What is the best way to craft and use the Porcupine mace?

The Porcupine mace is one of the most powerful weapons in Valheim, combining blunt and piercing damage to make it effective against a wide range of enemies. To craft the Porcupine, you will need to progress to the late-game stages, as it requires materials from both the Mountain and Plains biomes. Specifically, you need 5 Fine Wood, 20 Iron, 10 Needles, and 5 Linen Thread. Fine Wood can be obtained from birch or oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, while Iron is mined from Muddy Scrap Piles in the Swamp biome. Needles are dropped by Deathsquitos in the Plains, and Linen Thread is crafted from Flax, which is also found in the Plains.\n\nTo craft the Porcupine, you must first unlock the recipe by gathering all the required materials. Once you have the materials, head to a level 4 Forge, which is upgraded using Forge Coolers, Anvils, and other upgrades. The Porcupine is a two-handed mace, so it requires both hands to wield. Its unique combination of blunt and piercing damage makes it particularly effective against heavily armored enemies like Fulings and Lox in the Plains, as well as Wolves and Stone Golems in the Mountains.\n\nWhen using the Porcupine, timing and positioning are key. The mace has a slower attack speed compared to one-handed weapons, so you need to plan your strikes carefully. Use the secondary attack (middle mouse button) for a powerful overhead slam that deals significant damage and can stagger enemies. This is especially useful against tougher foes like Berserkers or Stone Golems. For groups of enemies, the primary attack’s sweeping motion can hit multiple targets, making it a versatile weapon in crowded situations.\n\nOne common challenge when using the Porcupine is managing stamina. The mace consumes a lot of stamina per swing, so it’s important to keep an eye on your stamina bar and avoid overextending. Always carry stamina-boosting foods like Serpent Stew, Bread, or Lox Meat Pie to ensure you have enough energy for prolonged fights. Additionally, pairing the Porcupine with a shield is not possible due to its two-handed nature, so you’ll need to rely on dodging or parrying with well-timed rolls to avoid taking damage.\n\nFor new players, the Porcupine is a late-game weapon, so focus on building up your gear and skills before attempting to craft it. Start by exploring the Swamp biome to gather Iron, then venture into the Mountains to collect Silver for better armor and weapons. Once you’re ready, head to the Plains to farm Deathsquitos for Needles and Flax for Linen Thread. Experienced Vikings can use the Porcupine to dominate the Plains biome, as it deals high damage to Fulings and Lox, making it an excellent choice for clearing Fuling villages or defending your base.\n\nIn summary, the Porcupine mace is a top-tier weapon in Valheim, offering a unique blend of blunt and piercing damage. To craft it, gather Fine Wood, Iron, Needles, and Linen Thread, and use a level 4 Forge. Use its secondary attack for heavy hits and stagger enemies, and manage your stamina carefully during combat. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned Viking, the Porcupine is a valuable addition to your arsenal for tackling the toughest challenges in the Mountains and Plains biomes.