Dwarf Cannon Engineer OSRS Guide for Unlocking and Using the Multicannon

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the Dwarf Cannon Engineer, Nulodion, is a key figure for players looking to wield one of the game’s most iconic ranged weapons: the Dwarf Multicannon. This guide dives into everything you need to know about the Dwarf Cannon Engineer, from completing the Dwarf Cannon quest to purchasing and utilizing the multicannon effectively. Whether you’re a Slayer enthusiast or a player aiming to boost ranged XP, understanding Nulodion’s role is essential.
Nulodion, the Dwarf Cannon Engineer, is a non-player character (NPC) located south of Ice Mountain, near the Dwarven Mine entrance in Asgarnia. As the Weapons Development Chief of the Dwarven Black Guard, he plays a pivotal role in the Dwarf Cannon quest and is the go-to NPC for all things related to the multicannon after quest completion. His expertise makes him indispensable for players seeking to acquire this powerful ranged weapon.
Nulodion’s Role in the Dwarf Cannon Quest
During the Dwarf Cannon quest, Nulodion provides players with an ammo mould and notes to deliver to Captain Lawgof, helping resolve the issue of cannon ammunition. This interaction is the final step in unlocking the ability to purchase and use the multicannon, making Nulodion a critical NPC in the questline.
Where to Find Nulodion
Nulodion is stationed in the western building of the Dwarven Black Guard camp, just above the Dwarven Mine entrance. The fastest way to reach him is by using a combat bracelet to teleport to the Edgeville Monastery and walking west, or teleporting to Falador and heading north. His location is convenient for quick access post-quest.
Completing the Dwarf Cannon Quest
The Dwarf Cannon quest is a prerequisite for accessing the multicannon and interacting with Nulodion for purchases. This beginner-friendly quest involves aiding Captain Lawgof in a conflict with goblins and unlocking the cannon’s potential. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Quest Requirements and Starting Point
- No skill requirements: Suitable for all players.
- Recommended items: Combat bracelet, Falador teleport, Camelot teleport, or skills necklace for faster travel.
- Starting location: Speak to Captain Lawgof, south of the Coal Trucks, northwest of the Fishing Guild.
Captain Lawgof tasks you with repairing railings, investigating a watchtower, rescuing a dwarf child, fixing a cannon, and consulting Nulodion for ammo details.
Key Quest Steps
- Fix railings: Use the provided hammer and railings to repair six broken sections of the fence around the dwarf outpost. Right-click and select “search” to locate damaged spots.
- Investigate the watchtower: Head south, climb the watchtower ladder, and collect dwarf remains.
- Rescue Lollk: Travel southeast to the Fishing Guild, enter the nearby cave, and search the northernmost crate in the northwest room to find Lollk.
- Repair the cannon: Use the toolkit from Lawgof on the broken multicannon. Match tools to parts: pliers to safety switch, hook to spring, and tooth tool to gear.
- Visit Nulodion: Travel to the Dwarven Black Guard camp, speak to Nulodion, and obtain the ammo mould and notes. Return these to Lawgof to complete the quest.
Rewards: 750 Crafting XP, access to the Dwarf Multicannon, and the ability to craft cannonballs (requires 35 Smithing).
Purchasing the Dwarf Multicannon from Nulodion
After completing the quest, Nulodion becomes your source for acquiring the Dwarf Multicannon and its components. His shop, Nulodion’s Multicannon Parts, offers everything you need to deploy this game-changing weapon.
Multicannon Costs and Components
The multicannon consists of four parts: base, stand, furnace, and barrels. Nulodion offers two purchasing options:
Option | Cost | Includes |
---|---|---|
Full Cannon Set | 750,000 coins | Base, stand, furnace, barrels, ammo mould, instruction manual |
Individual Parts | 200,625 coins each | Base, stand, furnace, or barrels (ammo mould: 5 coins) |
Tip: Buying the full set is cheaper than purchasing parts separately (801,500 coins total for individual parts). If you lose your cannon, Nulodion replaces it for free, provided it wasn’t dropped or sold.
