OSRS Steel Dragons Slayer Guide
Steel Dragons in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) are formidable foes, known for their high defense and powerful dragonfire attacks. Often assigned as a Slayer task, they can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor for high-level players. This guide covers everything you need to know to tackle Steel Dragons efficiently, including optimal gear setups, strategies, locations, and tips to maximize your experience and loot. Whether you’re a seasoned slayer or tackling them for the first time, this post will help you conquer these metallic beasts.
Steel Dragons are mid-tier metal dragons with combat levels of 246 or 274, depending on their location. They boast high defensive stats and deal significant damage with melee and dragonfire attacks, making preparation key. Their loot table includes valuable items like dragon bones, steel bars, and a rare chance at the coveted Draconic Visage.
Key Stats and Weaknesses
- Combat Level: 246 (Brimhaven Dungeon, task-only area) or 274 (Catacombs of Kourend).
- Max Hit: 22-24 (melee), 50 (dragonfire without protection).
- Weaknesses: Magic (especially fire spells) and stab attacks.
- Slayer Requirement: Level 1 Slayer to harm them, but higher combat stats recommended.
Why Take on Steel Dragons?
While some players skip Steel Dragon tasks due to their slow Slayer XP, they offer decent rewards for those prepared. With the Karamja Elite Diary completed, Steel Dragons drop noted steel bars, boosting profitability. They’re also a solid choice for ironmen seeking bars for crafting or fletching.
Best Gear Setups for Steel Dragons
Choosing the right gear is crucial for efficiency and survival. Below are recommended setups for different combat styles, prioritizing dragonfire protection and damage output.
Melee Setup
Melee is viable but requires high-tier gear to overcome Steel Dragons’ defenses. The Dragon Hunter Lance is ideal due to its bonus against dragons.
| Slot | Item |
|---|---|
| Head | Slayer Helmet (if on task) |
| Body | Bandos Chestplate |
| Legs | Bandos Tassets |
| Weapon | Dragon Hunter Lance |
| Shield | Dragonfire Shield |
Tip: Use Super Antifire Potions to negate dragonfire damage entirely, freeing up your shield slot if needed.
Ranged Setup
Ranged is safer and effective, especially with safe spots. The Dragon Hunter Crossbow shines here.
- Weapon: Dragon Hunter Crossbow or Armadyl Crossbow.
- Ammo: Diamond or Broad Bolts.
- Armor: Armadyl or Blessed D’hide.
- Shield: Anti-Dragon Shield (if not using Super Antifire).
Magic Setup
Magic is highly effective due to Steel Dragons’ weakness to fire spells. A budget-friendly setup works well for mid-level players.
- Weapon: Trident of the Seas or Swamp.
- Spell: Fire Bolt (with Chaos Gauntlets) or Fire Surge.
- Armor: Ahrim’s or Mystic Robes.
- Inventory: Anti-Fire Potion, high-healing food like sharks.
Optimal Locations for Slayer Tasks
Steel Dragons are found in specific dungeons, each with unique advantages and challenges. Knowing where to go can make your task faster and more profitable.
Brimhaven Dungeon
This is the most accessible location, housing 13 Steel Dragons (4 in the main area, 9 in the task-only room).
- Getting There: Teleport to Brimhaven via House Teleport (if POH is set there) or use the Karamja Gloves 3.
- Pros: More spawns in the task-only area, noted bars with Karamja Elite Diary.
- Cons: Aggressive monsters en route; use Protect from Melee.
Catacombs of Kourend
Steel Dragons here are stronger (level 274) but offer a chance at totem pieces for Shayzien favor.
- Getting There: Xeric’s Talisman to Xeric’s Glade, then head west to the main entrance.
- Pros: Totem drops, fewer aggressive NPCs.
- Cons: Higher combat level, no task-only room.
Strategies for Efficient Kills
Killing Steel Dragons requires a balance of offense, defense, and resource management. Here’s how to optimize your approach.
Safe Spotting with Ranged or Magic
In Brimhaven Dungeon, use pillars or corners to avoid melee attacks. Position yourself so the dragon’s dragonfire is blocked, and attack from a distance. This is especially effective with Ranged or Magic.
Prayer Management
Use Piety (melee), Rigour (ranged), or Augury (magic) to boost damage. Combine with Protect from Melee in crowded areas to reduce damage from other monsters.
Inventory Setup
- Essentials: Anti-Fire Potion, Super Antifire (if available), teleport runes.
- Food: 10-15 sharks or monkfish for sustained trips.
- Optional: Prayer Potions, High Alchemy runes for junk drops.
Tips for Maximizing Profits and XP
Steel Dragons can be lucrative with the right approach. Here are ways to boost your gains.
Loot Management
Always pick up dragon bones and steel bars. If you’ve completed the Karamja Elite Diary, noted bars make banking easier. The Draconic Visage is a rare drop (1/10,000 chance), so don’t expect it but keep an eye out.
Slayer Task Enhancements
Wear a Slayer Helmet for a 15% damage and accuracy boost on task. Use a Slayer Ring for quick teleports to Slayer Masters to extend tasks if desired.
Combat Achievements
Unlocking the elite tier of Combat Achievements increases the chance of elite clue scrolls from 1/500 to 1/475, adding potential value to your kills.
Steel Dragons may not be the most glamorous Slayer task, but with the right setup and strategy, they can be a worthwhile challenge. Focus on dragonfire protection, leverage their weaknesses, and choose the best location for your playstyle. Happy slaying!