What’s the best tool for gathering stone early in the game?

In Valheim, gathering stone is essential for building structures, crafting tools, and progressing through the game. Early in the game, the best tool for gathering stone is the Antler Pickaxe. This tool is the first pickaxe available to players and is crafted using materials found in the Meadows biome, making it accessible even for new Vikings.\n\nTo craft the Antler Pickaxe, you will need 10 Wood and 1 Hard Antler. Wood is easily gathered by chopping down trees with a Stone Axe, which is one of the first tools you can craft. The Hard Antler is obtained by defeating Eikthyr, the first boss in Valheim. Eikthyr is found in the Meadows biome and can be summoned by placing two Deer Trophies on its altar. Once defeated, Eikthyr drops Hard Antlers, which are used to craft the pickaxe.\n\nOnce you have the Antler Pickaxe, you can start gathering stone. Stone is found in large boulders scattered across the Meadows and Black Forest biomes. Approach a boulder and equip the pickaxe. Left-click to swing the pickaxe and break the boulder into smaller pieces. Each swing will yield 4-6 Stone, and larger boulders can provide up to 20-30 Stone when fully broken down. Be mindful of your stamina, as using the pickaxe consumes stamina with each swing.\n\nOne common challenge early in the game is managing stamina while gathering resources. To optimize your stone gathering, ensure you have a full stamina bar before starting. Eating foods like Cooked Meat, Raspberries, or Honey can help replenish stamina quickly. Additionally, avoid gathering stone during rain or at night, as these conditions reduce stamina regeneration and increase the risk of encountering hostile creatures.\n\nAnother tip for efficient stone gathering is to prioritize boulders in safe areas, such as near your base or in well-lit parts of the Meadows biome. This minimizes the risk of being attacked by Greylings or other enemies while you work. If you venture into the Black Forest for stone, be cautious of Greydwarfs and Trolls, as they can pose a significant threat to unprepared players.\n\nAs you progress, you can upgrade to better tools like the Bronze Pickaxe, which is more durable and efficient. However, the Antler Pickaxe remains a reliable option for early-game stone gathering. By following these steps and tips, you can efficiently gather stone and build a strong foundation for your Viking adventures in Valheim.\n\nIn summary, the Antler Pickaxe is the best tool for gathering stone early in Valheim. Craft it using Wood and a Hard Antler from Eikthyr, and use it to break boulders in the Meadows and Black Forest biomes. Manage your stamina, prioritize safe areas, and upgrade to better tools as you progress. With these strategies, you''ll have plenty of stone for your building and crafting needs.