What’s the most efficient way to gather wood for large building projects?

Gathering wood efficiently for large building projects in Valheim requires a combination of strategy, tools, and biome knowledge. The first step is to ensure you have the right tools for the job. A Flint Axe is the earliest tool for chopping trees, but upgrading to a Bronze Axe or higher (Iron Axe, Blackmetal Axe) significantly speeds up the process. Higher-tier axes not only cut trees faster but also reduce stamina consumption, allowing you to gather more wood in less time.\n\nBiome selection is crucial for efficient wood gathering. The Meadows biome is the safest and most beginner-friendly area, filled with Beech and Fir trees. However, for larger projects, the Black Forest biome is ideal due to its abundance of Pine and Fir trees, which yield more wood per tree. Be cautious of Greydwarfs and Trolls in the Black Forest, as they can interrupt your gathering. Bringing a weapon and shield, or traveling with a friend, can help mitigate these threats.\n\nTo maximize efficiency, focus on creating a logging area. Clear a large section of trees in one location, as this allows you to gather wood without constantly moving. Trees can be felled in a way that causes them to knock over other trees, creating a domino effect. Aim your swings so that falling trees hit nearby ones, saving time and effort. Additionally, use the Stagbreaker or Atgeir''s secondary attack to clear small trees and saplings quickly.\n\nStamina management is key to sustained wood gathering. Bring plenty of food that boosts stamina, such as Cooked Meat, Carrot Soup, or Queens Jam. These items ensure you can chop trees continuously without frequent breaks. If you''re working in a dangerous biome like the Black Forest, consider setting up a small outpost with a campfire and workbench nearby. This allows you to repair your tools and rest to regain stamina without traveling far.\n\nFor advanced players, the Plains biome offers Birch and Oak trees, which provide significantly more wood per tree. However, the Plains are home to dangerous enemies like Fulings and Deathsquitos, so only venture here if you''re well-equipped with strong armor and weapons. Using a Lox to trample trees in the Plains can also be an effective, albeit risky, method for gathering large amounts of wood quickly.\n\nFinally, consider using a Cart or Longship to transport large quantities of wood back to your base. A Cart can be pulled over land, while a Longship is ideal for coastal or river-based logging operations. Both options save time compared to making multiple trips on foot. If you''re working on a massive project, such as a castle or fortress, consider setting up a temporary base near your logging site to minimize travel time.\n\nIn summary, efficient wood gathering in Valheim involves using the right tools, selecting the best biome, managing stamina, and optimizing transportation. By following these steps, you can gather the wood needed for even the largest building projects with minimal hassle.