U4GM - Step-by-Step Guide: How to Upgrade Weapons Using Elden Ring Items

Upgrading weapons in Elden Ring is essential for surviving the Lands Between. A well-upgraded weapon can make the difference between a crushing defeat and a glorious victory. Whether you're facing down a dragon or exploring dangerous dungeons, understanding how to enhance your gear is critical. This Elden Ring items guide will walk you through every step of the upgrade process, helping you use your Elden Ring items effectively and with confidence.

Why Weapon Upgrades Matter in Elden Ring

Elden Ring is notorious for its brutal combat and unforgiving enemies. One of the best ways to keep up with increasingly powerful foes is by upgrading your weapons. Not only do upgrades boost damage, but they can also unlock scaling bonuses based on your stats—allowing you to tailor your build to your playstyle.

Step 1: Collect the Right Elden Ring Items

Before you can begin upgrading, you'll need specific Elden Ring items known as Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones. These stones come in various tiers:

• Smithing Stones (used for standard weapons)

• Somber Smithing Stones (used for unique or special weapons)

You can find these items in caves, mines, and as loot from enemies or chests. Merchants and the Twin Maiden Husks at Roundtable Hold also sell certain tiers after offering them Bell Bearings.

Step 2: Locate a Blacksmith

The earliest blacksmith you’ll meet is Smithing Master Hewg, found at the Roundtable Hold. For basic upgrades, you can also use anvils located throughout the world—such as the one at the Church of Elleh. However, higher-level upgrades require Hewg or another skilled blacksmith.

Step 3: Understand the Upgrade Path

• Standard Weapons: Upgrade up to +25 using Smithing Stones (tiers 1–8, and Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone for +25).

• Unique Weapons: Upgrade up to +10 using Somber Smithing Stones (tiers 1–9, and Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone for +10).

Each level increases your weapon’s damage, and sometimes its scaling with Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, or Faith.

Step 4: Upgrade Your Weapon

Visit Hewg or use an anvil:

1. Choose the weapon you want to upgrade.

2. Ensure you have the required Smithing Stone and enough Runes (currency).

3. Confirm the upgrade.

You’ll see your weapon stats increase immediately.

Step 5: Optimize and Infuse (Optional)

With Ashes of War, you can further customize weapons by adding effects like Bleed, Magic, or Heavy scaling. Some infusions require specific Elden Ring items such as Whetblades, which unlock new affinity options.

Pro Tips for Efficient Upgrading

• Focus on one or two weapons to conserve rare materials.

• Farm mines like Limgrave Tunnels or Raya Lucaria Crystal Tunnel for more Smithing Stones.

• Back up your gear before trying new infusions or upgrades.

• Use U4GM to get trustworthy Elden Ring items quickly if you're short on time or need rare materials.