How do you calculate the durability loss of a fully upgraded iron pickaxe?

In Valheim, the durability of tools like the iron pickaxe is a critical factor in your survival and progression. Durability loss occurs every time you use the tool, and understanding how to calculate it can help you plan your resource gathering and crafting more efficiently. A fully upgraded iron pickaxe has a base durability of 175, which can be increased to 200 with upgrades. Each use of the pickaxe reduces its durability by 1 point, regardless of the material being mined or the biome you are in.\n\nTo calculate the durability loss of a fully upgraded iron pickaxe, you need to consider its total durability and the number of uses before it breaks. For example, a fully upgraded iron pickaxe with 200 durability will last for exactly 200 uses before it needs to be repaired. This calculation is straightforward: total durability divided by durability loss per use equals the number of uses. In this case, 200 / 1 = 200 uses.\n\nHowever, durability loss can be influenced by other factors, such as the type of material being mined. While the durability loss per use remains constant, harder materials like silver or obsidian require more hits to break, meaning you will use the pickaxe more frequently in a shorter period. For example, mining silver in the Mountain biome might require 5-6 hits per node, which means you will lose 5-6 durability points per node mined. This can significantly reduce the overall lifespan of your pickaxe if you are not prepared.\n\nTo mitigate durability loss, always carry a backup pickaxe or repair your tools at a workbench whenever possible. Repairing is free and restores the tool to full durability, so it is a cost-effective way to extend the life of your iron pickaxe. Additionally, consider using the Eikthyr power, which reduces stamina consumption, allowing you to mine more efficiently and reduce the number of swings needed per node.\n\nFor new players, it is important to prioritize upgrading your tools as soon as possible. The iron pickaxe is crafted at a forge using 20 iron and 3 core wood, and it can be upgraded up to level 4 using additional iron and leather scraps. Each upgrade increases its durability and mining efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment. Experienced Vikings should also consider using the Elder power, which increases damage to trees and mining nodes, further reducing the number of swings required.\n\nIn summary, calculating the durability loss of a fully upgraded iron pickaxe is simple: 200 uses before it breaks. However, practical gameplay factors like biome difficulty and material hardness can influence how quickly durability is lost. Always repair your tools, carry backups, and use powers like Eikthyr or Elder to maximize efficiency. By following these tips, you can ensure your iron pickaxe remains a reliable tool throughout your Valheim adventures.