Katanas are a kind of weapon in Dark Souls and a very viable one at that. Here, I will rank all the best Katanas. For more Dark Souls 2 guides, consider checking out Best Dark Souls 2 Weapons and Dark Souls 2 Boss Souls Weapons.
Key Takeaways
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Black Steel Katana: Fast, reliable moveset, high scaling, and good range, making it the best Katana.
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Chaos Blade: Deals massive damage but damages the user with each successful hit.
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Manslayer: Inflicts poison and can be stacked with resin or spells for additional poison damage.
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Uchigatana: Well-balanced and reliable Katana with a solid moveset, available early in the game.
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Washing Pole: Longest Katana with great range, but slower to swing.
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Darkdrift: Ignores shields, useful in both PvE and PvP.
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Bloodied Whip: Has a bleed effect that can be stacked with resin or spells for extra bleed damage.
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Berserker Blade: Considered mediocre compared to other Katanas, lacking uniqueness and competitiveness.
Best Katanas And Stat Comparison
No. Names Best for Weapon Category Attack Type Physical Attack Power Magic Attack Power Physical Reduction Magical Reduction Shot Range Stability Casting Speed Durability Weight Strength (requirement) Dexterity (requirement) Intelligence (requirement) Faith (Requirement) Dexterity (Scaling) Intelligence (Scaling)
1 Berserker Blade Most Basic Katana. Katana Slash/ Thrust 160 - 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 40 6.0 18 18 - - D B
2 Bewitched Alonne Sword Most Visually Appealing Katana. Katana Slash/ Thrust 150 0 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 30 9.0 22 30 - - - B
3 Black Steel Katana Best for Dexterity Builds. Katana Slash/ Thrust 95 0 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 40 8.0 14 25 - - - A
4 Man Slayer Best Bleed Damage. Katana Slash/ Thrust 153 - 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 40 6.0 11 18 - - E B
5 Uchigatana Highest Counter Damage. Katana Slash/ Thrust 110 0 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 40 5.0 10 16 - - E B
6 Washing Pole Longest Reach. Katana Slash/ Thrust 120 - 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 20 10.0 18 20 - - E B
7 Dark Drift Strongest Katana in Dark Souls 2. Katana Slash/ Thrust 130 0 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 20 3.0 12 28 - - - C
8 Chaos Blade Highest Base Damage. Katana Slash/ Thrust 100 0 45.0 10.0 0 30 0 50 6.0 12 25 - - - B
Comparison Table.
Katanas usually have the coolest movesets among all sword-based weapons and on top of all this, they are lightweight too. Due to Katanas being a Dexterity weapon, they are excellent options for dexterity builds, but can be very viable for Quality builds and hybrid builds that have a high enough Dexterity level.
1. Berserker Blade
Most Basic Katana.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 160 |
| Magic Attack Power | - |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 40 |
| Weight | 6.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 18 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 18 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | D |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Berserker Blade Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Berserker Blade? The Berserker Blade is considered quite basic, and it has similar features to other katanas on my list. However, it is one of the best-looking katanas.
The Berserker Blade ranks lowest due to its mediocrity. It lacks standout features and better alternatives are available. It has a moveset similar to other Katanas and requires a minimum strength and dexterity of 18, with dexterity rating B and strength rating D. To maximize damage, aim for 50 dexterity.
Acquired as a drop from Prowlers in the Brume Tower, it can be upgraded to +5 using Twinkling Titanite. While not a bad weapon, it falls short compared to its peers, lacking uniqueness and reach. Other Katanas like the Uchigatana are more effective choices in most situations.
2. Bewitched Alonne Sword
Most Visually Appealing Katana.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 150 |
| Magic Attack Power | 0 |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 30 |
| Weight | 9.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 22 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 30 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | - |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Bewitched Alonne Sword Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Bewitched Alonne Sword? If you are looking for a lethal and enchanting katana, then you can’t go wrong with the Bewitched Alonne Sword.
The Bewitched Alonne Sword is a visually appealing but underwhelming Katana. It has a special ability that inflicts self-damage and causes bleeding damage over time.
Its moveset is similar to the Berserker Blade, consisting of thrusts and slashes. The special ability increases damage with additional bleed buildup for 30 seconds but doesn’t stack with other buffs.
