What is the best early-game shield to block Greydwarf attacks?

In Valheim, the best early-game shield to block Greydwarf attacks is the Wood Shield. This shield is accessible early in the game and provides a solid balance of durability and blocking power, making it ideal for fending off Greydwarfs in the Black Forest biome. To craft the Wood Shield, you will need 10 Wood and 4 Leather Scraps. Wood can be gathered by chopping down trees in the Meadows biome, while Leather Scraps are obtained by hunting Boars, which are commonly found in the same biome.\n\nCrafting the Wood Shield requires a Workbench, which is one of the first crafting stations you’ll build in Valheim. To create a Workbench, gather 10 Wood and place it in your inventory. Once built, interact with the Workbench to access the crafting menu and select the Wood Shield. This shield has a base block power of 20, which is sufficient to absorb most of the damage from Greydwarf melee attacks. However, it’s important to note that blocking reduces stamina, so managing your stamina bar is crucial during combat.\n\nGreydwarfs are common enemies in the Black Forest biome and often attack in groups. They use both melee and ranged attacks, with the latter involving throwing rocks. The Wood Shield can block both types of attacks effectively, but timing is key. To block successfully, hold down the right mouse button (or the corresponding button on your controller) just before the attack lands. This will reduce the damage taken and prevent you from being staggered, allowing you to counterattack or reposition.\n\nOne common challenge new players face is running out of stamina while blocking multiple Greydwarf attacks. To mitigate this, always keep an eye on your stamina bar and avoid blocking unnecessary attacks. For example, if you see a Greydwarf winding up to throw a rock, you can sidestep instead of blocking to conserve stamina. Additionally, eating food that boosts stamina, such as Cooked Meat or Raspberries, will help you maintain your stamina pool during combat.\n\nFor players who want to upgrade their shield early, the next step is the Bronze Buckler. This shield requires Bronze, which is crafted by smelting Copper and Tin in a Forge. However, gathering and smelting these materials takes time, so the Wood Shield remains the most practical choice for early-game encounters with Greydwarfs. Once you’ve mastered blocking with the Wood Shield, you’ll be better prepared to tackle tougher enemies like Trolls.\n\nIn summary, the Wood Shield is the best early-game shield for blocking Greydwarf attacks due to its accessibility and effectiveness. Craft it using Wood and Leather Scraps at a Workbench, and practice your blocking timing to conserve stamina. Pair it with stamina-boosting food to improve your survivability in the Black Forest biome. As you progress, consider upgrading to stronger shields, but the Wood Shield will serve you well in the early stages of your Valheim journey.