The Bell Bearing Hunter in Elden Ring is one of the most intimidating early- to mid-game bosses players can face. Appearing only at night in specific merchant locations, this towering, red-eyed knight wields a greatsword infused with telekinetic magic, punishing the careless and Elden Ring Runes testing your ability to dodge precisely. Though his attacks may seem overwhelming, understanding his patterns, weaknesses, and ideal strategy makes the fight manageable for any build. This guide explains everything you need to know to locate and defeat the Bell Bearing Hunter efficiently.

Where to Find the Bell Bearing Hunter

The Bell Bearing Hunter is a night-exclusive boss that replaces merchants in certain areas after you’ve advanced a bit into the game. You can encounter him in multiple locations across the Lands Between, including:

Church of Vows (Liurnia of the Lakes)

Warmaster’s Shack (Stormhill)

Hermit Merchant’s Shack (Altus Plateau)

Isolated Merchant’s Shack (Dragonbarrow)

To trigger the fight:

Rest at a Site of Grace nearby until nightfall.

Approach the merchant’s location.

The merchant will disappear, and after a short pause, the Bell Bearing Hunter will materialize in glowing red light.

Be warned — if you visit these areas during the day, you won’t find the Hunter. Only nighttime summons him, and you must stay within range of the shack to keep him active.

Boss Overview and Attack Patterns

The Bell Bearing Hunter wields a massive greatsword with gravity-infused telekinetic abilities, allowing him to fling his blade across distances. His attacks are punishing but well-telegraphed. Recognizing his move set is key to survival.

Phase 1: Melee Focus

During the first half of the fight, he primarily engages in close combat:

Sweeping Combo: A wide two-hit slash that can be dodged by rolling toward him.

Overhead Slam: Slow wind-up followed by a crushing blow. Roll to the side right as the blade descends.

Grab Attack: He raises his left hand and lunges forward — if caught, he slams you for massive damage. Roll backward the moment his hand starts to glow.

Phase 2: Gravity and Telekinesis

Once his HP drops below 60%, he begins using magic-infused ranged attacks:

Telekinetic Throw: He levitates his sword and sends it flying toward you — dodge sideways just as the sword launches.

Return Swipe: After throwing it, he pulls it back, which can hit on the return. Stay alert and roll twice if you’re close.

Gravity Pull: He uses a purple aura to drag you in, followed by a slash. Time your dodge after the pull completes.

Best Builds and Loadouts

Melee Builds

If you prefer melee combat, patience and timing are crucial.

Recommended Weapon: A fast-hitting weapon like a katana, curved sword, or straight sword.

Ash of War: Quickstep or Bloodhound’s Step lets you evade his wide swings easily.

Buffs: Use Flame, Grant Me Strength or Golden Vow before combat to boost attack and defense.

Tactic: Wait for him to finish a combo, dodge toward him, and counter with 1–2 quick hits.

Magic Builds

Sorcerers and Faith casters can make the fight safer but slower.

Recommended Spells: Glintstone Pebble (fast cast), Rock Sling (for poise damage), or Lightning Spear.

Spirit Summon: Lone Wolf Ashes or Omenkiller Rollo to distract him while you cast from distance.

Tactic: Keep medium range — too far, and he’ll spam telekinetic throws; too close, and he’ll combo-slam you.

Ranged Builds (Bows or Crossbows)

Ranged builds can cheese the fight effectively with good spacing.

Use Poison Arrows or Rot Arrows to whittle him down over time.

Stay mobile and avoid firing while he raises his sword — that’s the cue for his telekinetic attack.

Key Tips for Victory

Fight Indoors or in Tight Space: The Bell Bearing Hunter’s sword swings can clip walls. Use that to your advantage to block his ranged sword throw.

Don’t Panic Roll: Many of his attacks have delayed timings. Wait for the animation’s final moment before dodging.

Summons Help Immensely: Even low-tier Spirit Ashes can distract him long enough to land several hits safely.

Keep Stamina High: His combos are long, so avoid over-committing to attacks. Save stamina for dodges.

Exploit Openings: After his telekinetic sword throw, he’s briefly vulnerable — dash in for two hits, then retreat.

Rewards

Defeating the Bell Bearing Hunter rewards you with:

Bell Bearing (specific to merchant) – lets you buy that merchant’s inventory from the Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold.

Roughly 20,000–50,000 Runes depending on location.

Unique satisfaction of conquering one of the game’s most intimidating night bosses.

Final Thoughts

The Bell Bearing Hunter embodies what Elden Ring does best — turning patience, observation, and timing into victory. His attacks are brutal but fair, rewarding precision over aggression. Learn his rhythms, punish his mistakes, and buy Elden Ring Runes soon enough, this once-daunting enforcer will fall before your blade — leaving behind both valuable loot and the merchant’s wares for your continued journey through the Lands Between.