What’s the most efficient way to gather core wood for base upgrades?

Core wood is a crucial resource in Valheim for upgrading your base, crafting advanced structures, and building defensive fortifications. It is obtained by chopping down pine trees, which are primarily found in the Black Forest biome. Unlike regular wood, core wood requires a bronze axe or better to harvest, so ensure you have the necessary tools before venturing out.\n\nTo efficiently gather core wood, start by crafting a bronze axe. You will need to mine copper and tin in the Black Forest, smelt them in a smelter, and forge the axe at a forge. Once equipped, head to the Black Forest biome, which is identifiable by its dense pine trees and dark atmosphere. Pine trees are tall and thin, making them easy to spot among other trees.\n\nWhen chopping pine trees, aim for the base of the trunk. Each tree will yield 4-6 core wood logs, which can be collected by pressing ''E'' or walking over them. Be cautious of falling trees, as they can damage you or nearby structures. Additionally, pine trees often grow close together, so chopping one can cause a domino effect, knocking down multiple trees at once. This is an efficient way to gather large amounts of core wood quickly.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with hostile creatures in the Black Forest, such as Greydwarfs and Trolls. To mitigate this, bring a shield and weapon for defense, and consider traveling during the day when fewer enemies spawn. If you encounter a Troll, avoid direct combat unless you are well-prepared, as they can deal significant damage. Instead, use the environment to your advantage by leading them into traps or using ranged weapons.\n\nFor maximum efficiency, consider building a small outpost near a dense cluster of pine trees. This allows you to store core wood and other resources without needing to travel back to your main base frequently. A workbench and chest are essential for repairs and storage. If you are playing with friends, coordinate to cover more ground and share resources.\n\nAnother tip is to use a cart to transport large quantities of core wood. Carts can be crafted with 20 wood and 10 bronze nails, and they allow you to carry up to 18 stacks of items. This is especially useful for long-distance hauls or when gathering resources in bulk. However, be mindful of the terrain, as carts can be difficult to maneuver over steep hills or uneven ground.\n\nFinally, always plan your resource-gathering trips carefully. Bring food for stamina regeneration, repair your tools before leaving, and keep an eye on your surroundings. By following these steps, you can efficiently gather core wood and ensure your base upgrades progress smoothly.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to gather core wood involves preparing with a bronze axe, targeting pine trees in the Black Forest, and using strategies like building outposts and carts to streamline the process. With careful planning and execution, you can amass the core wood needed for your base upgrades and other crafting projects.