In the vast, rugged world of Pywel, your starting gear can feel a bit uniform. While the game encourages you to play your way, not all steel is forged equal. If you’re looking to gain an edge before the difficulty spikes, there are a few hidden gems scattered across the starting regions—from the projectile-firing Sword of the Lord to the stamina-boosting Hwando greatsword. These weapons often come with pre-installed enchantments that can give you an early edge on some of the tougher bosses.This Crimson Desert guide breaks down the best early-game weapons and shields and exactly where to find them. We’ll show you how to solve the Statue of Justice puzzle for the Legionary’s Gladius, how to infiltrate Lioncrest Manor for the Hwando, and the best path to the Calphade region to secure the Shield of Conviction. Whether you are looking for a high-damage polearm like the Warspike Spear or a tanky heavy shield, these are the essential locations to visit after leaving Hernand Castle to dominate the battlefield.