The Lands Between are filled with brutal enemies and punishing bosses. For players who prefer a more methodical, defensive approach, mastering the Guard Counter mechanic is key. It's that perfect moment after a successful block, a powerful riposte that turns defense into a devastating offense. But not every weapon is created equal for this playstyle. So, which armaments truly shine when you're looking to stand your ground and crush the opposition? Let's dive into the best weapons to make your Guard Counter build unstoppable in 2026.
⚔️ 8. Nightrider Glaive
Ever find a weapon that just feels right, even if the stats aren't perfect? That's the Nightrider Glaive. Its Strength (C) and Dexterity (E) scaling might seem underwhelming, but don't let that fool you. Its heavy attack delivers serious damage, making it a fantastic early-game choice for Guard Counter enthusiasts.
How to get it: Defeat the Night's Cavalry patrolling north of the East Raya Lucaria Gate in Liurnia of the Lakes (after Stormveil Castle).
⚔️ 7. Godskin Peeler
This twinblade received a significant buff that solidified its place here! Its guard damage negation got a massive boost, jumping from 49/38/49/38/38/36 to a much sturdier 63/38/49/38/38/45. This means you can block more effectively and follow up with its swift, multi-hit attacks for perfect Guard Counter chains.
How to get it: Brave the Divine Tower of Caelid and defeat the Godskin Apostle. The weapon awaits in a chest post-battle.
⚔️ 6. Golden Halberd
An iconic early-game weapon that remains relevant. What makes the Golden Halberd so great for a Guard Counter build? Its triple scaling with Strength, Dexterity, and Faith! As you invest in these stats (common for defensive/faith hybrids), this halberd grows right alongside your character, ensuring its counter-attacks always hit hard.
How to get it: Take down the Tree Sentinel patrolling Limgrave. It's a tough first fight, but the reward is worth the persistence.
⚔️ 5. Great Katana
What's better than a powerful counter-attack? One that also bleeds your enemy dry! The Great Katana's standout feature is its ability to be infused with Ashes of War. This opens up incredible versatility. Stick with its default moveset or add a Blood Infusion to build up that deadly Hemorrhage status with every Guard Counter.
How to get it: Defeat the group of Bloodfiends in Prospect Town, Gravesite Plain. A relatively straightforward task for a mighty weapon.
⚔️ 4. Star-Lined Sword (Shadow of the Erdtree)
Speed is key for capitalizing on brief Guard Counter windows, and this DLC weapon has it in spades. The Star-Lined Sword attacks with fantastic agility, allowing you to retaliate almost instantly after a block. It's the perfect choice for players who want a reactive, fast-paced Guard Counter style that keeps pressure on any foe.
How to get it: Journey to the Cerulean Coast in the Land of Shadow and defeat Demi-Human Queen Marigga.
⚔️ 3. Starscourge Greatsword
Think greatswords are too slow for precise counters? Think again! Radahn's legendary blades are surprisingly quick for their colossal size. This speed, combined with their excellent power and scaling, makes them a top-tier choice. You get the hyper-armor and damage of a colossal weapon without sacrificing the responsiveness needed for Guard Counters.
How to get it: Earn it by defeating Starscourge Radahn himself at Redmane Castle. A challenging but mandatory and epic battle.
⚔️ 2. Ruins Greatsword
For the pure Strength enjoyer, look no further. The Ruins Greatsword boasts some of the highest damage in its class. Its heavy attacks are earth-shattering events capable of clearing groups. When your Guard Counter strategy revolves around landing these monumental blows, this sword turns every blocked attack into a potential one-hit kill opportunity.
How to get it: Defeat the Misbegotten Warrior and Crucible Knight duo at Redmane Castle (when the Radahn festival is NOT active).
🏆 1. Giant-Crusher
The name says it all. The undisputed king of Strength scaling and Guard Counter builds. This colossal hammer delivers astronomical damage with every swing. When the goal of a Guard Counter is to transition seamlessly into a fight-ending heavy attack, no weapon does it better. It turns tactical defense into pure, unadulterated obliteration.
How to get it: Found in a carriage south of the Outer Wall Phantom Tree Site of Grace in Altus Plateau. No boss fight required!
🔨 Choosing Your Champion
| Weapon | Best For | Key Trait |
|---|---|---|
| Giant-Crusher | Pure Strength / One-Shots | Max Damage Output |
| Ruins Greatsword | Strength / Crowd Control | Devastating Heavy Attacks |
| Starscourge Greatsword | Strength & Dexterity | Surprising Speed |
| Great Katana | Bleed Builds / Flexibility | Ash of War Infusable |
| Golden Halberd | Hybrid Faith Builds | Early Game & Triple Scaling |
Building around Guard Counters transforms Elden Ring's combat, rewarding patience and precision with overwhelming power. Whether you crave the raw might of the Giant-Crusher, the swift elegance of the Star-Lined Sword, or the versatile bleed of the Great Katana, there's a perfect weapon waiting for your defensive playstyle. So, raise your shield, time your blocks, and get ready to counter your way to becoming the next Elden Lord! 🛡️➡️⚔️