The Knockback enchantment makes mobs and players fly backwards when you hit them with a sword. It’s one of the most satisfying enchantments to use in combat.
What Knockback Does
Knockback increases the distance entities get pushed back when you hit them. Level 1 gives moderate knockback, and Level 2 sends them flying much further.
This is great for keeping threats at a distance. A charging creeper will explode far away from you. Skeletons won’t land melee hits. Even tough mobs like Endermen become easier to manage.
How to Get Knockback
Enchanting Table
Find Knockback at your enchanting table like any other sword enchantment. You might need to try a few times to get it as a random roll.
Enchanted Books and Anvils
If you get a Knockback enchanted book, use an anvil to combine it with any sword. This is the most reliable way to add it to the exact sword you want.
Commands
Use the /enchant command for instant results. This is the fastest method if you have cheats enabled.
Using Your Knockback Sword
Just hold the enchanted sword and attack normally. The knockback effect triggers automatically on hit.
Mobs get pushed back further than they normally would. The knockback direction is always away from your attack.
Enchantment Details
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | Knockback |
| ID | minecraft:knockback |
| Numeric ID | 19 |
| Max Level | 2 (Knockback II) |
| Item Type | Swords only |
Command Examples
Knockback I:
/enchant @p knockback 1
Knockback II:
/enchant @p knockback 2
Compatible Items
You can put Knockback on any of these swords:
- Wooden Sword
- Stone Sword
- Iron Sword
- Golden Sword
- Diamond Sword
- Netherite Sword
You can also put Knockback on enchanted books for use with anvils.