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Dealing with shield-wielding enemies in Elden Ring can be one of the most frustrating parts of exploration or PvP encounters. Whether you're getting staggered every time you try to break through a greatshield or you keep getting parried mid-combo, having the right weapon can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll go over 13 excellent Elden Ring weapons that are perfect for countering shield-heavy opponents—whether you're facing off against a turtle-style invader or a knight who won’t lower their guard.

This list is geared toward practical use and PvP/PvE balance, taking into account poise damage, guard break potential, and utility. If you're looking to optimize your loadout, or planning to buy Elden Ring Runes or farm specific Elden Ring Items, these picks are worth considering.

1. Mallet of the Tree Sentinel

This colossal weapon deals excellent stamina damage and has a naturally high guard break rate. Its overhead smash can easily stagger shielded enemies and open them up for a follow-up attack.

2. Great Mace

Simple but brutally effective, the Great Mace has exceptional poise damage and stamina-breaking potential. Paired with a heavy infusion and Endure, it becomes a true tank buster.

3. Greatsword (Colossal Sword)

The classic Ultra Greatsword isn't just about raw damage—it’s also incredibly effective at breaking block through sheer force. Even turtling foes can't last long against it.

4. Serpent-Hunter

Originally designed for the Rykard boss fight, this weapon has an extended hitbox and powerful stagger capability. Its reach and fast start-up frames make it excellent against shielded enemies in both PvP and PvE.

5. Torchpole with Flaming Strike

It may not look like much, but the Torchpole combined with Flaming Strike ashes of war applies fire damage through shields. Great for applying pressure and burning away stamina.

6. Antspur Rapier

Fast, piercing, and inflicts Scarlet Rot. It’s a status ailment specialist that forces enemies to stop blocking and roll away, giving you an edge. This is a solid option especially if you like quick step builds.

7. Nightrider Glaive

This halberd hits like a truck and comes with good stagger values. It's perfect for closing distance and delivering high poise damage to shield users who rely too heavily on blocking.

8. Cursed Blood Slice (from Morgott’s Cursed Sword)

This weapon skill launches a curved arc of cursed blood that explodes after a short delay, bypassing shields and damaging enemies behind their guard. It also looks amazing in combat.

9. Scavenger’s Curved Sword (Dual-Wield)

When power-stanced, this setup delivers fast bleed build-up that chips through shields quickly. Bleed damage is still effective even when blocked, forcing enemies to stop turtling.

10. Storm Blade (Ash of War)

You can apply this Ash of War to a wide range of weapons. It sends a blade of wind that pierces straight through shields, allowing you to chip down guarded foes at a distance.

11. Cranial Vessel Candlestand

Though less conventional, this colossal weapon's unique fire-based weapon art hits multiple times and deals stamina damage through guard. It’s also great for surprise encounters in tight spaces.

12. Pulley Crossbow

If you’re ranged-oriented, this crossbow can stagger and punish players or enemies who turtle behind a shield. The rapid three-bolt fire can apply status or force movement.

13. Eclipse Shotel

Shields are practically useless against this weapon’s unique trait—it bypasses 100% of enemy guard. You can swing right through even greatshields, making it one of the best anti-shield options in the game.

Shield enemies in Elden Ring aren't invincible—you just need the right tools and strategies to deal with them. Whether you lean toward brute-force weapons like colossal swords or use tricky options like status builds and special weapon skills, there’s always a way to break through.

If you’re experimenting with new builds or just want to speed up your progress, many players choose to buy Elden Ring Runes or gather specific Elden Ring Items to get their hands on these weapons faster. Just make sure you focus on building a loadout that complements your playstyle and stays flexible.

Remember: shields only protect so much. With these 13 weapons, you’ll make sure no turtle build stands in your way.