To wield it, you need 22 strength and at least 30 dexterity, making it suitable for Dex and Quality builds. It scales with dexterity (S rating), requiring a dexterity level of 45-50 for maximum effectiveness. Acquire it by defeating Sir Alonne and transposing his soul with weaponsmith Ornifex for 18,000 souls.
While it can get the job done in both PvE and PvP, it’s underwhelming compared to other Katanas. The special ability isn’t worth the health loss, and better alternatives are available. Its quick attacks make it suitable for PvP, but there are more efficient Katanas for the task.
3. Black Steel Katana
Best for Dexterity Builds.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 95 |
| Magic Attack Power | 0 |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 40 |
| Weight | 8.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 14 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 25 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | - |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | A |
Black Steel Katana Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Black Steel Katana? The Black Steel Katana is a valuable addition to your arsenal, as it allows you to draw it swiftly and slice through your enemies effectively.
The Black Steel Katana stands out, thanks to its unique quickdraw special attack reminiscent of the Ninja Gaiden series. It requires 14 strength and 25 dexterity with an S dexterity scaling, making it ideal for Dexterity builds.
With a moveset consisting of slash and thrust attacks, the quickdraw special attack delivers great damage and makes it a great choice for dual-wielding. Its overall quick moveset allows for high damage output in a short time.
Upgrade it to +10 using Titanite and obtain it as a drop from Alonne Knights. The Black Steel Katana can be buffed and enchanted, making it versatile.
Its simplicity, speed, and quickdraw make it an excellent PvP weapon and a viable choice for PvE, especially when paired with another PvE-focused sword. In summary, the Black Steel Katana excels in its role and offers versatility.
4. Manslayer
Best Bleed Damage.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 153 |
| Magic Attack Power | - |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 40 |
| Weight | 6.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 11 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 18 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | E |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Manslayer Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Manslayer? The Manslayer is a formidable and lethal katana in Dark Souls 2, and it is perfect for players who aren’t afraid to draw first blood.
The Manslayer is a very popular Katana which is often referred to as Poison Uchigatana. It has a moveset that is identical to that of the Uchigatan but does tons of Bleed damage.
To acquire the Manslayer, make sure you are hollow and have talked with Milfanito. From the Rise of the dead bonfire, climb up the set of stairs and walk past the door. Go through the shrine room and the following stairs, go out, and walk to the left, the Manslayer will be lying in a chest.
Due to its effective moveset and high damage counting its poison damage, the Manslayer is a great option for both PvE and PvP. The Poison damage makes it very viable in PvP, certain to annoy your foes.
5. Uchigatana
Highest Counter Damage.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 110 |
| Magic Attack Power | 0 |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 40 |
| Weight | 5.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 10 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 16 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | E |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Uchigatana Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Uchigatana? The Uchigatana is one of the best and most well-known katanas in Dark Souls 2, and it comes with several impressive stats and features.
The Uchigatana was bound to appear high up on this list. According to many, the Uchigatana is the finest Katana. Due to its high counter damage, and moveset, the Uchigatana is a great weapon in all Dark Souls games. (check out our Dark Souls 3 BEST PvP Weapons guide)
The Uchigatana is a beloved Katana for its accessibility and beginner-friendly nature. It’s considered one of the best Katanas due to its balance and versatility.
Overall, the Uchigatana’s varied moveset, balance, ease of use, simplicity, and high damage make it one of the top Katanas. It excels in both PvP and PvE, offering insane damage with buffs in PvP and a formidable combo for PvE encounters.
6. Washing Pole
Longest Reach.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 120 |
| Magic Attack Power | - |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 20 |
| Weight | 10.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 18 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 20 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | E |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Washing Pole Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Washing Pole? The amazing length and range of the Washing Pole in Dark Souls 2 allows you to engage in close to mid-range combat effectively.
The Washing Pole is highly regarded due to its exceptional length and versatility. Despite its name, it’s a devastating weapon suitable for all encounters.
Its extended reach is on par with ultra greatswords while maintaining katana speed. Though it has a slight learning curve, it’s worth mastering.
To obtain the Washing Pole, look for a mimic chest in the Dragon Shrine. It requires a minimum strength of 10 and a dexterity of 18, with an A rating in dexterity scaling. To maximize damage, aim for a dexterity level of at least 50. This katana can be buffed and enchanted.
