What is the purpose of the adze in workbench upgrades?

The adze is a crucial tool in Valheim for upgrading your workbench, which is essential for crafting higher-tier items and progressing through the game. The adze itself is not a standalone tool but rather a component of the workbench upgrades. Specifically, it is part of the workbench extension called the ''Chopping Block,'' which is one of the first upgrades you can make to your workbench. The Chopping Block allows you to craft more advanced tools and weapons, such as the bronze axe, which is necessary for gathering fine wood and other resources.\n\nTo craft the Chopping Block, you need to gather specific materials: 10 wood and 10 flint. Wood is easily obtained by chopping down trees in the Meadows biome, while flint can be found along the shores of rivers and lakes in the same biome. Once you have the required materials, approach your workbench and open the crafting menu. Under the ''Crafting'' tab, you will find the Chopping Block recipe. Craft it and place it near your workbench to activate the upgrade.\n\nUpgrading your workbench with the Chopping Block not only unlocks new crafting recipes but also increases the workbench''s level. A higher-level workbench is necessary for crafting more advanced items, such as bronze tools and weapons. For example, without the Chopping Block, you cannot craft the bronze axe, which is essential for harvesting fine wood from birch and oak trees in the Meadows biome. Fine wood is a key resource for crafting higher-tier items like the finewood bow and the fermenter.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating flint for the Chopping Block. Flint is found near water sources, so it''s important to explore the edges of rivers and lakes in the Meadows biome. If you''re having trouble finding flint, consider expanding your exploration area or revisiting previously explored locations, as flint respawns over time. Additionally, using a bronze pickaxe can help you gather flint more efficiently once you''ve progressed to that stage.\n\nAnother practical tip is to ensure your workbench is well-protected. Since the Chopping Block is placed near the workbench, it can be destroyed by enemies or environmental hazards. Building a small shelter or enclosing your workbench area with walls and a roof can prevent damage and ensure your upgrades remain intact. This is especially important in biomes like the Black Forest, where hostile creatures are more common.\n\nIn summary, the adze, as part of the Chopping Block, is vital for upgrading your workbench and unlocking advanced crafting recipes. Gathering the necessary materials and protecting your workbench are key steps in ensuring a smooth progression through the game. By following these steps and tips, you can efficiently upgrade your workbench and craft the tools and weapons needed to thrive in Valheim.