Bethesda's open-world RPG The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, has been around for years. Available on multiple platforms, the classic game brings in fans of all kinds for its character customization and exciting world. Part of building up a Dragonborn character involves equipping him or her with strong gear. Keep reading this guide to access the secret of mining the rare Stalhrim resource and crafting powerful equipment in Skyrim.
Of the many skill trees that can players can level up in the game, smithing can be one of the most important. It is necessary if following pro-tips for crafting the armor and weapons available in the game. The player can explore the map and find veins of different materials, like in mines or on the ground. One of these is the ore Stalhrim, which players can find in Solstheim, the location for Skyrim's Dragonborn DLC.
Like any ore throughout Skyrim, aspiring crafters will need a pickaxe to even access the materials. The thing is, a specific type of tool, the Ancient Nordic Pickaxe, is the only one that can mine Stalhrim. The Dragonborn must get this item first, and fortunately, there are a few ways. The easiest is to just purchase the unique pickaxe from Baldor Iron-Shaper of Skaal Village in Skyrim. Otherwise, complete the quest 'An Axe to Find' and purchase it from Glover Mallory in Raven Rock. The last spot is northwest of Tel Mithryn, resting near a chest or lootable from a corpse.
With the Ancient Nordic Pickaxe in hand, it is finally time to hunt down some Stalhrim veins. Of the many unmarked locations in Solstheim, there are quite a few of these outcrops. These can provide over 50 ore chunks when players mine every option. Some can be found from sarcophagi in Benkongerike Great Hall or Raven Rock Mine. Check out Bloodskal, Gyldenhul, and Kolbjorn Barrows for more pieces too. The best yield comes from a Stalhrim Source, which is found northwest of the White Ridge Barrow.
With hoards of the ore gathered, the Dragonborn can start work on learning how to craft gear of this type. Head over to Skaal Village again and take up the mission 'A New Source of Stalhrim' from Deor Woodcutter. After finishing this quest, players will learn how to create Stalhrim armor and weapons. The only downside is that it requires the Ebony Smithing perk, which opens up at level 80. So plan on leveling up fast or waiting until much later in the game before getting around to crafting this equipment. It is worth it for the Frost Enchantment buff of 25% percent, and a good long-term goal for Skyrim players.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is available on PC, PlayStation 4, Switch, and Xbox One.