What are the best tools for mining black metal in the Plains?

Mining black metal in the Plains biome of Valheim requires preparation, the right tools, and an understanding of the game mechanics. Black metal is a late-game resource used to craft powerful weapons, armor, and tools, but it can only be obtained from Fuling enemies or their camps. To efficiently gather black metal, you need to focus on combat readiness and resource extraction tools.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the proper gear to survive in the Plains. This biome is home to dangerous enemies like Fulings, Deathsquitos, and Lox. Equip yourself with padded armor or better, as it provides excellent defense against physical attacks. A strong shield, such as the black metal shield, is essential for blocking Fuling attacks. Additionally, bring a powerful weapon like the black metal axe or sword to deal with enemies quickly. Always carry healing meads and stamina meads to sustain yourself during combat.\n\nTo mine black metal, you don’t actually mine it directly like other ores. Instead, you must defeat Fulings, which drop black metal scraps. These scraps can then be smelted into black metal at a blast furnace. The blast furnace requires a crafting station upgrade and specific materials: stone, iron, and surtling cores. Ensure you have a blast furnace set up at your base before venturing into the Plains to maximize efficiency.\n\nWhen exploring the Plains, focus on locating Fuling villages or camps. These areas are densely populated with Fulings and often contain black metal scraps in chests. Approach cautiously, as Fulings are aggressive and can overwhelm you if unprepared. Use terrain to your advantage, such as high ground or natural barriers, to funnel enemies and avoid being surrounded. If you encounter a Fuling Berserker or Shaman, prioritize eliminating them first due to their high damage output and support abilities.\n\nOnce you’ve collected black metal scraps, return to your base and smelt them in the blast furnace. Each black metal scrap yields one black metal bar, which is used for crafting. Keep in mind that black metal cannot be teleported, so plan your trips carefully to avoid unnecessary backtracking. If you’re playing with friends, coordinate to carry as many scraps as possible in a single trip.\n\nA common challenge is dealing with Deathsquitos while mining black metal. These fast, deadly enemies can one-shot unprepared players. Always keep your shield raised when moving through open areas, and listen for their distinctive buzzing sound. A bow with needle arrows is an effective way to take them down from a distance. Additionally, avoid traveling at night, as Fulings and other enemies become more aggressive and harder to manage.\n\nFor new players, it’s crucial to progress through the game’s biomes in order. The Plains is a high-level area, and attempting to gather black metal without proper gear will result in frequent deaths. Focus on upgrading your gear and crafting stations in earlier biomes like the Swamp and Mountains before tackling the Plains. Experienced Vikings can optimize their black metal farming by setting up a small outpost near a Fuling camp, complete with a portal for quick escapes and resource transport.\n\nIn summary, the best tools for mining black metal in the Plains are combat-focused: strong armor, a reliable shield, and powerful weapons. Use the blast furnace to smelt black metal scraps into bars, and always be prepared for the biome’s dangers. With careful planning and execution, you’ll gather plenty of black metal to craft top-tier gear and dominate Valheim’s challenges.