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How do I use the forge to upgrade my mining tools?

Upgrading your mining tools in Valheim is essential for improving efficiency and durability, especially as you progress into tougher biomes like the Swamp or Mountains. The forge is the key workstation for upgrading tools, and it requires specific materials and setup. To begin, you must first craft a forge using 4 stone, 4 coal, 10 wood, and 6 copper. Place the forge near your workbench to ensure it functions properly, as workbenches and forges share a proximity requirement for crafting and upgrades.\n\nOnce your forge is built, you can upgrade your mining tools, such as the antler pickaxe or bronze pickaxe. To upgrade, interact with the forge and select the tool you wish to improve. Each upgrade level requires specific materials, such as bronze for the bronze pickaxe or iron for the iron pickaxe. For example, upgrading a bronze pickaxe to level 2 requires 2 bronze and 2 leather scraps. Higher upgrade levels demand more resources, so plan accordingly.\n\nA common challenge is gathering enough metal to upgrade tools, especially in the early game. Copper and tin are found in the Black Forest biome, while iron is located in the Swamp biome inside sunken crypts. Smelt these metals in a smelter using coal as fuel to create usable bars. Always carry a portal with you to transport metals back to your base efficiently, as metals cannot be teleported directly.\n\nAnother tip is to prioritize upgrading your pickaxe first, as it directly impacts your ability to gather more resources. A higher-level pickaxe mines faster and lasts longer, saving you time and resources in the long run. For example, a level 3 bronze pickaxe mines copper nodes significantly faster than a level 1 pickaxe, allowing you to gather more materials in less time.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your tool''s durability. Repairing tools at the forge is free, so make it a habit to repair them before heading out on mining expeditions. This ensures you don''t run out of durability mid-mining session, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. By following these steps and tips, you''ll maximize your mining efficiency and be well-prepared for the challenges of Valheim''s later biomes.