The BEST Axe In Elden Ring [Top 12]

These are the 12 unrivaled axes to conquer all enemies in Elden Ring

In the Lands Between, players will encounter various weapons to help them overcome obstacles and defeat formidable foes. Among these deadly tools are the best axes in Elden Ring, which offer immense power and versatility for various character builds.

Key Takeaways
  • Elden Ring offers players a choice from 14 unique axes that can help players dispose of their enemies quickly and ruthlessly.

Here are the best Axes in Elden Ring Ranked:

  1. Icerind Hachet, combined with the Hoarfrost Stomp ability, can yield high damage output against targets and can apply the frostbite effect.
  2. The Gargoyle’s Black Axe has a High base physical and holy damage with War Cry weapon skill.
  3. Equipped with a unique Rosus’s Summons weapon skill, the Rosus Axe summons skeletons to aid in battle.
  4. The Celebrant’s Cleaver grants runes with each successful hit and features the Wild Strikes weapon skill.
  5. Restore a small amount of FP upon slaying a foe with the Sacrificial Axe.
  6. Jawbone Axe – Can be infused with Ashes of War and has Wild Strikes weapon skill. 
  7. Call upon a Thunderstorm with the Stromhawk that imbues the blade with lightning.
  8. The Battle Axe is a versatile weapon with the default Wild Strikes weapon skill, which can be infused with a different Ashes of War.
  9. Featuring a distinctive melted appearance and War Cry weapon skill, the Warped axe can up your chances of survival.
  10. If you have the highland warriors’ soul, then the Highland Axe is a must-try.
  11. Do try out the Iron Cleaver, as its notable feature is that it boasts high critical damage.
  12. Ripple Blade – Benefits from both Arcane and Faith stats, suitable for Dragon Communion incantations.

Let’s have a look at the comparison between some of the Best Axe in Elden Ring:

RankAxe NamePhysicalMagicHolyCrit Boost
1Icerind Hatchet115.00.00.0100.0
2Gargoyles Black Axe100.00.0120.0100.0
3Rosus Axe112.068.00.0100.0
4Celebrants Cleaver125.00.00.0100.0
5Sacrificial Axe133.00.00.0100.0
6Jawbone Axe130.00.00.0100.0
7Stormhawk Axe136.00.00.0100.0
8Battle Axe128.00.00.0100.0
9Warped Axe124.00.00.0100.0
10Highland Axe128.00.00.0110.0
11Iron Cleaver125.00.00.0100.0
12Ripple Blade75.00.00.0100.0

1. Icerind Hatchet:

icerind hachet elden ring
The coolest way to chop down enemies – Icerind hatchet [image by us]
Speedrunners often seek powerful weapons to deal massive damage to enemies, and the Icerind Hatchet is a popular choice. The Icerind Hatchet is a unique weapon with a special Ashes of War ability called Hoarfrost Stomp, which deals significant damage while consuming minimal FP. This spammable skill makes the weapon a favorite among players.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthE11
DexterityD16

To find the Icerind Hatchet:

  • Players should head to the Temple Quarter Site of Grace, located just below the Raya Lucaria Academy.
  • From there, they must travel southeast to a ruined tower.
  • Inside the ruins, players will find a chest containing the Icerind Hatchet.
  • The area is relatively safe, with only a few Alburniac wandering from the Village of the Albinaurics.

The Icerind Hatchet’s stats and the Hoarfrost Stomp ability make it a viable weapon for frost builds. It also inflicts frostbite (65) on enemies, lowering their damage absorption by 20% and reducing stamina recovery.

The Icerind Hatchet is an accessible and powerful early-game weapon in Elden Ring. Its Hoarfrost Stomp ability allows for significant damage output, making it a popular choice among speedrunners and frost-build players. The weapon remains potent and valuable for cheesing several boss fights, due to which it has secured first place in the best axes in Elden Ring.

