Crafting the Griffin Silver Sword: A Witcher’s Guide
To craft the Griffin silver sword in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, you’ll need a blacksmith possessing at least a Journeyman level of expertise. Amateurs simply won’t cut it. The earliest Journeyman blacksmith you’re likely to encounter is located in Oxenfurt, on the east side of its main island. But finding the right craftsman is just one piece of the puzzle.
The Quest for the Griffin Silver Sword
The Griffin School Gear is a highly sought-after set for Witchers who favor Sign usage in combat. The silver sword is a key part of this set, designed to effectively combat monsters. However, simply stumbling upon the right blacksmith isn’t enough. You’ll first need to acquire the diagram for the sword, which then needs to be given to the Journeyman Blacksmith.
Locating the Diagram
The diagram for the Griffin Silver Sword isn’t handed to you on a silver platter. You’ll have to earn it. It’s located in an abandoned lighthouse northwest of Heatherton, a location in Velen. Be warned, however, that this lighthouse is guarded by a formidable wyvern. Prepare for a tough fight, bring the appropriate potions and oils (Draconid oil), and be at a sufficient level before attempting this encounter.
The Importance of Crafting Level
As mentioned earlier, a Journeyman or higher level blacksmith is essential for crafting the Griffin Silver Sword. Blacksmiths in The Witcher 3 have different skill levels, and those of the Amateur variety can only craft basic items. Journeyman blacksmiths possess the skills and knowledge required to forge more complex weapons, including Witcher gear. Before handing over your hard-earned diagram, be sure to check the blacksmith’s crafting level to avoid disappointment.
Beyond Oxenfurt
While Oxenfurt is a good starting point, you’ll find other blacksmiths throughout the game who meet the Journeyman requirement. Exploring the world and completing quests can unlock access to even more skilled craftsmen, some of whom might offer additional bonuses or crafting options. Remember, though, that the Grandmaster level of Witcher gear requires a specific armorer/blacksmith found in the Blood & Wine expansion.
Griffin Silver Sword FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about crafting and using the Griffin Silver Sword:
Q1: Can I craft the Griffin Silver Sword at any blacksmith?
No. You need a blacksmith with at least Journeyman level expertise. Amateurs are unable to craft Witcher gear.
Q2: Where exactly is the Journeyman blacksmith in Oxenfurt?
The Journeyman blacksmith in Oxenfurt is located on the east side of the main island, within the city. Look for the blacksmith’s forge icon on your map.
Q3: What are the required materials to craft the Griffin Silver Sword?
The specific materials needed will be listed on the crafting diagram once you have acquired it. Generally, you will need silver ingots, monster parts, and other common crafting components. Explore, loot and complete side-quests to accumulate the necessary materials.
Q4: What level should I be before trying to get the Griffin Silver Sword diagram?
The Wyvern guarding the lighthouse is level 14. Therefore, you should be at least level 10-12 before attempting to fight it.
Q5: Do I need to craft the regular Griffin Silver Sword before upgrading to enhanced, superior, or mastercrafted versions?
Yes. You must have the Regular Griffin Silver Sword to upgrade to the Enhanced version, and so on. This applies to all tiers of Witcher gear.
Q6: Can an armorer craft swords?
No. Armourers craft armor, while blacksmiths craft swords. Make sure you visit the correct artisan!
Q7: Are there any other ways to get a silver sword besides crafting?
While crafting is the primary method for obtaining the Griffin Silver Sword, you can find other silver swords as loot throughout the game. However, these swords will likely be of lower quality or not tailored to your specific build. The Silver Sword can be found by the members of the Silver Hand.
Q8: What’s so special about Witcher gear like the Griffin Silver Sword?
Witcher gear is specially designed for Witchers and offers unique bonuses and stats that complement their abilities. The Griffin set, in particular, enhances Sign intensity and stamina regeneration, making it ideal for Witchers who rely on magic in combat.
Q9: What other Griffin gear pieces are there, and where can I find them?
The Griffin School Gear set includes armor pieces (chest, gauntlets, boots, and trousers) and a steel sword in addition to the silver sword. The diagrams for these pieces are scattered across Velen, often hidden in ruins, caves, or guarded by monsters. Scavenger Hunt quests will help you locate the individual diagrams.
Q10: Can I sell my old swords and armor after crafting the Griffin Silver Sword and armor?
Yes, you can sell your old gear to vendors. However, consider keeping unique or rare items for collection purposes. You may also need them for future crafting.
Q11: What is the best silver sword in Witcher 3?
While the “best” silver sword is subjective and depends on your playstyle, the Aerondight silver sword, available in the Blood and Wine expansion, is widely considered one of the most powerful due to its unique charging ability. The article also mentions the Iris sword that can be given during the Hearts of Stone expansion.
Q12: Where can I find other blacksmiths and armorers in the game besides the one in Oxenfurt?
Blacksmiths and armorers can be found in various locations throughout the game, including Crow’s Perch, Novigrad, and Skellige. Some may require you to complete quests before they offer their full services.
Q13: How do I upgrade blacksmiths and armorers to unlock better crafting options?
To unlock their full potential, you need to complete their side quests. For example, Yoana in Crow’s Perch can craft mastercrafted armor/swords once you’ve completed her side missions.
Q14: Is the Griffin school gear the best armor set in the game?
No, but it is amongst the best. The “best” armor set is subjective and depends on your playstyle. Other top contenders include the Grandmaster Wolven Armor, Feline School Gear Set, and Ursine School Armor Set.
Q15: What resources can I use to learn more about Witcher 3 crafting and gameplay?
There are many online resources available, including wikis, forums, and video guides. Also, consider exploring the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for insights into the educational and learning aspects of games.
Crafting the Griffin silver sword is just one step in your journey as a Witcher. With dedication, exploration, and a skilled blacksmith, you’ll be well-equipped to face the dangers of the world.