What is the best weapon to use against Drakes in the Mountains?

When venturing into the Mountains biome in Valheim, Drakes are one of the most common and dangerous enemies you will encounter. These flying creatures deal frost damage and can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. To effectively combat Drakes, the best weapon to use is the Huntsman Bow paired with Frost Resistance Mead and Needle Arrows. This combination allows you to deal significant damage from a safe distance while mitigating the frost damage they inflict.\n\nFirst, let’s discuss why the Huntsman Bow is ideal. This bow is crafted using Fine Wood, Deer Hide, and Iron, making it a mid-to-late-game weapon. It has higher damage and accuracy compared to the Crude Bow or Finewood Bow, which are earlier options. The Huntsman Bow’s precision is crucial for hitting Drakes, as they are fast-moving and often fly at awkward angles. Pairing this bow with Needle Arrows, crafted using Needles dropped by Deathsquitos in the Plains biome, ensures maximum damage output. Needle Arrows have high piercing damage, which is effective against Drakes’ moderate health pool.\n\nBefore engaging Drakes, it’s essential to prepare for the cold environment. The Mountains biome inflicts the Freezing debuff, which drains health over time unless you have frost resistance. Craft Frost Resistance Mead using Honey, Thistle, Bloodbag, and Greydwarf Eye at a Fermenter. This mead provides 10 minutes of frost resistance, allowing you to focus on combat without worrying about environmental damage. Additionally, wear Wolf Armor or a Wolf Fur Cape, both of which provide innate frost resistance and are crafted using resources from the Mountains biome.\n\nWhen fighting Drakes, positioning is key. Drakes often attack in groups, so try to lure them one at a time by staying near cover like rocks or trees. Use the Huntsman Bow to aim carefully, as Drakes move erratically. Aim slightly ahead of their flight path to account for their speed. If you miss, don’t panic—reposition and try again. Drakes have a ranged frost breath attack, so keep moving to avoid being hit. If you’re caught in their frost breath, the Freezing debuff will slow you down, making it harder to dodge subsequent attacks.\n\nFor players who prefer melee combat, the Iron Mace or Frostner (a late-game weapon) can also be effective. However, melee combat with Drakes is riskier due to their mobility and frost breath. If you choose this route, ensure you have a strong shield like the Iron Buckler to block their attacks and close the distance quickly. Frostner, in particular, deals spirit damage, which is effective against Drakes and other creatures in the Mountains biome.\n\nFinally, always carry healing items like Cooked Meat or Health Mead to recover from unexpected damage. Drakes can be unpredictable, especially in groups, so staying prepared is crucial. If you’re struggling, consider bringing a friend for co-op play, as Drakes are easier to handle with multiple players focusing fire.\n\nIn summary, the Huntsman Bow with Needle Arrows is the best weapon for fighting Drakes in the Mountains biome. Combine this with Frost Resistance Mead, Wolf Armor, and careful positioning to maximize your effectiveness. Whether you’re a new player or an experienced Viking, these strategies will help you conquer the cold and defeat Drakes with confidence.