2. Gargoyles Black Axe:

gargoyles black axe elden ring
Crush your enemies with Gargoyles black Axe [image credits: eXputer]
The Gargoyle’s Black Axe is a unique and formidable weapon that players can acquire to enhance their combat capabilities. Known for its sinister appearance and impressive damage output, the axe has become a popular choice among players seeking to bolster their arsenal.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD24
DexterityE8
FaithD22

To find the Gargoyles black axe:

  • Players need to defeat the Black Blade Kindred found at the mountaintops of the giants.
  • The Black Blade Kindred is quite a formidable opponent, so be sure not to dive into the fight unprepared.
  • Along with the black axe, the Gargoyles Black Blade can also be acquired from feeling the same enemy.
  • Due to the weapons requirements and the difficulty in acquiring the weapon, it can be considered a more mid-game weapon.
  • The weapon’s high base physical (100) plus holy (120) damage, combined with its potent scaling attributes, make it a formidable choice for players looking to deal devastating blows to their enemies.
  • In addition to its raw damage potential, the Gargoyle’s Black Axe also features War Cry as its default weapon skill, boosting attack power and transforming strong attacks into charging attacks for 16 FP.

The Gargoyle’s Black Axe is a powerful and visually striking weapon, offering players a unique combination of high damage, potent scaling, and powerful weapon skill. With the Gargoyle’s Black Axe in hand, players can unleash devastating attacks and conquer the challenges that await them in the Lands Between. We think that it is worthy of having its name right beside the Icerind Hatchet in the best axes in Elden Ring.

3. Rosus Axe

rosus axe elden ring
Rousin’ up some trouble with Rosus Axe +10 [Image by eXputer]

Rosus’ Axe is formidable in the game, surely among the best, and perfect for players who want to deliver substantial damage with every swing. As an Axe class weapon, it primarily scales with Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence, making it an excellent choice for melee-focused characters looking to dominate the battlefield.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD18
DexterityE10
IntelligenceD18

To find Rosus’ Axe in the game:

One of the most notable features of Rosus’ Axe is its Weapon Skill, Rosus’s Summons. By raising the axe, players can summon three skeletons that appear at a distance, attacking in tandem before vanishing. This skill adds a tactical advantage in battle, allowing players to deal additional damage and distract enemies. However, it’s important to note that Rosus’ Axe cannot be infused with Ashes of War.

4. Celebrants Cleaver

Celevrant's Clever Elden Ring
One of the rare axe – the Celebrant’s Clever [image by us]
The Celebrant’s Cleaver is a versatile and powerful Axe in Elden Ring, making it one of the best choices for players who prioritize Strength and Dexterity in their build.

The Celebrant’s Cleaver is not only visually striking but also boasts impressive stats. Scaling primarily with Strength and Dexterity, it delivers a formidable 119 points of physical attack and 100 points of critical damage. Additionally, each successful hit with the weapon grants ten runes to the player, providing a valuable resource for upgrading and leveling.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD12
DexterityD8
  • The Celebrant’s Cleaver can be found in the Altus Plateau’s Windmill Village.
  • It is dropped by enemies in the area.
  • As players explore the village and defeat celebrating foes wielding the weapon, they have a chance to obtain this unique axe for their arsenal.

One of the key aspects of the Celebrant’s Cleaver is its Default Weapon Skill, Wild Strikes. This skill allows players to swing the weapon with reckless abandon, and by holding the attack button, they can continue swinging. The skill can be followed up with a normal or strong attack, offering dynamic combat options.

This weapon can also be infused with Ashes of War, allowing players to customize and enhance their abilities further. Players who obtain and upgrade the Celebrant’s Cleaver can harness its full potential, making it a deadly addition to their arsenal in the challenging world of Elden Ring.

5. Sacrificial Axe

Sacrificial Axe Elden ring
Sacrifice the enemies without any guilt with Sacrificial Axe [image by us]

The Sacrificial Axe is a unique and powerful weapon in Elden Ring, scaling primarily with Strength and Dexterity, thus making its place among the best axes. Ideal for aggressive players who like to confront their enemies head-on, this axe is particularly suitable for those who appreciate its skill, Wild Strikes.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD16
DexterityD10

The sacrificial Axe also has the Weapon Skill Wild Strikes, adding versatility to the weapon’s combat capabilities.

