How do you craft a Black Metal Shield and what are its stats?

Crafting a Black Metal Shield in Valheim is a significant milestone for players looking to enhance their defensive capabilities. This shield is one of the strongest in the game, offering excellent protection against both physical and elemental damage. To craft it, you’ll need to progress through the game’s biomes, gather rare materials, and unlock advanced crafting stations. Below is a detailed guide on how to craft the Black Metal Shield, its stats, and tips for overcoming common challenges.\n\nFirst, you’ll need to gather the required materials: 10 Fine Wood, 8 Black Metal, and 5 Chain. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Plains biome. Black Metal is a late-game resource dropped by Fulings, the aggressive goblin-like creatures found in the Plains biome. Chains are acquired by defeating Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by looting chests in Sunken Crypts. These materials are essential for crafting the shield, so prioritize exploring these biomes and defeating enemies to collect them.\n\nOnce you have the materials, you’ll need to craft the shield at a level 4 Forge. The Forge is a crafting station used for creating advanced weapons, armor, and tools. To upgrade your Forge to level 4, you’ll need to build and attach specific upgrades, such as the Forge Cooler, Forge Bellows, and Anvils. These upgrades require additional resources like Iron, Copper, and Fine Wood, so ensure you’ve gathered enough materials beforehand. Upgrading your Forge is a crucial step, as it unlocks the ability to craft high-tier items like the Black Metal Shield.\n\nThe Black Metal Shield has impressive stats, making it a top-tier defensive item. It provides 78 block power, which is one of the highest among shields in Valheim. Additionally, it has a 50% resistance to elemental damage, such as fire or frost, making it versatile in various combat scenarios. Its durability is also high, ensuring it lasts through multiple battles before needing repairs. This shield is ideal for players venturing into dangerous biomes like the Plains or Mistlands, where enemies deal significant damage.\n\nOne common challenge players face is farming Black Metal. Fulings, the primary source of Black Metal, are tough enemies that often attack in groups. To make farming easier, equip yourself with strong weapons like the Blackmetal Sword or Frostner, and wear high-tier armor such as Padded Armor. Additionally, consider using a bow to pick off Fulings from a distance before engaging in close combat. Bringing healing mead and stamina mead can also help you survive prolonged battles in the Plains biome.\n\nAnother tip is to explore Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome to gather Chains. These crypts are filled with Draugr and Blobs, so come prepared with poison resistance mead and a strong weapon. Chains are a rare drop, so you may need to clear multiple crypts to collect enough for the shield. Alternatively, Wraiths, which spawn at night in the Swamp, also drop Chains. Use a Bonemass power to increase your resistance to physical damage while farming these enemies.\n\nIn summary, crafting a Black Metal Shield requires careful preparation and exploration of multiple biomes. Gather Fine Wood, Black Metal, and Chains, upgrade your Forge to level 4, and craft the shield to significantly boost your defense. Its high block power and elemental resistance make it a must-have for late-game players. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the toughest challenges Valheim has to offer.