Finding the quickest route to obtain a Somber Smithing Stone 6 in Elden Ring can be a game-changer for players looking to upgrade their special weapons efficiently. These upgrade materials are essential for improving unique armaments that scale with somber stones instead of standard ones. Many players often reach a point in the mid-to-late game where they need a Somber Smithing Stone 6 but don’t know the most efficient way to acquire it. By understanding optimal routes, enemy drops, and merchant options, you can minimize time wasted and maximize your weapon potential early in your journey through the Lands Between.
Understanding Somber Smithing Stone 6
What It’s Used For
Somber Smithing Stone 6 is used to upgrade special weapons from +5 to +6. Unlike regular smithing stones, somber stones are only needed once per level, which simplifies the upgrade path. These stones are used primarily on boss weapons, legendary weapons, and other unique armaments that can’t be upgraded with regular smithing stones.
Getting to +6 significantly increases your weapon’s damage and scaling, making it highly desirable to obtain this upgrade early. Whether you’re using the Moonveil Katana, Blasphemous Blade, or Dark Moon Greatsword, reaching that +6 upgrade can drastically improve your combat capabilities, especially before facing late-game bosses.
Fastest Ways to Get Somber Smithing Stone 6
Route 1: Nokron, Eternal City
Nokron becomes accessible after defeating Starscourge Radahn. This area contains multiple somber stones, including Somber Smithing Stone 6. Follow these steps:
- After Radahn is defeated, head to the newly opened crater in Mistwood.
- Descend into Nokron and make your way toward the Night’s Sacred Ground.
- Explore rooftops and buildings; a Somber Smithing Stone 6 can be found on a corpse near a ledge.
This is one of the fastest early methods as Nokron opens around mid-game and doesn’t require intense combat to access the loot once inside.
Route 2: Sellia Crystal Tunnel
This area can be reached early via a trapped chest in Dragon-Burnt Ruins. Although tough for early players, you can sneak around high-level enemies to loot valuable resources.
- After escaping the chest trap, unlock the Site of Grace in the tunnel.
- Carefully explore the upper paths without alerting too many enemies.
- Inside a chest or on corpses deeper in the mine, you can sometimes find Somber Smithing Stones of higher levels, including 6.
Although not guaranteed, this is a viable early route for risk-taking players who want to shortcut the upgrade path.
Route 3: Mt. Gelmir and Volcano Manor
Mt. Gelmir holds several somber stones hidden throughout the mountain and inside Volcano Manor.
- Progress through Volcano Manor questlines or explore the manor independently.
- Check for hidden walls and corners one of the Somber Smithing Stone 6 pickups is located behind an illusionary wall.
- You may also loot one from corpses in the upper paths leading to Rykard’s boss arena.
This route becomes available in the mid-to-late game and is reliable, though it requires deeper progression into the story.
Alternate Acquisition Methods
Buying from Merchants with Bell Bearings
Once you acquire the Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3], you can give it to the Twin Maiden Husks in Roundtable Hold. This unlocks the ability to purchase Somber Smithing Stone 6 indefinitely.
- The bell bearing is dropped by a boss found in the First Church of Marika or the Crumbling Farum Azula area.
- After acquiring the bearing, teleport to Roundtable Hold and hand it over to unlock the item in the shop.
- This method is convenient but only becomes available much later in the game.
Once unlocked, this is the most consistent way to stock up on somber stones without hunting.
Enemy Drops and Farming
Some high-tier enemies in specific regions drop Somber Smithing Stone 6. While not the most efficient, it’s an option for determined grinders.
- Cleanrot Knights in Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree may drop somber stones.
- Certain late-game miners or scarabs occasionally leave them behind.
This method is time-consuming and not guaranteed, but for players who enjoy combat farming, it offers a side route to obtaining the material.
Quick Access Locations Recap
Top Spots for Fast Acquisition
- Nokron, Eternal City: After Radahn, easiest direct pickup.
- Sellia Crystal Tunnel: Risky but accessible early via teleport trap.
- Volcano Manor: Reliable late-midgame location with multiple pickups.
- Bell Bearing Purchase: Infinite supply once unlocked in Roundtable Hold.
Each of these areas has its pros and cons depending on your playstyle, progress, and character strength. For speedrunners or optimized builds, Nokron provides the best blend of accessibility and reward, especially when targeting specific weapon upgrades before major bosses like Morgott or Maliketh.
Why You Should Prioritize Somber Smithing Stone 6
Power Boost and Combat Readiness
Reaching +6 on special weapons can dramatically change your game performance. Whether you’re focusing on melee, magic-infused, or faith-based weapons, every upgrade level adds substantial stat scaling and raw damage. This is especially important before hitting the mid-game spike in difficulty, where enemies have larger health pools and more aggressive move sets.
Efficiency for Boss Battles
Having a weapon upgraded to +6 gives players a tactical edge in challenging fights, making it easier to stagger enemies, deal with mobs, and finish bosses quicker. Especially for weapons like the Moonveil or Rivers of Blood, which scale well with INT or DEX, being one level ahead in weapon power can turn a losing battle into a victory.
Tips for Efficient Stone Hunting
- Use Torrent: Many somber stone locations are outdoors and easier to reach with your mount.
- Level Up Vigor: Exploring areas with strong enemies is easier with higher health.
- Avoid Unnecessary Combat: Run past enemies if your goal is loot, not farming.
- Mark the Map: When you find locations with high-tier loot, mark them for future visits.
Optimizing your path can save hours of game time and allow you to experiment with new weapons without sacrificing power or progression.
Obtaining Somber Smithing Stone 6 quickly in Elden Ring is crucial for players looking to enhance their unique weapons and prepare for tougher encounters. By focusing on efficient routes such as Nokron or Volcano Manor, or aiming to unlock the Twin Maiden Husks’ shop, you can ensure your arsenal is always one step ahead. The earlier you upgrade, the easier it is to enjoy the full potential of your build. Whether you’re a mage, knight, or rogue-style warrior, knowing where and how to find Somber Smithing Stone 6 can make all the difference in your journey across the Lands Between.