What is the best tool for gathering Barley in the Plains biome?

The best tool for gathering Barley in the Plains biome is the Blackmetal Atgeir. While it may seem unconventional to use a weapon for farming, the Blackmetal Atgeir''s wide sweeping attack makes it highly efficient for harvesting Barley. Unlike other tools, it can clear multiple Barley plants in a single swing, saving time and effort. This is especially useful in the Plains biome, where Barley is a key resource for crafting high-tier foods and meads.\n\nTo craft the Blackmetal Atgeir, you will need to progress to the late-game stages of Valheim. First, you must defeat Moder, the fourth boss, to obtain Dragon Tears, which are required to craft the Artisan Table. The Artisan Table unlocks advanced crafting recipes, including the Blackmetal Atgeir. You will also need Blackmetal, which is obtained by smelting Blackmetal Scraps dropped by Fulings in the Plains biome. Additionally, you need Fine Wood and Linen Thread, which are crafted from Flax, another Plains-specific resource.\n\nOnce you have the Blackmetal Atgeir, head to the Plains biome and locate a Barley field. Barley grows naturally in Fuling villages, but you can also cultivate it by planting Barley seeds in cultivated soil. To harvest Barley, equip the Blackmetal Atgeir and use its secondary attack (right-click) to perform a sweeping strike. This attack will destroy multiple Barley plants at once, allowing you to gather Barley quickly and efficiently.\n\nOne common challenge in the Plains biome is the presence of hostile Fulings and Deathsquitos. To mitigate this, always approach Barley fields cautiously and clear the area of enemies before harvesting. Bringing a shield and wearing high-tier armor, such as Padded Armor, can help you survive encounters with these threats. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Barley field to store your harvested resources and provide a safe retreat if needed.\n\nAnother practical tip is to bring a Cultivator to replant Barley seeds immediately after harvesting. This ensures a sustainable supply of Barley for future use. Barley is essential for crafting foods like Bread and Lox Meat Pie, which provide significant health and stamina boosts. It is also used to brew Frost Resistance Mead, which is crucial for exploring the Mountain biome.\n\nIn summary, the Blackmetal Atgeir is the most efficient tool for gathering Barley in the Plains biome due to its wide-area attack. Crafting it requires late-game materials and defeating Moder, but the effort is well worth it for the time and resources it saves. Always prioritize safety when harvesting in the Plains, and consider replanting Barley seeds to maintain a steady supply. With these strategies, you can maximize your Barley yield and enhance your survival in Valheim.