In Elden Ring, the variety of weapons is one of the game’s most celebrated features, allowing players to shape their playstyle based on preference, build, or aesthetics. Among these options, Somber Smithing Stone weapons also known as unique weapons stand out for their distinct abilities and special upgrades. However, players often associate Somber weapons with builds focused on magic, arcane, or faith scaling. Surprisingly, there are several Somber weapons that work exceptionally well with Quality builds those that balance strength and dexterity evenly. These weapons scale effectively with both stats and bring versatility and power to melee-focused Tarnished.
Understanding Quality Builds in Elden Ring
What is a Quality Build?
A Quality build refers to a character setup that invests points equally into both Strength and Dexterity, usually in the range of 40/40 by endgame. This build is ideal for players who want to use a broad variety of weapons that scale with both stats. Unlike pure Strength or Dexterity builds, a Quality build opens access to weapons that require high stat thresholds but benefit from combined scaling, maximizing physical damage output.
Somber vs. Regular Smithing Weapons
Somber weapons are unique in that they can’t be infused with Ashes of War, but they usually come with built-in weapon skills. They also require Somber Smithing Stones to upgrade, going from +1 to +10 instead of the +25 scale seen in normal weapons. Many of these weapons have split scaling and elemental effects, but there are several options that align beautifully with Quality builds.
Best Somber Weapons for Quality Builds
1. Dragon Slayer’s Cragblade
This powerful heavy thrusting spear scales excellently with both Strength and Dexterity, making it an excellent fit for Quality-focused characters. It has a devastating charged heavy attack and comes with the unique skill Piercing Fang, a lunging thrust that deals massive damage and can break through shields.
- Requirements: Strength 20, Dexterity 20
- Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity B at +10
- Location: Dropped by a Dragon Slayer in Crumbling Farum Azula
The Cragblade’s reach and posture-breaking capabilities are invaluable in PvP and PvE alike. With a strong stagger potential and relatively fast moveset, it’s ideal for players who want both precision and power.
2. Godrick’s Greatsword
Often underestimated, Godrick’s Greatsword offers solid damage and fits the Quality build extremely well thanks to its dual scaling. Its default skill I Command Thee, Kneel! sends out a shockwave, knocking enemies to the ground in a large AoE.
- Requirements: Strength 20, Dexterity 22
- Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity B at +10
- Location: Trade Remembrance of the Grafted at Roundtable Hold
This weapon’s raw damage and wide sweep allow it to clear groups efficiently, and its innate scaling makes it a valid main weapon throughout the mid to late game.
3. Onyx Lord’s Greatsword
While it contains a bit of Intelligence scaling, the Onyx Lord’s Greatsword primarily favors physical builds and has a unique gravity-based weapon skill. The heavy two-handed moveset and decent attack speed suit aggressive players.
- Requirements: Strength 20, Dexterity 16, Intelligence 16
- Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity C, Intelligence D at +10
- Location: Dropped by Onyx Lord in Sealed Tunnel
If you’re running a hybrid build or just want a weapon that adds flair and crowd control, this is a fine choice. The damage output remains reliable thanks to its dual scaling with Strength and Dexterity.
4. Bloodhound’s Fang
One of the most popular early-game Somber weapons, Bloodhound’s Fang maintains relevance even in the late game. With high Dexterity scaling and decent Strength scaling, it fits nicely in a Quality build when upgraded to +10.
- Requirements: Strength 18, Dexterity 17
- Scaling: Strength C, Dexterity B at +10
- Location: Defeat Bloodhound Knight Darriwil
Its unique skill Bloodhound’s Finesse provides excellent mobility and burst damage, making it especially useful in both PvP duels and boss fights. It also inflicts bleed, giving it extra utility without needing an Arcane investment.
5. Dragon Slayer’s Blade of Farrum
A lesser-known but high-performing weapon that becomes a hidden gem for Quality builds. With a high Strength and Dexterity requirement, the Blade of Farrum rewards players who commit to balanced melee stats.
- Requirements: Strength 24, Dexterity 24
- Scaling: Strength B, Dexterity B at +10
- Location: Late-game drop in Farum Azula
The weapon’s speed and raw power, combined with a skill that enhances your poise and slams the ground with force, make it ideal for melee enthusiasts who want something different from the usual colossal weapons.
Optimizing Somber Quality Weapons
Stat Allocation Tips
To maximize your damage output, aim for a roughly 40/40 Strength and Dexterity distribution by level 125-150. Equip gear that boosts stamina and equip load, since many of these weapons are heavy. Talismans such as Erdtree’s Favor or Radagon’s Scarseal can support your build without compromising survivability.
Upgrade Priority
Since Somber weapons max out at +10, focus your Somber Smithing Stones wisely. The best Quality-scaling weapons should receive upgrades early to make the most of their scaling bonuses. Don’t hesitate to test different ones at +3 or +4 before fully committing, as respec options are available in the game through Rennala.
Combat Style and Synergy
Quality Somber weapons favor aggressive, adaptable combat. They’re best suited to players who can switch between light and heavy attacks, bait enemy moves, and take advantage of jump attacks or charged hits. In PvE, these weapons can easily stagger most foes. In PvP, the variety of weapon skills makes it hard for opponents to predict your next move.
Why Choose Quality Somber Weapons?
Built-in Skills with High Versatility
One of the primary advantages of Somber weapons is their unique skills. For a Quality build, this means access to powerful abilities that don’t require additional Ashes of War. This preserves flexibility and minimizes reliance on external items or buffs.
Great Scaling and Animation Sets
Many of the Quality-oriented Somber weapons have fluid animations, excellent reach, or wide arcs, making them especially good in crowd-control situations. Their scaling ensures that even without magical or status effects, they hit hard and consistently.
Stylish and Effective
These weapons often come with distinct visual flair, from glowing blades to swirling effects when activated. For players who care about aesthetics as well as performance, Quality Somber weapons provide the best of both worlds.
While many players overlook Somber weapons for Quality builds, the truth is that several of them scale beautifully with both Strength and Dexterity. From early-game staples like Bloodhound’s Fang to rare finds like the Blade of Farrum, these weapons can serve as primary damage tools throughout an entire playthrough. Investing in a Quality build not only grants flexibility but also unlocks the full potential of some of Elden Ring’s most stylish and hard-hitting armaments. For players seeking a balanced melee approach with a touch of uniqueness, Quality Somber weapons are more than worth the effort.