Minecraft Copper Update Adds Copper Golem, Tools, and Armor
Minecraft players are testing a wave of copper-related features in Bedrock beta and preview builds, with Java snapshots expected soon. The update introduces copper armor, tools, chests, and—after years of fan demand—the copper golem, marking a major expansion of the game’s material diversity.
Here’s the TL;DR...
Copper armor and tools offer durability between stone and iron, and oxidize over time.
The copper golem, originally a 2021 mob vote candidate, is now fully implemented as a helper mob.
Copper chests enable item transport via copper golems, adding a new layer of automation and inventory management.
New Copper Armor and Tools
Copper is now an official mid-tier resource for crafting gear. Players can create copper swords, pickaxes, axes, shovels, and hoes, all of which oxidize gradually to a green patina—mirroring copper’s real-world behavior. Copper armor, available as a full set, provides moderate protection and also oxidizes, offering a weathered, customizable look.
To halt or reverse oxidation, players can wax equipment using honeycombs or scrape it with an axe, a mechanic borrowed from copper blocks. Mojang has hinted that oxidized gear could gain slight defensive bonuses in future updates, encouraging players to experiment with gear conditions.
The Copper Golem: A Returning Fan Favorite
The copper golem, once a runner-up in Minecraft Live 2021’s mob vote, has finally joined the game. Although it was originally pitched as a mob that interacted with copper buttons, Mojang reworked its functionality. In the current beta, the copper golem serves as a helpful base companion, designed to move items between copper chests and regular chests.
Players can spawn a copper golem using a carved pumpkin atop a copper block. Once active, the golem will patrol nearby chests, collecting items from oxidizing copper chests and distributing them into standard storage containers. It oxidizes over time and can be scraped or waxed just like copper gear. This mechanic adds both charm and utility to a long-requested mob.
Copper Chests: Functional and Reactive
Copper chests are a new storage type that work in tandem with copper golems. Like other copper features, these chests oxidize with time. When paired with a golem, the system allows for semi-automated sorting: the golem will open a copper chest, grab whatever it can carry, and distribute the items into nearby regular chests.
Players unlock the copper chest crafting recipe after spawning their first golem, encouraging exploration of the new mechanic. This update enhances base organization and introduces lightweight automation, aimed at players who want more control over their item management without relying on redstone.
Looking Ahead
With these features currently in Bedrock beta and previews—and Java snapshots on the way—Minecraft’s copper system is evolving into a fully realized gear and automation tier. The long-awaited copper golem’s arrival signals Mojang’s willingness to revisit community feedback, while copper armor, tools, and storage bring depth to survival gameplay.
As the 2025 update cycle continues, players can expect further refinements based on beta testing. For now, copper’s glow-up is a promising sign that Minecraft’s most underused metal is finally getting its due.
News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on July 1, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.
Sources:
Mojang Studios, "A New Friend with a Familiar Patina," Minecraft.net, July 1, 2025
Minecraft Wiki, "Copper - Minecraft Wiki," 2025
Minecraft Feedback, "Copper and Iron Chests – Minecraft Feedback," n.d.
IGN, "Minecraft - Official Copper Golem, Chest, and Gear Overview Trailer," July 1, 2025