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Dwarf Cannon Set OSRS A Comprehensive Guide

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the Dwarf Cannon is a game-changer for players looking to level up their Ranged skill or speed up Slayer tasks. This unique Ranged weapon, unlocked through the Dwarf Cannon quest, is a deployable turret that automatically fires at enemies, making it a must-have for efficient training and combat. This blog post dives deep into everything you need to know about the Dwarf Cannon set in OSRS, from obtaining it to maximizing its potential. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned adventurer, this guide will help you master the cannon and dominate your foes.
The Dwarf Cannon is a four-piece Ranged weapon that players assemble on the ground rather than equip. It consists of the cannon base, stand, furnace, and barrels. Once set up and loaded with cannonballs or granite cannonballs, it rotates and fires automatically at enemies within its range. The cannon is especially popular for its ability to deal supplemental damage, making it ideal for Slayer tasks, training Ranged, or even certain boss fights. However, it comes with a catch: using the cannon yields only half the Ranged experience (2 XP per damage instead of 4) and no Hitpoints XP.
Key Features of the Dwarf Cannon
- Deployable Turret: Set up in a valid location, it attacks enemies automatically.
- Ammunition: Uses cannonballs (crafted from steel bars) or granite cannonballs for higher damage.
- Range and Accuracy: Its accuracy depends on your attack style and equipment, not just Ranged stats.
- Quest Requirement: Completing the Dwarf Cannon quest is mandatory to use or purchase it.
How to Unlock the Dwarf Cannon
To use the Dwarf Cannon, you must complete the Dwarf Cannon quest, a relatively short and beginner-friendly quest centered around a dwarven outpost near the Coal Truck mining site. Here’s a step-by-step guide to unlocking the cannon.
Starting the Quest
Head to Captain Lawgof, located northwest of the Fishing Guild, near the Coal Truck mining site. You’ll need to talk to him to begin the quest. He’ll ask you to join the Black Guard and help with various tasks to defend the outpost from goblins.
Quest Walkthrough
- Fix the Railings: Captain Lawgof gives you six railings and a hammer. Inspect and repair six bent railings around the outpost’s fence. Failing a repair may deal minor damage or temporarily reduce your Strength or Crafting stats.
- Investigate the Watchtower: Go south to the watchtower, climb two ladders, and retrieve the Dwarf remains. Return them to Captain Lawgof, who reveals the dwarf’s son, Lollk, is missing.
- Find Lollk: Travel southeast to a cave near the Fishing Guild. Take the middle passage northwest, search the northernmost crate on the east wall, and free Lollk.
- Repair the Cannon: Back at the outpost, use the toolkit provided by Captain Lawgof to fix the broken multicannon. Match the tools to the parts: pliers for the safety switch, hooked tool for the spring, and tooth tool for the gear.
- Get Ammo Instructions: Visit Nulodion at the dwarven base south of Ice Mountain (near the Dwarven Mine). He gives you an ammo mould and Nulodion’s notes. Return these to Captain Lawgof to complete the quest.
Quest Rewards
Upon completion, you’ll earn:
- 750 Crafting XP
- Ability to purchase and use the Dwarf Cannon
- Access to craft cannonballs (requires 35 Smithing)
Acquiring the Dwarf Cannon Set
After completing the quest, you can purchase the Dwarf Cannon set from Nulodion, located south of Ice Mountain. Here are your options for acquiring it.
Purchasing from Nulodion
Nulodion offers two ways to buy the cannon:
Option | Cost | Includes |
---|---|---|
Full Set (via Dialogue) | 750,000 coins | Base, stand, furnace, barrels, ammo mould, instruction manual |
Individual Parts (via Trade) | 200,625 coins each (802,500 total) | Base, stand, furnace, or barrels |
Note: Buying the full set is cheaper than purchasing parts individually.
Grand Exchange Option
You can also buy the Dwarf Cannon set from the Grand Exchange, which includes all four parts (base, stand, furnace, barrels) for around 767,583 coins, depending on market prices. This is often more convenient than traveling to Nulodion. To unpack the set, exchange it with a Grand Exchange clerk.
Replacements and Warranty
If your cannon is lost or destroyed (e.g., by certain bosses like the King Black Dragon), Nulodion will replace it for free, including any cannonballs loaded at the time of loss. However, dropped or banked parts won’t be replaced, so be cautious.
Using the Dwarf Cannon Effectively
Once you have the cannon, knowing how to set it up and use it strategically is key to maximizing its benefits. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Setting Up the Cannon
To deploy the cannon:
- Ensure you’re in a cannon-permitted area (e.g., not in the Grand Exchange or Black Knights’ Fortress).
- Place the cannon base on a vacant square surrounded by eight empty squares.
- The stand, furnace, and barrels automatically assemble.
- Load up to 30 cannonballs (or granite cannonballs) by using them on the cannon or selecting the “Fire” option.
Pro Tip: Completing Combat Achievements can increase the cannon’s capacity to 60 cannonballs at the elite tier.
Best Places to Use the Cannon
The cannon shines in multicombat areas with high-density enemies. Here are some top spots:
- Shayzien Graveyard (Zeah): Hill Giants here are low-defense and provide decent XP. Relatively uncrowded.
- Dagannoth Cave: Requires Horror from the Deep. Dagannoths offer good XP and occasional loot like high-level seeds.
- Rock Crabs (Rellekka): Ideal for low-level Ranged training due to high HP and low defense. Can be crowded.
- Scabarites (Sophanem): Profitable with clue scrolls and decent XP, but requires Contact! quest.
Cannonball Crafting
To craft cannonballs, you need:
- Level 35 Smithing
- Steel bars
- An ammo mould
- Access to a furnace
Each steel bar yields four cannonballs. Granite cannonballs, which deal up to 35 damage (vs. 30 for regular), require additional steps and materials, making them less common.
Tips and Tricks for Dwarf Cannon Mastery
To get the most out of your Dwarf Cannon, consider these advanced strategies.
Maximizing Accuracy
The cannon’s accuracy depends on your current attack style and equipment. For example:
- If using a melee weapon, Piety prayer boosts accuracy.
- If using Ranged, Rigour prayer is ideal.
- Higher Attack or Ranged levels improve hit chance, regardless of your weapon.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Restricted Areas: Check for cannon restrictions (e.g., Mort Myre Swamp or Lizardman Caves) to avoid setup issues.
- Boss Fights: Avoid using the cannon against bosses like the Giant Roc, which can destroy it.
- Single Combat Areas: In single-combat zones, the cannon only targets your current enemy unless you’re safespotting.
Cost Management
Cannonballs are expensive, so plan your sessions:
- Craft your own cannonballs to save money.
- Use the cannon in high-XP or profitable areas to offset costs.
- Monitor Grand Exchange prices for cannonballs and the cannon set to buy low.
The Dwarf Cannon set in OSRS is a powerful tool for Ranged training and Slayer efficiency. By completing the Dwarf Cannon quest, acquiring the set, and using it strategically, you can significantly boost your combat prowess. Whether you’re blasting Hill Giants or speeding through Slayer tasks, the cannon is a worthy investment for any serious player. Ready to set up your cannon and start firing? Head to Captain Lawgof and begin your dwarven adventure today!