Mammoth Slayer Task OSRS Ultimate Guide
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) offers a thrilling Slayer skill that pits players against a variety of monsters, and the Mammoth Slayer task is one of the unique assignments you might encounter. Assigned exclusively by Krystilia in the Wilderness, mammoths are elephant-like creatures that provide decent experience and a chance at exclusive drops. This guide dives into everything you need to know about tackling the Mammoth Slayer task in OSRS, from preparation to combat strategies, safe spots, and loot potential. Whether you’re a seasoned slayer or a newcomer, this comprehensive breakdown will help you maximize efficiency and rewards.
Mammoths are a Wilderness-only Slayer task, making them both exciting and risky due to the ever-present threat of player killers (PKers). Assigned by Krystilia, located in Edgeville’s jail, this task requires no minimum Slayer level, but it’s recommended for players with at least moderate combat stats (70+ in Attack, Strength, and Defence) to handle the mammoths efficiently. The task involves killing a set number of mammoths, typically 20–80, in the Wilderness near the Chaos Temple or Ferox Enclave.
Why Choose Mammoth Tasks?
Mammoths are appealing for several reasons:
- Decent XP: With 130 Slayer XP per kill and 130 Hitpoints, mammoths offer solid experience for mid-level players.
- Wilderness Rewards: Completing Krystilia’s tasks grants access to unique drops like Larran’s keys and Slayer’s enchantments.
- Safe Spots: Mammoths’ large 3×3 size allows for safe spotting, reducing damage taken.
- Low Requirements: No Slayer level is needed, making it accessible for newer players.
Risks of Wilderness Slayer
Since mammoths reside in the Wilderness (levels 9–15), you face the constant threat of PKers. To mitigate this:
- Bring only what you’re willing to lose.
- Use the Wilderness ditch or Ferox Enclave to escape if targeted.
- Monitor your surroundings using the minimap to spot potential threats.
Preparation for Mammoth Slayer Task
Proper preparation is key to succeeding in this task while minimizing losses. From gear to inventory setup, here’s how to get ready.
Recommended Gear
Mammoths have no specific weaknesses, so melee is the most efficient combat style due to their low Defence (level 50). However, ranged or magic can work if you prefer safe spotting. Below is a suggested gear setup:
| Gear Slot | Recommended Item | Budget Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Head | Slayer Helmet (i) | Black Mask or Helm of Neitiznot |
| Cape | Fire Cape | Obsidian Cape |
| Body | Bandos Chestplate | Rune Platebody |
| Legs | Bandos Tassets | Rune Platelegs |
| Weapon | Abyssal Whip | Dragon Scimitar |
| Shield | Dragon Defender | Rune Defender |
| Gloves | Barrows Gloves | Combat Bracelet |
| Boots | Primordial Boots | Dragon Boots |
| Ring | Ring of Wealth (i) | Ring of Life |
Notes: The Slayer Helmet (i) or Black Mask boosts damage and accuracy by 16.67% on task. Use a Ring of Wealth (i) to improve drop rates, as it removes “nothing” drops from the loot table. Avoid expensive gear like Inquisitor’s or Torva unless you’re confident in escaping PKers.
Inventory Setup
Your inventory should balance combat efficiency with Wilderness survival. A sample setup includes:
- 1 Super Combat Potion (or Strength, Attack, and Defence potions)
- 1 Prayer Potion
- 10–12 Saradomin Brews and Super Restores (3:1 ratio)
- High-healing food (Sharks or Monkfish)
- 1 Looting Bag (to store drops)
- 1 Teleport (e.g., Burning Amulet or Glory)
- 1 Lockpick (for nearby Magic Axe Hut if needed)
Tip: Keep your risk low—carry items worth less than 100k GP to deter PKers targeting high-value loot.
Locating and Fighting Mammoths
Mammoths are found in two primary Wilderness locations, both accessible via teleports or short runs from Edgeville. Understanding their habitat and combat mechanics is crucial for efficiency.
