What are the best ways to farm Black Metal in the Ashlands?

Farming Black Metal in Valheim''s Ashlands biome is a challenging but rewarding task, as Black Metal is a crucial resource for crafting high-tier weapons and tools. The Ashlands is a dangerous biome filled with powerful enemies and environmental hazards, so preparation is key. To farm Black Metal effectively, you''ll need to defeat Fuling Berserkers and Fuling Shamans, who drop Black Metal Scraps when killed. These scraps can then be smelted into Black Metal at a Blast Furnace, which requires Artisan Table access and materials like Iron, Stone, and Surtling Cores.\n\nBefore venturing into the Ashlands, ensure you have the best gear available. Fully upgraded padded armor is highly recommended for its high defense, and weapons like the Blackmetal Sword or Atgeir are ideal for dealing with Fulings. Bring a strong shield, such as the Blackmetal Shield, to block incoming attacks. Additionally, stock up on healing meads, stamina meads, and fire resistance meads, as the Ashlands is filled with fire-based enemies and environmental hazards like lava.\n\nTo locate the Ashlands, sail south from your starting area until you reach a biome with a fiery, volcanic landscape. The Ashlands is typically found at the southern edge of the map. Once there, look for Fuling camps, which are small settlements populated by Fuling Berserkers and Shamans. These camps are often guarded by multiple enemies, so approach cautiously. Use a bow to pick off weaker enemies from a distance before engaging in melee combat with the tougher foes.\n\nWhen fighting Fuling Berserkers, focus on dodging their powerful attacks and countering with your own. Fuling Shamans can summon fireballs and buff nearby enemies, so prioritize taking them out first. After clearing a camp, loot the Black Metal Scraps dropped by the enemies. Be prepared for reinforcements, as Fulings can respawn or call for backup. If you''re overwhelmed, retreat to a safe distance and regroup before re-engaging.\n\nOnce you''ve collected enough Black Metal Scraps, return to your base and smelt them into Black Metal using a Blast Furnace. To craft a Blast Furnace, you''ll need 20 Iron, 5 Surtling Cores, 10 Wood, and 20 Stone. Place the Blast Furnace near your Artisan Table and fuel it with Coal to begin smelting. Each Black Metal Scrap yields one Black Metal bar, which can then be used to craft powerful weapons, shields, and tools.\n\nA common challenge in the Ashlands is dealing with the constant fire damage from lava and fire-based enemies. To mitigate this, always carry fire resistance meads and avoid standing in lava pools. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Ashlands with a portal for quick access and a safe place to rest and recover. This will save you time and resources when farming Black Metal.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to note that the Ashlands is an end-game biome, so ensure you''re well-prepared before attempting to farm Black Metal. Focus on upgrading your gear and gathering resources in earlier biomes like the Plains and Mountains. Experienced Vikings can optimize their farming runs by using a Longship for faster travel and bringing a Cart to transport large amounts of Black Metal Scraps.\n\nIn summary, farming Black Metal in the Ashlands requires careful preparation, strong gear, and strategic combat. Focus on defeating Fuling Berserkers and Shamans, smelt their drops into Black Metal, and use the resource to craft powerful end-game equipment. With the right approach, you can efficiently gather Black Metal and dominate the challenges of Valheim''s late-game content.