How can you use the Stonecutter to create advanced defensive structures?

The Stonecutter is a crucial tool in Valheim for creating advanced defensive structures, allowing players to craft stone walls, floors, and other durable building components. To unlock the Stonecutter, you must first defeat the first boss, Eikthyr, and obtain Hard Antlers. These are used to craft an Antler Pickaxe, which is essential for mining Stone and Tin in the Black Forest biome. Once you have gathered enough Stone, you can build a Stonecutter by placing it near a Workbench. The Stonecutter requires 10 Wood and 2 Iron, which can be smelted from Scrap Iron found in the Swamp biome.\n\nOnce the Stonecutter is built, you can start crafting stone-based defensive structures. Stone walls are significantly stronger than wooden walls, making them ideal for protecting your base from raids by enemies like Trolls or Fulings. To build stone walls, you need Stone, which is abundant in most biomes but can be gathered more efficiently in the Mountains or Plains. Stone walls can be stacked vertically to create tall barriers, and they can also be combined with wooden structures for added versatility.\n\nOne advanced defensive strategy is to create layered defenses using both stone and wood. For example, you can build an outer wall of stone to absorb heavy damage, followed by an inner wall of wood spikes or reinforced wooden walls. This dual-layer approach ensures that even if the outer wall is breached, the inner defenses can still hold. Additionally, stone floors can be used to create elevated platforms for archers, providing a tactical advantage during raids.\n\nAnother practical use of the Stonecutter is to create stone gates and doors. These are more durable than their wooden counterparts and can withstand attacks from stronger enemies. To craft a stone gate, you need 4 Stone and 2 Iron. Stone gates are particularly useful in the Plains biome, where Fuling raids are frequent and destructive. Pairing stone gates with reinforced walls can create a nearly impenetrable barrier.\n\nFor players looking to maximize their defensive capabilities, consider building a moat around your base. Use the Hoe tool to dig a trench and fill it with water or leave it empty to create a natural barrier. Combine this with stone walls and gates for a fortress-like defense. This setup is especially effective in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes, where terrain manipulation is easier.\n\nFinally, always ensure your Stonecutter is placed near a Workbench and protected from enemy attacks. If the Stonecutter is destroyed, you won''t be able to repair or build stone structures until it is rebuilt. Keep a stockpile of Stone and Iron nearby to quickly repair any damaged walls or gates during raids. By mastering the Stonecutter and combining it with strategic building techniques, you can create a base that is both functional and nearly impervious to enemy threats.