Mining iron ore (free-to-play)

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), mining iron ore is a classic money-making method, especially for free-to-play players. This method is not only straightforward but also allows players to easily gather resources while gaining experience points in Mining. By focusing on iron ore, players can accumulate a significant amount of gold, as iron is a sought-after resource used in crafting and smithing. On average, you can make around 20K GP per hour from mining iron ore. However, depending on your efficiency and competition, you might earn anywhere from 15K GP (low) to 30K GP (high) per hour, making it an excellent choice for players looking to boost their in-game wealth.

Mining iron ore requires minimal investment and can be done almost anywhere in the game, making it accessible to all players. As you mine, you’ll not only earn gold but also develop vital skills that can lead to more advanced money-making methods later on. This guide will explore everything you need to know about the mining process, including requirements, necessary items, quests to consider, and potential profits, ensuring you maximize your gains while enjoying the journey of becoming a successful miner in Gielinor.

Requirements

To effectively engage in money-making methods in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), players need to consider various requirements that can impact their efficiency and profitability. Below are the key requirements categorized for clarity:

• Skill Levels:
  • Many money-making methods require specific skill levels in areas such as Mining, Smithing, Fishing, or Crafting. For instance, Mining level 85 is necessary for mining rune ore, which is highly profitable.
  • Combat level can also be crucial if the method involves killing monsters or bosses. For example, a combat level of at least 70 is often recommended for slaying dragons.
• Quests:
  • Some methods may require completion of certain quests that unlock locations or skills. For example, completing the quest ‘Dragon Slayer’ is essential for wearing rune platebody and accessing higher-level dragons.
  • Other quests, like ‘The Dig Site,’ grant access to materials or locations that can significantly enhance profit margins.
• Equipment:
  • Proper equipment can drastically affect your efficiency. For instance, using the best pickaxe available for mining (like the Dragon pickaxe) can speed up ore gathering.
  • Armor and weapons suitable for combat methods, such as a whip for slaying monsters, are also critical to maximize profit.
• Items:
  • Some methods require specific items, such as food for healing during combat or potions for boosting stats (e.g., Super Strength potions for combat training).
  • Inventory management is essential, including having space for loot and materials being gathered.
• Location Accessibility:
  • Some methods require access to specific locations that may only be reachable after completing quests or having certain skills. For example, accessing the Mining Guild requires a Mining level of 60.
  • Transportation methods such as teleportation spells or items can greatly increase efficiency by minimizing travel time to lucrative spots.

In summary, understanding and preparing these requirements is crucial for optimizing your money-making strategies in OSRS. A well-rounded approach that considers skills, quests, equipment, necessary items, and location accessibility will enhance your chances of success and profitability in the game.

Required Items

To effectively engage in money-making methods in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), certain items are essential. These items can enhance your efficiency and profitability, depending on the method you choose. Here’s a detailed list of the required items:

• Pickaxe: A good pickaxe is crucial for mining ores. Higher-tier pickaxes, such as the Rune Pickaxe or Dragon Pickaxe, offer faster mining speeds. You can also use the Infernal Pickaxe for an extra experience boost and smelting ability.
• Mining Equipment: Depending on the method, consider bringing a Varrock Armor (if you’re level 1-3 Mining) to unlock the chance of double ore drops, or a Dragon Pickaxe for its special attack, which increases your mining speed temporarily.
• Food: Always carry food, such as Sharks or Brews, while mining in dangerous areas to sustain your health in case of unexpected attacks.
• Teleports: Items like Games Necklace or Amulet of Glory can save time when you need to bank your ores or escape from threats.
• Mining Potions: These potions can temporarily boost your mining level, allowing you to mine ores that you might not normally be able to access.
• Optional Gear: If you’re mining in PvP areas, consider wearing gear that can help you survive attacks, such as Rune Armor or Barrows Gear, depending on your combat level.
• Rune Essence or other Crafting Materials: If you plan to use the ores for crafting or smithing, ensure you have the necessary materials to maximize your profit.
• Mining Helmets: Such as the Miner’s Helmet or Lantern, can provide light in dark areas (e.g., the Lumbridge Swamp Mine).
• Quests Items: If your method requires specific quest items (e.g., items from Dragon Slayer for accessing certain ores), make sure to have those available.

By equipping these items, you’ll be well-prepared to maximize your efficiency and profit while mining in OSRS. Make sure to adapt your gear based on the specific method you’re using for the best results!

Required Quests

To maximize your money-making potential in OSRS through mining, you will need to complete certain quests that unlock essential features, areas, or skills. Here are the key quests required for efficient mining:

• Dragon Slayer:

  This quest is crucial as it unlocks the ability to wear the rune and dragon items, which can significantly boost your mining efficiency. Completing this quest also provides access to the Legends’ Guild, which is beneficial for various high-level mining tasks.

