In Elden Ring, combat is as much about strategy as it is about skill. Whether you’re battling towering bosses or navigating intense PvP duels, having the right Elden Ring items to extend your weapon’s reach can be the difference between victory and defeat. This guide focuses on the best Elden Ring items weapons that specifically improve reach and range, helping players optimize their combat performance with both melee and hybrid builds.
These items are selected based on in-game testing, player feedback, and their performance across various PvE and PvP scenarios. Each entry provides not only what the item does, but also how it can enhance your overall fighting strategy.
1. Serpent-Hunter
The Serpent-Hunter is a greatspear designed specifically for the Rykard boss fight, but its true strength lies in its incredible range. Unlike most spears, it can be wielded effectively even by characters with low Strength and Dexterity, making it accessible early in certain builds.
What makes it stand out is its unique hitbox—it stretches further than most melee weapons, giving players a reach advantage in both PvE and PvP. This weapon scales without stat requirements, so you can use it situationally even on magic-focused builds.
Where to find it: Automatically available in the arena before facing Rykard in Volcano Manor.
2. Nightrider Glaive
The Nightrider Glaive is a halberd with exceptional reach, perfect for players looking to control space and punish enemies at a distance. It excels in strength builds and has a wide swing arc that’s excellent for crowd control.
Pairing this with range-enhancing Ashes of War like Spinning Slash or Flaming Strike further increases its effectiveness, especially in tight spaces where reach is key.
Where to find it: Dropped by the Night’s Cavalry in the northern part of the Weeping Peninsula.
3. Cross-Naginata
The Cross-Naginata is a polearm that combines fast thrust attacks with long reach, making it highly effective for aggressive, reactive playstyles. It’s particularly popular in the PvP community for its ability to pressure opponents while maintaining a safe distance.
It can be infused with various Ashes of War, allowing for customization based on your needs. When upgraded, its length and thrust speed make it a top-tier choice for builds focusing on spacing and stamina control.
Where to find it: Found in Gael Tunnel, near the border between Caelid and Limgrave.
4. Greatbow (and Great Arrows)
While not a melee weapon, the Greatbow deserves a spot on this list for players who prefer dealing damage from a distance. With the right setup, including the Arrow’s Reach Talisman, Greatbows can cover vast distances, often hitting targets before they’re even aware of your presence.
This is especially useful in areas with multiple enemies or large, open spaces. Combine it with status-inflicting arrows (like Rotbone or Sleepbone) to weaken enemies before engaging in close combat.
Where to find it: The Lion Greatbow is rewarded for defeating Radahn, while the Erdtree Greatbow is found in the Capital Outskirts.
5. Vyke’s War Spear
Vyke’s War Spear is a long-reaching spear that also causes Madness buildup—making it ideal for hybrid Intelligence/Faith builds. Its reach allows for safe engagement, while the Madness effect can stagger even high-resistance enemies over time.
This weapon is excellent in both PvE and PvP for softening up opponents while maintaining distance. It also synergizes well with Madness-incantation builds for a thematic and tactical edge.
Where to find it: Dropped by Festering Fingerprint Vyke in the Mountaintops of the Giants.
6. Dragon Slayer’s Cragblade
This heavy thrusting weapon has a respectable reach, but what makes it special is its poise damage and stagger potential. Combined with a long lunge and strong vertical hitbox, it’s an outstanding choice for players looking to punish rolls and interrupt enemy animations.
It’s also a favorite in PvP duels, especially against lighter weapons and quickstep users who rely on closing the gap. Infusing it with a heavy or keen affinity boosts either Strength or Dexterity builds, giving flexibility in how you scale it.
Where to find it: Acquired by defeating a Dragon Slayer NPC invader near the Altus Plateau cliffs.
When it comes to improving your effectiveness in Elden Ring, choosing the right tools can drastically impact how you approach both exploration and combat. These Elden Ring items weapons focus on expanding your range—allowing you to strike first, control engagements, and remain one step ahead of your enemies.
Whether you’re using the Serpent-Hunter to deal massive reach damage or a Greatbow to control space from afar, these Elden Ring items offer tactical advantages for players who understand the value of positioning and range. Mastering these weapons means mastering the battlefield.