The Sacrificial Axe can be obtained by:

  • Venturing to the Weeping Peninsula during nighttime and defeating the formidable Deathbird enemy.
  • As players confront the Deathbird and emerge victorious, they can acquire this menacing weapon for their arsenal.
  • The Sacrificial Axe delivers a devastating 133 points of physical attack and 100 points of critical damage.
  • Additionally, the axe’s lingering power from the ancient sacrificial rite allows players to restore a small amount of FP upon slaying a foe, making it a valuable asset in combat.

6. Jawbone Axe

jawbone axe elden ring
Break their jaws with the Jawbone axe +18 [image credits: eXputer]
The Jawbone Axe is a distinctive and powerful weapon, primarily scaling with Strength and Dexterity. Perfect for aggressive players who enjoy facing their enemies head-on, this axe allows for continuous swings, especially when utilizing its skill, Wild Strikes.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD14
DexterityE8

Players can find the Jawbone Axe by:

  • Defeating the Ancestral Follower enemy.
  • These formidable enemies can be found in various locations, such as near the Mausoleum Compound site of grace and the ruined Labyrinth grace.

The Jawbone Axe can be infused with Ashes of War and buffed with magic and consumables, providing additional customization options for players. Upgrading the weapon is possible using Smithing Stones, further enhancing its power in combat.

7. Stormhawk Axe

stormhawk axe elden ring
Summon the storm by the Stormhawk axe [image by us[
The Stormhawk Axe is an exceptional weapon in Elden Ring that captivates players with its stunning visuals, formidable power, and overall best performance. Primarily scaling with Strength and Dexterity, this axe is perfect for aggressive players who enjoy a relentless and dynamic combat style.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD19
DexterityD15

The weapon skill, Thunderstorm, sets it apart from other axes in the game, imbuing the wing-shaped blade with lightning to create a dazzling storm with each swing. The lightning stays on the blade for a brief period, enhancing the weapon’s potential in battle.

Players can find the Stormhawk Axe in various locations throughout the vast world of Elden Ring.

  • One way to obtain it is by looting Nepheli Loux’s corpse at the Village of the Albinaurics in Western Liurnia of the Lakes.
  • Alternatively, players can search for it on a dead body in the courtyard filled with Iron Maidens near the Fortified Manor, First Floor at Leyndell, Royal Capital.
  • The axe can also be found in Castle Sol, resting on a corpse on a wooden awning in the courtyard’s central building.

The Stormhawk Axe cannot be infused with Ashes of War; however, players can upgrade it using Somber Smithing Stones to further enhance its combat capabilities.

8. Battle Axe

battle axe elden ring
Ready for battle with the battle axe +25 [image by us]
The Battle Axe in Elden Ring is a robust and versatile weapon, perfect for players who prefer a balance of power and adaptability. Its heavy blade is designed to deliver strong, punishing attacks, while the weapon’s charge attacks are known for their force. This standard axe is one of the best choices for players who wish to wield a reliable and effective armament on their journey through the world of Elden Ring.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD12
DexterityD8

One of the defining features of the Battle Axe is its Weapon Skill, Wild Strikes. Weighing in at 4.5 units, the Battle Axe provides a solid amount of physical attack power at 128, with a critical damage stat of 100.

  • The Battle Axe can be found as starting equipment for the Hero class in Elden Ring.
  • It can also be purchased from Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold for 800 Runes.

The battle axe can be upgraded using Smithing Stones and infused with Ashes of War, offering players the opportunity to enhance its capabilities and tailor it to their preferred playstyle.

