If you're new to Elden Ring or transitioning from other Soulsborne titles, one of the most confusing systems to master is weapon scaling. You’ve likely seen abbreviations like STR, DEX, INT, and FAI, and maybe you’ve even tried to level them up without truly understanding what they do. In this article, I’ll break down how scaling works, what those stats mean, and how they impact your build — all based on my personal journey through the Lands Between.
Understanding Weapon ScalingWeapon scaling in Elden Ring determines how much extra damage a weapon gains based on your character’s stats. Each weapon has scaling grades for certain stats, such as Strength (STR), Dexterity (DEX), Intelligence (INT), and Faith (FAI). These grades are usually shown as letters: E (lowest), D, C, B, A, and S (highest).
When a weapon scales with a stat, increasing that stat increases the weapon's attack power. For example, if a greatsword has a B scaling in STR, putting points into Strength will significantly boost its damage. Conversely, a weapon with D scaling in DEX will benefit less from Dexterity upgrades.
What Each Stat Means for Weapon Scaling
STR (Strength):Ideal for heavy, slow-hitting weapons like greatswords, colossal weapons, and hammers. Scaling with STR rewards players who like close-quarters combat and don’t mind sacrificing speed for sheer power. When I first started, I built a pure Strength character and relied heavily on the Great Club — the damage output was massive once I had 40+ STR.
DEX (Dexterity):Best suited for faster, lighter weapons like katanas, rapiers, and curved swords. DEX also reduces fall damage and casting speed for certain spells. My second playthrough focused on a DEX/bleed build using the Uchigatana, and it changed the pace of combat entirely — faster attacks, more mobility, and better scaling at higher levels.
INT (Intelligence):Primarily used for sorceries. Weapons that scale with INT include magic-infused weapons and staffs. If you're into spellcasting, building INT is a must. When I found the Moonveil katana, which scales with both DEX and INT, I realized how versatile hybrid builds can be.
FAI (Faith):Faith supports incantations and holy-based damage. Many weapons, like the Erdtree Seal and the Winged Scythe, scale with FAI and allow you to combine melee with powerful buffs or healing. My Faith build became a lifesaver in co-op, where I could support allies and still deal solid damage.
How to Choose the Right Scaling for Your Build
The key is to match your weapon to your build. If you’re investing heavily in STR, use weapons with strong STR scaling. The same goes for DEX, INT, and FAI. You can also reallocate your stats later using Larval Tears if you want to experiment with different builds.
Ashes of War and weapon infusions can also change a weapon's scaling. For example, applying a Heavy infusion to a weapon can shift its scaling more toward Strength, while a Keen infusion emphasizes Dexterity. Experimenting with these options can help you optimize your favorite weapons.
Elden Ring Runes: Leveling Up Smart
To upgrade your stats, you’ll need runes — the core currency of the game. Farming can be tedious, especially if you're short on time. That’s where online rune services come in. If you're looking to buy Elden Ring runes to speed up your build or test multiple character styles, make sure you choose a reputable source.
Personally, I’ve used U4GM when I wanted to jumpstart a new build after my save got corrupted. They delivered quickly and reliably, allowing me to get back into the game without the grind. For those wondering where to find the Elden Ring runes best deal online, U4GM consistently offers affordable prices with safe delivery methods.
Mastering weapon scaling in Elden Ring is essential to building a character that feels powerful and fluid. Understanding how STR, DEX, INT, and FAI affect your weapons will allow you to tailor your build, dominate bosses, and enjoy a more personalized experience in the game.
Whether you’re a Strength tank wielding colossal blades or a glass-cannon mage casting deadly spells, optimizing your stats and weapon scaling is key. And if you ever need a head start or want to explore different builds without endless farming, don’t hesitate to buy Elden Ring runes — just make sure you’re getting the best deal online from trusted platforms like U4GM.

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