OSRS Iron Dragons Task Guide: Best Strategies and Tips for Success

OSRS Iron Dragons Task Guide: Best Strategies and Tips for Success


Iron Dragons in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) are a thrilling yet challenging Slayer task that many players encounter on their journey. As one of the six metal dragons, they offer decent rewards and experience, making them a popular choice for mid-to-high-level players. Whether you’re an Ironman or a regular account, tackling an Iron Dragons task requires preparation, strategy, and the right gear. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to conquer this task efficiently, from locations and gear setups to combat tips and loot potential. Let’s dive in and make your next Iron Dragons Slayer task a breeze!

Iron Dragons are the second weakest of the metal dragon family in OSRS, sitting at a combat level of 189 (or 215 in the Catacombs of Kourend). Despite their “weaker” status among metal dragons, they pack a punch with their dragonfire attacks and melee slashes, making them a formidable foe if you’re unprepared. Assigned by Slayer masters like Nieve, Duradel, or Konar quo Maten, this task is a staple for players looking to level Slayer while earning some valuable drops.

What Makes Iron Dragons Unique?

Unlike standard Slayer monsters, Iron Dragons have a signature dragonfire attack that can hit hard without proper protection. Their melee attack, a slashing strike, also demands respect with a max hit of 17. This dual-threat nature means you’ll need to gear up for both magical and physical defense, setting them apart from simpler foes like Blue Dragons or Greater Demons.

Why Take on an Iron Dragons Task?

For many players, Iron Dragons are worth the effort due to their drops, including dragon bones, iron bars, and rare chances at items like the Dragon Plateskirt or Platelegs. They’re also a decent source of Slayer XP, though they’re slower to kill compared to weaker monsters, offering a balanced challenge for those in the 70-90 Slayer range.

Best Locations for Iron Dragons Slayer Task

Location is key when planning your Iron Dragons task. OSRS offers several spots where these metallic beasts spawn, each with its own pros and cons. Choosing the right one can save time and boost efficiency, especially if you’re aiming to complete the task quickly.

Brimhaven Dungeon

The most popular spot, Brimhaven Dungeon, houses 21 Iron Dragons, including a task-only area with 13 spawns. It’s accessible via:

This location is ideal for cannon users, as the open space allows for multi-target hits, speeding up kills significantly.

Catacombs of Kourend

With 2 Iron Dragons at a boosted combat level of 215, the Catacombs offer a quieter alternative. Reach it via:

  • POH Portal attuned to Kourend Castle
  • Xeric’s Talisman to Xeric’s Lookout

Bonus: Killing them here grants a chance at Totem pieces for the Dark Altar, making it a multi-purpose spot for Ironmen.

Isle of Souls Dungeon

This lesser-known spot has 3 Iron Dragons and is reachable with the fairy ring code BJP or by exiting Soul Wars and heading northeast. It’s less crowded but lacks cannon potential, suiting solo players who prefer a peaceful grind.

Gear and Inventory Setup for Iron Dragons

Surviving an Iron Dragons task hinges on your gear and inventory. Their dragonfire and melee attacks demand a setup that balances protection, damage output, and sustainability. Below are tailored recommendations for different combat styles.

Melee Setup

For melee enthusiasts, focus on high defense and strength:

Inventory: Super Antifire Potion, Prayer Potions, High-healing Food (Sharks or better), Teleport Runes.

Ranged Setup

Ranged is safer and often faster, especially with a cannon:

Inventory: Ranging Potion, Super Antifire, Cannonballs (if using), Food, Teleport.

Magic Setup

Magic is viable for those lacking dragonbane weapons:

  • Helm: Slayer Helmet or Ahrim’s Hood
  • Body: Ahrim’s Robetop or Mystic Robe Top
  • Weapon: Trident of the Seas or Iban’s Staff
  • Shield: Dragonfire Shield

Inventory: Runes for Spells, Super Antifire, Prayer Potions, Food.

Combat Strategies and Tips

Killing Iron Dragons efficiently requires more than just good gear—it’s about strategy. Here’s how to maximize your kills and minimize downtime.

Dragonfire Protection

Full protection is non-negotiable. Use a Dragonfire Shield paired with a Super Antifire Potion for zero dragonfire damage. Without a Super Antifire, an Anti-Dragon Shield plus regular Antifire Potion reduces damage but won’t eliminate it entirely. Protect from Melee prayer also stops their slash attack, so keep prayer points topped up.

Safespotting and Cannon Use

In Brimhaven Dungeon, safespots exist near rocks or walls—lure the dragon and position yourself so it can’t reach you. For faster kills, set up a cannon in the task-only area. It’s costly (cannonballs aren’t cheap), but it slashes task time, especially on Konar assignments.

Prayer and Combat Stats

Aim for at least 70 Attack, Strength, and Defense for melee, or 70 Ranged/Magic for distance setups. Prayer at 44+ unlocks Eagle Eye/Mystic Might, while 70+ grants Piety, Rigour, or Augury—huge boosts to your damage output.

Loot and Rewards from Iron Dragons

The loot from Iron Dragons isn’t jaw-dropping, but it adds up over a task. Here’s what you can expect, including average values and rare drops.

Common Drops

Every kill guarantees:

  • Dragon Bones: 1 (always, great for Prayer XP)
  • Iron Bars: 5 (noted if Elite Karamja Diary is completed)

These stack nicely, especially for Ironmen needing Smithing materials.

Rare Drops and Value

The big-ticket items are rare but exciting:

Item Drop Rate Approx. Value (GP)
Dragon Plateskirt 1/1,024 160,000
Dragon Platelegs 1/1,024 160,000
Draconic Visage 1/10,000 4,500,000

Average kill value is around 7,200 GP (8,400 GP on a Konar task), boosted by occasional rune items, blood runes, and coins.

Konar-Specific Rewards

If assigned by Konar, you might snag a Brimstone Key (1/100+ based on combat level), usable at the Brimstone Chest for extra loot. This adds a nice bonus to the task’s profitability.

Final Thoughts: Iron Dragons in OSRS are a solid Slayer task for players ready to tackle their unique challenges. With the right gear, location, and strategy, you’ll turn this task into a rewarding grind. Whether you’re chasing XP, loot, or just Slayer points, this guide has you covered. Now grab your dragonfire shield, stock up on potions, and get slaying—those Iron Dragons won’t know what hit them!