• Mining Guild:

  While not a traditional quest, achieving level 60 Mining will allow you to enter the Mining Guild. This area is vital for mining concentrated ores, providing a higher yield and profit potential. The guild is also a great spot for mining runite ores.

• Lost City:

  This quest is essential if you wish to access the area of Zanaris, where you can mine unique ores like the Celestial ore. Completing this quest allows for increased variety in your mining endeavors.

• The Dig Site:

  This quest allows access to the Dig Site area, where you can mine various fossils and other materials. Completing this quest will also grant experience and unlock the use of the Archaeology skill, directly impacting your mining profitability.

• Song of the Elves:

  By completing this quest, you will gain access to Prifddinas, which has several efficient mining spots, including the ability to mine concentrated gold and other high-value ores.

• Between a Rock:

  This quest unlocks access to the stone spirit and enhanced mining productivity through the use of the granite and other unique ores found in the area. It is particularly beneficial for players looking to mine granite for profit.

Completing these quests will not only enhance your mining capabilities but also provide various benefits that can significantly improve your overall profitability in OSRS.

Profit

The profit potential in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) can vary widely based on the method you choose, the current market prices, and your efficiency. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to calculate your profits and what you can expect from various money-making methods.

• Market Prices: Before diving into any money-making method, check the Grand Exchange for current prices of items you plan to gather or craft. Prices can fluctuate rapidly.
• Item Yield: Calculate how many items you can obtain per hour. For example, mining runite ore can yield around 40 ores per hour, with each ore currently selling for approximately 10,000 GP, resulting in a potential profit of 400,000 GP per hour.
• Cost of Supplies: Factor in any costs associated with your method. If you’re crafting potions, for example, consider the cost of herbs and vials. If it costs you 200,000 GP for supplies and you can sell the finished potions for 400,000 GP, then your profit is 200,000 GP.
• Time Efficiency: The time you invest directly affects your profit. Some methods may yield high returns but require significant time investments. Balancing time versus reward is crucial.
• High-Level Activities: Engaging in high-level activities like bossing or high-tier skilling can yield significant profits. For instance, killing Vorkath can bring in 1,000,000 GP per hour if you manage to secure the rare drops.

Ultimately, your profit margin will depend on your skills, the method you choose, and market dynamics. It’s wise to stay updated on trends and be flexible in your approach to maximize your earnings.

Output

The output of your money-making efforts in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) largely depends on the methods you choose, your skills, and the current market trends. Here are key aspects to consider regarding the output:

• Profit per Hour: Depending on the method used, players can expect to make anywhere from 500,000 to over 1,500,000 coins per hour. For example, methods like flipping items on the Grand Exchange can yield high profits with minimal effort, whereas gathering resources like ores or herbs may provide a steady but lower income.
• Resource Quantity: The amount of resources gathered or produced can vary greatly. For instance, mining granite can yield between 300-400 ores per hour, translating to a profit margin of around 1,000 to 1,200 coins per granite ore, depending on market conditions.
• Time Investment: The output is also influenced by how much time you’re willing to invest. Some methods may require longer sessions to gather sufficient resources to sell. For example, fishing sharks can take longer due to the wait time but yields higher profits per fish caught.
• Market Fluctuations: The OSRS economy is dynamic, and prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. Players should keep an eye on the Grand Exchange for price trends. For instance, crafting items like nature runes can be very profitable when the demand is high, but the profit margins can drop if too many players utilize this method simultaneously.
• Consistency: Some methods provide more consistent profits than others. For example, gathering resources like logs or ores often leads to a steady output, while flipping items can yield huge profits but requires a good understanding of market trends and risks.
• Skill Level Impact: Higher skill levels often lead to better output. For example, players with a higher mining level can access more profitable ores, increasing their output significantly. Similarly, higher levels in crafting can allow for the creation of more valuable items.
• Rewards Diversity: Some methods provide various outputs, such as skilling, combat drops, and quest rewards. For instance, killing high-level monsters not only provides coin drops but also valuable loot that can be sold.

Ultimately, the output from any money-making method in OSRS will depend on your approach, market awareness, and dedication to maximizing your profits.

Best Locations

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), choosing the right mining location can significantly boost your efficiency and profit. Here are some of the best mining spots based on the ores you want to mine:

• Varrock South Mine:

  This mine is great for copper and tin ores, making it ideal for beginners. It’s located just south of Varrock and has several respawning ores, allowing for continuous mining.

• Rimmington Mine:

  This location is known for its copper and tin ores as well, with the added benefit of being close to a bank in Rimmington. It’s less crowded than other locations, providing an uninterrupted mining experience.

• Al Kharid Mine:

  Located just south of Al Kharid, this mine has iron and clay ores. It’s a convenient spot for players who have completed the quest “The Dig Site” since nearby is the Dig Site and the bank in Al Kharid.

