How do you craft a black metal axe, and what materials are required?

Crafting a Black Metal Axe in Valheim is a significant milestone for players, as it is one of the strongest axes in the game. This tool is essential for efficiently gathering fine wood and other high-tier resources, making it a must-have for mid-to-late-game progression. To craft the Black Metal Axe, you will need to unlock the recipe, gather the required materials, and use a level 2 or higher Forge. Below is a detailed guide to help you achieve this.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the Black Metal Axe recipe. This is done by obtaining Black Metal, which is dropped by Fulings in the Plains biome. Fulings are aggressive goblin-like creatures that roam the Plains, so be prepared for combat. Once you have at least one Black Metal scrap, the recipe will automatically unlock. This is a common mechanic in Valheim, where discovering new materials unlocks associated crafting recipes.\n\nNext, gather the required materials. To craft a Black Metal Axe, you will need 6 Black Metal, 20 Fine Wood, and 5 Linen Thread. Black Metal is obtained by defeating Fulings, as mentioned earlier. Fine Wood is gathered by chopping down birch or oak trees, which are found in the Meadows and Plains biomes. Linen Thread is crafted from Flax, which grows in the Plains biome and must be processed at a Spinning Wheel. Ensure you have a fully upgraded Forge, as the Black Metal Axe requires a level 2 Forge to craft.\n\nTo gather Black Metal, venture into the Plains biome with caution. Fulings are dangerous enemies, especially in groups, so bring strong armor, weapons, and healing items. A bow and arrows can help you pick off Fulings from a distance. Once you defeat them, they will drop Black Metal scraps, which can be smelted into Black Metal using a Blast Furnace. The Blast Furnace is crafted using 20 Fine Wood, 10 Iron, 5 Surtling Cores, and 20 Stone. Place it near your Forge for convenience.\n\nFine Wood is relatively easy to obtain if you have a Bronze or Iron Axe. Look for birch trees in the Meadows or oak trees in the Plains. These trees yield Fine Wood when chopped down. If you don’t have access to the Plains yet, birch trees in the Meadows are a safer option. For Linen Thread, you’ll need to grow Flax in the Plains biome. Flax can only be planted in cultivated soil using a Cultivator. Once harvested, process the Flax into Linen Thread at a Spinning Wheel, which requires 10 Fine Wood, 20 Iron Nails, and 5 Leather Scraps to craft.\n\nOnce you have all the materials, head to your Forge. Ensure it is upgraded to at least level 2 by adding a Forge Cooler, Forge Bellows, and other upgrades. Interact with the Forge and navigate to the Black Metal Axe recipe. If you have all the required materials, you can craft the axe. The Black Metal Axe has high durability and damage, making it an excellent tool for both combat and resource gathering.\n\nA common challenge players face is surviving in the Plains biome to gather Black Metal and Flax. To mitigate this, always bring the best armor and weapons available, such as Wolf Armor or Padded Armor, and a strong melee weapon like a Black Metal Sword or Frostner. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Plains biome to store materials and respawn if needed. This reduces the risk of losing progress if you die.\n\nIn summary, crafting a Black Metal Axe requires preparation, exploration, and resource management. Focus on gathering Black Metal from Fulings, Fine Wood from birch or oak trees, and Linen Thread from Flax. Upgrade your Forge to level 2 and ensure you have the necessary tools and armor to survive in the Plains biome. With the Black Metal Axe in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle Valheim’s toughest challenges and gather resources efficiently.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal with you when exploring the Plains biome to quickly return home if needed. Use the Stagbreaker or Iron Sledge to deal with groups of Fulings, as their AoE damage can be highly effective. Finally, consider farming Flax in large quantities to ensure you have enough Linen Thread for future crafting projects.