapons and highlights the new weapon classes worth building around.
New Weapon Classes in the DLC
Shadow of the Erdtree added several entirely new weapon categories, each with a unique moveset:
- Light Greatswords: fast two-handed swords with elegant thrusting movesets;
- Backhand Blades: reverse-grip swords with fluid, evasive attacks;
- Great Katanas: oversized katanas blending reach with katana speed;
- Beast Claws: brutal fist-style weapons with aggressive combos;
- Perfume Bottles, Throwing Blades, and Hand-to-Hand arts — unconventional new options.
S Tier — The Best DLC Weapons
Milady
Milady is the standout Light Greatsword — fast, elegant, and powerful, with a moveset that flows beautifully. Available early in the DLC, it scales well for Dexterity-leaning builds and is an excellent introduction to the new weapon class.
Backhand Blades
The new Backhand Blade class offers a uniquely evasive moveset, weaving attacks and dodges together. They are a favorite for aggressive Dexterity builds and pair wonderfully with the DLC’s fast-paced combat.
A Tier — Excellent Choices
Rellana’s Twin Blades
A twinblade earned from a major DLC boss, scaling with Dexterity, Intelligence, and Faith. It deals both Fire and Magic damage and its skill is spectacular — a strong pick for hybrid builds.
Euporia
A perfume-based weapon with a unique support-and-damage hybrid playstyle, rewarding players who enjoy the DLC’s more experimental weapon types.
Great Katana
The new Great Katana class delivers katana-style finesse with extended reach and heavier hits. The base Great Katana is widely available and builds Blood Loss, making it a great status option.
B Tier — Strong Situational Picks
Dryleaf Arts
The Hand-to-Hand weapon class brings a martial-arts playstyle to Elden Ring — fast, fluid, and stylish, ideal for players who want something completely different.
Smithscript Weapons
A throwable weapon line unique to the DLC, letting you hurl your armament at enemies — a novel ranged option for creative builds.
Scadutree Blessings Matter More Than Your Weapon
One crucial DLC note: your power inside Shadow of the Erdtree is governed largely by collecting Scadutree Fragments, which raise your damage and defense within the expansion. No matter which DLC weapon you choose, prioritize gathering these fragments — they have a far bigger impact than swapping weapons.
How to Choose a DLC Weapon
- Best early DLC weapon: Milady;
- Aggressive evasive style: Backhand Blades;
- Hybrid caster: Rellana’s Twin Blades;
- Status build: the Great Katana for Blood Loss.
Final Thoughts
Shadow of the Erdtree’s new weapons breathe fresh life into Elden Ring’s combat. Whether you glide through fights with Milady, weave attacks with Backhand Blades, or experiment with Hand-to-Hand arts, there is a new favorite waiting. Just remember — collect those Scadutree Fragments, and any DLC weapon will carry you through the Land of Shadow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best DLC weapon?
A: Backhand Blade Smithscript Cirque is meta in PvP. Milady is the top PvE Light Greatsword. Dryleaf Arts excels for Dexterity martial builds.
Q: Where do DLC weapons drop?
A: Most DLC weapons drop from named enemies in the Land of Shadow. Backhand Blades drop from Hornsent enemies; Milady is found in a chest in Castle Ensis.
Q: Are DLC weapons stronger than base game?
A: DLC weapons are not inherently stronger but offer new movesets. With Scadutree Blessings maxed, DLC weapons deal comparable damage to base +25 weapons.