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What Butchering does
Meat and leather yield.
Full guide: butchering.
Butchering skill
Butchering is a farming skill in Project Zomboid, new in Build 42. Meat and leather yield. Checked for Build 42.21, November 2026.
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How to level it
Hook, head, skin and butcher carcasses.
| Level | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XP for this level | 75 | 150 | 300 | 750 | 1,500 | 3,000 | 4,500 | 6,000 | 7,500 | 9,000 |
The table shows the XP each level costs for a normal skill. See skills for multipliers.
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Skill books
| Volume | Levels | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Vol 1 | 1 to 2 | Butchering Basics |
| Vol 2 | 3 to 4 | From Chuck to Shank |
| Vol 3 | 5 to 6 | Hunter's Guide to Butchering |
| Vol 4 | 7 to 8 | Master Butcher's Complete Guide |
| Vol 5 | 9 to 10 | The Ergonomics of Tools in Meat Cutting Operations |
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Traits and occupations that start with it
| Occupation | Starting level |
|---|---|
| Rancher | +3 |
| Chef | +2 |
| Fishing Guide | +1 |
| Trait | Change |
|---|---|
| Keen Cook | +1 |
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Quick answers
What does Butchering do in Project Zomboid?
Meat and leather yield.
How do you level Butchering fast?
Hook, head, skin and butcher carcasses.
Are there skill books for Butchering?
Yes, five volumes. Volume 1 is "Butchering Basics".
Figures come from our own skills table, which lists its sources. Your game is the final word: if it disagrees with us, tell us and we will fix the page.