The unsung hero that keeps you in the fight throughout the world of 7 Days to Die is Nitrate Powder. As the in-game description notes, it’s used as a material in all sorts of crafting, such as making gunpowder—a “high-turnover basic resource,” so to speak. It may be unglamorous, but when it runs out you can no longer make ammo or explosives, making it a crucial material.
Main Uses
Its most representative use is crafting Gun Powder. Since gunpowder is the foundation for various types of ammunition and explosives, the more a player relies on firearms, the more their demand for Nitrate Powder soars without limit. It’s also called for as a material in a number of other recipes, so it’s safe to think of it as “a resource you’ll never regret having extra of.”
How to Gather It
The basic route to obtaining Nitrate Powder is to mine and process ore-form resources. It tends to be easier to find in caves, underground, and terrain with exposed rock faces. If you want to secure a steady supply in bulk, it’s efficient to pick a mining base and dig your way through. Buying from traders to supplement your stock is another effective option.
When to Use It
Every time a horde (raid) night approaches, your ammo stockpile dwindles before your eyes. The key to stable survival is to stockpile Nitrate Powder during peacetime and process it into gunpowder→ammunition in advance. It also pairs excellently with a playstyle of setting up traps using explosives. First and foremost, don’t let it run out. That’s the first step to a comfortable 7DTD life.
*Mining locations as well as specific recipes and quantities may vary depending on the version and settings. Please also check the latest in-game information.