How to obtain the Backhand Blade in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

The Backhand Blade is easily one of the most fun-to-use weapons in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, and it can be made quite deadly with a properly optimized build. The Backhand Blade is essentially a more powerful version of the Sellsword Twinblades, which is considered by many as one of the most overpowered weapons in Dark Souls 3.

And much like the Sellsword Twinblades, you can get the Backhand Blades in Elden Ring quite early, if you're thorough with your exploration of the Gravesite Plains. The Backhand Blade might take some getting used to, but once you get in grips with its moveset and abilities, it can become the most powerful tool in your arsenal.

Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain the Backhand Blade in Shadow of the Erdtree.

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Where to find the Backhand Blade in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree?

The Backhand Blade can be found fairly early in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, as soon as you arrive at the Gravesite Plains. Right after you get the first Site of Grace in the Shadow Realm, head towards the north and you will eventually arrive at a coffin-like structure guarded by Inquisitor enemies, the Backhand Blade can be found in this place.

Backhand Blade's location in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree (Image via FromSoftware)

Although the Backhand Blade scales primarily with Dexterity, it also requires 10 Strength to use, which is the base amount you will have on all melee-focused starting classes, except Wretch. The Backhand Blade, by default, comes with the Blind Spot Ash of War.

However, you can swap the weapon's default Ash of War with any other ability and also a different scaling. Additionally, the Backhand Blade, much like Curved Swords and Katanas in Elden Ring, comes with Bleed build-up imbued, regardless of the Ash of War you equip, making it quite effective even for an Arcane build.

The Backhand Blade, much like the Moonveil or even the Rivers of Blood, can be made into an incredibly powerful weapon that can melt boss healthbars within seconds. However, you must pair the weapon with the right Ash of War to do so. I highly recommend sticking with the Blind Spot Ash of War, albeit with a slight alteration.

The Backhand Blade (Image via FromSoftware)

Instead of Standard or Keen, use the Blind Spot Ash of War with Bleed (Arcane) scaling and pair it with the Rotten Winged Sword Insignia, and the Outer God's Heirloom Talismans. This turns the Backhand Blade into an incredibly powerful Arcane weapon, that can inflict Bleed damage on enemies and bosses, quite fast.