What’s the best way to farm black metal for end-game crafting?

Farming black metal in Valheim is essential for crafting high-tier end-game gear, such as the Blackmetal Sword, Blackmetal Atgeir, and Blackmetal Shield. Black metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies found in the Plains biome. These enemies drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal bars at a Blast Furnace. To maximize your black metal farming efficiency, you’ll need to prepare thoroughly and understand the mechanics of the Plains biome.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right gear and tools. The Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in Valheim, so you’ll need strong armor, such as Padded Armor, and powerful weapons like the Frostner or Porcupine. Bring a fully upgraded shield, such as the Blackmetal Shield, to block Fuling attacks effectively. Additionally, carry a bow and arrows, such as Needle Arrows, to deal with Fuling Berserkers and Shamans from a distance. Stamina management is crucial, so bring plenty of food like Serpent Stew, Lox Meat Pie, and Blood Pudding.\n\nNext, locate a Plains biome. These biomes are characterized by tall grass, yellow flowers, and occasional tar pits. Fuling villages are the best places to farm black metal, as they contain multiple Fulings and often have chests with additional loot. Use a Longship to travel to Plains biomes near your base or explore new areas on your map. Once you’ve found a village, approach cautiously and scout the area for Fuling Berserkers and Shamans, as they pose the greatest threat.\n\nTo efficiently clear a Fuling village, start by eliminating Fuling Shamans first. These enemies can heal other Fulings and summon fire attacks, making them a priority target. Use your bow to take them out from a distance. Next, focus on Fuling Berserkers, as they deal massive melee damage. Kite them around obstacles to avoid their attacks while landing hits with your weapon. Finally, deal with regular Fulings, which are easier to handle but can overwhelm you in large numbers.\n\nAfter clearing a village, loot all black metal scraps from the Fulings and any chests in the area. Be cautious of respawns, as Fulings can reappear if you linger too long. To maximize your farming efficiency, consider setting up a small outpost near the Plains biome with a portal for quick travel and a secure area to store your loot. This will save time and reduce the risk of losing your items if you die.\n\nOnce you’ve gathered enough black metal scraps, return to your base and smelt them into black metal bars using a Blast Furnace. The Blast Furnace requires Artisan Table access and materials like Iron, Stone, and Surtling Cores. If you don’t have a Blast Furnace yet, prioritize building one, as it’s the only way to process black metal scraps. Each black metal bar requires two scraps, so plan accordingly based on your crafting needs.\n\nFor new players, farming black metal can be daunting due to the difficulty of the Plains biome. Start by exploring the edges of the Plains and taking on smaller groups of Fulings before tackling villages. Experienced Vikings can optimize their farming by using Bonemass’s power, which reduces physical damage, or Eikthyr’s power for increased stamina regeneration during combat. Additionally, consider teaming up with friends to clear villages faster and share the loot.\n\nIn summary, the best way to farm black metal involves preparing with strong gear, locating Fuling villages in the Plains biome, clearing them efficiently, and smelting the scraps into bars. With proper planning and execution, you’ll have a steady supply of black metal for all your end-game crafting needs.