How much black metal is needed to craft and upgrade a black metal shield?

Crafting and upgrading a black metal shield in Valheim requires careful planning and resource gathering. Black metal shields are among the best defensive tools in the game, offering high durability and excellent blocking power. To craft and fully upgrade a black metal shield, you will need a total of 30 black metal, 10 fine wood, and 4 chains. These resources are essential for both crafting the base shield and upgrading it to its maximum level.\n\nFirst, let''s break down the requirements for crafting the black metal shield. The base shield, known as the Black Metal Shield, requires 10 black metal, 4 fine wood, and 2 chains. Black metal is obtained by defeating Fulings in the Plains biome, while fine wood is gathered from birch and oak trees in the Meadows or Plains. Chains are a rarer resource, typically found in chests within Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome or dropped by Wraiths. Once you have these materials, you can craft the shield at a level 3 or higher Forge.\n\nUpgrading the Black Metal Shield requires additional resources. Each upgrade level increases the shield''s durability and blocking power, making it more effective in combat. To fully upgrade the shield to level 4, you will need an additional 20 black metal, 6 fine wood, and 2 chains. This means you must gather a total of 30 black metal, 10 fine wood, and 4 chains to craft and fully upgrade the shield. Plan your resource gathering accordingly, as black metal and chains can be time-consuming to acquire.\n\nTo efficiently gather black metal, focus on exploring the Plains biome. Fulings are the primary source of black metal, and they often travel in groups, so be prepared for challenging combat. Equip yourself with strong weapons and armor, such as padded armor or silver-tier gear, to handle these enemies effectively. Fine wood is easier to obtain, but ensure you have a bronze or better axe to chop down birch and oak trees. Chains, however, require venturing into the Swamp biome. Sunken Crypts are the best source, but they are guarded by Draugr and other dangerous creatures. Bring poison resistance mead and a strong weapon to clear these areas safely.\n\nOne common challenge players face is the scarcity of chains. If you''re struggling to find chains, consider farming Wraiths at night in the Swamp biome. Wraiths have a chance to drop chains, though the drop rate is low. Alternatively, you can explore multiple Sunken Crypts to increase your chances of finding chains in chests. Patience and persistence are key when gathering these resources.\n\nOnce you have all the necessary materials, head to your Forge to craft and upgrade the shield. Ensure your Forge is upgraded to at least level 3, as this is required for crafting black metal items. Place the materials in the Forge''s inventory and select the Black Metal Shield to craft it. After crafting, you can upgrade the shield by selecting the upgrade option at the Forge and providing the additional resources. Each upgrade level will improve the shield''s stats, making it a valuable asset in combat.\n\nIn summary, crafting and fully upgrading a black metal shield in Valheim requires 30 black metal, 10 fine wood, and 4 chains. Focus on gathering these resources by exploring the Plains and Swamp biomes, and prepare for challenging combat encounters. With patience and preparation, you can create one of the best shields in the game to protect yourself during your Viking adventures.