Banshee Slayer Task OSRS: Ultimate Guide for Old School RuneScape Players
If you’re diving into the world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS) and tackling Slayer tasks, the Banshee Slayer task is one you’ll encounter early on. Banshees are eerie, undead creatures that offer a mix of challenge and reward for low to mid-level players. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Banshee Slayer task in OSRS, from requirements and locations to strategies, gear, and loot. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned adventurer looking to optimize your Slayer grind, this post has you covered with tips to make your task efficient and profitable.
Banshees are ghostly Slayer monsters in Old School RuneScape that require a Slayer level of 15 to kill. Known for their haunting screams, these undead spirits are a staple task for players starting their Slayer journey. They’re not overly tough, but their unique mechanics—like the need for protective gear—make them an interesting challenge.
Banshee Basics
Banshees have a combat level of 23 and 22 hitpoints, making them manageable for players with basic combat stats. However, their scream attack can drain your stats and deal damage if you’re unprepared, so proper equipment is key.
Variants of Banshees
There are two main types of Banshees you might face:
- Regular Banshees: Found in the Slayer Tower, these are the standard version assigned by most Slayer masters.
- Twisted Banshees: Located in the Catacombs of Kourend, these are a stronger variant (combat level 89, 100 hitpoints) with better drops, ideal for higher-level players.
Requirements for the Banshee Slayer Task
Before you head out to slay Banshees, ensure you meet the prerequisites and have the right gear. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Slayer and Combat Requirements
- Slayer Level: 15 (minimum to receive the task).
- Combat Level: 20 (recommended for regular Banshees; higher for Twisted Banshees).
- Quest: Completion of Priest in Peril to access the Slayer Tower.
Essential Gear
Banshees’ scream attack requires specific protective equipment:
- Earmuffs: Prevents stat drain and damage from their screams (buy from Slayer masters for 200 GP).
- Slayer Helmet: A better alternative if you’ve unlocked it, combining earmuffs with combat bonuses.
- Salve Amulet: Boosts damage and accuracy against undead (doesn’t stack with Slayer Helmet).
Recommended Stats
For a smooth experience:
- Attack/Strength/Defence: 30+ for regular Banshees; 50+ for Twisted Banshees.
- Ranged or Magic: 40+ if using these styles.
Where to Find Banshees in OSRS
Banshees are located in two primary spots in OSRS, each with its own perks and challenges. Knowing where to go can save you time and boost efficiency.
Slayer Tower Location
The Slayer Tower in Morytania is the classic spot for regular Banshees.
- How to Get There: Teleport to Canifis (e.g., via Kharyrll teleport), then walk northwest.
- Safespot: North of the staircase, behind the torch, for ranged or magic attacks.
Catacombs of Kourend Location
Twisted Banshees reside in the Catacombs of Kourend, offering a tougher fight with better loot.
- How to Get There: Use the Kourend Castle teleport or Xeric’s Talisman, then enter via the statue in Kourend Castle courtyard.
- Safespot: Multiple spots exist; lure them to corners or pillars.
How to Kill Banshees: Strategies and Tips
Killing Banshees efficiently requires the right combat style and tactics. Here’s how to tackle them with melee, ranged, or magic, plus some pro tips.
Melee Strategy
Melee is straightforward but riskier due to Banshees’ magic-based attacks.
- Gear: Wear ranged armor (e.g., dragonhide) to reduce damage, plus earmuffs or Slayer Helmet.
- Weapon: Use a strong weapon like a Rune Scimitar or Brine Sabre.
- Tip: Pair with a Salve Amulet for extra damage.
Ranged Strategy
Ranged is ideal for safespotting and minimizing damage.
- Gear: Black dragonhide armor, Slayer Helmet, and a crossbow (e.g., Rune Crossbow).
- Ammo: Broad bolts or better.
- Tip: Use the safespot in the Slayer Tower to avoid retaliation.
Magic Strategy
Magic shines with the Crumble Undead spell, especially for low-level players.
- Gear: Mystic robes, Slayer Helmet, and a Slayer’s Staff.
- Spell: Crumble Undead (requires 39 Magic; needs 2 Air, 2 Earth, 1 Chaos rune per cast).
- Tip: Bring runes for 100+ casts to complete the task.
General Tips for Success
- Bring Food: Tuna or lobsters for regular Banshees; sharks for Twisted Banshees.
- Prayer: Use Protect from Magic if taking heavy damage.
- Health Regen: Attack consistently, as Banshees regen 1 HP every 5 ticks if left alone.
Loot and Rewards from Banshee Slayer Tasks
Banshees offer decent loot for their level, making them a worthwhile task for early Slayer training. Here’s what you can expect and how to maximize profits.
Regular Banshee Drops
Regular Banshees drop a variety of items:
| Item | Drop Rate | Value (GP) |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Essence (13 noted) | Common | 26 |
| Grimy Herbs (e.g., Guam, Ranarr) | 34/128 | 100–5,000 |
| Mystic Gloves (dark) | Very Rare (1/512) | 6,000 |
| Clue Scroll (easy) | Rare (1/128) | Varies |
Twisted Banshee Drops
Twisted Banshees offer upgraded loot:
| Item | Drop Rate | Value (GP) |
|---|---|---|
| Battlestaff (noted) | Uncommon | 8,000 |
| Dragon Dagger | Rare | 17,000 |
| Ancient Shard | Rare (1/310) | N/A (Skotizo) |
| Clue Scroll (hard) | Rare (1/128) | Varies |
Maximizing Profits
- Ring of Wealth: Removes “nothing” drops, boosting herb and gem rates.
- Herb Sack: Store herbs to save inventory space.
- Twisted Banshees: Opt for these if your stats allow, as their drops are more valuable.
Experience Gains
Slayer XP per kill:
- Regular Banshees: 22 XP.
- Twisted Banshees: 100 XP.
Combat XP varies by style, averaging 50–80 XP per kill depending on your stats.
The Banshee Slayer task in OSRS is a fantastic early-game assignment that balances accessibility with decent rewards. Whether you’re safespotting in the Slayer Tower or braving the Catacombs for Twisted Banshees, this guide equips you with the knowledge to succeed. Grab your earmuffs, pick your combat style, and start slaying—happy hunting!