What’s the best early-game weapon for fighting Greydwarfs?

The best early-game weapon for fighting Greydwarfs in Valheim is the **Crude Bow** paired with **Flinthead Arrows**. This combination allows you to deal significant damage from a safe distance, which is crucial when facing multiple Greydwarfs or their stronger variants like Greydwarf Brutes and Shamans. The Crude Bow is easy to craft and highly effective in the Meadows and Black Forest biomes, making it an ideal choice for new players.\n\nTo craft the Crude Bow, you will need **10 Wood** and **8 Leather Scraps**. Wood can be gathered by chopping down trees in the Meadows, while Leather Scraps are obtained by hunting Boars. Once you have the materials, open your crafting menu (press Tab) and select the Crude Bow under the Weapons tab. Flinthead Arrows require **8 Wood** and **2 Flint** per stack of 20 arrows. Flint can be found along riverbanks and shorelines in the Meadows biome.\n\nUsing the Crude Bow effectively requires understanding its mechanics. The bow has a charge-up time, and holding down the attack button (left-click) increases its damage and accuracy. Release the button when the bow is fully drawn to fire. Aim slightly above your target at longer distances to account for arrow drop. This is especially important when fighting Greydwarfs, as they often move erratically and can close the distance quickly.\n\nGreydwarfs are weak to piercing damage, which makes arrows particularly effective. Flinthead Arrows deal 27 piercing damage, making them a significant upgrade over basic Wood Arrows. If you run out of Flinthead Arrows, Wood Arrows can still be used in a pinch, but they deal less damage. Always carry a backup melee weapon like a **Flint Spear** or **Club** in case enemies get too close or you run out of arrows.\n\nA common challenge when fighting Greydwarfs is dealing with groups. Greydwarfs often spawn in packs, and their Brute and Shaman variants can overwhelm unprepared players. To handle this, use the environment to your advantage. Climb onto rocks or fallen trees to create distance and funnel enemies into a single path. This makes it easier to pick them off with your bow. If you are cornered, switch to your melee weapon and use blocking (right-click) to mitigate damage.\n\nFor experienced players, upgrading the Crude Bow at a **Workbench** can further enhance its effectiveness. Upgrades require additional Wood and Leather Scraps, but the increased damage and durability are worth the investment. Additionally, consider crafting a **Shield** to complement your melee weapon. The **Wood Shield** is a good early-game option and can be crafted with **10 Wood** and **4 Leather Scraps**.\n\nIn summary, the Crude Bow with Flinthead Arrows is the best early-game weapon for fighting Greydwarfs due to its range, damage, and ease of crafting. Pair it with a melee weapon and shield for versatility, and use the environment to control enemy movement. With these strategies, you can confidently explore the Black Forest and take on Greydwarfs with ease.