What is the most effective way to farm Black Metal for weapons in the Plains?

Farming Black Metal in Valheim is essential for crafting high-tier weapons and gear, especially for players venturing into the Plains biome. Black Metal is primarily obtained by defeating Fulings, the goblin-like enemies that inhabit the Plains. These enemies are tough and require careful preparation, but with the right strategy, you can efficiently gather Black Metal for your needs.\n\nTo begin, you must first reach the Plains biome. This is a late-game area, so ensure you have strong gear, such as Iron or Silver-tier weapons and armor. The Plains are dangerous, with Deathsquitos, Fulings, and Loxes posing significant threats. Always carry healing mead, stamina mead, and a strong shield to survive encounters. A bow and arrows are also highly recommended for dealing with Deathsquitos from a distance.\n\nOnce in the Plains, locate Fuling camps. These are small villages with huts, watchtowers, and bonfires. Fulings are the primary source of Black Metal, as they drop Black Metal Scraps when defeated. Fuling Berserkers and Fuling Shamans also drop Black Metal Scraps, but they are more challenging to defeat. Approach these camps cautiously, as Fulings often attack in groups and can overwhelm unprepared players.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, use a combination of ranged and melee combat. Start by sniping Fulings with a bow from a safe distance to thin their numbers. The Draugr Fang bow is highly effective due to its poison damage. Once the numbers are reduced, switch to melee weapons like the Iron Mace or Silver Sword to finish off remaining enemies. Always block or parry Fuling attacks to avoid taking heavy damage.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with Fuling Shamans, who can heal other Fulings and summon fire attacks. Prioritize killing Shamans first to prevent them from supporting their allies. Use your bow to take them out quickly before engaging in melee combat. Additionally, Fuling Berserkers deal massive damage with their two-handed clubs, so dodge their attacks or parry them to create openings for counterattacks.\n\nAfter clearing a Fuling camp, loot all Black Metal Scraps from the fallen enemies. These scraps can be smelted into Black Metal at a Blast Furnace, which requires Artisan Table access and materials like Iron, Fine Wood, and Surtling Cores. Once smelted, Black Metal can be used to craft powerful weapons like the Black Metal Sword, Black Metal Atgeir, and Black Metal Shield.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that Black Metal Scraps cannot be smelted in a regular Smelter. You must first defeat Moder, the Mountain biome boss, to obtain the materials needed to craft an Artisan Table and Blast Furnace. This makes Black Metal farming a mid-to-late-game activity.\n\nTo optimize your farming runs, consider building a small outpost near a Plains biome. This allows you to respawn and store loot without traveling long distances. Use a Portal to connect your outpost to your main base for easy access to resources and crafting stations.\n\nIn summary, the most effective way to farm Black Metal in Valheim is to prepare thoroughly, engage Fulings strategically, and prioritize high-threat enemies like Shamans and Berserkers. With the right gear and tactics, you can efficiently gather Black Metal Scraps and craft powerful weapons to dominate the Plains biome.