What’s the best way to level up the Pickaxe skill for mining?

Leveling up the Pickaxe skill in Valheim is essential for efficient mining and resource gathering. The Pickaxe skill determines how quickly you can break rocks, mine ores, and gather stone. To level up this skill, you need to use the Pickaxe frequently, as skill progression is tied to the number of successful hits on valid mining targets. The more you mine, the faster your skill will increase. However, there are strategies to optimize this process and make it more efficient.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right tools. Crafting a high-quality Pickaxe is crucial. Start with the Antler Pickaxe, which is crafted using Hard Antlers from the first boss, Eikthyr. Later, upgrade to the Bronze Pickaxe, which requires Bronze Bars made from Copper and Tin. The Iron Pickaxe, crafted with Iron Bars, is even better and allows you to mine tougher materials like Silver. Always aim to use the best Pickaxe available to you, as higher-tier tools mine faster and contribute more to skill progression.\n\nNext, focus on mining the right materials. While you can level up your Pickaxe skill by mining any rock or ore, some targets are better than others. Copper deposits in the Black Forest biome are excellent for early-game skill leveling because they require many hits to mine completely. Similarly, Silver deposits in the Mountains biome are great for mid-to-late-game progression. Avoid wasting time on small rocks or gravel piles, as they provide minimal skill experience.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, prepare for long mining sessions. Bring plenty of food to boost your stamina, as mining consumes a lot of it. Foods like Cooked Meat, Carrot Soup, and Turnip Stew are excellent choices. Additionally, carry a portal with you to quickly return to your base for repairs or to drop off resources. This saves time and allows you to focus on mining without interruptions.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with enemies while mining. In the Black Forest biome, Greydwarves and Trolls can interrupt your progress. To mitigate this, clear the area of enemies before starting to mine. You can also build a small shelter or stake walls around your mining site for protection. In the Mountains biome, Wolves and Drakes are a threat, so always be prepared with weapons and armor.\n\nFinally, consider teaming up with other players. Mining in a group not only makes the process faster but also allows you to share resources and protect each other from enemies. This is especially useful in dangerous biomes like the Mountains or Plains.\n\nIn summary, leveling up the Pickaxe skill requires consistent mining with the best available tools, targeting high-value resources like Copper and Silver, and preparing for stamina management and enemy threats. By following these steps, you can efficiently increase your Pickaxe skill and become a master miner in Valheim.