What’s the optimal way to craft and upgrade the black metal shield?

Crafting and upgrading the Black Metal Shield in Valheim is a crucial step for players looking to enhance their defensive capabilities, especially in the late game. The Black Metal Shield is one of the strongest shields available, offering high block power and durability. To craft and upgrade it efficiently, you need to understand the game mechanics, gather the necessary resources, and follow a step-by-step process.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the Black Metal Shield recipe. This requires you to have previously crafted a Forge and obtained Black Metal Scraps, which are dropped by Fulings in the Plains biome. Fulings are aggressive goblin-like creatures that roam the Plains, so ensure you are well-equipped with strong armor and weapons before venturing into this biome. Once you have Black Metal Scraps, the recipe will unlock at the Forge.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Shield, you need the following materials: 10 Black Metal Scraps, 6 Fine Wood, and 4 Chains. Black Metal Scraps are obtained from Fulings, Fine Wood is harvested from Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Plains biomes, and Chains are typically found in Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome or dropped by Wraiths. Chains can also be obtained by defeating the Swamp boss, Bonemass, or by looting chests in Frost Caves in the Mountain biome.\n\nOnce you have gathered all the materials, head to your Forge. Interact with the Forge and navigate to the crafting menu to find the Black Metal Shield. Select it and craft the shield. The base version of the shield has a block power of 90, making it one of the best shields in the game. However, you can further upgrade it to increase its effectiveness.\n\nUpgrading the Black Metal Shield requires additional Black Metal Scraps and Fine Wood. Each upgrade level increases the shield''s block power and durability. To upgrade, interact with the Forge and select the upgrade tab. Place the Black Metal Shield in the upgrade slot and add the required materials. The first upgrade requires 2 Black Metal Scraps and 2 Fine Wood, the second upgrade requires 4 Black Metal Scraps and 4 Fine Wood, and the third upgrade requires 6 Black Metal Scraps and 6 Fine Wood. At maximum level, the shield''s block power increases to 104, making it an excellent choice for tanking heavy hits.\n\nOne common challenge players face is farming Black Metal Scraps efficiently. Fulings are dangerous enemies, especially in groups, so it''s important to approach them strategically. Use a bow to pick off Fulings from a distance before engaging in melee combat. Alternatively, set up a small base near a Fuling camp to respawn and farm them repeatedly. Another tip is to use the Stagbreaker or Iron Sledge, as their area-of-effect damage can help manage multiple Fulings at once.\n\nFor Fine Wood, ensure you have a Bronze or Iron Axe, as these are required to chop down Birch and Oak trees. If you''re struggling to find Chains, focus on exploring Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. These crypts often contain multiple Chains in chests or hanging from the ceiling. Wraiths, which spawn at night in the Swamp, also drop Chains, so consider farming them if you''re short on resources.\n\nIn summary, crafting and upgrading the Black Metal Shield requires careful preparation and resource management. Focus on farming Fulings for Black Metal Scraps, gather Fine Wood from Birch and Oak trees, and explore Swamp biomes for Chains. Use strategic combat tactics to handle Fulings efficiently, and upgrade your shield at the Forge to maximize its potential. With a fully upgraded Black Metal Shield, you''ll be well-prepared to face the toughest enemies in Valheim.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal with you when exploring the Plains biome to quickly retreat if overwhelmed. Use food buffs like Serpent Stew or Lox Meat Pie to boost your health and stamina during combat. Finally, consider pairing the Black Metal Shield with a strong melee weapon like the Black Metal Sword or Atgeir for a balanced offense and defense.