
Essential Guide: Obtaining High Quality Metal in Rust
High Quality Metal (HQM) is a crucial resource in Rust used for crafting advanced weapons, tools, armor, and upgrading base structures. Here's how to obtain it efficiently:
Primary Methods to Acquire HQM
- Mining Metal Nodes
- Look for gray-colored metal rocks in mountainous regions
- Use Pickaxe or Jackhammer for maximum efficiency
- Each node yields metal ore, stone, and small amounts of HQM ore
- Recycling Components
- Visit monuments with recyclers (Outpost, Airfield, Launch Site)
- Common component yields:
- Rifle Body: 10 HQM
- SMG Body: 8 HQM
- Tech Trash: 20 HQM
- Monument Looting
- Target high-tier monuments (Launch Site, Military Tunnels, Oil Rigs)
- Search for Elite crates containing recyclable components
- Be prepared for PvP encounters
- Smelting Metal Ore
- Process HQM ore in furnaces (regular, large, or industrial)
- Combine with wood or low-grade fuel for efficient smelting
- Raiding and PvP
- Raid bases for stored HQM
- Collect valuable components from defeated players
Optimization Tips
- Efficient Recycling
- Plan large recycling runs to minimize risk
- Use safe locations like Outpost for recycling
- Base Security
- Store HQM in secure, upgraded rooms
- Use multiple layers of protection
- Resource Gathering
- Focus on high-yield areas
- Use vehicles for quick transportation
- Team up for better efficiency and protection
- Trading
- Exchange scrap for HQM at Outpost when needed
- Consider trading with other players
Common Challenges
- Contest at Monuments: Always bring weapons and medical supplies
- Resource Scarcity: Explore less-populated areas
- Base Protection: Implement proper defenses and traps
With these methods and tips, you can maintain a steady supply of High Quality Metal for your advanced crafting and base-building needs in Rust.

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