What is the best way to mine copper in the early game?

Mining copper in Valheim is one of the most important early-game activities, as it allows you to craft stronger tools, weapons, and armor. Copper is found in the Black Forest biome, which is typically the second biome you’ll explore after the Meadows. To mine copper effectively, you’ll need to prepare properly and understand the game mechanics involved.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right tools. You’ll need an Antler Pickaxe, which is crafted using 10 Wood and 1 Hard Antler. Hard Antlers are obtained by defeating the first boss, Eikthyr, in the Meadows biome. Without this pickaxe, you cannot mine copper. Additionally, bring a Hammer and a Workbench to repair your pickaxe on-site, as it will degrade over time. A Wood Shield and a Flint Spear or Club are also recommended for defending yourself against Greydwarfs and other hostile creatures in the Black Forest.\n\nOnce you’re equipped, head to the Black Forest biome. Copper deposits are large, rocky outcrops with a greenish tint, often partially buried in the ground. They are easy to spot but require careful mining. Start by clearing the area of enemies, as Greydwarfs and Trolls can interrupt your mining. Use your weapon to fend them off or build a small shelter with walls to protect yourself while mining.\n\nTo mine copper efficiently, dig around the deposit first. Copper deposits extend deep underground, and mining the visible surface alone will not yield all the ore. Use your pickaxe to dig a trench around the deposit, exposing its full size. This method ensures you collect every piece of copper, as the deposit will collapse once fully mined. Be patient, as this process can take time, especially with a low-level pickaxe.\n\nOne common challenge is running out of stamina while mining. To avoid this, bring food like Cooked Meat, Raspberries, or Honey to boost your stamina regeneration. Additionally, rest near a Campfire or Shelter to gain the Rested buff, which increases stamina recovery. If you’re far from your base, consider building a temporary Campfire and Shelter in the Black Forest to maintain your stamina and health.\n\nAfter mining the copper, you’ll need to smelt it into Copper Bars. This requires a Smelter, which is crafted using 20 Stone and 5 Surtling Cores. Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers within the Black Forest or dropped by Surtlings in the Swamp biome. Once you have a Smelter, place it near your base and fuel it with Coal, which is obtained by burning Wood in a Charcoal Kiln. Smelt the copper ore into bars, which can then be used to craft stronger gear like the Bronze Axe, Bronze Pickaxe, and Bronze Armor.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that copper mining is a time-intensive process. Don’t rush it, and always be prepared for combat. Experienced Vikings can optimize their mining by bringing a Cart to transport large amounts of ore back to their base, reducing the number of trips required. Additionally, consider building a Portal near your mining site to quickly return home and resupply.\n\nIn summary, the best way to mine copper in the early game involves preparation, patience, and strategy. Equip yourself with the Antler Pickaxe, clear the area of enemies, and dig around the deposit to maximize your yield. Manage your stamina with food and the Rested buff, and smelt your ore into bars to unlock new crafting possibilities. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering copper mining in Valheim.