> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://evergem-io.gitbook.io/evergem/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://evergem-io.gitbook.io/evergem/chapter-1-the-last-worker/general-gameplay/mining-with-pickaxes.md).

# Mining with pickaxes

There are 8 pickaxe levels in total, each with a different reward mining rate and lifespan. You will get a free Level-1 pickaxe when you join the game and collect airdrop, so that you can start mining HPE without spending any money. It’s a rather basic tool, more like Stone Age technology, but it does the job: you’ll earn free tokens. 

<figure><img src="https://783981806-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FyUt20Vo6BVuSSa1duhMu%2Fuploads%2FLN6y7lDuYrbPg5gCiktB%2FFrame%209118887.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=33d0cf0d-e553-4a49-96ba-550012b7a6c1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

You can have as many pickaxes as you like, including several of the same level. You can either wait to accumulate enough $HPE rewards to craft new picks or buy tools instantly in the marketplace.

A free Level-1 pick can keep the duration of the promo, but there is a limit on how many mined $HPE it can hold at the same time. The reservoir is filled in 5 minutes, and then mining stops. You’ll need to click on Harvest to move the rewards to the balance and continue mining until the pickaxe expires. The maximum daily reward for Level-1 picks is calculated based on the assumption that you will harvest rewards every 5 minutes.

All other levels of pickaxes, you’ll see a Total Mined indicator as a share of the maximum number of HPE it can produce over the course of its lifespan. A special feature to fix (rejuvenate) expired picks for $HPE will be introduced later. For more info, see the FAQ on the pickaxe page.