The Best Weapons in OSRS: Top Picks for Combat Success in 2025
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a game where your weapon choice can define your journey through Gielinor. Whether you’re slashing through Slayer tasks, dominating PvP battles, or taking down iconic bosses, having the right gear is key to success. With an ever-growing arsenal of melee, ranged, and magic weapons, it’s tough to know which ones truly stand out. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best weapons in OSRS as of April 2025, breaking down their stats, uses, and why they’re worth your time and gold. Let’s gear up and explore the top-tier tools that’ll make you a legend in this classic MMORPG.
In OSRS, combat is split into three styles: melee, ranged, and magic. Each style has its strengths, and the best weapons amplify those advantages. A great weapon doesn’t just deal damage—it fits your playstyle, budget, and goals. From free-to-play (F2P) staples to endgame powerhouses, the right pick can boost your DPS (damage per second), improve efficiency, or even turn the tide in a duel. With that in mind, let’s look at the cream of the crop across all combat types.
Top Melee Weapons in OSRS
Melee combat is the bread and butter of OSRS, offering raw power and up-close action. These weapons are perfect for players who love to get in the thick of it.
Scythe of Vitur
The Scythe of Vitur is the undisputed king of melee weapons. Dropped from the Theatre of Blood, this two-handed beast boasts a +110 Slash Attack bonus and +105 Strength bonus. Its unique ability to hit up to three enemies in a 1×3 area makes it a PvM dream, especially for multi-target fights like those in the Nightmare of Ashihama. It’s pricey—think billions of GP—but its versatility and raw power make it a must-have for serious players.
Ghrazi Rapier
For single-target DPS, the Ghrazi Rapier shines. Also from Theatre of Blood, this one-handed stab weapon offers a +94 Stab Attack bonus and +89 Strength bonus. With a fast attack speed, it’s ideal for Slayer tasks, bossing (like Vasa Nistirio), and PvP. Pair it with a defender or shield, and you’ve got a balanced setup that doesn’t compromise on damage.
Abyssal Whip
A classic since 2005, the Abyssal Whip remains a fan favorite. Dropped by Abyssal Demons (85 Slayer required), it has a +82 Slash Attack bonus and +82 Strength bonus. Its fast attack speed makes it perfect for training melee skills or tackling mid-tier PvM. While it’s outclassed by endgame options, its accessibility and nostalgia keep it relevant.
Best Ranged Weapons for Long-Distance Domination
Ranged combat lets you strike from afar, offering safety and precision. These weapons are the go-to for players who prefer to keep their distance.
Twisted Bow
The Twisted Bow is the pinnacle of ranged weaponry. A rare drop from Chambers of Xeric, it scales its damage and accuracy based on the target’s Magic level or Magic Attack bonus (whichever is higher), capping at 250. With a +70 Ranged Attack bonus and +20 Ranged Strength bonus, it’s unmatched for high-Magic bosses like Zulrah or the Theatre of Blood’s Verzik Vitur. Its price tag? Around 1.5 billion GP—but it’s worth every coin.
Toxic Blowpipe
The Toxic Blowpipe is a budget-friendly powerhouse. Crafted from Zulrah’s scales and requiring 75 Ranged, it has a +60 Ranged Attack bonus and +40 Ranged Strength bonus. Its rapid attack speed and chance to inflict venom make it a Slayer and PvP staple. Load it with darts (Mithril or better), and you’ve got a versatile weapon that punches above its weight.
Armadyl Crossbow
For precision and special attacks, the Armadyl Crossbow delivers. Dropped by Commander Zilyana in the God Wars Dungeon, it offers a +100 Ranged Attack bonus. Its special attack, Armadyl Eye, doubles accuracy for one shot—perfect for PvP or landing a critical hit on a boss. It’s a solid mid-to-high-tier option at around 40-50 million GP.
Most Powerful Magic Weapons in OSRS
Magic brings utility and raw power to the table, with weapons that enhance spellcasting and turn you into a mystical force.
