Dragon Bolts (e) in OSRS: The Ultimate Guide to Enchanted Power

Dragon Bolts (e) in OSRS: The Ultimate Guide to Enchanted Power


In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), crossbows are a staple for ranged combat, and their ammunition—bolts—can make or break your performance. Among the most powerful and versatile options are Dragon Bolts (e), enchanted versions of dragon bolts that pack a punch with special effects. Whether you’re slaying bosses, tackling Slayer tasks, or dominating in PvP, understanding how to use Dragon Bolts (e) effectively can elevate your gameplay. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about these enchanted bolts, from crafting and enchanting to their best use cases in OSRS.

Dragon Bolts (e) are gem-tipped, enchanted crossbow bolts that combine raw power with unique special effects. Unlike standard bolts, these are crafted from dragon bolts—a high-tier ammo exclusive to specific crossbows—and enhanced through magic. Their versatility and strength make them a favorite among high-level players looking to maximize damage output.

The Basics of Dragon Bolts

Before they’re enchanted, dragon bolts are already formidable. They boast a Ranged Strength bonus of +122, making them one of the strongest base bolts in the game. You can only fire them from elite crossbows like the Dragon Crossbow, Armadyl Crossbow, Dragon Hunter Crossbow, or Zaryte Crossbow, and they require a Ranged level of 64 to wield.

How Enchantment Transforms Them

Enchanting dragon bolts with gem tips (like ruby, diamond, or onyx) and the Enchant Crossbow Bolt spell adds a secondary effect that triggers randomly in combat. This is what turns them into Dragon Bolts (e), giving them specialized roles depending on the gem used. The Hard Kandarin Diary boosts the activation chance by 10%, making them even more reliable.

Crafting and Enchanting Dragon Bolts (e)

Creating Dragon Bolts (e) is a multi-step process that requires both Fletching and Magic skills. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Crafting Dragon Bolts

To craft base dragon bolts, you’ll need:

Combine these at level 84 Fletching to create unenchanted dragon bolts.

Step 2: Adding Gem Tips

Next, attach gem bolt tips to the dragon bolts. Unlike other bolts, dragon bolts can accept nearly all gem types (excluding amethyst). Here’s a quick rundown:

Gem Type Fletching Level XP per Bolt
Ruby 63 6.3
Diamond 65 7
Onyx 73 9.4
Dragonstone 71 8.2

Cut the gems into bolt tips using a chisel, then attach them to the bolts with the required Fletching level.

Step 3: Enchanting the Bolts

Use the Enchant Crossbow Bolt spell matching the gem type. Each spell enchants 10 bolts at a time, requiring specific runes and Magic levels:

  • Ruby (e): Level 49 Magic, 1 Blood Rune, 1 Cosmic Rune, 5 Fire Runes.
  • Diamond (e): Level 57 Magic, 2 Law Runes, 1 Cosmic Rune, 10 Earth Runes.
  • Onyx (e): Level 87 Magic, 1 Death Rune, 1 Cosmic Rune, 20 Fire Runes.
  • Dragonstone (e): Level 68 Magic, 1 Soul Rune, 1 Cosmic Rune, 15 Earth Runes.

Types of Dragon Bolts (e) and Their Effects

Each type of enchanted dragon bolt has a unique effect, making them suited for different scenarios. Let’s break down the most popular variants:

Ruby Dragon Bolts (e): Blood Forfeit

Effect: 11% chance (6% in PvP) to deal 20% of the target’s current HP (capped at 100 damage) while sacrificing 10% of your own HP.

Best Use: High-HP bosses like Vorkath, Zulrah, or Chambers of Xeric. Switch to other bolts when the target’s HP drops low to avoid overkill.

Diamond Dragon Bolts (e): Armour Piercing

Effect: 11% chance (5% in PvP) to ignore the target’s defense and boost max hit by 15% (26% with Zaryte Crossbow).

Best Use: High-defense targets like Kree’arra or monsters when your stats are brewed down. Ideal for consistent damage.

Onyx Dragon Bolts (e): Life Leech

Effect: 11% chance (10% in PvP) to deal 20% extra damage and heal you for 25% of the damage dealt.

Best Use: Fight Caves or Inferno to save on food. Expensive but sustainable for long sessions.

Dragonstone Dragon Bolts (e): Dragon’s Breath

Effect: 6% chance (6.6% with Kandarin Hard Diary) to deal dragonfire damage (20% of your visible Ranged level, or 22% with Zaryte Crossbow).

Best Use: PvP against players without antifire protection. Less effective in PvM due to dragonfire immunity on many bosses.

Best Scenarios to Use Dragon Bolts (e) in OSRS

Dragon Bolts (e) shine in specific situations. Here’s where they excel:

PvM: Bossing and Raids

For PvM, Ruby Dragon Bolts (e) are a go-to for their burst damage against high-HP bosses. Pair them with a Zaryte Crossbow for maximum effect. Diamond Dragon Bolts (e) are clutch against armored foes like General Graardor, while Onyx Dragon Bolts (e) help sustain you during endurance fights like the Theatre of Blood.

PvP: Player Killing

In PvP, Dragonstone Dragon Bolts (e) can devastate unprepared opponents, hitting up to 70 with max gear and boosts. Ruby Dragon Bolts (e) also shine for their ability to chunk HP early in a fight. Bring a mix to adapt to your opponent’s tactics.

Slayer Tasks

Unenchanted dragon bolts are already solid for Slayer, but adding Diamond (e) or Ruby (e) can speed up kills against tough monsters like Rune Dragons or Black Dragons. Save Onyx (e) for tasks requiring longevity.

Tips for Maximizing Dragon Bolts (e) Efficiency

To get the most out of Dragon Bolts (e), consider these strategies:

Optimize Your Gear

Use high-tier crossbows and Ranged gear (e.g., Elite Void, Rigour prayer) to boost accuracy and damage. The Zaryte Crossbow’s passive effect enhances bolt specials, making it a top choice.

Stockpile Resources

Farm dragon bolts from Vorkath or Rune Dragons if you’re an Ironman. Buy gems and runes from the Grand Exchange for efficiency if you’re not restricted.

Switch Bolts Mid-Fight

Start with Ruby (e) for burst damage, then switch to Diamond (e) or unenchanted bolts as the target’s HP drops. This saves costly bolts and maintains DPS.

Cost vs. Reward

Onyx Dragon Bolts (e) cost around 9,000 GP each, while Ruby (e) and Diamond (e) are more affordable at 1,000–2,000 GP. Weigh the expense against the task—cheaper bolts like Broad or Adamant (e) might suffice for lighter content.

Dragon Bolts (e) are a powerhouse in OSRS, offering unmatched versatility for Ranged enthusiasts. Whether you’re enchanting them for PvP glory or PvM domination, mastering their use can set you apart in Gielinor. Stock up, enchant wisely, and let these bolts fly—your next big kill awaits!