Crimson Desert: Best starter weapons and where to find them

Khizar Mundia

Mar 30, 2026

You play as Kilff, a mercenary building a team to avenge his fallen brothers and bring back stability to the world. Crimson Desert portrays the revenge arc beautifully, and things just become better as the narrative expands and your journey becomes one to save the realm rather than just avenging. Here are the best starter weapons in the game that you can use to take your combat to the next level.

Why do the best weapons matter in Crimson Desert?

Getting the best start weapons early on will make things significantly easier. These weapons can help you take down stronger enemies more efficiently, and you can also get more experience. This can prove beneficial in multiple ways, as you may also want to explore the wildlife more and take on harder challenges. You can test weapons yourself to decide which are the best if you have bought Crimson Desert from a website like LootBar.

What makes a weapon best in Crimson Desert?

A weapon doesn’t just become the best if you can use it to deal massive damage; there are other variables that you must consider. Best weapons are typically more balanced. They deal good damage while providing speed, use stamina effectively, and are useful against different types of enemies. The best starter weapons must meet another requirement; the weapon must be obtainable at the beginning. This is because weapons that are harder to obtain, are guarded by tougher opponents, have a level requirement, or anything else that a beginner can’t complete, wouldn't qualify for best starter weapons.

Best starter weapons in Crimson Desert

Here are the five best starter weapons in Crimson Desert that can give you a good combat advantage and are also obtainable early on.

Hwando

The Hwando is one of the strongest weapons you can get in the early game. It's a two-handed weapon and a good choice against tougher enemies. The weapon weighs more, which makes it slower compared to other weapons, but the higher damage output makes it worth it.

You can get the Hwando only by exploring, as it’s not a reward, loot, or enemy drop. The weapon can only be found in Lioncrest Manor. The manor is sufficiently guarded, so getting inside won’t be easy. You will also need a key and search the manor properly, and you will find more loot than just this weapon. The Hwando is in the small stone building on the west side of the manor, and it's the best weapon for players who want to rely on brute force.

Sword of the Lord

The Sword of the Lord is a more balanced option compared to the Hwando. This weapon offers good, speedy damage and also helps conserve your stamina. This makes it a more reliable choice for different enemies and combat. It isn’t as strong as heavier weapons, but it is good if you prefer faster attacks

This weapon is a reward for defeating Chapter 2’s boss, Hornsplitter. The boss is significantly strong and can use attacks that send force outward from his sword. To get this sword, you will also need to continue the main questline, so you progress enough to be able to defeat Hornsplitter.

Warspike Spear

The Warspike Spear isn’t special for a starter weapon, but its reach and attack combo make it stand out. You can fight many enemies without getting too close and avoid getting hit. The weapon also allows you to use combo attacks that can deal significant damage.

This is another weapon that you will find by exploring the world. It can be found at a Greymane shrine east of Hernand Town. This weapon is best for players who prefer to keep their distance from enemies while still unleashing powerful attacks.

Legionary’s Gladius

Legionary’s Gladius is a good short sword option for the early game, which you can continue to refine as you progress. It doesn’t offer any special stats, but allows for more speedy attacks because of its lesser weight compared to long and two-handed swords.

This weapon is given as a reward for completing the Statue of Justice puzzle. You will find the challenge location near the Three Saints’ Falls, and it requires your critical thinking rather than your fighting skills.

Shield of Conviction

The Shield of Conviction is a strong defensive item you can use in the game, while pairing it with a single-handed sword. The shield buffs damage reduction and also reduces stamina cost when blocking. Defense is as important as offense in the game, and this item can give you the boost you need.

This weapon can be found near the Church of Calphade, inside a treasure chest. You can see the exact location by climbing the bell tower. Once you’re near the bell tower, climb through a broken window to see a treasure chest.

Tips for using starter weapons more effectively

Follow these tips to make the most of your starter weapons.

Make sure the weapon matches your play style
Don’t use heavier weapons against a group of enemies, as you will attack more slowly
Lighter weapons are better against groups
Spears keep you safer
Pair single-handed weapons with shields
Try different weapons to see which works best for you

Conclusion

The best weapon is subjective and usually depends on a player's playing style. These five weapons either deal powerful attacks or are unique, which makes them good options for use in the early game. If you are ready to make your mark in the game but haven’t bought it yet, you can get the Crimson Desert Steam key from LootBar.