What’s the best strategy to farm iron in the Swamp crypts?

Farming iron in Valheim''s Swamp crypts is one of the most essential mid-game activities, as iron is required for crafting powerful weapons, armor, and tools. The Swamp biome is home to Sunken Crypts, which are the primary source of iron scrap. However, the Swamp is a dangerous biome filled with hostile creatures like Draugr, Leeches, and Blobs, so preparation is key.\n\nBefore venturing into the Swamp, ensure you have the right gear and tools. A Bronze or Iron Pickaxe is mandatory for mining Muddy Scrap Piles inside the crypts. Equip yourself with a strong weapon like a Bronze Mace or Iron Sword, as well as a shield to block attacks. Armor such as Troll Leather or Bronze Armor provides decent protection, but Iron Armor is ideal if you already have some iron. Bring a bow and arrows for dealing with ranged threats like Draugr Archers.\n\nStock up on healing items like Cooked Meat, Honey, and especially Poison Resistance Mead. The Swamp is filled with poisonous enemies and environmental hazards, so Poison Resistance Mead is a lifesaver. Additionally, bring a stack of Wood for crafting workbenches and portals inside the crypts. Portals are crucial for quick travel back to your base to repair tools and deposit iron.\n\nOnce you locate a Sunken Crypt, clear the area outside of enemies before entering. Inside, you''ll find narrow corridors filled with Muddy Scrap Piles, which yield iron scrap when mined. Use your pickaxe to break these piles, but be prepared for Draugr and Skeletons to spawn. Clear enemies first, then focus on mining. Keep an eye on your stamina, as mining and combat can drain it quickly. Use food that boosts stamina, such as Carrot Soup or Queens Jam.\n\nA common challenge is running out of inventory space. Iron scrap is heavy, so prioritize carrying only essential items. If your inventory fills up, use the crypt''s chests to store excess iron temporarily. Alternatively, set up a portal nearby to transport iron back to your base in batches. This saves time and reduces the risk of losing resources if you die.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, explore multiple crypts in the same Swamp biome. Crypts are often clustered together, so mark their locations on your map. If you''re playing with friends, divide tasks: one person mines while the other clears enemies or transports iron. This teamwork speeds up the process significantly.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. The Swamp is unpredictable, and you may encounter stronger enemies like Abominations or Wraiths. If you''re overwhelmed, retreat to a safe area and regroup. With the right strategy and preparation, farming iron in Swamp crypts becomes a manageable and rewarding task.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a Hoe to level the ground in the Swamp, making it easier to navigate. Use the Stagbreaker or Iron Sledge to deal AoE damage to groups of enemies in tight crypt corridors. Lastly, consider building a small outpost near the Swamp with a portal, workbench, and chests for efficient resource management.