What is the best tool for gathering Black Metal in the Plains biome?

The best tool for gathering Black Metal in the Plains biome is the Black Metal Pickaxe. Black Metal is a high-tier resource found in the Plains biome, primarily obtained by mining Black Metal Scrap from Fuling Berserkers or Fuling Villages. However, to efficiently mine Black Metal Scrap, you need the right tool, and the Black Metal Pickaxe is the most effective option. This pickaxe is crafted using Black Metal, Linen Thread, and Fine Wood, making it a late-game tool that requires significant preparation and progression.\n\nTo craft the Black Metal Pickaxe, you must first unlock its recipe by obtaining Black Metal. Black Metal is acquired by smelting Black Metal Scrap in a Blast Furnace, which requires Artisan Table access and materials like Iron, Stone, and Surtling Cores. Once you have Black Metal, combine it with Linen Thread (crafted from Flax, which grows in the Plains biome) and Fine Wood (obtained from Birch or Oak trees) to create the pickaxe. This tool has a higher durability and mining efficiency compared to earlier pickaxes, making it ideal for gathering Black Metal Scrap.\n\nBefore venturing into the Plains biome, ensure you are well-prepared. The Plains is one of the most dangerous biomes in Valheim, home to deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with high-tier armor, such as Padded Armor, and bring powerful weapons like the Black Metal Sword or Atgeir. Additionally, stock up on healing mead and stamina-restoring items to survive encounters with hostile creatures. Building a small outpost near the Plains biome can also help you respawn and store resources safely.\n\nOnce you are ready, explore Fuling Villages or patrol areas where Fuling Berserkers roam. These enemies drop Black Metal Scrap when defeated. Use your Black Metal Pickaxe to mine the scrap piles found in these locations. Be cautious, as Fulings often guard these resources in large numbers. Use terrain to your advantage, such as kiting enemies or setting up traps, to make the process safer. If you encounter a Deathsquito, prioritize dodging or blocking its attacks, as they deal significant damage.\n\nA common challenge players face is the difficulty of surviving in the Plains biome while gathering Black Metal. To mitigate this, consider bringing a friend or two for cooperative play. Teamwork can make combat encounters more manageable and allow you to gather resources more efficiently. Additionally, use a Cart or Longship to transport large amounts of Black Metal Scrap back to your base, as the Plains biome is often far from your main settlement.\n\nIn summary, the Black Metal Pickaxe is the best tool for gathering Black Metal in the Plains biome due to its durability and efficiency. Crafting it requires Black Metal, Linen Thread, and Fine Wood, which are obtained through late-game progression. Prepare thoroughly before entering the Plains biome, as it is filled with dangerous enemies. Use strategic combat tactics and cooperative play to maximize your resource gathering. With the right preparation and tools, you can efficiently farm Black Metal and progress further in Valheim.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal with you to quickly return to your base for repairs or storage. Use the Hoe to level terrain and create safe paths for transporting resources. Lastly, consider taming Lox in the Plains biome, as they can serve as powerful allies and mounts for traversing the area.