Fortnite Covert Ops Quests: How To Earn The Free Secret Sledge Pickaxe

Fortnite players can now secure an exclusive cosmetic item through the limited-time Covert Ops event running from April 22 through May 2. The Secret Sledge harvesting tool represents a valuable addition to any player’s inventory, available completely free through completing specific mission chains.

The v20.20 update introduces this special event featuring The Origin’s covert operations, with four distinct quests becoming available sequentially. Each mission remains active for either 48 or 96 hours, creating a tight window for completion. The sequential nature means you must finish each preceding quest before accessing the next, adding strategic importance to your timing decisions.

The Origin will have a few bonus missions for players during the Covert Ops event.

Beyond the primary Secret Sledge reward, each completed quest grants 30,000 experience points, accelerating your battle pass progression significantly. This dual reward structure makes participation highly valuable for both cosmetic collectors and progression-focused players.

The Covert Ops event follows a carefully structured timeline with overlapping quest availability. Understanding this schedule is crucial for maximizing your success rate and avoiding missed opportunities.

The dates and times for each quest are as follows:

Quest 1 launches April 22 at 9 AM Eastern Time and concludes April 26 at 8:59 AM ET

Quest 2 becomes available April 26 at 9 AM ET and runs through April 28 at 8:59 AM ET

Quest 3 starts April 28 at 9 AM ET and finishes April 30 at 8:59 AM ET

For Quest 1, prioritize landing at less contested locations like Sanctuary or Sleepy Sound to establish uplinks safely. The elimination requirement becomes easier once initial objectives are secured. Quest 2’s IO Outpost locations typically see heavier traffic, so consider approaching during off-peak hours for better success rates.

Zero Build mode introduces unique challenges for these missions. Without building capabilities, positioning and movement become your primary survival tools. Use natural cover extensively and maintain high ground advantages whenever possible during uplink establishment.

The tank destruction objective in Quest 3 requires strategic vehicle management. Tanks spawn at specific locations across the map, with higher concentration near military-style POIs. Rather than engaging players directly, focus on destroying unoccupied structures and abandoned buildings to accumulate damage efficiently.

Common pitfalls include underestimating quest duration requirements and attempting multiple quests simultaneously. Since missions must be completed sequentially, failing to finish one within its timeframe locks you out of subsequent opportunities. Plan 60-90 minute sessions for each quest to ensure completion without time pressure.

For players struggling with the elimination requirements in Zero Build, consider adopting a more defensive playstyle. Camping near objective completion zones often yields better results than aggressive hunting, as other players will naturally come to you while pursuing their own missions.

Remember that these limited-time events function similarly to Battlefield 6 Assignment systems, where timing and sequence matter significantly. The experience gained can also help accelerate your progress in other areas, much like efficient weapon unlock strategies in other shooter games.

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