Where to Get a Spade in OSRS: Your Ultimate Guide
If you’re diving into the world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), one tool you’ll quickly realize is essential is the humble spade. Whether you’re farming, tackling quests, or hunting for treasure, knowing where to get a spade in OSRS can save you time and frustration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the reliable locations and methods to snag this multi-functional tool, optimized for both newbies and seasoned players. Let’s dig in!
The spade isn’t just another item cluttering your inventory—it’s a key to unlocking various activities in Gielinor. From harvesting crops in the Farming skill to digging up clues in Treasure Trails, this tool is a must-have. It’s also required for specific quests and even to access certain areas like the Barrows crypts. Understanding its importance makes finding one all the more urgent.
What Makes the Spade Essential?
A spade’s versatility is unmatched. Here’s why it’s a staple:
- Farming: Dig up patches and harvest crops.
- Quests: Used in tasks like Pirate’s Treasure and Fishing Contest.
- Treasure Trails: Unearth caskets and clues.
- Exploration: Access hidden areas like the Falador Mole Lair.
Don’t Leave Home Without It
Since the spade is so integral, keeping one handy (or knowing where to grab one fast) can streamline your gameplay. Luckily, OSRS offers plenty of options to obtain it, which we’ll cover next.
Shops Selling Spades in OSRS
One of the easiest ways to get a spade is by purchasing it from a shop. These locations are scattered across Gielinor, and most are accessible early in the game. Here’s where to look.
Farming Shops
Farming shops are a go-to for spades since they cater to players leveling up their Farming skill. You can buy a spade for just 3 coins at these spots:
- Vanessa’s Farming Shop – Located in Catherby.
- Sarah’s Farming Shop – South of Falador, near the farm.
- Alice’s Farming Shop – West of Port Phasmatys.
General Stores
If you’re not near a farming shop, general stores are another reliable option. They stock spades and are found in most major towns. Some key locations include:
- Varrock General Store – Upstairs in the bustling city center.
- Lletya General Store – In the elven lands (members only).
- Tai Bwo Wannai General Store – On Karamja, great for jungle adventurers.
- Little Shop of Horace – In Hosidius, Zeah.
Pro Tip: General stores often have limited stock, so if another player snags the spade first, you might need to wait for it to respawn or hop worlds.
Mrs. Winkin’s Shop (Vinesweeper)
For a niche option, head to Mrs. Winkin’s shop in the Vinesweeper minigame. You can buy a spade here for 5 coins through dialogue (not the trade interface), making it a quirky but viable choice for members.
Free Spade Spawn Locations
Why spend coins when you can grab a spade for free? OSRS is littered with spawn points where spades appear as scenery objects. Pick one up, and it’s yours—no cost required. Here are the best spots.
Early Game Spawn Points
For new players starting out, these locations are accessible without much travel:
- Lumbridge Swamp – Inside the shack, alongside a rake.
- Draynor Manor – Inside the manor, perfect for free-to-play explorers.
- Edmond’s Garden – In East Ardougne, easy to grab while questing.
Mid-to-Late Game Spawn Points
For members or those venturing further, these spades are conveniently placed:
- Falador – In the estate agent’s building, east of the furnace.
- Rimmington Mine – Near the mining spot, south of Falador.
- Varrock General Store – Upstairs, a free alternative to buying.
- Keldagrim Blast Furnace – East side, near the coke bin.
Note: Spades at these locations respawn after a short time, so if someone beats you to it, stick around or switch worlds.
Special Methods to Obtain a Spade
Beyond shops and spawns, there are unique ways to get a spade in OSRS that add a bit of flair to your acquisition. These methods are especially useful if you’re already engaged in specific activities.
Player-Owned House (POH) Tool Store
If you’ve got a knack for Construction, building a Tool Store 2 in your Player-Owned House at level 25 Construction gives you an infinite supply of spades. Just grab one whenever you need it—no running around required!
Requirements:
- 25 Construction
- 3 oak planks and 3 iron nails
Rogue Kit
Members with a taste for thievery can use a Rogue Kit, purchasable from Martin Thwait in the Rogues’ Den for 35 coins. This handy item can transform into a spade (among other tools) with a right-click option.
Konoo at Hosidius Saltpetre Mine
In Zeah, chat with Konoo at the saltpetre mine in Hosidius. He’ll kindly hand you a spare spade for free—perfect if you’re in the area mining saltpetre or doing the Hosidius favor grind.
Comparing Your Options: Which Method is Best?
With so many ways to get a spade, which should you choose? It depends on your situation—location, membership status, and whether you want to spend coins. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Cost | Location | Membership Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farming Shops | 3 coins | Catherby, Falador, etc. | No | Farmers and quest-goers |
| General Stores | 3 coins | Varrock, Lletya, etc. | Some Yes, Some No | City dwellers |
| Free Spawns | Free | Lumbridge, Falador, etc. | No | Newbies and thrifty players |
| POH Tool Store | Construction cost | Your house | Yes | Long-term convenience |
| Rogue Kit | 35 coins | Rogues’ Den | Yes | Thieves and multi-tool users |
| Konoo | Free | Hosidius | Yes | Zeah explorers |
Tips for Choosing
- New Players: Stick to free spawns like Lumbridge Swamp or Draynor Manor.
- Members: Invest in a POH Tool Store or grab one from Konoo if you’re in Zeah.
- Budget-Conscious: Avoid shops and hunt spawns instead.
Taking Your Spade to the Next Level
Once you’ve got your spade, why stop there? OSRS offers some fun, upgraded versions for the dedicated player. While these aren’t practical replacements, they’re worth mentioning for bragging rights.
Gilded Spade
A rare drop from elite and master Treasure Trails, the Gilded Spade is a flashy, golden version. It’s a fun weapon, not a functional tool, but it looks great in your bank or costume room.
Large Spade
Earned after completing 500 easy Treasure Trails, the Large Spade is another novelty item. It has a “dig” option, but it’s too bulky to use—purely cosmetic and a trophy for clue hunters.
Eastfloor Spade
A reward from past Easter events, the Eastfloor Spade is a rare collectible. Like the others, it’s not usable but adds flair to your collection.
Final Word: For everyday use, stick to the basic spade from the methods above—these fancy versions are just for fun!
Armed with this guide, you’ll never be caught without a spade in OSRS again. Whether you’re buying, scavenging, or building your way to one, there’s a method for every player. Happy digging!