How do you unlock the black metal axe for endgame wood gathering?

The Black Metal Axe is one of the most powerful tools for wood gathering in Valheim, designed for endgame players who need to efficiently harvest fine wood, core wood, and other high-tier resources. To unlock and craft this axe, you must progress through the game''s biomes, defeat specific enemies, and gather rare materials. This guide will walk you through the steps to obtain the Black Metal Axe, including the necessary prerequisites, crafting requirements, and tips for overcoming challenges.\n\nFirst, you must reach the Plains biome, which is the final biome in Valheim''s progression. The Plains biome is home to dangerous enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox, as well as valuable resources such as barley, flax, and black metal scraps. Black metal scraps are essential for crafting the Black Metal Axe, and they are dropped by Fulings, the goblin-like enemies found in the Plains. To survive in this biome, ensure you have upgraded armor, such as padded armor, and a strong weapon like a silver sword or frostner.\n\nBefore you can craft the Black Metal Axe, you must unlock the recipe by obtaining black metal scraps. These scraps are not smelted from ore but are instead looted from defeated Fulings. Fulings are aggressive and often travel in groups, so it''s wise to approach them cautiously. Use a bow to pick off stragglers or lure them into traps. Once you have enough black metal scraps, you can proceed to the next step.\n\nCrafting the Black Metal Axe requires a level 4 Forge, which is the highest upgrade level for this crafting station. To upgrade your Forge, you need to build and attach various Forge upgrades, such as the anvil, tool rack, and bellows. These upgrades require materials like fine wood, bronze, iron, and chains. Chains can be obtained by defeating Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by looting chests in crypts. Ensure your Forge is fully upgraded before attempting to craft the Black Metal Axe.\n\nThe Black Metal Axe requires the following materials to craft: 6 black metal scraps, 20 fine wood, and 5 linen thread. Fine wood is obtained by chopping down birch and oak trees in the Meadows or Plains biomes, while linen thread is crafted from flax, which is grown in the Plains biome. To process flax into linen thread, you need a Spinning Wheel, which requires 20 fine wood, 10 iron nails, and 5 leather scraps. Plant flax in cultivated soil and harvest it once it matures, then use the Spinning Wheel to convert it into linen thread.\n\nOnce you have all the required materials, head to your Forge and craft the Black Metal Axe. This axe has a high durability and deals significant damage, making it ideal for both combat and wood gathering. It can chop down trees faster than lower-tier axes and is particularly effective for harvesting fine wood and core wood. Additionally, the Black Metal Axe can be used as a weapon in a pinch, dealing slash damage to enemies.\n\nA common challenge players face is surviving in the Plains biome while gathering black metal scraps. To mitigate this, consider building a small outpost near the Plains biome with a portal for quick escapes. Stockpile food, potions, and arrows to ensure you''re prepared for combat. If you''re struggling with Fulings, use the terrain to your advantage by luring them into narrow spaces or using a shield to block their attacks. Alternatively, tame Lox to assist you in combat, as they can deal significant damage to Fulings.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the Black Metal Axe requires progression to the Plains biome, defeating Fulings for black metal scraps, and gathering fine wood and linen thread. Upgrade your Forge to level 4, craft the necessary materials, and use the axe to efficiently gather wood and defend yourself. With proper preparation and strategy, you can master the Plains biome and unlock this powerful tool for endgame wood gathering.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal with you when exploring the Plains biome to avoid losing progress if you die. Use a fully upgraded shield to block Fuling attacks, and consider bringing healing mead for emergencies. Finally, prioritize upgrading your Black Metal Axe at the Forge to maximize its durability and efficiency.