Overview
The Pickaxe is one of the two most important gathering tools in Crimson Desert, alongside the Logging Axe. It is used for breaking up hard ground or rock, with a pointed tip that shatters stone. The Pickaxe is essential for Mining ore deposits, which provide the raw materials required for Refinement upgrades on weapons, armor, and accessories. Buy this tool as early as possible.
Stats
Stat | Value |
|---|---|
Attack | 8 |
Mastery Bonus | Mining Mastery |
Yes (10 levels) | |
Sell Price | 12 copper |
How to Obtain
There are multiple ways to get a Pickaxe:
Provisioner's Shop: Buy one from the Provisioner vendor in Hernand for 31 copper coins. The shop is located across from the blacksmith.
Rhett's Request: Speak with Rhett, a blacksmith in the City of Hernand. He asks you to gather some ores and provides a Pickaxe in the process. Track this quest under Journal > Factions > Hernand Commissions.
Other vendors: Provisioner shops in other towns throughout Pywel also stock Pickaxes.
How to Mine
Equip the Pickaxe through the Equipment Wheel (hold D-Pad Left / F3 on PC). Look for ore deposits, which appear as light-blue highlighted rocks on mountain walls and cliff faces throughout Pywel. Hold the aim button until the reticle turns blue, then strike the deposit. Each node takes multiple hits to break.
Ordinary Pickaxe refinement increases Attack but does not improve mining yield or unlock rarer ore. For a dedicated mining upgrade, use the Mining Knuckledrill: its additional-ore chance rises from 10% to 30% at maximum refinement, where Mining Mastery becomes Expert Mining.
Alternative Mining Methods
Players who have progressed through the story can use the Force Palm skill to destroy ore deposits instantly, though it drains stamina and spirit resources. A unique alternative tool, the Mining Knuckle Drill, can be obtained by defeating Marni's Excavation, a hidden boss in Karin Quarry. The Knuckle Drill doubles as both a combat weapon and a mining implement with superior stats.
Refinement
The Pickaxe can be refined at any Smithy in Pywel, with 10 refinement levels. Higher refinement increases the Pickaxe's Attack value; it does not increase mining yield. Save upgrade materials for combat equipment if mining is your only reason to refine it. The Smithy in Hernand unlocks after completing Turnali's quest. Refinement requires the listed materials, with no currency fee.
Combat Notes
At Attack 8, the Pickaxe can do some chip damage if you happen to get ambushed while mining, but it is not a replacement for a real weapon. Always sheathe your weapon before switching to the Pickaxe through the Equipment Wheel, and switch back before engaging enemies.