Clear a 3×3 tunnel through stone quickly

Switch to tunnel mining mode

Press O to open settings. Select the 3×3 forward tunnel mode from the mining modes list. This mode digs a three-by-three hallway in the direction you're facing.

Equip a pickaxe

Hold a pickaxe and aim at the stone block directly in front of you at eye level.

Preview the tunnel shape

The outline preview shows the 3×3 area that will break when you swing. The tunnel extends forward from your position.

Break and advance

Swing once. The mod breaks all nine blocks in the 3×3 section in waves. Dropped stone and any ores fall toward you automatically.

Repeat to extend

Walk forward into the cleared space, aim at the next stone block ahead, and swing again. Each swing carves out another 3×3 section forward.

Watch your tool

Tunnel mode breaks many blocks per swing, so durability depletes faster. The tool break protection will stop you before breakage, but monitor your tool's durability bar to avoid running out mid-tunnel.