When it comes to heavy weapons in Elden Ring, few builds strike the perfect balance between raw power and technical control like the Iron Cleaver setup showcased by ChaseTheBro. This axe-class weapon might look ordinary at first glance, but its deceptively quick overhead “bonk” and flexible heavy attack timing make it one of the most satisfying and versatile strength-based choices in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.
The Beauty of the Iron Cleaver’s Heavy Attack
The standout feature of the Iron Cleaver is its chargeable heavy attack. Unlike most strength weapons that lock you into a slow, predictable motion, this one allows you to manually release the strike at any moment. That flexibility makes it an exceptional roll-catching tool — perfect for punishing panic rolls or finishing stunned enemies. You can even chain it after a light attack or certain Ashes of War for devastating combos.
In Chase’s gameplay, he experiments with Stormcaller, a spinning area-of-effect Ash that’s ideal for crowd control during invasions. When combined with the Iron Cleaver’s charged follow-up heavy, it creates a deadly one-two punch capable of deleting opponents in seconds. Sword Dance is another great alternative for those who prefer aggressive forward momentum and sustained pressure.
Building for Maximum Power
The Iron Cleaver’s scaling is what makes it truly shine. With S-scaling in Strength, two-handing the weapon dramatically boosts its attack rating (AR), allowing it to outperform many other axes in the same category. To maximize damage output, Chase uses talismans that specifically enhance heavy and two-handed attacks:
- Axe Talisman – boosts charged heavy attacks.
- Shard of Alexander – increases Ashes of War damage.
- Two-Handed Sword Talisman – complements the weapon’s move set and power stance options.
This combination ensures that both your raw hits and skill-based attacks deal punishing damage. It’s a simple yet efficient setup — ideal for players who enjoy a straightforward strength build without complicated stat juggling.
Smart Combat Strategy and Invasion Play
One of the highlights of the video is how Chase uses clever spacing and baiting to outmaneuver groups of enemies during invasions. He often charges a heavy attack to fake aggression, forcing his opponents to roll early, then releases at the perfect moment to catch them mid-animation.
Even in chaotic three-on-one fights, he uses the Iron Cleaver’s reach and delayed timing to isolate and punish players who rely too heavily on spammy tactics like Rivers of Blood or high-latency trade attempts. This showcases the weapon’s versatility — it’s not just about brute force, but about reading your opponents and capitalizing on their habits.
For players who want to experiment with similar builds but prefer to skip early grind time, it’s possible to buy Elden Ring runes safely from reliable online marketplaces such as U4GM. This can help you quickly level up your Strength and Vigor stats to start testing heavy weapon builds like the Iron Cleaver right away.
The Role of Ashes of War and Talisman Flexibility
While Stormcaller and Sword Dance are excellent choices, the Iron Cleaver also pairs well with Ashes like Ground Slam or Flaming Strike. These options let you adapt your playstyle — from defensive counters to fiery offensive bursts. Chase even mentions Gravel Toss, an underrated Ash that can drag enemies closer, setting up a charged heavy attack for a stylish finisher.
Talismans can also be adjusted depending on your focus. If you find yourself relying more on weapon skills, swap in offensive options like the Ritual Sword Talisman for extra damage when at full health, or add Bull-Goat’s Talisman to increase poise during trades.
Heavy Weapon Combat Tips
Here are a few key takeaways from Chase’s demonstration that will help you master the Iron Cleaver:
- Learn to fake charge timings. Most players panic-roll as soon as they see a heavy attack. Delaying your release slightly will often guarantee a hit.
- Use the environment. Elevators, walls, and tight corridors can help you isolate enemies in invasions, just as Chase does throughout his fights.
- Don’t overcommit. The Iron Cleaver’s strength lies in control. Keep your stamina high and avoid trading hits unnecessarily, especially against bleed builds.
- Experiment with buffs. Applying drawstring greases or consumable buffs before charging in can make your attacks look more threatening and unpredictable.
Farming and Preparation
For new players or returning veterans looking to rebuild their characters for the DLC, efficient rune farming remains a must. Whether you prefer traditional farming in the Mohgwyn Palace area or use trusted marketplaces to buy Elden Ring runes, the key is to focus on reaching your optimal Strength breakpoint as early as possible. A solid base of around 60 Strength allows you to fully benefit from the Cleaver’s scaling while maintaining good defense and stamina.
The Iron Cleaver may not have the flashy combos of colossal swords or the bleed output of katanas, but it embodies what makes Elden Ring combat so rewarding — timing, patience, and impact. Its simple yet deep mechanics encourage creative dueling and tactical invasions. Whether you’re experimenting in PvP or tackling the toughest bosses in the DLC, this weapon delivers a satisfying balance of speed and strength.
If you’re planning to try out new heavy builds or revisit older ones, the Iron Cleaver deserves a spot in your arsenal. Pair it with the right Ashes of War, learn to read enemy rolls, and you’ll find yourself dominating both duels and invasions with style.
