Introduction

In the world of Elden Ring, mastering the mechanics of combat is essential for survival. Whether you’re battling fearsome bosses, exploring the vast landscapes of the Lands Between, or engaging in PvP duels, having the right build can make all the difference. One build that has gained significant attention in the community is the Backhand Blade Bleed Build.

This build is optimized for delivering high burst damage, utilizing the bleed status effect to quickly drain enemies’ health while maintaining agility and versatility in combat. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Backhand Blade Bleed Build, including weapons, armor, stats, and key strategies to dominate in both PvE and PvP.

What is the Backhand Blade Bleed Build?

The Backhand Blade Bleed Build revolves around the mechanics of bleed damage, a powerful status effect that causes enemies to lose a large percentage of their health once the bleed meter is filled. The core of this build focuses on using fast, backhand slashes with bleed-inflicting weapons, allowing players to quickly stack bleed damage and trigger massive health loss in a short amount of time.

The backhand attack style is unique because it often allows players to strike faster while maintaining mobility, giving them a defensive advantage during combat. When combined with bleed, this style turns into a lethal combination, particularly effective against tough enemies and players alike.

Key Stats for the Build

To fully optimize the Backhand Blade Bleed Build, your character’s stats should prioritize the following:

1. Dexterity (DEX) – Many of the weapons that synergize well with this build scale with Dexterity. This stat will increase your overall damage output and make your attacks faster.
2. Arcane (ARC) – Bleed buildup is influenced by Arcane. The higher your Arcane stat, the quicker you’ll inflict bleed damage on enemies. Arcane also boosts item discovery, which can help you find rare bleed-based weapons and materials.
3. Vigor (VIG) – Since this build relies on staying close to enemies for quick strikes, it’s crucial to have a decent amount of health. Vigor will give you more survivability in extended fights, especially in PvP scenarios.
4. Endurance (END) – A high Endurance stat is necessary for dodging and sustaining more consecutive attacks. It will also increase your stamina, which is essential for pulling off continuous backhand slashes.
5. Strength (STR) – While not the primary focus of this build, some bleed-inflicting weapons scale with Strength. A moderate investment in Strength will allow you to equip certain heavy bleed weapons if needed.

Best Weapons for the Backhand Blade Bleed Build

Your weapon choice is crucial in maximizing the potential of the Backhand Blade Bleed Build. Below are some of the best options that synergize with the playstyle and bleed mechanics:

1. Rivers of Blood Katana

• Weapon Type: Katana
• Bleed Buildup: High
• Scaling: DEX/ARC

One of the most popular bleed weapons in Elden Ring, the Rivers of Blood Katana, is an excellent choice for this build. With its high bleed buildup and quick attack speed, it pairs well with the backhand slashing style. The weapon skill, Corpse Piler, allows for a rapid series of slashes, further increasing the chance of bleed buildup.

2. Bloodhound’s Fang

• Weapon Type: Curved Greatsword
• Bleed Buildup: Medium
• Scaling: DEX/STR

The Bloodhound’s Fang is a curved greatsword that not only deals significant bleed damage but also offers a fantastic weapon art, Bloodhound’s Step, which grants enhanced mobility and evasive capabilities. It’s a solid option if you prefer a heavier weapon while still maintaining the build’s focus on bleed damage.

3. Uchigatana

• Weapon Type: Katana
• Bleed Buildup: High
• Scaling: DEX

The Uchigatana is a classic in FromSoftware games, and in Elden Ring, it shines as one of the best bleed-inflicting weapons. It’s fast, has great range, and its bleed effect is quick to build up on enemies. With a high Dexterity stat, this weapon becomes a powerful tool for a backhand-focused playstyle.

4. Hookclaws

• Weapon Type: Claws
• Bleed Buildup: Very High
• Scaling: DEX

For players who prefer a more aggressive and up-close fighting style, the Hookclaws offer incredible bleed buildup and fast attack speed. Their quick strikes make them perfect for applying pressure in PvP while stacking bleed on enemies.

