What tools are best for gathering stone in the Black Forest?

Gathering stone in the Black Forest biome in Valheim is essential for building, crafting, and progressing through the game. The Black Forest is one of the first biomes you’ll encounter after the Meadows, and it’s rich in resources like stone, copper, and tin. To efficiently gather stone, you’ll need the right tools and strategies.\n\nFirst, you’ll need a basic tool: the Antler Pickaxe. This is the first pickaxe you can craft in Valheim, and it’s made using Hard Antlers from the first boss, Eikthyr. To craft it, you’ll need 10 Wood and 1 Hard Antler. The Antler Pickaxe is essential for mining stone deposits, which appear as large boulders scattered throughout the Black Forest. These boulders are distinct from smaller rocks, which can be gathered by hand or with a hammer.\n\nOnce you have your Antler Pickaxe, head to the Black Forest biome. Look for large, gray boulders that are often found near cliffs or in open areas. Approach the boulder and use your pickaxe to mine it. Each swing will yield 4-6 stone, and the boulder will eventually break apart after several hits. Be prepared for stamina management, as mining consumes stamina quickly. Bring food like Cooked Meat or Berries to replenish stamina during your gathering sessions.\n\nAs you progress, you’ll unlock better tools like the Bronze Pickaxe. To craft this, you’ll need to mine Copper and Tin in the Black Forest, smelt them into Bronze at a Forge, and then combine 10 Wood and 2 Bronze to create the pickaxe. The Bronze Pickaxe is more durable and efficient than the Antler Pickaxe, making it ideal for extended stone-gathering trips.\n\nOne common challenge in the Black Forest is dealing with hostile creatures like Greydwarfs and Trolls. These enemies can interrupt your mining efforts, so always be prepared for combat. Carry a shield and a weapon like a Flint Spear or Bronze Sword to defend yourself. Building a small outpost near your mining area with a Workbench and a fire can also help you recover quickly and fend off enemies.\n\nAnother tip is to use the terrain to your advantage. Stone deposits often spawn near cliffs or uneven terrain, which can make mining tricky. Use the hoe to level the ground around the boulder, making it easier to access and mine. Additionally, if you’re playing with friends, assign roles—one person can mine while the other guards against enemies.\n\nFinally, consider using a Cart to transport large amounts of stone. Carts are crafted using 20 Wood and 10 Bronze Nails, and they allow you to carry heavy loads like stone and ore. This is especially useful if you’re gathering stone for a large building project or need to transport it back to your base.\n\nIn summary, the best tools for gathering stone in the Black Forest are the Antler Pickaxe for early-game players and the Bronze Pickaxe for mid-game players. Always be prepared for combat, manage your stamina, and use terrain tools like the hoe to make mining easier. With these strategies, you’ll efficiently gather stone and progress in Valheim.