Understanding Drake Bones in OSRS: Why They’re Not Worth Buying

Understanding Drake Bones in OSRS: Why They’re Not Worth Buying


Drake Bones are a type of item in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) that players can obtain by defeating drakes. While they may seem appealing due to their potential use in training Prayer, a closer examination reveals that purchasing them from the Grand Exchange may not be the best investment for players. This article will explore what Drake Bones are, their uses, and the reasons why buying them might not be worthwhile.

Drake Bones are the remains of drakes, which are medium-level monsters found in various locations throughout Gielinor, such as the Karuulm Slayer Dungeon and the Taverley Dungeon. When players defeat a drake, they have a chance to receive Drake Bones as a drop, alongside other items such as drake hides and various types of raw fish. These bones are recognized for their use in the Prayer skill, providing 15 Prayer experience when buried or offered on an altar.

Despite their utility in training Prayer, the market value of Drake Bones is influenced by various factors. Players often compare them to other bones, such as Dragon Bones or Superior Dragon Bones, which offer higher Prayer experience and are more sought after. The experience gained from Drake Bones is considerably less, making them a less attractive option for players focused on efficiently training their Prayer skill.

Moreover, the drop rate of Drake Bones and the frequency of drake encounters can affect their availability and price in the Grand Exchange. Since drakes are not as commonly hunted as other monsters, the supply of Drake Bones is limited, which can lead to inflated prices. However, players can obtain Drake Bones relatively easily through Slayer tasks, which means many players are likely to have a stockpile of these bones from their own gameplay.

In conclusion, while Drake Bones have their place in OSRS as a source of Prayer experience, the comparatively low experience gained, along with the fluctuating market prices, make buying them from the Grand Exchange a less favorable option. Players seeking to maximize their Prayer training efficiency would be better off focusing on higher-value bones or hunting drakes themselves to obtain the bones at no additional cost.

The Rarity of Drake Bones

Drake Bones are a unique drop in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), obtained from killing Drakes, which are medium-level monsters located primarily in the Karuulm Slayer Dungeon. When you defeat a Drake, you have a chance to receive these bones, but the drop rate isn’t particularly high. This rarity is what sparks curiosity among players, leading many to wonder if they should invest in these bones.

To understand how rare Drake Bones are, let’s look at some key points:

  • Drop Rate: The drop rate for Drake Bones is around 50%, meaning you’ll get them nearly half the time you defeat a Drake.
  • Competition: Since Drakes are a popular Slayer task, many players are after the same bones, which can make obtaining them feel like a grind.
  • Alternative Drops: In addition to bones, Drakes also drop other items, such as Drake’s Tooth and various rare resources, which can distract from the focus on bones.

While the bones are not the rarest item in the game, their limited availability and the effort required to farm them can make players hesitant to invest heavily in them. Instead, many players prioritize more accessible and rewarding items that can enhance their gameplay experience.

Why Players Avoid Buying Drake Bones

Despite their unique attributes, many players choose to avoid buying Drake Bones for several reasons. Understanding these motivations can help clarify why they aren’t considered a valuable investment.

Here are some of the primary reasons:

  • Low Alch Value: Drake Bones have a low alchemical value, which means they don’t bring in much profit when turned into coins.
  • Cost vs. Benefit: Players often find that the cost of purchasing Drake Bones outweighs the benefits they provide, especially regarding Prayer training.
  • Better Alternatives: There are many other bones available in the game, such as Dragon Bones or Superior Dragon Bones, that offer better experience gains for training Prayer.
  • Market Fluctuations: The price of Drake Bones can be volatile, leading players to hesitate in making purchases that may not yield a good return.

Ultimately, while Drake Bones have their place in the game, players often opt for more efficient and rewarding options. This trend illustrates a broader principle in OSRS: always evaluating the cost-to-benefit ratio before making purchases.

Alternative Methods for Obtaining Drake Bones

If you’re on the hunt for Drake Bones in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), it’s essential to know that there are various methods to obtain them without shelling out your hard-earned gold. Here are some effective alternatives:

  • Killing Drakes: The most straightforward way is to simply slay Drakes themselves. They can be found in various locations, including the *TzHaar Fight Cave and the Catacombs of Kourend. Make sure to prepare adequately with good gear and supplies.
  • Using Slayer Tasks: If you have a Slayer level of 65 or higher, you can get Drake tasks from certain Slayer masters. Completing these tasks will yield Drake Bones as a drop.
  • Utilizing the Bonecrusher*: If you have a Bonecrusher, you can convert bones into Prayer experience automatically upon killing a Drake. This lets you farm the bones while gaining Prayer experience simultaneously.
  • Joining a Group: Teaming up with friends or clanmates can make the process more efficient. Group kills can lead to more bones dropped in a shorter time.

Overall, these methods not only save you gold but also offer a chance to gain experience in combat and other skills. It’s a win-win!

Comparing Drake Bones to Other Bone Types

When considering bones in OSRS, it’s crucial to understand how Drake Bones stack up against other types. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Bone Type Experience (Prayer) Market Price (approx.) Best Use
Drake Bones 150 Low (varies) Basic Prayer training
Dragon Bones 250 High Fast Prayer training
Wyvern Bones 205 Moderate Good for mid-level Prayer training
Big Bones 125 Low Basic Prayer training

As you can see, while Drake Bones provide a decent amount of Prayer experience, they fall short compared to Dragon Bones and Wyvern Bones in both experience and market value. When you consider their low price and moderate experience yield, it becomes clear why investing in Drake Bones may not be the best choice for serious players.

7. Tips for Efficient Training with Bones

Training with bones in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) can be a tedious task, especially if you’re aiming to maximize your experience gains. Here are some practical tips to make your training more efficient:

  • Choose the Right Bones: Not all bones are created equal. While Dragon bones give the best experience, they can be expensive. Consider using Big bones or Regular bones for a cost-effective training method.
  • Use a Gilded Altar: If you have access to one, using a gilded altar with burners lit can significantly boost your experience per bone. It’s worth the investment!
  • Join a Clan: Many clans often have members with altars available. Joining one can provide you access to altars without the cost of building your own.
  • Utilize Prayer Bonuses: Equip items that provide prayer bonuses, such as the God books or the Amulet of the damned. This helps in keeping your prayer points up longer.
  • Plan Your Inventory: Bring only the bones you intend to use. This saves space and reduces the need for constant banking.

By implementing these tips, you can ensure your bone training is as efficient as possible, allowing you to reach your prayer goals without breaking the bank.

8. Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions in OSRS

In OSRS, the landscape of training and item purchasing can often feel overwhelming, especially with the plethora of options available. When it comes to Drake bones, understanding their value—or lack thereof—is crucial for making informed decisions.

Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Cost vs. Benefit: Always weigh the cost of an item against its benefits. Drake bones may seem appealing but often do not provide a good return on investment.
  • Market Trends: Keep an eye on the Grand Exchange and be aware of market fluctuations. Prices can change rapidly, and what seems unwise today may change tomorrow.
  • Training Alternatives: Explore other training methods and materials that may provide better experience rates at a lower cost.
  • Community Insights: Engage with the OSRS community. Forums, Discord servers, and guides can offer invaluable advice and perspectives on item value and training efficiency.

In conclusion, while Drake bones might catch your eye, taking the time to research and consider your options will pay off in the long run. Happy scaping!