What Are the Best Ranged Weapons in Old School RuneScape?
Ranged combat in Old School RuneScape is a feared combat style, capable of taking down even the toughest foes. From longbows to crossbows and throwing axes, there are certain ranged weapons that have become renowned in the game’s PvP history for their overpowered nature. In this article, we will explore some of the best ranged weapons in Old School RuneScape, including their stats, usage requirements, and how to obtain them for Ironman accounts.
Best Ranged Weapons for PvM
These ranged weapons are ideal for regular combat, slayer tasks, and boss fights.
1. Twisted Bow
The Twisted Bow is undoubtedly the most powerful ranged weapon in the game. With a remarkable +70 Ranged Attack and +20 Ranged Strength, it delivers high DPS against even the toughest bosses. It requires a Ranged level of 85 to equip. The Twisted Bow has a unique passive ability that increases its Attack and Strength bonuses based on the target’s Magic level. Acquiring this bow is no easy feat, as it is highly coveted and valued at around 1.4b gp on the Grand Exchange. It can be obtained through a rare drop in the Chambers of Xeric.
2. Armadyl Crossbow
The Armadyl Crossbow is a popular choice among high-level players for boss fights. Requiring a Ranged level of 70, it offers a +100 Ranged Attack bonus, surpassing even the Twisted Bow. Additionally, it allows players to equip a shield for added defense. The Armadyl Crossbow’s special attack doubles accuracy and the chance to activate an enchanted bolt’s effect on the next shot. It can be obtained as a drop from Commander Zilyana or purchased from the Grand Exchange for around 50m.
3. Zaryte Crossbow
For those seeking an upgrade from the Armadyl Crossbow, the Zaryte Crossbow is the ideal choice. It requires a Ranged level of 80 and offers an impressive +110 Ranged Attack bonus, as well as a Defense Bonus across all combat styles. In addition, both the Armadyl Crossbow and Zaryte Crossbow provide a +1 Prayer bonus, making them unique in the ranged weapon category. The Zaryte Crossbow’s special attack guarantees activation of the equipped enchanted bolt’s effect. It can be obtained through a drop from Nex or purchased from the Grand Exchange for around 410m.
4. Toxic Blowpipe
The Toxic Blowpipe is a versatile option for players seeking consistent Ranged DPS. Requiring a Ranged level of 75, it offers a +30 Ranged Attack and +20 Range Strength bonus. It can be loaded with various darts to suit different monster encounters, allowing players to be cost-efficient. The Toxic Blowpipe has a 25% chance to venom opponents and boasts a high attack speed, making it ideal for speeding up slayer tasks. Its special attack heals the player for half the damage dealt in the next shot, eliminating the need for food in some cases. It can be purchased from the Grand Exchange for around 1.8m or crafted using a Tanzanite fang obtained from Zulrah.
Best Ranged Weapons for PvP
These ranged weapons are commonly used in PvP scenarios.
1. Heavy Ballista
Players who have completed the Monkey Madness II quest can wield the Heavy Ballista. Requiring a Ranged level of 75, it offers a +125 Ranged Attack and +15 Ranged Strength bonus. Although it has a slow attack speed, the Heavy Ballista’s special attack grants an additional 25% attack and strength bonus on the next shot. It uses javelins as ammunition, delivering high damage with Dragon or Rune javelins. The Heavy Ballista can be purchased from the Grand Exchange or crafted with the components obtained from Demonic gorillas.
2. Dark Bow
The Dark Bow is a legendary weapon in RuneScape’s history, widely favored in PvP encounters. Requiring a Ranged level of 60, it offers a +95 Ranged Attack bonus. Its special attack fires two arrows, dealing up to 30% extra damage. When used with Dragon arrows, it can deal up to 50% more damage per arrow, with a maximum hit of 48 damage per arrow. The Dark Bow can be purchased from the Grand Exchange or obtained as a drop from Dark Beasts.
Best Ranged Weapons for Special Cases
These ranged weapons excel in specific scenarios but may not perform as well in regular content.
1. Bow of Faerdhinen
Known as the “Bowfa” in the RuneScape community, the Bow of Faerdhinen is a powerful bow obtained from Prifddinas. Requiring a Ranged level of 80 and an Agility level of 70, it offers a +128 Ranged Attack and +106 Ranged Strength bonus. When used with full Crystal armor, it receives additional Attack and Damage bonuses based on the number of worn pieces, resulting in a 30% Range Attack and 15% Range Damage bonus. The bow does not require arrows, as it generates its own charges. However, it is mainly effective in specific scenarios and encounters.