How do you craft a hammer and what is its primary use?

The hammer is one of the most essential tools in Valheim, serving as a versatile item for building, repairing, and upgrading structures. Unlike weapons, the hammer is not used for combat but is crucial for creating and maintaining your base. To craft a hammer, you need to gather specific materials and have access to a workbench, which is one of the first crafting stations you should build in the game.\n\nTo craft a hammer, you will need 3 wood and 2 stone. Wood can be obtained by chopping down trees with an axe, while stone is commonly found on the ground in the Meadows biome or by mining small rocks. Once you have these materials, approach a workbench and open the crafting menu. Navigate to the Tools section, and you will see the hammer as one of the available options. Crafting it is instantaneous, and it will be added to your inventory.\n\nThe primary use of the hammer is for building and repairing structures. When you equip the hammer, you gain access to the building menu, which allows you to place various structures such as walls, roofs, floors, and furniture. The hammer also enables you to repair damaged structures, which is particularly useful after raids or during harsh weather conditions. To repair a structure, simply select the hammer, aim at the damaged piece, and press the repair button (default is middle mouse button). This will restore the structure to full durability without consuming additional resources.\n\nIn addition to building and repairing, the hammer is essential for upgrading your base. By using the hammer, you can upgrade certain structures like walls and workbenches to higher tiers, which increases their durability and functionality. For example, upgrading a workbench requires additional materials like fine wood and bronze nails, but it allows you to craft more advanced items. The hammer also plays a role in creating portals, which are vital for fast travel between distant locations.\n\nOne common challenge players face is running out of materials while building. To avoid this, always gather extra resources before starting a large construction project. For example, if you plan to build a large house, stockpile wood and stone in advance. Another tip is to use the hammer’s repair function frequently to maintain your structures, as this prevents them from being destroyed during enemy raids or storms.\n\nFor new players, the hammer is one of the first tools you should craft after establishing a workbench. It allows you to build a shelter, which is critical for surviving the night and avoiding hostile creatures. Experienced players can use the hammer to create elaborate bases, defensive structures, and even decorative elements to personalize their Viking homestead.\n\nIn summary, the hammer is a foundational tool in Valheim that enables you to build, repair, and upgrade structures. Crafting it requires wood and stone, which are readily available in the Meadows biome. By mastering the use of the hammer, you can create a safe and functional base, protect yourself from enemies, and progress through the game more efficiently. Always keep your hammer handy, as it is indispensable for both survival and creativity in the world of Valheim.