Bone Dagger Special Attack in OSRS – Master Backstab for Epic Wins

Bone Dagger Special Attack in OSRS – Master Backstab for Epic Wins

In the sprawling world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the bone dagger stands out as a unique weapon with a powerful special attack called Backstab. While it may not boast the flashiest stats, its niche utility makes it a hidden gem for specific scenarios like boss fights and PvP. This comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know about the bone dagger’s special attack, from mechanics to strategies, ensuring you can wield it like a pro.

The bone dagger is a melee weapon requiring level 1 Attack, making it accessible to virtually any player. Its stats mirror those of an iron dagger, but its true value lies in its special attack, Backstab, which becomes available after completing the Death to the Dorgeshuun quest. You can snag one for 2,000 coins from Nardok’s Bone Weapons shop in the Dorgeshuun Mines or grab a poisoned version for extra flair.

Key Stats of the Bone Dagger

Before we dive into the special attack, let’s break down the bone dagger’s baseline stats:

  • Stab Attack: +5
  • Slash Attack: +3
  • Crush Attack: -4
  • Strength Bonus: +4
  • Attack Speed: 4 (same as most daggers)
  • Magic Attack: +1 (a rare perk for melee weapons)

These modest numbers mean the bone dagger isn’t your go-to for raw DPS, but its special attack flips the script in certain situations.

Understanding the Backstab Special Attack

Backstab is the bone dagger’s claim to fame, consuming 75% of your special attack energy. It’s a situational powerhouse with a guaranteed hit under specific conditions, making it a strategic choice for lowering enemy defenses.

How Backstab Works

Here’s the lowdown on Backstab’s mechanics:

  • Guaranteed Hit: Backstab never misses if you’re the first to hit a target or if you weren’t the last to damage it (e.g., in group fights).
  • Defense Reduction: It lowers the target’s Defense by the amount of damage dealt, but only if their Defense hasn’t already been reduced.
  • Poison Synergy: If poisoned, Backstab can apply poison even if it deals zero damage, adding sneaky chip damage.

This makes Backstab comparable to the Bandos godsword’s Warstrike or the Dorgeshuun crossbow’s special, but with a lower cost and unique accessibility.

When to Use Backstab

Backstab shines in scenarios where reducing an enemy’s Defense boosts your team’s damage output. It’s particularly effective against high-Defense bosses like those in the Tombs of Amascut (ToA) or God Wars Dungeon (GWD). In PvP, it can soften up tanky opponents, setting them up for a finishing blow.

Strategic Uses of the Bone Dagger in PvM

In player-versus-monster (PvM) combat, the bone dagger’s Backstab is a tactical tool for high-level content. Let’s explore where it excels.

Boss Fights in Tombs of Amascut

In ToA, Backstab is a budget-friendly alternative to the Bandos godsword (BGS). While BGS uses 50% spec energy and hits harder, the bone dagger’s 75% spec cost is offset by its guaranteed hit in group settings. For example:

  • Akkha: Use Backstab early to lower his Defense, making melee attacks land more consistently.
  • Wardens: At higher invocations (425+), Backstab’s guaranteed hit outperforms BGS’s inconsistent specs.

Pro Tip: Coordinate with teammates to ensure someone else attacks before your spec, guaranteeing the hit in duos or larger groups.

God Wars Dungeon

GWD bosses like General Graardor have high Defense, making Backstab a viable opener. Since the bone dagger is cheap, it’s perfect for low-budget setups. However, its effectiveness wanes in solo fights unless you land the first hit.

Boss Backstab Utility Notes
General Graardor Moderate Use in groups for guaranteed hits; BGS preferred for solo.
Kree’arra Low Ranged focus makes Defense reduction less impactful.
Commander Zilyana High Melee-heavy teams benefit from early Defense drops.

Bone Dagger in PvP – A Sneaky Edge

In PvP, the bone dagger’s Backstab can catch opponents off guard, especially in Wilderness or PvP worlds. Its low requirements and cost make it an accessible spec weapon for low-level builds or hybrid setups.

Backstab in Edgeville Fights

In 1v1 scenarios, Backstab’s guaranteed hit is tricky to pull off since you’re usually trading blows. However, in multi-combat areas like Chaos Temple, you can spec after a teammate’s attack, shredding the target’s Defense for follow-up combos.

Combo Potential

Pair Backstab with a high-damage spec weapon like the dragon dagger (Puncture) or granite maul for devastating combos. For example:

  1. Use bone dagger (p++) Backstab to apply poison and lower Defense.
  2. Switch to dragon dagger for a double-hit Puncture spec.
  3. Finish with a granite maul spec for massive damage.

This sequence leverages Backstab’s setup to maximize your KO potential.

Tips to Maximize Bone Dagger Effectiveness

To get the most out of the bone dagger, consider these practical tips:

Optimize Special Attack Energy

Since Backstab uses 75% energy, managing your spec bar is crucial. Here’s how:

  • Lightbearer Ring: Doubles spec energy regeneration (10% every 15 seconds).
  • Restoration Pools: Use a player-owned house pool or Nardah’s Elidinis Statuette to instantly refill energy.
  • Adrenaline Potions: In ToA, these let you spec multiple times, stacking Defense reductions if the first hit lands.

Poisoned Variants

The bone dagger comes in unpoisoned, (p), (p+), and (p++) versions. The (p++) variant is ideal for PvM and PvP, as its poison can tick for up to 6 damage, adding passive pressure. Fun fact: Backstab’s poison can apply even on a zero-damage hit, making it a sneaky way to chip away at foes.

Timing Is Everything

In group PvM, communicate with your team to time Backstab after another player’s attack. In solo PvM, use it as your opening move to ensure the guaranteed hit. In PvP, bait opponents into multi-combat zones for easier setups.

Budget vs. Premium Options

While the bone dagger is awesome for budget players, compare it to alternatives:

Weapon Spec Cost Hit Guarantee Defense Reduction Cost (GE Price)
Bone Dagger 75% Yes (conditional) Damage dealt ~2,000 coins
Bandos Godsword 50% No (double accuracy) Damage dealt ~8M coins
Dragon Warhammer 50% No 30% of current Defense ~30k coins

The bone dagger’s low cost and conditional guarantee make it a steal for its niche.

The bone dagger’s Backstab special attack is a versatile tool that punches above its weight in OSRS. Whether you’re a budget-conscious PvMer tackling ToA or a cunning PvPer looking to outsmart foes, mastering Backstab can elevate your game. Its guaranteed hit and Defense-lowering effect, paired with poison potential, make it a strategic choice for the savvy adventurer. Grab one, practice your timing, and watch enemies crumble under your calculated strikes.

Ready to try it? Head to Nardok’s shop, poison that dagger, and backstab your way to victory!