How do you gather wood in the Black Forest without a Bronze Axe?

Gathering wood in the Black Forest without a Bronze Axe is a common challenge for early-game players in Valheim. While the Bronze Axe is the most efficient tool for chopping down trees, it requires access to Bronze, which is only obtainable after defeating the first boss, Eikthyr, and crafting a Forge. However, there are several alternative methods to gather wood in the Black Forest biome without relying on a Bronze Axe.\n\nOne of the most straightforward methods is to use a Flint Axe, which is a tier below the Bronze Axe. The Flint Axe can be crafted at a Workbench using 4 Wood and 6 Flint. Flint is commonly found along riverbanks and shorelines in the Meadows biome, making it accessible early in the game. While the Flint Axe is less durable and slower than the Bronze Axe, it is still effective for cutting down smaller trees and gathering wood in the Black Forest.\n\nAnother method is to use the environment to your advantage. Trees in Valheim can be toppled by other trees or large rocks. For example, if you find a cluster of trees, you can chop down one tree in such a way that it falls onto another, causing a chain reaction. This method requires careful positioning and timing, but it allows you to gather wood without needing an axe at all. This technique is particularly useful in the Black Forest, where trees are densely packed.\n\nIf you don’t have access to any tools, you can still gather wood by breaking fallen branches or stumps. Fallen branches are scattered throughout the Meadows and Black Forest biomes and can be picked up by hand. Stumps, which are the remains of trees after they’ve been chopped down, can also be broken with your fists or a basic weapon like a Club. While this method yields less wood, it’s a viable option for players who are just starting out.\n\nFor players who are willing to take risks, Greydwarfs in the Black Forest often drop wood when defeated. These creatures are common in the biome and can be fought with basic weapons like a Wooden Club or Flint Spear. While this method is less reliable than chopping trees, it can supplement your wood supply while exploring the Black Forest.\n\nFinally, consider using a Troll to help you gather wood. Trolls are large, aggressive creatures found in the Black Forest that can deal massive damage to trees with their attacks. By luring a Troll near a cluster of trees, you can let it destroy the trees for you. Be cautious, as Trolls are dangerous and can easily kill an unprepared player. This method is best used by experienced players who are confident in their combat and evasion skills.\n\nIn summary, gathering wood in the Black Forest without a Bronze Axe is entirely possible with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness. Whether you use a Flint Axe, environmental tactics, or even Trolls, there are multiple ways to secure the wood you need for crafting and building. As you progress, prioritize upgrading your tools to make wood gathering more efficient and less time-consuming.\n\nPractical Tip: Always carry a backup weapon or tool when exploring the Black Forest, as Greydwarfs and Trolls can pose a significant threat. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the biome’s edge to store gathered resources and provide a safe retreat if needed.