Mammoth Locations
Mammoths spawn in the following areas:
- West of Chaos Temple (Level 9–12 Wilderness): Near the Ferox Enclave, this is the most popular spot due to its proximity to safety.
- South-east of Ferox Enclave (Level 13–15 Wilderness): Slightly deeper in the Wilderness, but less crowded.
Getting There:
- Use a Games Necklace to teleport to the Corporeal Beast, then run south-east to the Chaos Temple.
- Teleport to Edgeville via an Amulet of Glory, cross the ditch, and run north-west.
- Use a Wilderness Obelisk to teleport to level 13 Wilderness for quicker access.
Combat Mechanics
Mammoths are level 80 with 130 Hitpoints and use a basic melee attack (max hit: 7). Their key stats are:
- Attack Level: 55
- Strength Level: 60
- Defence Level: 50
- Slayer XP: 130 per kill
They’re not poisonous or venomous, and their large 3×3 size makes them ideal for safe spotting. However, their attacks are accurate, so Protect from Melee can help if you’re not safe spotting.
Safe Spot Strategies for Mammoths
One of the biggest advantages of the Mammoth Slayer task is the ability to safe spot, minimizing damage and PKer risk. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Using Trees and Stumps
Mammoths’ 3×3 size means they can get stuck behind obstacles. Popular safe spots include:
- Trees near Chaos Temple: Position yourself so a tree is between you and the mammoth. Attack with a halberd (e.g., Dragon Halberd) or ranged/magic.
- Tree Stumps: These are riskier, as other mammoths or NPCs (like thugs) can still attack you. Use stumps only if trees are occupied.
Tip: If using melee, lure the mammoth to a tree, step back, and attack from a distance with a long weapon. For ranged, a crossbow with broad bolts or a magic shortbow works well.
Avoiding PKers While Safe Spotting
PKers often scout mammoth areas, so:
- Stay on the edge of the safe spot to quickly run to the Wilderness ditch or Ferox Enclave.
- Use single-way combat areas to reduce the chance of being piled by multiple PKers.
- Log out immediately if you see a high-level player with PK gear (e.g., Ancient Staff or Toxic Staff of the Dead).
Loot and Rewards from Mammoth Slayer Task
While mammoths aren’t the most profitable Slayer task, they offer consistent loot and Wilderness-specific rewards that make them worthwhile.
Standard Drops
Mammoths have a varied drop table, including:
- Coins: 100–500 GP
- Herbs: 8/128 chance for grimy herbs (e.g., Guam, Marrentill).
- Seeds: Allotment, bush, hops, and fruit tree seeds (20/128 chance each).
- Gems: 3/128 chance for uncut gems via the gem drop table.
- Rare Drop Table: 2/128 chance for items like nature runes or loop half of key.
The average kill is worth around 841.4 GP, boosted slightly with a Ring of Wealth (i).
Wilderness-Specific Rewards
Since this is a Krystilia task, you have a chance to receive:
- Larran’s Key: Used to open Larran’s small or big chest for extra loot (drop rate depends on mammoth’s combat level).
- Slayer’s Enchantment: Can be used to create an Enchanted Slayer’s Staff, requiring 75 Magic and 55 Slayer to wield.
After completing five Wilderness tasks, Krystilia awards 25 Slayer points per task, making mammoths a decent point-farming option.
Is It Worth It?
Mammoths are best for players seeking XP over profit. Their drops are modest compared to tasks like Wyverns or Gargoyles, but the low effort and safe spotting make them a relaxed choice. If you’re chasing Larran’s keys or want to mix up your Slayer routine, mammoths are a solid pick.
Tackling the Mammoth Slayer task in OSRS is a unique blend of risk and reward. By preparing smart, using safe spots, and staying vigilant for PKers, you can turn this Wilderness task into a profitable and enjoyable experience. Equip your Slayer Helmet, grab a looting bag, and head into the Wilderness—those mammoths won’t slay themselves!