What is the best tool for harvesting Barley and Flax in the Plains?

The best tool for harvesting Barley and Flax in the Plains biome of Valheim is the Black Metal Atgeir. This weapon doubles as an effective harvesting tool due to its wide-area attack, which allows you to gather crops quickly and efficiently. Unlike other tools, the Black Metal Atgeir can clear multiple Barley or Flax plants in a single swing, saving you significant time and effort. To craft this tool, you will need to progress to the Plains biome and gather Black Metal, which is dropped by Fulings, the hostile goblin-like creatures that inhabit the area.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Atgeir, you will need a Forge and the following materials: 30 Black Metal, 10 Fine Wood, and 5 Linen Thread. Black Metal is obtained by smelting Black Metal Scraps, which are dropped by Fulings. Fine Wood is harvested from Birch and Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes, while Linen Thread is crafted from Flax, which you will need to grow and harvest in the Plains. Once you have the materials, simply interact with the Forge to craft the Black Metal Atgeir.\n\nUsing the Black Metal Atgeir for harvesting is straightforward. Equip the weapon and approach a field of Barley or Flax. Perform a secondary attack (right-click) to execute a sweeping spin attack that will damage and harvest multiple plants in a wide radius. This method is far more efficient than using a standard tool like the Bronze Sickle, which only harvests one plant at a time. The Black Metal Atgeir’s area-of-effect attack ensures you can clear large fields quickly, making it ideal for farming in the Plains.\n\nOne common challenge players face is the danger of Fulings while farming in the Plains. To mitigate this, consider building a secure farming area surrounded by walls or trenches to keep enemies out. Alternatively, clear the area of Fulings before starting your harvest. Another tip is to plant Barley and Flax in rows with enough space between them to maximize the Atgeir’s harvesting efficiency. This ensures that each swing covers as many plants as possible.\n\nIn terms of game mechanics, Barley and Flax are essential crops for late-game crafting. Barley is used to make Barley Flour, which is a key ingredient in advanced foods like Bread and Lox Meat Pie. Flax is used to craft Linen Thread, which is required for high-tier armor and tools. Both crops can only be grown in the Plains biome, as they require the unique soil conditions found there. This makes the Plains a critical area for progression, and efficient harvesting tools like the Black Metal Atgeir are invaluable.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that the Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim. Before venturing there, ensure you have strong armor, weapons, and food buffs. Experienced players can optimize their farming setup by using the Black Metal Atgeir in combination with a Cultivator to replant crops immediately after harvesting. This creates a seamless farming loop that maximizes productivity.\n\nIn summary, the Black Metal Atgeir is the best tool for harvesting Barley and Flax in the Plains biome due to its wide-area attack and efficiency. Crafting it requires Black Metal, Fine Wood, and Linen Thread, which are obtained through exploration and farming. By using this tool, you can significantly speed up your harvesting process and focus on progressing through the game’s late stages. Always prioritize safety when farming in the Plains, and consider building defenses to protect your crops from Fulings.