How to Make a Bond Tradeable in OSRS: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make a Bond Tradeable in OSRS: Step-by-Step Guide


Old School RuneScape (OSRS) bonds are a versatile in-game item that lets players pay for membership, change their display name, or trade for gold and items. A common question among players is how to make a bond tradeable in OSRS, especially since bonds can switch between tradeable and untradeable states. This guide walks you through the process, explains why you’d want to do it, and covers related tips to maximize your bond’s value. Whether you’re a free-to-play (F2P) player grinding for membership or a seasoned member flipping bonds for profit, understanding how to manage bond tradeability is key.

Bonds in OSRS are unique because they can exist in two states: tradeable and untradeable. Knowing the difference is crucial before diving into the process of making a bond tradeable.

What Is an OSRS Bond?

An OSRS bond is an in-game item that can be redeemed for membership (14 days per bond), a name change, or traded with other players for gold or items. Bonds are purchased from Jagex with real-world money or bought in-game via the Grand Exchange (GE) using gold pieces (GP). They’re a bridge between real-world currency and in-game wealth, making them a cornerstone of the OSRS economy.

Tradeable vs. Untradeable Bonds

  • Tradeable Bonds: These can be sold on the GE, traded directly with players, or gifted. When you buy a bond from Jagex or another player, it starts as tradeable.
  • Untradeable Bonds: Once a tradeable bond is traded (e.g., sold on the GE or given to another player), it becomes untradeable. You can still redeem it for membership or a name change, but you can’t trade it again without converting it.

The ability to convert an untradeable bond back to a tradeable one is what we’re focusing on here, as it allows you to sell or trade it for profit or other in-game benefits.

Steps to Make a Bond Tradeable in OSRS

Making an untradeable bond tradeable is straightforward but comes with a cost. Follow these steps to get it done.

Step 1: Check Your Bond’s Status

First, ensure you have an untradeable bond in your inventory or bond pouch. Bonds purchased directly from Jagex are tradeable by default, but those acquired through trading (e.g., buying from the GE or another player) become untradeable. To confirm:

  1. Open your inventory or bond pouch (accessible via the Account Management interface).
  2. Look for the bond. An untradeable bond will have “(untradeable)” in its name.

Step 2: Access the Convert Option

To make the bond tradeable again, you need to pay a fee equal to 10% of its current Grand Exchange value. Here’s how:

  1. Right-click the untradeable bond in your inventory.
  2. Select the “Convert” option. This opens a confirmation window showing the fee (e.g., if the GE price is 15M GP, the fee is 1.5M GP).
  3. Ensure you have enough gold in your inventory or money pouch to cover the fee.

Step 3: Pay the Conversion Fee

Once you confirm the conversion, the game deducts the fee from your gold, and the bond becomes tradeable. You’ll see “Old School Bond” (without “untradeable”) in your inventory, ready to be traded or sold.

Step 4: Verify and Trade

Double-check that the bond is tradeable by hovering over it. You can now:

  • Sell it on the Grand Exchange.
  • Trade it directly with another player.
  • Gift it to someone (even Ironmen, by using the bond on them).

Note: Once traded again, the bond will revert to untradeable for the recipient unless they convert it too.

Why Make a Bond Tradeable?

Converting an untradeable bond to tradeable has several practical uses. Here are the main reasons players do it:

Flipping Bonds for Profit

Bonds are a popular item for merchants looking to make gold. By buying low on the GE (when bonds are untradeable after purchase), converting them, and selling high, you can turn a profit. For example:

  • Buy a bond for 14.5M GP.
  • Pay a 1.5M GP conversion fee (assuming a 15M GE price).
  • Sell the tradeable bond for 15.5M GP, netting a small profit.

Market fluctuations can make this strategy risky, so always check GE prices before converting.

Gifting or Trading with Friends

If you want to help a friend or clanmate, converting a bond to tradeable lets you gift it to them. This is especially useful for Ironmen, who can’t trade normally but can receive bonds via the “use on” option.

Accessing In-Game Wealth

Converting and selling a bond can provide a quick influx of GP. This is ideal for F2P players who’ve earned a bond through grinding and want to fund their adventures without spending real money.

Costs and Considerations

While making a bond tradeable is simple, the conversion fee can be a hurdle. Let’s break down the costs and other factors to consider.

Understanding the Conversion Fee

The fee is always 10% of the bond’s current Grand Exchange price, which fluctuates based on supply and demand. As of recent trends, bond prices hover around 14-16M GP, so expect to pay 1.4-1.6M GP per conversion. Check the GE price before converting to avoid overpaying during price spikes.

When Is It Worth Converting?

Converting isn’t always the best choice. Consider these scenarios:

  • Worth It: If you plan to sell for a profit or need to trade the bond to someone else.
  • Not Worth It: If you’re redeeming the bond yourself for membership or a name change, as tradeability doesn’t matter in this case.

Table: Bond Conversion Cost Example

GE Bond Price (GP) Conversion Fee (10%) Potential Profit (If Sold at GE Price)
14,000,000 1,400,000 Varies (e.g., 100,000-500,000 if sold higher)
15,000,000 1,500,000 Varies
16,000,000 1,600,000 Varies

Tip: Use a price-checking tool or the GE interface to monitor bond prices before converting.

Tips for Managing Bonds in OSRS

Beyond making a bond tradeable, here are some strategies to get the most out of your bonds.

Store Bonds Efficiently

You can store up to 100 bonds (tradeable or untradeable) in your bond pouch, accessible via the Account Management interface. This keeps your inventory clear and makes it easy to manage multiple bonds.

Monitor Market Trends

Bond prices fluctuate based on game updates, membership sales, or player demand. Use the GE tracker or in-game price checker to time your conversions and sales for maximum profit.

Avoid Scams

When trading bonds directly with players, double-check the trade window to ensure you’re getting the agreed-upon items or gold. Stick to trusted players or use the GE to minimize risks.

Use Bonds Strategically for F2P Players

If you’re F2P, bonds are a game-changer. Grinding for a bond (e.g., through cowhide farming or telegrabbing Wines of Zamorak) lets you access membership without real-world spending. Convert and sell bonds to fund gear upgrades or skill training.

Redeem Wisely

If you don’t need to trade the bond, consider redeeming it for membership during a period when you’ll play actively. Membership unlocks quests, skills, and money-making methods that can help you afford more bonds in the future.

Making a bond tradeable in OSRS is a simple process with big potential. By paying the 10% GE fee, you can unlock trading options, whether you’re aiming to profit, gift a friend, or fund your next adventure. Just be mindful of the costs and market trends to ensure you’re making the most of your investment. With this guide, you’re ready to navigate the bond system like a pro. Happy scaping!