How do I craft a chainsaw for efficient resource gathering in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Crafting a chainsaw in ARK: Survival Evolved is a significant milestone for efficient resource gathering, as it allows you to harvest large amounts of wood, thatch, and even hide quickly. However, obtaining and using a chainsaw requires preparation, resources, and knowledge of the game's mechanics. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide to help you craft and use a chainsaw effectively.

To craft a chainsaw, you must first unlock its engram. The chainsaw engram becomes available at level 55 and costs 35 engram points. Once unlocked, you will need to gather the necessary resources to craft it. The chainsaw requires 35 polymer, 50 metal ingots, 25 electronics, 15 cementing paste, and 50 hide. These materials are relatively advanced, so you will need to progress through the game to acquire them. Polymer can be obtained from killing creatures like Kairuku or by crafting it using obsidian and organic polymer. Metal ingots are smelted from metal ore in a forge, electronics are crafted using silica pearls and metal ingots, cementing paste is made from chitin or keratin and stone, and hide is gathered from killing animals.

Once you have the resources, you can craft the chainsaw at a fabricator. The fabricator is a mid-to-late-game crafting station that requires electricity to operate, so you will need a reliable power source, such as a generator, to use it. Place the required materials into the fabricator, and craft the chainsaw. It is important to note that the chainsaw requires gasoline to function, so you will need to prepare a steady supply of gasoline. Gasoline is crafted in a refining forge or industrial forge by combining oil and hide. Oil can be gathered from oil nodes in the ocean, by killing Trilobites or Basilosaurus, or by using an oil pump in certain areas.

Using the chainsaw is straightforward. Equip it in your hotbar and activate it to start harvesting resources. The chainsaw is particularly effective for gathering wood, as it yields significantly more wood per tree compared to other tools like the metal hatchet. It also provides a decent amount of thatch and hide, making it a versatile tool for resource gathering. However, the chainsaw consumes gasoline quickly, so always carry extra gasoline in your inventory to avoid running out of fuel mid-task.

One important tip is to use the chainsaw in combination with a tamed dinosaur that can carry large amounts of resources. For example, a Mammoth or a Therizinosaurus can carry vast quantities of wood, allowing you to maximize your harvesting efficiency. Additionally, consider using a weight-reducing saddle or a platform saddle with storage to further optimize your resource gathering. Another tip is to use the chainsaw in areas with dense tree populations, such as redwood forests, to maximize your yield per trip.

A common mistake players make is underestimating the amount of gasoline required to sustain the chainsaw. Always prepare more gasoline than you think you will need, as running out of fuel can leave you stranded with a heavy load of resources. Another mistake is using the chainsaw in dangerous areas without proper protection. The chainsaw is loud and can attract aggressive creatures, so always be prepared for combat or have a tamed dinosaur nearby to defend you.

For advanced players, consider using the chainsaw in combination with a Quetzal or Argentavis equipped with a platform saddle. This allows you to transport large amounts of resources quickly and safely. Additionally, using the chainsaw during events or with resource-boosting modifiers can significantly increase your yield, making it even more efficient.

In terms of tribe considerations, the chainsaw is a valuable tool for any tribe, as it can greatly speed up resource gathering for large-scale building projects. Assigning a dedicated gatherer to use the chainsaw while others focus on defense or transportation can optimize your tribeÔÇÖs efficiency. For solo players, the chainsaw is still highly useful, but you will need to manage your resources and time carefully to ensure you can sustain its use.

In summary, crafting and using a chainsaw in ARK: Survival Evolved requires preparation, resource management, and strategic planning. By unlocking the engram, gathering the necessary materials, and ensuring a steady supply of gasoline, you can greatly enhance your resource gathering efficiency. Combine the chainsaw with tamed dinosaurs and advanced strategies to maximize its potential, and always be prepared for the challenges that come with using such a powerful tool.