Content writer for Sparked Host

Coal, an essential resource in 7 Days to Die server hosting, can be mined from coal veins scattered throughout various biomes. These veins, similar in appearance to stone veins, are smaller and darker in color. Like other resource veins, coal veins indicate the presence of ore layers beneath them. Use tools such as axes or pickaxes to extract the material from both the vein and the deeper layers.

Additionally, you can quickly harvest coal from the Burnt Forest biome: simply use an axe to chop down the charred trees to yield both coal and wood simultaneously, or collect it directly from the smoldering piles of wood scattered across the ground.

What Is Coal Used For In 7 Days To Die?

Coal is one of the most essential resources in 7 Days to Die, especially once you advance past the early game and start relying on advanced crafting and defense.

The most critical function of coal is its role as a core component in Gunpowder. Coal is combined with Nitrate Powder to craft Gunpowder in a Chemistry Station. This recipe is the foundation for virtually all firearm ammunition in the game, from 9mm rounds to shotgun shells.

Where To Find Coal

Here is a concise list of the best places to find Coal in 7 Days to Die, ranked from most efficient to least:

  • Ore Deposits (Mining the Ore):

    • Surface Identification: Look for a large, very dark (almost black) rock on the ground.

    • On the Map: Coal appears as black dots or clusters of dots on the map. Use these to locate the vein.

    • Best Biome: Coal appears in most biomes, but is most abundant in the Snow Biome.

    • Technique: As with other minerals, chip away at the surface nodule and then dig straight down or in the direction of the vein to find a massive mine.

  • The Burnt Forest Biome:

    If you need coal quickly without digging, this biome is your best option.

    • Burnt Trees: Use your Axe to chop down dead and charred trees. These trees drop Coal as well as wood.

    • Ground Debris: You can also collect pieces of coal from the piles of ash and embers scattered across the biome's ground.

  • Looting:

    Although it is not the main source, you can obtain small amounts by looting items.

    • Ovens and Stoves: Check the inventory of kitchen stoves and barbecues (BBQs).

    • Containers: Rarely, charcoal appears as loot in general loot containers.

    • Fireplaces: In some versions of the game, dismantling fireplace blocks can provide a small amount of charcoal.

Looting Points Of Interest

Although coal is mainly obtained by mining or cutting down burned trees, there are certain Points of Interest (POIs) and containers that will give you coal as loot, which is especially useful at the beginning of the game.

Location/Container Type Description and Where to Look Carbon Level
Kitchen Stoves All ovens inside kitchens in houses and POIs. They usually contain small amounts of coal or fuel. Low/Medium
Barbecues Grills and barbecues are found in backyards or rest areas. They act as small fuel containers. Low/Medium
Fireplaces and Hearths When dismantling or breaking up brick blocks from wood-burning fireplaces inside houses. Low
Supply Crates Boxes or containers in mining camps or construction sites. They have a small chance of containing coal along with other resources. Low
Destroyable Coal Deposits Small piles of broken charcoal or burnt wood debris in the Burned Forest Biome. These are not containers, but are “looted” by chopping them. Medium
Mining/Factory POI At larger POIs such as factories or mining sites (like quarries), check all barrels and shelves, as they sometimes have bulk supplies. Low/Medium

What You Need To Mine Coal

Mining Coal in 7 Days to Die is crucial for endgame progression, but because the ore is durable and slow to extract without proper preparation, you must invest in the right tools and skills to make your coal mining operation truly efficient.

For maximum efficiency and safety in the mine:

  • Mining Helmet: Provides light while mining underground, which is essential. Some helmet mods also grant a small gathering bonus.

  • Work Gloves: Gloves with mining mods can increase damage to blocks.

  • Tool Modifications: Apply the Bunker Buster or Stone Breaker mod to your pickaxe for extra damage to rocks and minerals.

  • Coffee or Rock Busters: Consuming coffee can temporarily increase your mining speed or performance, and Rock Buster candies can improve your resource gathering.

  • Stamina: Bring plenty of food and water to maintain your stamina, as mining is one of the most stamina-consuming activities.

How To Use Coal

Coal is a powerhouse when it comes to fueling your workstations. Whether it’s your campfire, forge, or chemistry station, coal burns longer than wood, providing 100 seconds of fuel per unit compared to wood’s 50. This makes coal an essential resource for keeping your base operations running smoothly

Crafting Gunpowder

Gunpowder is a critical component for crafting ammo and explosives. Combine Coal with Nitrate Powder at a chemistry station to make your own gunpowder. This is crucial for those intense horde nights when you need all the firepower you can get.

Craft Pure Mineral Water

Coal isn’t just for fuel and crafting. It’s also used to purify murky water into Pure Mineral Water at a campfire. This purified water is not only safe to drink but also gives you the Efficient Digestion Buff, reducing your food consumption for a while.

Repair Vehicles

Need wheels for your vehicles? Coal is a key ingredient in their manufacturing recipe. With the Grease Monkey perk, you can use coal to create wheels, which are essential for building all kinds of vehicles in the game.

Conclusion

Coal is an invaluable resource in 7 Days to Die, whether you’re powering your base, crafting ammunition, or making essential tools. By knowing where to find it and how to use it effectively, you’ll be well-equipped to survive and thrive in the post-apocalyptic world. So grab your axe, get mining, and make sure you have plenty of coal in your inventory!