OSRS 2-Tick Woodcutting Guide: Boost Your XP Rates in 2025
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) offers a variety of skilling methods to level up your Woodcutting, but if you’re aiming for the fastest experience rates, 2-tick Woodcutting is a game-changer. This advanced technique can push your XP per hour to impressive heights, making it a favorite among efficiency-focused players. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about 2-tick Woodcutting in OSRS, from the basics to expert tips, as of April 2025. Whether you’re chasing that 99 Woodcutting cape or just want to optimize your training, this blog post has you covered.
2-tick Woodcutting is a tick manipulation technique that doubles the speed at which you can attempt to gather logs, cutting the standard 4-tick cycle down to just 2 ticks. In OSRS, a “tick” is a 0.6-second game cycle that governs all actions. Normally, chopping a tree takes 4 ticks (2.4 seconds) per attempt, but with 2-tick Woodcutting, you can attempt to gather logs every 2 ticks (1.2 seconds). This effectively boosts your XP rates significantly, often reaching up to 200k+ XP per hour with the right setup.
How Does It Work?
The method relies on using the game’s Auto Retaliate mechanic. When an NPC attacks you every 2 ticks, it interrupts the standard Woodcutting animation, allowing you to reset the cycle faster. By clicking the tree on specific ticks, you align your actions to maximize efficiency.
Why Use 2-Tick Woodcutting?
For players who prioritize speed over relaxation, 2-tick Woodcutting offers unmatched XP rates. It’s particularly appealing for those grinding to 99 or competing in skilling events. While it’s click-intensive, the payoff in experience makes it worth the effort for dedicated lumberjacks.
Setting Up for 2-Tick Woodcutting
Getting started with 2-tick Woodcutting requires some preparation. You’ll need the right gear, location, and timing to pull it off effectively. Here’s how to set it up step-by-step.
Requirements and Gear
- Woodcutting Level: At least 35 for teak trees, though higher levels improve success rates.
- Axe: Use the best axe available—dragon axe (level 61) or crystal felling axe (level 71) for maximum efficiency.
- Weapon: Equip a fast, non-attacking weapon like a shortbow (no ammo) set to Rapid mode.
- Auto Retaliate: Turn this on in your combat settings.
- Optional: Lumberjack outfit for a 2.5% XP boost, and stamina potions if dropping logs.
Best Locations
The two most popular spots for 2-tick Woodcutting are:
- Ape Atoll: Teak trees here are ideal, with birds providing the necessary 2-tick aggression.
- Prifddinas: Rabbits can be used for the same effect near teak trees, post-Song of the Elves.
Step-by-Step Setup
- Head to your chosen location (e.g., Ape Atoll).
- Draw aggression from two NPCs (birds or rabbits) without killing them—use spells like Confuse to keep them alive.
- Position yourself between two teak trees with both NPCs attacking you every 2 ticks (watch for alternating hitsplats).
- Equip your shortbow, enable Auto Retaliate, and start chopping!
Mastering the 2-Tick Technique
Executing 2-tick Woodcutting takes practice, as timing is everything. Here’s how to perfect the rhythm and avoid common pitfalls.
The Rhythm
Once the NPCs are hitting you every 2 ticks:
- On-Tick: Click the teak tree when you see a hitsplat.
- Off-Tick: Click the ground or drop a log to reset the cycle.
Repeat this pattern relentlessly. A metronome plugin (like RuneLite’s) set to 100 BPM can help you stay on beat—click the tree on one tick, the ground on the next.
XP Rates by Level
Your XP per hour depends on your Woodcutting level and axe. Here’s a breakdown:
| Level | Axe | XP/Hour (Max Efficiency) |
|---|---|---|
| 35 | Rune Axe | ~120k |
| 61 | Dragon Axe | ~180k |
| 99 | Crystal Felling Axe | ~223k |
Note: Real-world rates may be 10-20% lower due to human error or lag.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Misaligned NPCs: If both NPCs hit on the same tick, the rhythm breaks. Reposition them carefully.
- Wrong Weapon Speed: Ensure your shortbow is on Rapid mode for 2-tick retaliation.
- Overclicking: Clicking too fast can desync your cycle—stick to the 2-tick beat.
Alternatives to 2-Tick Woodcutting
While 2-tick Woodcutting is fast, it’s not for everyone. If the click intensity wears you out, consider these alternatives that still offer solid XP rates.
1.5-Tick Woodcutting
This method uses a 3-tick action (e.g., herb and tar) to get two log rolls every 3 ticks, averaging 1.5 ticks per attempt. It’s the fastest Woodcutting method in OSRS, hitting up to 255k XP/hour at 99 with a crystal felling axe. However, it’s even more click-intensive and typically done on Fossil Island’s hardwood patches.
Forestry Events
Introduced in 2023, Forestry adds group activities to Woodcutting. Chopping teaks on Forestry worlds (e.g., Prifddinas or Soul Wars) with 3-tick manipulation can yield high XP rates, boosted further by event rewards like anima-infused bark. It’s less consistent than 2-ticking but more social and less monotonous.
AFK Methods
For a laid-back approach, try redwood trees at the Woodcutting Guild (level 90+). With a +7 invisible boost, you’ll get ~70k XP/hour with minimal effort—perfect for multitasking.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To get the most out of 2-tick Woodcutting, refine your approach with these pro tips.
Optimize Your Setup
- Use RuneLite plugins like Visual Metronome or Tick Counter to nail your timing.
- Bind tree and ground clicks to hotkeys for faster inputs.
- Wear the full Lumberjack outfit—every XP boost counts!
Managing Resources
If powercutting (dropping logs), bring stamina potions to maintain run energy. For ironmen, bank logs via house teleports and a butler to save planks for Construction training.
Long-Term Strategy
2-tick Woodcutting shines for short, intense sessions. Pair it with AFK methods like redwoods to avoid burnout. Aim to hit key milestones (e.g., 61 for dragon axe, 71 for crystal axe) to keep your rates climbing.
By mastering 2-tick Woodcutting, you’re not just chopping trees—you’re chopping time off your journey to 99. It’s a demanding but rewarding method that showcases OSRS’s depth and player ingenuity. Whether you stick with it or mix in other techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to dominate the Woodcutting grind in 2025. Happy chopping!