5. Reduvia Dagger

• Weapon Type: Dagger
• Bleed Buildup: High
• Scaling: DEX/ARC

The Reduvia Dagger is a smaller weapon but should not be underestimated. Its unique weapon skill, Reduvia Blood Blade, allows you to shoot a blood projectile, making it ideal for ranged bleed attacks. This can complement the backhand build, giving you both close and mid-range options.

Optimal Armor for the Build

While your choice of armor should balance protection and mobility, here are some sets that work well with the Backhand Blade Bleed Build:

1. Raptor’s Black Feathers – This chest armor increases jump attack damage, which can synergize well with the fast-paced nature of the build. Jump attacks are often followed by a quick backhand slash, and this armor maximizes that damage.
2. White Mask – This helmet is a top-tier option for bleed builds as it increases attack power when blood loss occurs nearby. Given that the Backhand Blade Bleed Build constantly applies bleed, this will often boost your damage in battle.
3. Maliketh’s Armor – A solid option for mid-game, Maliketh’s Armor provides excellent poise and protection while still allowing for agility in combat.
4. Black Knife Set – This lightweight armor provides good defense and boosts stealth, making it easier to sneak up on enemies for backhand slashes.

Ashes of War and Weapon Arts

To enhance the effectiveness of your Backhand Blade Bleed Build, incorporating the right Ashes of War is key. Here are some recommended options:

1. Seppuku – Seppuku increases your weapon’s bleed buildup by sacrificing a small amount of your own health. This Ash of War can turn the tide in boss fights or PvP duels by allowing you to apply bleed much faster than your opponents expect.
2. Bloodhound’s Step – This Ash of War is perfect for dodging attacks while maintaining close range. It grants invincibility frames and fast movement, letting you stay aggressive without sacrificing defense.
3. Bloody Slash – This ability launches a powerful blood attack that deals both physical and bleed damage. It’s great for hitting enemies at a slight distance and quickly filling up their bleed meter.

Talisman Recommendations

Equipping the right talismans can make a massive difference in your effectiveness with the Backhand Blade Bleed Build. Here are some top picks:

1. Lord of Blood’s Exultation – This talisman increases your attack power whenever blood loss occurs nearby. Since you’ll be triggering bleed often, this will give you consistent damage boosts during fights.
2. Green Turtle Talisman – This talisman increases stamina regeneration, essential for keeping up your quick attacks and dodging without running out of stamina.
3. Claw Talisman – Perfect for players who like to incorporate jump attacks into their backhand playstyle, the Claw Talisman increases the damage of jump attacks.
4. Erdtree’s Favor – A great all-around talisman, this increases your HP, stamina, and equip load, making you more durable and versatile in battle.

PvP Strategies for the Backhand Blade Bleed Build

When engaging in PvP with the Backhand Blade Bleed Build, your primary focus should be on applying bleed buildup as fast as possible. Here are some effective tactics:

1. Stay Mobile – Utilize quick dodges and backhand slashes to constantly pressure your opponent without giving them the opportunity to strike back.
2. Bait Dodges – Many players will instinctively dodge once they see you going for a backhand strike. Use feints and delayed attacks to catch them off-guard.
3. Capitalize on Bleed Procs – Once bleed has been triggered, your damage will be significantly higher. Keep applying pressure during this window to maximize your damage output.
4. Weapon Switching – Keep a backup weapon with a ranged Ash of War, like the Reduvia Blood Blade, to maintain pressure even when opponents try to disengage.

PvE Tactics

In PvE, this build is exceptional for taking down bosses with large health pools. The bleed effect percentage damage is particularly effective against high-HP enemies, making it a viable option for challenging encounters. When facing aggressive foes, maintain your distance until you can safely land a backhand strike and quickly dodge to avoid damage.

Conclusion

The Backhand Blade Bleed Build is one of the most fun and powerful builds in Elden Ring. Whether you’re taking on PvP duels or battling through the vast world of the Lands Between, this build’s combination of bleed damage, fast attacks, and mobility will help you dominate your enemies. By focusing on Dexterity and Arcane, using the right bleed weapons, and employing tactical maneuvers, you’ll be able to master this deadly build and leave a trail of destruction in your wake.

If you’re looking for a high-damage, high-speed, and versatile build, the Backhand Blade Bleed Build is the way to go. Happy hunting in the Lands Between!