What’s the best way to transport black metal from the Plains?

Transporting black metal from the Plains biome in Valheim can be a challenging but rewarding task. Black metal is a valuable resource used to craft high-tier weapons, armor, and tools, making it essential for late-game progression. However, the Plains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, home to deadly enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. To safely transport black metal, you’ll need to plan carefully, use the right tools, and prepare for potential threats.\n\nFirst, you’ll need to gather black metal scraps by defeating Fulings in the Plains. These enemies drop black metal scraps, which can be smelted into black metal at a blast furnace. Once you’ve collected enough scraps, you’ll need to transport them back to your base. The most efficient way to do this is by using a ship, as it allows you to carry large quantities of resources while avoiding land-based dangers. The Longship is the best option for this task due to its large storage capacity and durability.\n\nBefore setting sail, ensure you have a well-equipped Longship. To craft a Longship, you’ll need 100 iron nails, 40 fine wood, 10 deer hides, and 40 resin. Fine wood can be obtained from birch and oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, while deer hides and resin are common drops from deer and Greydwarves, respectively. Iron nails are crafted from iron bars, which are smelted from scrap iron found in the Swamp biome. Once your Longship is ready, stock it with essential supplies like food, weapons, and a portal kit for emergencies.\n\nWhen transporting black metal, it’s crucial to plan your route carefully. The Plains biome is often located far from your starting area, so you’ll need to navigate through multiple biomes to reach your destination. Use the map to chart a safe course, avoiding areas with high enemy density or harsh weather conditions. If possible, establish a small outpost near the Plains with a portal connected to your main base. This allows you to quickly return home if needed without losing your progress.\n\nWhile sailing, be prepared for encounters with sea serpents, especially in the Ocean biome. These creatures can damage your ship and pose a significant threat. To defend yourself, equip a powerful bow like the Draugr Fang and stock up on arrows. Additionally, keep an eye on your stamina and health by consuming high-quality food like cooked lox meat, serpent stew, or bread. If a sea serpent attacks, aim for its head to deal maximum damage and avoid letting it destroy your ship.\n\nOnce you’ve safely transported the black metal scraps to your base, smelt them into black metal using a blast furnace. The blast furnace requires 20 fine wood, 10 iron, 5 surtling cores, and 5 chains to craft. Chains can be obtained from Wraiths in the Swamp biome or by breaking iron gates in Sunken Crypts. With your black metal ready, you can now craft powerful gear like the Blackmetal Sword, Blackmetal Atgeir, or Blackmetal Shield to enhance your combat capabilities.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to take things slowly and avoid rushing into the Plains biome unprepared. Focus on building a strong base, upgrading your gear, and gathering resources before attempting to transport black metal. Experienced Vikings can optimize their routes by using portals strategically and setting up temporary bases near resource-rich areas. Always prioritize safety and preparation to ensure a successful journey.\n\nIn summary, transporting black metal from the Plains biome requires careful planning, the right equipment, and a well-prepared Longship. By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can safely transport this valuable resource and unlock the full potential of late-game crafting in Valheim.