What are the best weapons for fighting Drakes in the Mountains?

Fighting Drakes in the Mountains biome of Valheim can be challenging, especially for new players, but with the right weapons and strategies, you can turn the tide in your favor. Drakes are flying ice creatures that deal frost damage and can be particularly dangerous if you''re unprepared. To effectively combat them, you need weapons that can deal significant damage while also allowing you to maintain mobility and safety.\n\nOne of the best weapons for fighting Drakes is the Huntsman Bow. This bow is crafted using Fine Wood, Deer Hide, and Iron, making it a mid-to-late-game weapon. The Huntsman Bow excels due to its high damage output and accuracy, allowing you to take down Drakes from a distance before they can close in. Pair this bow with Frost Arrows, which are crafted using Wood, Feathers, and Obsidian, to deal extra frost damage and slow down the Drakes'' movements. This combination is particularly effective because it allows you to maintain a safe distance while dealing consistent damage.\n\nAnother excellent option is the Draugr Fang, a powerful bow that deals poison damage in addition to its base damage. This bow is crafted using Ancient Bark, Silver, Guck, and Deer Hide. The Draugr Fang is ideal for players who have progressed further into the game and have access to Silver, which is found in the Mountains biome. The poison damage over time can whittle down a Drake''s health even if you miss a few shots, making it a reliable choice for prolonged fights.\n\nFor melee-focused players, the Silver Sword is a strong contender. Crafted using Silver, Iron, and Wood, this weapon deals significant damage to Drakes and other creatures weak to silver. The Silver Sword is particularly effective if you can close the distance quickly, but be cautious of the Drakes'' frost breath attack, which can slow you down and leave you vulnerable. To mitigate this, consider equipping Frost Resistance Mead, crafted using Honey, Thistle, Bloodbag, and Greydwarf Eye, to reduce the frost damage and slow effect.\n\nIf you prefer a more defensive approach, the Iron Atgeir is a great choice. This polearm weapon allows you to keep Drakes at bay with its long reach and sweeping attacks. The secondary attack of the Iron Atgeir is a spin attack that can hit multiple enemies, making it useful if you''re dealing with multiple Drakes or other Mountain creatures like Wolves. Crafting the Iron Atgeir requires Iron, Wood, and Leather Scraps, making it accessible once you''ve established a foothold in the Swamp biome.\n\nWhen fighting Drakes, positioning is key. Always try to fight them on high ground or near cover to avoid their frost breath attacks. If you''re in an open area, use trees or rocks to block their line of sight and force them to land. Drakes are less dangerous on the ground, as their melee attacks are weaker compared to their frost breath. Additionally, always keep an eye on your stamina, as running out of stamina in the Mountains can be deadly, especially with the cold debuff reducing your health regeneration.\n\nFinally, don''t forget to bring healing items like Cooked Meat or Health Mead to sustain yourself during prolonged fights. Drakes can be tough opponents, but with the right preparation and strategy, you can emerge victorious. Always scout the area before engaging to avoid being overwhelmed by multiple enemies, and consider bringing a shield to block their frost breath if you''re using a melee weapon.\n\nIn summary, the best weapons for fighting Drakes in the Mountains are the Huntsman Bow with Frost Arrows, the Draugr Fang, the Silver Sword, and the Iron Atgeir. Each weapon has its strengths, so choose based on your playstyle and progression level. Pair your weapon of choice with Frost Resistance Mead, healing items, and smart positioning to maximize your chances of success.