What’s the most efficient way to gather wood early in the game?

Gathering wood efficiently early in Valheim is crucial for building, crafting, and surviving. The most effective way to gather wood is by using a Flint Axe, which is the first tool you can craft for chopping trees. To craft a Flint Axe, you need 4 Wood and 6 Flint. Flint can be found along riverbanks or shorelines in the Meadows biome, the starting area of the game. Once you have the Flint Axe, you’re ready to start gathering wood.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, focus on chopping down Birch and Oak trees, as they yield more wood compared to smaller trees like Beech. Birch trees are identifiable by their white bark, while Oak trees are larger and have a distinctive shape. These trees require more hits to fell, but the payoff in wood is worth the effort. Additionally, when a tree falls, it can knock down nearby trees, creating a domino effect that saves time and stamina.\n\nStamina management is key when gathering wood early in the game. Eating food like Raspberries, Mushrooms, or Cooked Meat will increase your stamina pool, allowing you to chop more trees before needing to rest. Always keep an eye on your stamina bar and avoid overexerting yourself, as running out of stamina in a dangerous area can leave you vulnerable to enemies like Greylings or Boars.\n\nAnother efficient method is to use the environment to your advantage. If you find a cluster of trees, position yourself so that when one tree falls, it knocks down others nearby. This technique, known as tree felling, can save you significant time and effort. Be cautious, though, as falling trees can damage or kill you if you’re not careful. Always step back after the final chop to avoid being crushed.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that wood is not only used for building but also for crafting essential items like the Workbench, which is required for advanced crafting. Early on, prioritize gathering enough wood to build a Workbench and a basic shelter. This will allow you to craft better tools and weapons, making wood gathering even more efficient.\n\nExperienced Vikings can take wood gathering to the next level by using the Stagbreaker, a two-handed hammer that can damage multiple trees at once. While this method is more advanced and requires Bronze to craft, it’s an excellent way to clear large areas of trees quickly. However, this strategy is best suited for mid-game players who have access to Bronze and a Forge.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to gather wood early in Valheim is to craft a Flint Axe, focus on Birch and Oak trees, manage your stamina, and use tree felling techniques. Always prioritize safety and plan your wood-gathering sessions around food buffs to maximize efficiency. As you progress, consider upgrading to better tools like the Bronze Axe or Stagbreaker for even faster wood collection.