The Claymore stands as one of Elden Ring's most iconic and versatile weapons, beloved by players since the game's release. As we move into 2025, this trusty greatsword remains a top-tier choice for both PvE and PvP encounters. But what makes this weapon so special, and why do players continue to seek it out years after release?

A large sword with a long, straight blade, the Claymore perfectly balances power and speed. While typically wielded with two hands, those with sufficient strength can effectively wield it with just one. Its versatility comes from combining heavy sweeping attacks with piercing thrusts, making it adaptable to nearly any combat situation.

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Where to Find the Claymore in 2025

For new players or those starting fresh playthroughs, locating this weapon remains unchanged:

Head to Castle Morne on the southern peninsula of Limgrave. From the main courtyard entrance, hug the right wall past the burning corpses surrounded by Misbegotten enemies. This path leads to a northern building where you'll find the Claymore in a chest immediately to your left upon entering.

Haven't visited Castle Morne yet? It's an essential early-game location that offers not just the Claymore but several other valuable items. Isn't it worth making the journey for such a versatile weapon?

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Why Choose the Claymore in 2025?

With numerous weapon options available in Elden Ring, you might wonder: why should I invest in the Claymore specifically?

  1. Exceptional Versatility: The Claymore's moveset includes both wide sweeps for crowd control and thrusting attacks for precision, making it effective against virtually any enemy type.

  2. Scaling Potential: With primary scaling in Strength and Dexterity, it shines in quality builds but can be adapted to nearly any playstyle through Ashes of War.

  3. PvP Effectiveness: In player versus player combat, the Claymore offers a balanced approach between reach, speed, and damage output.

  4. Ash of War Compatibility: The weapon can be infused with numerous Ashes of War, allowing for incredible customization.

When comparing the Claymore to other popular greatswords like the Zweihander or the colossal Greatsword (often called the "Guts" sword by the community), each offers different advantages. The Claymore provides better speed and versatility, while the others offer greater reach and poise damage.

Optimal Claymore Builds for 2025

Strength-Focused Build

  • Infuse with Heavy affinity

  • Aim for 60+ Strength

  • Use Lion's Claw or Stamp Ash of War

  • Two-handed for maximum damage output

Quality Build

  • Standard or Quality affinity

  • Balanced investment in both Strength and Dexterity (40/40 or higher)

  • Versatile Ash of War choices like Storm Stomp or Double Slash

Frost Build

  • Cold affinity for additional frost status buildup

  • Split investment between Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence

  • Excellent for PvP where the frost status effect provides significant advantages

The latest patches have maintained the Claymore's excellent scaling potential, with the Standard +25 upgrade reaching 338 physical attack power with C/D scaling in Strength and Dexterity respectively.

PvP Considerations

In 2025's PvP meta, the Claymore continues to perform admirably. With Patch 1.10's adjustments to poise damage values, the Claymore's two-handed R1 attacks now deal 264 poise damage on the first hit, making it effective at breaking through medium armor setups.

Some players debate whether the Claymore's shorter reach compared to colossal swords like the Zweihander puts it at a disadvantage. However, its faster attack speed often compensates for this limitation. Have you considered how timing and spacing might matter more than raw reach in many PvP scenarios?

The crouch poke technique remains effective in 2025, allowing for quick, unexpected thrusting attacks that can catch opponents off guard.

Ash of War Recommendations

The Claymore's compatibility with numerous Ashes of War makes it exceptionally adaptable. Some standout choices include:

  • Lion's Claw: The default skill, excellent for closing gaps and dealing massive poise damage

  • Storm Stomp: Creates space and stuns opponents briefly

  • Giant Hunt: Perfect for catching aggressive players

  • Bloodhound's Step: Provides enhanced mobility, though slightly nerfed from its original state

  • Royal Knight's Resolve: Temporarily boosts attack power for devastating follow-up hits

Conclusion

The Elden Ring Claymore remains one of the most reliable and versatile weapons in 2025. Whether you're a new player seeking a solid weapon to carry you through the game or a veteran looking to optimize your build, the Claymore offers an excellent balance of speed, power, and adaptability.

Its continued popularity speaks to its effectiveness—a truly timeless weapon in the ever-evolving landscape of Elden Ring. What build will you create with this legendary greatsword?

Remember, in the Lands Between, the best weapon isn't always the one with the highest attack rating, but the one whose moveset and abilities you've mastered. And for many players, that weapon continues to be the trusty Claymore.