Tumeken’s Shadow
Tumeken’s Shadow is the ultimate magic weapon, introduced with Tombs of Amascut. This staff triples your Magic Attack and Damage bonuses based on your Magic level, making it devastating in the hands of a maxed mage (99 Magic). Its built-in spell hits hard, and it’s a top pick for raids and high-level PvM. Costing over 1 billion GP, it’s an investment in pure magical dominance.
Kodai Wand
The Kodai Wand is a versatile magic tool from Chambers of Xeric. With a +28 Magic Attack bonus and +15% Magic Damage boost, it’s perfect for autocasting Ancient Magicks or standard spells. Its passive 5% chance to save runes and infinite water runes add practicality, making it a favorite for PvM and PvP at around 100-150 million GP.
Sanguinesti Staff
From Theatre of Blood, the Sanguinesti Staff offers a +25 Magic Attack bonus and a unique healing passive: a 1/6 chance to restore HP equal to half the damage dealt. Requiring 82 Magic, it’s ideal for sustained fights like Dagannoth Kings or Tombs of Amascut. It’s a pricey option, but its survivability edge is unmatched.
Special Mention: Budget and F2P Favorites
Not everyone has billions of GP or a membership. These weapons cater to F2P players or those on a budget, proving you don’t need to break the bank to succeed.
Rune Scimitar (F2P)
The Rune Scimitar is the best F2P melee weapon. With a +45 Slash Attack bonus and fast attack speed, it’s perfect for training or PvP in free worlds. Buy it from Zeke’s in Al Kharid or the Grand Exchange for a few thousand GP—it’s a no-brainer for early-game adventurers.
Magic Shortbow (F2P)
For F2P ranged, the Magic Shortbow reigns supreme. Requiring 50 Ranged, it has a +69 Ranged Attack bonus and a Snapshot special attack that fires two quick shots. Pair it with Rune Arrows, and you’ve got a cheap, effective option for combat training or Wilderness skirmishes.
Comparing the Best OSRS Weapons: A Quick Guide
Here’s a table to help you compare these top weapons at a glance:
| Weapon | Type | Key Stats | Best For | Approx. Cost (GP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scythe of Vitur | Melee (Slash) | +110 Slash, +105 Str | Multi-target PvM | 1.5-2B |
| Ghrazi Rapier | Melee (Stab) | +94 Stab, +89 Str | Single-target DPS | 200-300M |
| Abyssal Whip | Melee (Slash) | +82 Slash, +82 Str | Training, Mid-tier PvM | 2-3M |
| Twisted Bow | Ranged | +70 Ranged, +20 Str (Scales) | High-Magic Bosses | 1.5B |
| Toxic Blowpipe | Ranged | +60 Ranged, +40 Str | Slayer, PvP | 5-10M |
| Tumeken’s Shadow | Magic | Triples Magic Bonuses | Endgame PvM | 1-1.2B |
| Kodai Wand | Magic | +28 Magic, +15% Dmg | Versatile Spellcasting | 100-150M |
| Rune Scimitar | Melee (Slash) | +45 Slash | F2P Training | 15-20K |
How to Choose Your Weapon
Picking the best weapon depends on your goals:
- Budget Players: Stick to the Abyssal Whip, Toxic Blowpipe, or Rune Scimitar for cost-effective power.
- Endgame PvM: Invest in the Scythe, Twisted Bow, or Tumeken’s Shadow for maximum impact.
- PvP Enthusiasts: The Ghrazi Rapier, Armadyl Crossbow, or Kodai Wand offer precision and flexibility.
- F2P Warriors: Rune Scimitar and Magic Shortbow are your top picks.
Final Thoughts on OSRS Weapons
The best weapons in OSRS blend power, utility, and accessibility. Whether you’re a newbie swinging a Rune Scimitar or a veteran wielding the Scythe of Vitur, there’s something for everyone. As of April 2025, these picks reflect the meta, but keep an eye on updates—Gielinor’s arsenal is always evolving. What’s your favorite weapon? Let us know, and happy scaping!