Upgrading standard weapons to their maximum potential in Elden Ring requires a rare tier of crafting material known as the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone. These items allow Tarnished adventurers to raise normal armaments to +25, drastically increasing offensive scaling and damage output. Because a limited number of these stones exist per playthrough, knowing exactly where to hunt for them ensures you do not waste valuable end-game resources.

Looting Stones in Crumbling Farum Azula

Crumbling Farum Azula stands as a primary sanctuary for ancient dragons and holds multiple final upgrade materials. Navigating the tempestuous, floating ruins reveals stones guarded by hostile dragons along crumbling plazas. Defeating specific beasts in these high-altitude temples grants immediate rewards for persistent explorers.

You can also discover additional stones tucked inside hidden temple altars and corpse drops across the region. Thoroughly searching every temple hallway and ledge before facing the area boss guarantees you collect all available materials in this domain.

Completing High-Level NPC Questlines

Several major side quests reward players with these prized upgrade materials upon their conclusion. Following Nepheli Loux through her ascension in Limgrave eventually earns you a stone once her story line fully resolves inside Stormveil Castle. Similarly, aiding or finishing scenarios for specific merchants and warriors often yields highest-tier stones.

Completing Sellen's magical research arc or assisting Witch-Hunter Jerren can also yield legendary upgrade supplies. Balancing these character interactions throughout your journey ensures steady access to top-tier materials late in the campaign.

Exploring Consecrated Snowfield and Haligtree Secrets

The frozen reaches of the Consecrated Snowfield conceal several late-game stones within dangerous wilderness zones. Defeating formidable roaming bosses, such as night cavalry duos or strategic field dragons, drops these valuable stones upon victory. Brave adventurers exploring frozen riverbeds will find hidden chests housing additional upgrade resources.

Deeper within the Miquella Haligtree tree structure, carefully placed treasures reward those who brave intense combat encounters. Searching statues, hidden alcoves, and dangerous walkways rewards high-level explorers with extra materials necessary for maxing out their gear arsenal.

Maximizing Your Weapon Upgrades Strategy

Since these upgrade materials do not respawn until you initiate New Game Plus, planning your build around specific weapons is essential. Prioritize reinforcing primary armaments that match your core stat distribution to avoid running out of materials before challenging endgame bosses. Understanding where each stone rests prevents unnecessary backtracking during the final hours of your adventure.