In Elden Ring, breaking an enemy’s guard stance can give you the upper hand, turning a battle in your favor by leaving them wide open for a devastating attack. Whether you’re facing a shield-wielding boss or a tough invader in PvP, some items in the game are particularly effective at breaking through defenses. In this guide, we’ll look at seven tools that will help you smash through those pesky guard stances and secure victory.



1. Greatswords



Greatswords are some of the most reliable weapons when it comes to breaking guard stances. Their wide sweeping attacks and heavy damage output make them perfect for overwhelming opponents who rely heavily on blocking. The weapon’s attacks have good poise-breaking properties, which makes them ideal for creating openings in a shielded enemy's defense. The extra reach also allows you to hit enemies from a safe distance, making it a favorite among many players.



If you're looking to enhance your build, it’s worth investing in a Greatsword, especially if you’re considering a high-damage, strength-based build.



2. Colossal Weapons



Colossal weapons, such as Great Hammers and Ultra Greatswords, are perhaps the best option for breaking guard stances. These weapons are heavy, slow, and pack a punch, making them perfect for smashing through shields. Their heavy attacks can stagger most enemies, regardless of their guard strength. When wielded properly, they will often break the guard of even the toughest opponents with a single swing.



The downside is that they require a higher investment in strength, but if you can pull it off, you’ll find yourself breaking through guard stances with ease.



3. Heavy Crossbow



While bows are typically known for their long-range attack capabilities, the heavy crossbow is a different beast altogether. Its high damage output, combined with the ability to fire large bolts, can shred through enemy guards. The crossbow’s bolts have impressive poise-breaking potential, especially when targeting an enemy’s shielded side. It’s a great tool for breaking the defense from a distance before closing in for the kill.



If you’re a fan of ranged combat, this item can help you bring down enemies who are too focused on their shields, allowing you to break their guard without even needing to get close.



4. Whips



Whips are an often-overlooked weapon in Elden Ring, but they are surprisingly effective when it comes to breaking guard stances. Since they don’t require you to be in close range, whips can be used to attack enemies from a safe distance while bypassing their shields. The whip’s unique property is its ability to hit enemies from behind their guard, making it difficult for them to block or parry your attacks.



Moreover, whips have good range and speed, which means you can attack quickly and keep the pressure on your opponent. If you’re looking for a unique tool to break through tough defenses, whips might be the way to go.



5. Hammer of the Valiant



The Hammer of the Valiant is a heavy weapon that can break through enemy guards with ease. This powerful hammer is perfect for those who prefer a more brutal, no-nonsense approach. Its heavy, slow strikes hit hard and can stagger enemies, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks. It’s particularly useful against enemies who rely on smaller shields or who have lower poise.



If you find yourself in a tight spot against shielded enemies, using this weapon will allow you to quickly turn the tables in your favor.



6. Curved Greatswords



Curved Greatswords offer a perfect balance between speed and power, making them ideal for breaking through guard stances. Their attacks are faster than colossal weapons but still deal significant damage. The sweeping nature of their attacks makes them perfect for hitting multiple enemies or breaking the guard of those with smaller shields. A Curved Greatsword can be wielded in a way that continuously applies pressure to shielded foes, gradually wearing down their guard until it eventually breaks.



If you’re not into the heavy slowness of Colossal weapons but still want something that hits hard and breaks stances, Curved Greatswords are an excellent choice.



7. Special Weapon Abilities (Weapon Skills)



Sometimes, the right weapon skill can be the game-changer when it comes to breaking guard stances. Certain weapons have skills that are designed to break through shields and guard defenses. For example, the Lion's Claw skill from the Flameblade or the Flame of the Redmanes skill from the Redmane Knight's Sword both offer powerful AOE attacks that can overwhelm shields and knock enemies off balance.



When you’re facing a tough opponent who’s relying heavily on their guard, using one of these weapon skills at the right time can break their stance and open up a window for a devastating attack.



Boosting Your Efficiency



If you're looking to get an edge in breaking guard stances even faster, it's also a good idea to consider boosting your stats with the right gear. For instance, increasing your strength or equipping items that boost poise can help you deliver more powerful hits. Sometimes, investing in certain gear can be just as effective as upgrading your weapon.



Also, if you’re looking to quickly level up your character or enhance your build, some players opt to buy Elden Ring runes to speed up their progression. If you prefer a quick and secure method to level up, consider platforms like U4GM, where you can buy Elden Ring runes with PayPal for a hassle-free experience. It’s a great way to ensure you can afford the best gear for your build, including powerful items that help you break through enemy defenses.





Breaking guard stances in Elden Ring is an essential skill for any player looking to dominate both PvE and PvP. Whether you're wielding a Greatsword, a Colossal weapon, or relying on the unique abilities of whips and bows, there are plenty of tools at your disposal to overcome those pesky shields. By choosing the right weapon and understanding how to exploit an enemy’s guard, you’ll find yourself cruising through tougher enemies with ease.