Its exceptional length makes it effective in PvE with buffs for bosses and crowds. In PvP, the reach and speed provide an advantage, and dual-wielding it with other katanas like Blacksteel and Uchigatana creates powerful combos.
7. Darkdrift
Strongest Katana in Dark Souls 2.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 130 |
| Magic Attack Power | 0 |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 20 |
| Weight | 3.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 12 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 28 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | - |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | C |
Darkdrift Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Darkdrift? Darkdrift has exceptional strength and is one of the most powerful katanas you can find in the game.
Darkdrift is arguably the strongest katana in Dark Souls. To this day, this Katana is considered to be broken by many due to how powerful it is.
The Darkdrift is the lightest katana, giving it a quick moveset. It is also one of the coolest weapons in Dark Souls 2, with a transparent blade that is barely ever visible but for a slight glimmer. The Darkdrift has a very high damage output and a shield-piercing special attack that comes in handy more than one might think.
The Darkdrift can be upgraded to +10 using Titanite. you can acquire it from Grave Warden Agdayne by talking to him after you have obtained the King’s ring.
It requires a strength level of at least 12 and dexterity level of at least 28, making it the highest Dexterity requiring Dark Souls 2 Katana. It has an A dexterity scaling. I recommend a dexterity level of at least 40-50 to maximize Darkdrift’s effort.
Its high damage output, coupled with its high hitting speed and ability to be buffed and pierce shields make it an excellent weapon.
Also see: All Dark Souls 3 Pyromancer Builds
8. Chaos Blade
Highest Base Damage.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Weapon Category | Katana |
| Attack Type | Slash/ Thrust |
| Physical Attack Power | 100 |
| Magic Attack Power | - |
| Physical Reduction | 45.0 |
| Magical Reduction | 10.0 |
| Shot Range | 0 |
| Stability | 30 |
| Casting Speed | 0 |
| Durability | 50 |
| Weight | 6.0 |
| Strength (requirement) | 12 |
| Dexterity (requirement) | 25 |
| Intelligence (requirement) | - |
| Faith (Requirement) | - |
| Dexterity (Scaling) | - |
| Intelligence (Scaling) | B |
Chaos Blade Stats Table.
Why Did I Choose Chaos Blade? The Chaos Blade is one of the finest weapons in Dark Souls 2 and has impressive and powerful stats that allow you to decimate your enemies in no time.
Considered to be the greatest weapon in Dark Souls 2, the Chaos Blade is a very powerful weapon worthy of all the respect it gets from Dark Souls 2 fans. Due to its insane counter damage and highest base damage amongst all katanas, the Chaos Blade takes the crown for being the Katana
The Chaos blade outputs insane amounts of damage and has very high counter damage which makes it a devastating PvP weapon. You can easily trade in PvP without much thought.
In summary, the Chaos Blade is exceptionally powerful, excelling in damage, counter damage, moveset, and ease of use. It dominates both PvE and PvP, with its effectiveness often considered overpowered. This Katana is truly versatile and can handle any situation.
My Favorite
This brings us to the end of my guide on the best katanas. My weapon of choice is the Uchigatana, thanks to its awesome appearance and decent stats. Not to mention, it helps me get through the game without having to change weapons often.
FAQs
While not the easiest of weapons, especially for beginners, most beginners will do just fine with a Katana. Unless you go for one of the more complicated Katanas, such as the Bewitched Alonne Katana, you should be okay. Getting good at PvP with Katanas will take some getting used to, however.
This comes down to personal preference, while many believe the Chaos Blade is the greatest Katana in all of Dark Souls 2, I know people who think the Berserker Blade is the best. In the end, it comes down to the weapon you have the most fun with.
While this is again subjective, I believe the washing pole is the best PvE Katana. Due to its insane length, the washing pole allows for some of the most fun in the game. You can also maintain distance and handle hordes with ease, which helps with maintaining difficulty.
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Farrukh has been covering Souls like games for years now. Having an extensive experience in Dark Soul 3 and Elden Ring he critically judges these games and writes his unbiased thoughts on them after spending hundreds of hours grinding. Farrukh has also worked with Game Rant, MP1st and The Nerd Stash on a variety of gaming guides making him an expert to share his opinions. When not writing he probably be clearing another dungeon. You can also join Farrukh on his Steam.