9. Warped Axe

wrapped axe elden ring
Wrapped Axe + 25 [image by us]
The Warped Axe in Elden Ring is a formidable weapon that stands out due to its unique and distorted appearance. This oversized, double-headed axe has a seemingly melted look, suggesting that it has withstood many battles.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthC24
Dexterity8

In Elden Ring, the Warped Axe can be found by:

  • Farming Omens who wield the weapon.
  • With a base drop rate of 4% (at 100 Discovery), players can increase their chances of obtaining the axe by farming Omens in locations such as
    • The Cliffbottom Catacombs,
    • The Abandoned Coffin Site of Grace on the Altus Plateau,
    • or near the Underground Roadside Site of Grace in the Subterranean Shunning-Grounds.
  • The Warped Axe’s default Weapon Skill, War Cry, allows players to unleash a rallying cry that increases their attack power.
  • Furthermore, with a Skill FP Cost of 16 FP, players can execute this ability strategically during combat situations.
  • Weighing 7.5 units, the Warped Axe boasts an impressive physical attack power of 124 and a critical damage stat of 100.

The Warped Axe can be infused with Ashes of War and upgraded using Smithing Stones, allowing players to further enhance and customize the weapon to suit their playstyle.

10. Highland Axe

highland axe elden ring
Axe of the warriors – Highland Axe [image by us]
The Highland Axe in the game is a single-sided axe favored by the highland warriors and is one of the best axes in the game.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthD12
DexterityD9

The Highland Axe can be found at:

  • Stormveil Castle
  • It is located inside the fortress of the Grafted Scion.
  • Players can acquire the weapon by looting it from a corpse situated beneath a large painting at the center of the room.

With the default Weapon Skill, War Cry, the Highland Axe enables players to increase their attack power with a rallying cry. Weighing 4.5 units, the Highland Axe has an impressive physical attack power of 128 and a critical damage stat of 110.

The Highland Axe can be infused with Ashes of War and buffed with Magic and Consumables, allowing players to customize and enhance the weapon according to their playstyle. It can also be upgraded using Smithing Stones, further increasing its potential in combat.

11. Iron Cleaver

occult infused iron cleaver elden ring
Occult-infused Iron Cleaver +25 – image by eXputer

The Iron Cleaver is a distinctive axe with a unique move set that sets it apart from other axes in the game. Its menacing appearance and specialized attack patterns make it a formidable choice for players looking to diversify their combat strategies and employ a more aggressive playstyle.

StatsScalingRequirements
StrengthC15
DexterityE7

The Iron Cleaver can be found in:

  • Castle Morne (Weeping Peninsula) and Leyndell, Royal Capital
  • It has a chance to be dropped by the Misbegotten creatures wielding it.
  • To farm the weapon easily, players can unlock the “Behind the CastleGrace in Castle Morne and follow a strategic route that minimizes combat and maximizes backstab opportunities.

The default Weapon Skill for the Iron Cleaver is Wild Strikes, which allows players to swing the weapon with wild abandon. Weighing 6.0 units, the Iron Cleaver has a solid physical attack power of 125 and a critical damage stat of 100.

Players can further enhance the Iron Cleaver by infusing it with Ashes of War and buffing it with Magic and Consumables. Upgrading the weapon with Smithing Stones increases its potential damage output and overall effectiveness in combat.

12. Ripple Blade

ripple blade elden ring
Ripple Balde+25 [image by us]
Another unique and versatile axe in the game, making its place in the best axes due to its impressive scaling and adaptability, is the Ripple Blade.

StatsScalingRequirements
Strength11
Dexterity11
ArcanaA20

Acquiring this remarkable armament involves:

  • Seeking out Pidia, the Carian Servant.
  • Who can be found at Caria Manor?
  • To reach her, you must traverse Ranni‘s Rise and head towards Seluvis’s tower.
  • From there, follow the cliff until you see a rooftop for Caria Manor, which you can jump onto.
  • Make your way to the broken wall on the right and descend the planks to an open rooftop area with a ladder leading down.
  • Pidia awaits you there, ready to sell the Ripple Blade.

Weighing in at 4.5 units, the Ripple Blade boasts a physical attack power of 75 and a critical rating of 100. One of the few weapons in Elden Ring that can benefit from Arcane stat, the Ripple Blade is an excellent option for characters using Dragon Communion incantations.

