Project Zomboid Hardware Store Locator

Hardware Store Loot: What to Prioritize

Hardware stores in Project Zomboid are goldmines for essential survival items. Here's what you should prioritize when looting:

Category	Common Items	Value/Rarity
Tools	Hammers, Saws, Screwdrivers	Common, Essential
Construction	Nails, Planks, Metal Sheets	Common, Essential
Weapons	Crowbars, Axes, Hammers	Uncommon, High Value
Specialty	Sledgehammers, Welding Torches	Rare, Very High Value

Priority Items by Game Stage

Early Game

• Hammer: Essential for barricading and construction
• Saw: Needed to create planks from logs
• Nails: Critical for most carpentry projects
• Axe: For woodcutting and combat
• Crowbar: Excellent durable weapon and useful tool

Mid Game

• Screwdrivers: Vehicle maintenance and electronics
• Wrenches: More advanced vehicle repairs
• Duct tape: Repairing damaged items
• Metalworking tools: Advanced crafting

Late Game

• Sledgehammer: Breaking walls and creating new pathways
• Welding torch: Advanced metalworking
• Large stockpiles: Preparing for long-term survival

B41 vs B42 Changes

Build 42 has altered loot distribution throughout the game. Specialty items like skill books are much rarer (dropping from 83% spawn chance to just 1.02% in bookstores). Hardware stores have become more valuable as specialized locations for finding construction-related skill books.

Carpentry has been completely reworked in B42, with building now accessed through dedicated menus rather than right-click. Dismantling no longer provides carpentry XP, and some crafts have been moved to different skills (like the new carving skill).

Hardware Store Raiding Strategy

Before You Go

• Scout the area first (binoculars if possible)
• Bring a backpack with at least 20 capacity
• Have a vehicle parked for quick loading and escape
• Clear immediate surroundings of zombies

During the Raid

• Prioritize: Nails > Tools > Weapons > Books
• Make noise outside to draw zombies away
• Use the back entrance when possible
• Check every shelf and container thoroughly
• Dismantle furniture for additional planks and nails

Using Hardware Stores as Bases

The West Point hardware store stands out as an excellent potential base location with:

• Second-level living quarters for safer sleeping
• Close proximity to gas station for fuel access
• Built-in supply of tools for initial barricading
• Commercial location with access to other valuable shops nearby

Base Setup Tips

• Secure the staircase as your first priority
• Barricade all first-floor windows thoroughly
• Consider knocking out a section of wall upstairs for rain collector placement
• Establish sheet rope escape routes for emergencies