Metals
Metals drive progression in Valheim. Each biome introduces new ores that can be smelted into metal bars and crafted into stronger weapons, armor, tools, and building components. Most metals cannot pass through portals, making logistics and sailing a critical part of progression.
⛏ How Metal Progression Works
1. Discover new biome 2. Mine ore deposits 3. Smelt ore into bars 4. Craft gear at the appropriate station 5. Upgrade gear for higher durability and stats
Metal tiers sharply increase power and durability.
🧱 Metal Progression by Biome
| Metal | Biome | Source | Smelting Required | Used For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| **Copper** | Black Forest | Copper deposits | Yes | Bronze crafting |
| **Tin** | Black Forest | Shoreline deposits | Yes | Bronze crafting |
| **Bronze** | Black Forest | 2 Copper + 1 Tin (crafted) | N/A (crafted alloy) | Bronze weapons & armor |
| **Iron** | Swamp | Muddy scrap piles (Crypts) | Yes | Iron gear & reinforced builds |
| **Silver** | Mountains | Buried silver veins | Yes | Silver-tier gear |
| **Blackmetal** | Plains | Fulings drop scrap | Yes (Blast Furnace) | Blackmetal weapons |
| **Flametal** | Ashlands | Volcanic deposits | Yes | Endgame weapons & armor |
🔥 Smelting & Processing
| Structure | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Charcoal Kiln | Produces coal |
| Smelter | Converts ore into bars |
| Blast Furnace | Processes Blackmetal scrap |
| Forge | Crafts most metal gear |
| Black Forge | Crafts Mistlands and Ashlands gear |
Most metal processing requires an Artisan Table at later tiers.
🚫 Portal Restrictions
Most metal ores and bars **cannot pass through portals**.
This forces players to:
- Build shipping routes
- Use Karve or Longship
- Establish forward outposts
- Plan return logistics carefully
See: Sailing
🛡 Metal & Combat Scaling
Each metal tier significantly increases:
- Weapon damage
- Armor rating
- Block power (shields)
- Tool durability
Skipping metal tiers often results in severe difficulty spikes in new biomes.
🛠 Strategy Tips
- Always over-mine your first deposit — upgrades require large quantities.
- Build smelting stations near water for easier transport.
- Use carts for land transport before unlocking ships.
- Prioritize weapon upgrades before full armor sets in many cases.
- Secure crypt entrances and mountain veins before mining.