• Mining Guild:

  The Mining Guild, accessible at level 60 Mining, is the best spot for mining both coal and mithril ores. It has a bank nearby, and players can also mine rune essence here. The guild is located in the Falador area, making it easily accessible.

• Heroes’ Guild:

  If you’re looking to mine rune ores, the Heroes’ Guild is an excellent location, but only accessible for members who have completed the “Heroes’ Quest.” This area has several rune rocks, perfect for high-level miners aiming for maximum profit.

• Granite Mine:

  For those wanting to mine granite, the Granite Mine located in the desert is a top choice. With sandstone and granite rocks available, this location is ideal for high-level mining and can yield significant profits when processed into items like granite blocks.

• Coal Trucks:

  Located north of the Coal Trucks in the Feldip Hills, this area is perfect for mining coal due to the close proximity of the bank. Players can fill up their inventory and quickly deposit their coal, maximizing efficiency.

• Living Rock Cavern:

  For level 77 Mining and above, the Living Rock Cavern is a prime spot for mining living minerals, including gold and coal. The cavern has multiple mining spots and is conveniently located near a bank.

Overall, the best location for mining depends on your current Mining level and the ores you wish to collect. Always consider travel time to banks and the competition in the area for an optimal mining experience.

Mining Tips

Mining in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) can be a rewarding and efficient method to gather resources. Here are some essential tips to maximize your mining efficiency:

• Choose the Right Pickaxe: Always use the best pickaxe available to you. Higher-tier pickaxes provide faster mining speeds. For example, the Dragon Pickaxe is one of the best choices for level 61 Mining, boosting your efficiency significantly.
• Power Mining: This technique involves dropping ores instead of banking them, which can significantly speed up your mining experience. This is particularly effective in areas with a high concentration of rocks, like the Al Kharid mine.
• Use the Right Gear: Equip weight-reducing gear such as the Graceful outfit or use the Ardougne Cloak to minimize fatigue while running between mines and banks. This is especially useful for longer mining sessions.
• Mining Locations: Familiarize yourself with the best mining locations for the ores you need. For example, the Lumbridge Swamp for copper and tin, or the Mining Guild for a variety of ores including iron and coal.
• Utilize Mining Boosts: Consider using items like the Varrock Armour, which provides a chance of obtaining extra ores when mining, or the Dragon Pickaxe‘s special attack, which increases your mining speed temporarily.
• Stay Updated on Events: Participate in in-game events or promotions that may temporarily boost your mining efficiency or provide additional rewards. Always check the official OSRS website or community forums for updates.
• Join a Clan: Being part of a mining clan can provide support, tips, and camaraderie. Other players can share valuable information about mining locations and techniques.
• Watch for Respawn Rates: Understanding the respawn rates of the ores can help you plan your mining routes effectively. For instance, iron rocks respawn relatively quickly, making them ideal for continuous mining.
• Mining XP Boosts: Consider using potions like the Super Strength Potion or the Mining XP Boosts provided by various quests to enhance your experience gains temporarily.
• Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: While not directly related to in-game mechanics, taking breaks can help maintain focus and prevent burnout during long mining sessions.

By applying these tips, you can significantly improve your mining efficiency and overall experience in OSRS!

Experience Gains

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), maximizing experience gains while mining is crucial for leveling up efficiently. The experience you gain varies significantly depending on the type of ore you mine, the mining level you have, and the use of certain tools and bonuses. Here’s a breakdown:

• Ore Experience:
  • Bronze and Iron Ore: 35 experience per ore.
  • Coal: 50 experience per ore.
  • Gold Ore: 65 experience per ore.
  • Mithril Ore: 80 experience per ore.
  • Adamantite Ore: 95 experience per ore.
  • Runite Ore: 125 experience per ore.
  • Gilded Ore: 50 experience when mining in the Motherlode Mine.
• Using the Right Tools:

  Equipping a higher-tier pickaxe can significantly increase your mining efficiency. The experience gained depends on the pickaxe used:

  • Bronze/Iron Pickaxe: Base experience.
  • Steel Pickaxe: 1.5x faster mining speed.
  • Mithril Pickaxe: 1.5x faster mining speed.
  • Adamant Pickaxe: 1.5x faster mining speed.
  • Rune Pickaxe: 1.5x faster mining speed.
  • Dragon Pickaxe: 10% increased efficiency when special attack is used.
• Mining Skill Boosts:

  There are several ways to boost your mining experience:

  • Mining Potions: Temporarily increase your mining level by 3.
  • Gertrude’s Cat: Completing this quest allows you to mine faster when your cat is nearby.
  • Skilling Outfit: Wearing the full Prospector outfit grants a 2.5% experience boost.
• Experience Rates:

  The experience rates can vary significantly based on your method:

  • Mining Iron Ore: Approximately 25,000 to 50,000 experience per hour.
  • Mining Coal: Approximately 40,000 to 60,000 experience per hour.
  • Mining Gold Ore: Approximately 30,000 to 45,000 experience per hour.
  • Mining Runite Ore: Can yield anywhere from 20,000 to 30,000 experience per hour, depending on location and competition.
• Motherlode Mine:

  This method offers a unique approach to gaining mining experience:

  • Players gain experience while mining pay-dirt, which can be processed for ores.
  • Experience rates can be around 30,000 experience per hour, plus additional experience from the ores obtained.
  • Using a golden nugget to buy rewards from Prospector Percy can also enhance your mining journey.