Its innate Arcane scaling and ability to be buffed, such as with Electrify Armament, make it a formidable choice for those seeking a flexible and powerful weapon in the game.

How To Determine The Best Axe In Elden Ring

While each of these Axes can offer a unique playstyle, it is important to note that it all comes down to personal preference on which one you choose for your playthrough or build. So we have entailed a few noteworthy pointers to keep in mind as you are choosing between each of these aforementioned axes.

Assess Your Build and Playstyle

Before selecting an axe, consider your character’s build and playstyle. Are you focusing on strength, dexterity, arcane, or faith? Identify the axes that complement your character’s stats and abilities. For example, the Ripple Blade is ideal for those focusing on Arcane builds, while the Iron Cleaver is powerful for strength-based characters.

Evaluate Scaling and Upgrade Potential

Examine the scaling attributes of each axe to determine which one will offer the most significant benefits as you invest in leveling up. Additionally, consider the availability of upgrade materials and how much each axe can be upgraded.

Analyze Movesets and Weapon Skills

Each axe has a unique moveset and weapon skill that can significantly impact its effectiveness in combat. Experiment with various axes and their abilities to determine which moveset and weapon skill best suit your playstyle.

Factor in Status Effects and Buffs

Some axes offer innate status effects or can be enhanced with buffs, making them even more potent. If you plan to use status effects or buffs, choose an axe that can take advantage of these enhancements.

Weigh Versatility Against Specialization

Some axes may excel in specific situations or against certain enemy types, while others are more versatile but may not be as potent in specialized scenarios. Consider whether you prefer a well-rounded axe or one that excels in particular situations.

Consider Accessibility and Availability

Some axes may be challenging to acquire due to their location or requirements. Assess whether the effort required to obtain a specific axe is worth the benefits it provides.

By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about which axe is best suited to your character and playstyle in the game. Ultimately, the ideal axe for you will complement your build, excels in combat, and feels satisfying to wield throughout your journey.

Pros And Cons Of Choosing Axe

While using an axe in Elden Ring can be a satisfying and effective way to defeat foes, it also has its drawbacks.

Pros:

  • High damage output: The axe can deal significant damage to enemies, especially with heavy attacks or critical hits.
  • Ability to stagger enemies: The weight and impact of the axe can stagger enemies, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
  • Reach: The long handle of the axe can give players extra reach in combat, allowing them to strike enemies from a safer distance.
  • Ability to break enemy guard: Certain axe attacks can break through an enemy’s guard, leaving them open to attack.

Cons:

  • Slow attack speed: The weight of the axe can make it slower to swing and recover from attacks, leaving players vulnerable to counterattacks.
  • High stamina cost: The weight and power of the axe can drain the player’s stamina quickly, making it difficult to use for extended periods of time.
  • Difficulty with fast enemies: The slow attack speed of the axe can make it difficult to hit fast-moving enemies, leaving players vulnerable to their attacks.
  • Vulnerability during attacks: The slow and heavy attacks of the axe can leave players vulnerable to interrupting attacks from enemies, making timing and positioning crucial.

It’s important to note that these pros and cons are not exhaustive and that the effectiveness of the axe in Elden Ring will depend on the player’s skill level and playstyle, as well as the enemies and situations they encounter.

Final Words

While this ranking is based on our personal opinion, others might have different experiences and preferences when it comes to their favorite weapons.

Regardless of the axe or the build you choose, the most important factor is to enjoy the journey and embrace the challenges that lie ahead. Remember, experimentation is key to discovering your personal favorites and finding the weapons that resonate with your style.

Whether you wield the arcane might of the Ripple Blade, overdose enemies with your mage build, and crush your enemies with the heavy force of the Iron Cleaver, the axes of Elden Ring provide endless opportunities for triumph and adventure.

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Huzaifah Durrani


As an RPG fanatic, Huzaifah is probably Immersed in yet another playthrough of Fallout: New Vegas or Elden Ring. He will also help you complete game quests, and stay familiar with the latest game releases. You can also find his articles on Gearnuke & Twinfinite.

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