The Great Knife, a formidable weapon created by demi-humans for causing significant blood loss, serves as a Dexterity-based dagger in the world of Elden Ring. While it’s a rare drop, players can obtain it by defeating specific enemies who wield it.
Although its drop rate is low, finding the Great Knife isn’t overly difficult. This guide will walk you through the process of acquiring it and building an effective Dexterity-focused character around this weapon.
Where to Find the Great Knife in Elden Ring
You can obtain the Great Knife through various methods. The easiest way is to start the game as the Bandit class, which gives you a head start on acquiring this dagger.
Alternatively, you can obtain it by defeating demi-human enemies that drop the knife, though it has a modest drop rate of just 2.7% with 100 points in the Discovery attribute.
You can encounter demi-humans at various locations, including:
- Near the Craftsman’s Shack located in the southern section of Mt. Gelmir, where a group of demi-human foes brandishing the Great Knife can be found.
- The Lakeside Cave in southern Liurnia, situated northwest of Stormveil Castle, accessible after defeating Godrick the Grafted.
- In the Volcano Cave found in the northern region of Mt. Gelmir, which becomes available upon reaching Volcano Manor.
Utilize the nearby Site of Grace to respawn enemies and farm for the Great Knife until it drops.
Stats and Requirements for the Great Knife
The Great Knife requires 12 Dexterity and 6 Strength to wield effectively. It features an E scaling for Strength and C scaling for Dexterity.
This dagger’s weapon skill is Quickstep, which allows you to evade incoming attacks. It also has the capability to inflict Blood Loss with a potency of 38.
You can enhance the Great Knife using compatible Ashes of War and apply consumables like Grease or magic enhancements.
Its upgrade potential allows it to reach +25 with the use of Smithing Stones. At maximum upgrade, it boasts 183 Standard damage and achieves S scaling with the Keen upgrade path.
Weighing only 1.5, the Great Knife can be sold to any merchant for 200 Runes in Elden Ring.
Optimal Build for the Great Knife in Elden Ring
For the most effective build using the Great Knife, aim to harness its exceptional scalability by utilizing the Blood upgrade path along with Arcane skills.
This build is geared for late-game play at around level 150, with the following stat distribution:
- Vigor: 45
- Endurance: 32
- Dexterity: 40
- Arcane: 42
- Faith: 25
Utilize a Blood Great Knife at +25, along with the Spinning Slash Ash of War, and dual-wield it with a +25 Finger Seal to cast your incantations.
Equip the White Mask of Varre to boost your attack power during blood loss scenarios, paired with the Rakshasa Armor set for an additional 6% damage increase.
Consider wearing the following talismans:
- Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman
- Shard of Alexander
- Lord of Blood’s Exultation
- Dagger Talisman
Finally, mix these cracked tears in the Flask of Wondrous Physick:
- Opaline Hardtear
- Greenburst Crystal Tear