Overall, the key to maximizing experience gains in OSRS mining lies in selecting the right ores, using the best equipment, and utilizing various boosts to enhance your skills.

Alternative Methods

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), there are several alternative methods to make money aside from the primary method you may be exploring. Here are some popular strategies:

• Flipping Items:

  Utilize the Grand Exchange to buy items at a lower price and sell them at a higher price. This can be particularly effective with high-demand items, such as potions, runes, and gear. Keep an eye on the market fluctuations using tools like the OSRS Wiki price graphs.

• Skilling:

  Engaging in various skills can yield significant profits. For example, Woodcutting high-level trees like Yews or Magic trees can provide a good profit. Similarly, Fishing high-level fish such as Sharks or Anglerfish can also be lucrative.

• Bossing:

  Participate in boss fights such as the Nightmare, Vorkath, or Zulrah. These bosses drop rare items and valuable resources that can be sold on the Grand Exchange for substantial profit.

• Collecting Resources:

  Collect resources such as Herbs, Logs, or Ore and sell them. High-level herbs like Ranarr or Torstol often sell for high prices, making herb collecting a worthwhile alternative.

• Quests for Rewards:

  Completing quests often provides valuable rewards, including cash, items, and unlockable content. For instance, the Dragon Slayer II quest grants access to valuable items and places that can be monetized.

• Trapping Chinchompas:

  Hunting red or black chinchompas in the Wilderness can yield high profits, especially for players who can safely navigate the area and avoid PvP encounters.

• Pet and Rare Item Collection:

  Collecting rare pets or items can also be profitable over time. Some players sell their rare drops or pets on the Grand Exchange for high prices, especially those that are no longer obtainable.

• High Alchemy:

  Utilizing the High Alchemy spell to convert items into coins. For instance, alching items like Dragon Scimitars can yield decent profit margins. It’s essential to have the required magic level and nature runes for this method.

Each of these methods has its advantages and can be pursued based on your skills, preferences, and game goals. Mixing and matching these strategies can lead to a diversified income and more enjoyable gameplay experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is OSRS?

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a version of the popular MMORPG RuneScape, which was released in 2013. It retains the game’s nostalgic feel and mechanics, appealing to both new players and veterans.

2. How do I make money in OSRS?

There are various methods to make money in OSRS, including skilling, flipping items in the Grand Exchange, and completing quests for rewards. Popular methods include mining, woodcutting, fishing, and combat-related activities.

3. What is the best money-making method for beginners?

For beginners, gathering resources like fish or wood can be effective. For example, fishing shrimp in Lumbridge or cutting normal trees can yield steady profits without the need for advanced skills or equipment.

4. How do I check the current prices of items?

You can check current item prices using the Grand Exchange interface in-game or through various third-party websites that track OSRS item values, such as the OSRS Wiki or GE Tracker.

5. Do I need to complete quests to unlock money-making methods?

Some money-making methods require quest completion to access certain areas or unlock specific skills. For example, the quest “Druidic Ritual” unlocks Herblore, which can be profitable through potion making.

6. Can I make money while skilling?

Yes! Many skills can be profitable while training. For example, mining ores and selling them, or crafting items like jewelry can generate income as you level up your skills.

7. What are the best locations for mining?

Some of the best mining locations include the Mining Guild for higher-level ore, the Varrock South East Mine for accessibility, and the Motherlode Mine, which offers a great balance of ores and experience.

8. How important is the Grand Exchange in making money?

The Grand Exchange is crucial for trading items quickly and efficiently. Understanding market trends and buyer/seller behavior can significantly enhance your profit-making strategies.

9. Are there any risks involved in money-making methods?

Yes, some methods involve risks, such as PvP in certain areas or fluctuating item prices in the Grand Exchange. Always consider the potential losses before engaging in high-risk activities.

10. Can I lose money in OSRS?

Yes, it’s possible to lose money, especially if you invest in items that lose value or if you engage in risky activities without proper preparation. Be smart and do your research before making any large investments.

11. What are alternative methods for making money?

Alternative methods include flipping items, participating in high-level boss fights for rare drops, or engaging in minigames like Pest Control or Barrows for rewards.