Ammo Mould and Cannonballs
Nulodion also sells the ammo mould for 5 coins, essential for crafting cannonballs. To make cannonballs, you need:
- Level 35 Smithing.
- Steel bars: Each bar yields four cannonballs when used with the mould at a furnace.
- Granite cannonballs: Optional for higher damage (requires 50 Smithing and completion of specific tasks).
Crafting cannonballs can be cost-effective but time-intensive compared to buying them from the Grand Exchange.
Using the Dwarf Multicannon Effectively
The Dwarf Multicannon is a deployable turret that fires automatically at enemies within its range, making it a favorite for Slayer tasks and ranged training. Understanding its mechanics and best use cases can maximize its potential.
How to Set Up the Multicannon
Deploying the cannon is straightforward but requires space:
- Place the base: Select a vacant square surrounded by eight empty squares.
- Assemble parts: The stand, furnace, and barrels automatically attach once the base is placed.
- Load ammunition: Use up to 30 cannonballs (or 60 with Combat Achievements) by clicking the cannon or selecting “Fire.”
Note: Granite cannonballs are prioritized if both types are in your inventory.
Best Locations for Cannon Use
The multicannon shines in multicombat areas with high monster density. Popular spots include:
- Lighthouse Basement: Dagannoths offer 130,000 ranged XP per hour at 80+ Ranged.
- Rock Crabs (Rellekka): Ideal for low-level training due to low defense and high hitpoints.
- Hill Giants (Giant Pit): 60,000–70,000 XP per hour, with loot like herbs and Giant keys.
- Ice Trolls (Jatizso): High-value drops offset cannonball costs, though they hit hard.
- Ogres (Castle Wars/Combat Training Camp): 60,000–100,000 XP per hour, with caged options for safety.
Prohibited areas: You can’t set up cannons in places like Black Knights’ Fortress, Dwarven Mine, or certain boss arenas (e.g., Kalphite Queen). Check in-game restrictions to avoid wasting time.
Cannon Mechanics and XP Rates
The multicannon deals consistent damage (up to 30 with regular cannonballs, 35 with granite) but yields half the ranged XP (2 XP per damage instead of 4) and no Hitpoints XP. Its accuracy depends on your equipped gear and attack style, making it a supplement to your primary weapon rather than a standalone tool.
Tips for Maximizing the Dwarf Multicannon
To get the most out of your multicannon, consider these strategies:
Cost Management
Using a cannon can be expensive, with cannonballs costing around 210 GP each and up to 6,000 used per hour (1.26M GP). To offset costs:
- Farm profitable monsters: Ice Trolls and Dagannoths drop alchables and resources.
- Craft cannonballs: If you have the Smithing level and time, making your own ammo saves money.
- Use safespots: Position your cannon to avoid taking damage, reducing food costs.
Maintenance and Replacement
Cannons decay after 25 minutes of inactivity or if you log out while it’s set up. If destroyed by a boss (e.g., Chaos Elemental), Nulodion replaces it for free with the same number of cannonballs it had. However, dropped or banked cannons won’t be replaced, so keep track of your gear.
Enhancing Cannon Capacity
Completing Combat Achievements can boost your cannon’s capacity:
- Medium tier: Increases to 45 cannonballs.
- Elite tier: Maxes out at 60 cannonballs.
This upgrade reduces the need for frequent reloading, saving time during extended sessions.
The Dwarf Cannon Engineer, Nulodion, opens the door to one of OSRS’s most efficient ranged training tools. By completing the Dwarf Cannon quest and leveraging the multicannon strategically, you can accelerate Slayer tasks, boost XP rates, and tackle high-density monster zones with ease. Visit Nulodion today to gear up and blast your way through Gielinor!