Choosing the right greatsword in Elden Ring often comes down to evaluating raw statistics against overall combat utility. Two early-game favorites, the Bastard Sword and the Claymore, share identical weight and similar base stats, yet they serve distinctly different playstyles. Deciding which weapon suits your journey through the Lands Between requires a closer look at their movesets, damage scaling, and combat adaptability.
Comparing Movesets and Thrust Damage
The primary difference between these two greatswords lies in their heavy attack animations. The Claymore features a powerful thrusting R2 attack that inflicts piercing damage, making it exceptionally strong against armored foes. This thrust attack also synergizes well with counter-hit bonuses and specialized gear like the Spear Talisman.
In contrast, the Bastard Sword utilizes wide horizontal sweeping slashes for its heavy attacks. These sweeping swings excel at crowd control when fighting multiple enemies simultaneously. However, slash attacks lack the extended reach and armor-penetrating advantages offered by the Claymore's poke attacks.
Stat Scaling and Raw Damage Potential
For players committing to pure Strength builds, the Bastard Sword offers slightly higher raw damage potential. When infused with Heavy affinity, it achieves an A scaling in Strength, yielding slightly higher Attack Rating than its rival. This slight edge in raw power allows it to break enemy poise effectively during heavy trade scenarios.
The Claymore reaches a B scaling in Strength under Heavy infusion, resulting in marginally lower baseline damage output. However, its ability to land thrusting counter-hits frequently makes up for the small gap in raw Attack Rating. Players often find that real-combat scenario damage leans in favor of thrusting moves despite lower base numbers.
Versatility in Combat and Weapon Ash Compatibility
Both weapons accept a vast array of Ashes of War, allowing players to customize their weapon Skills to fit specific builds. Because both belong to the Greatsword class, options like Stamp, Lion's Claw, or elemental infusions function exceptionally well on either blade. Their low stat requirements make them accessible options during early exploration in the Weeping Peninsula.
Despite their shared flexibility, the extended reach of the Claymore gives it a distinct advantage in tight spaces and hallway encounters. Horizontal sweeps from the Bastard Sword can bounce off narrow walls, while thrust attacks pierce forward cleanly without obstruction. Understanding these environmental factors helps players maximize combat efficiency.
Which Weapon Is Better for Your Build?
Ultimately, determining which weapon is superior comes down to player preference regarding attack range and utility. If your playstyle prioritizes maximum Strength scaling and wide horizontal slashes to sweep through groups of foes, the Bastard Sword is a dependable choice. Its straightforward performance rewards aggressive melee combat.
However, most experienced players favor the Claymore due to its unmatched versatility and piercing R2 attack. The added reach, superior counter-damage potential, and safer spacing options make it one of the most reliable weapons in the entire game. Choosing the Claymore typically provides a smoother experience against both bosses and general enemies throughout Elden Ring.
