OSRS Barrelchest Anchor: The Ultimate Guide to This Unique Weapon
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is packed with iconic weapons, but few stand out like the Barrelchest Anchor. This hefty, nautical-themed weapon isn’t just a visual spectacle—it’s a practical choice for certain builds and combat scenarios. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, this guide dives deep into everything you need to know about the Barrelchest Anchor in OSRS. From how to obtain it to its stats, uses, and strategic value, we’ve got you covered. Let’s weigh anchor and explore!
The Barrelchest Anchor is a two-handed melee weapon introduced to OSRS as part of the Great Brain Robbery quest. It’s wielded by players who favor strength-based builds and offers a distinctive mix of power and style. With its unique design—a literal ship’s anchor—it’s a fan favorite for those who enjoy quirky yet functional gear.
Origins of the Barrelchest Anchor
The anchor comes from the pirate-infested island of Harmony, where players encounter the fearsome Barrelchest boss during the Great Brain Robbery quest. Defeating this mechanical monstrosity rewards you with the anchor, marking it as a trophy of your victory.
Why It’s Unique
Unlike typical swords or axes, the Barrelchest Anchor stands out with its unconventional appearance and special attack. It’s not just a weapon—it’s a statement. Its rarity and niche utility make it a prized possession for collectors and combat enthusiasts alike.
How to Obtain the Barrelchest Anchor
Getting your hands on the Barrelchest Anchor requires some effort, but the payoff is worth it. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process.
Quest Requirements
To start, you’ll need to complete the Great Brain Robbery quest. This quest has several prerequisites:
- Cabin Fever – Unlocks access to Harmony Island.
- Priest in Peril – Opens up Morytania.
- 50 Prayer – A key skill requirement.
- 42 Crafting – For crafting quest items.
- 40 Defence – To wield the anchor once obtained.
Defeating Barrelchest
The climax of the quest pits you against Barrelchest, a level 190 boss with a massive anchor of its own. To defeat it:
- Use Protect from Melee to mitigate its heavy hits.
- Bring high-tier food (e.g., sharks) and potions.
- Equip gear with decent melee defence, like Rune or Dragon armor.
Once defeated, you’ll receive the anchor as a reward. Note that it’s untradeable, so you’ll need to earn it yourself!
Repairing the Anchor
After obtaining it, the Barrelchest Anchor starts with zero charges and must be repaired. Take it to Brother Tranquility on Harmony Island with 50,000 GP to restore it to full functionality (10,000 charges).
Barrelchest Anchor Stats and Mechanics
The Barrelchest Anchor isn’t just for show—it packs a punch in combat. Let’s break down its stats and how it performs.
Attack and Defence Bonuses
Here’s a quick look at the anchor’s combat stats:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Attack Bonus (Crush) | +80 |
| Strength Bonus | +100 |
| Defence Bonus (Crush) | +15 |
| Speed | 4 ticks (2.4 seconds) |
It excels in crush damage, making it ideal against enemies weak to this attack style, like skeletal wyverns or certain bosses.
Special Attack: Sunder
The anchor’s special attack, Sunder, costs 50% of your special attack energy. It deals increased damage and has a chance to lower the target’s Defence by 1-10 levels, based on the hit. This makes it a situational but potent tool in PvP or against high-defence foes.
Charges and Maintenance
The anchor comes with 10,000 charges when repaired. Each hit consumes one charge, and once depleted, it reverts to an uncharged state. You’ll need to revisit Brother Tranquility with another 50,000 GP to recharge it, so factor that into your long-term costs.
Best Uses for the Barrelchest Anchor
While not the meta-defining weapon of OSRS, the Barrelchest Anchor shines in specific scenarios. Here’s where it excels.
PvP Combat
In player-versus-player situations, the anchor’s special attack can catch opponents off guard. Lowering their Defence opens them up to heavier hits from follow-up attacks, especially if paired with a high-damage weapon switch like a Dragon Dagger.
Training Strength
With its +100 Strength bonus, the anchor is a solid choice for training Strength, particularly at mid-to-high levels. It’s comparable to the Dragon Scimitar or Abyssal Whip in terms of experience rates, though its slower speed means fewer hits per minute.
Niche Bossing
The anchor’s crush bonus makes it effective against bosses like the Corporeal Beast (when using a team strategy) or enemies in Slayer tasks vulnerable to crush. Pair it with a Slayer helmet and decent gear for optimal results.
Comparing the Barrelchest Anchor to Other Weapons
How does the Barrelchest Anchor stack up against other OSRS melee weapons? Let’s put it side by side with some popular options.
Barrelchest Anchor vs. Abyssal Whip
The Abyssal Whip is faster (2.4s vs. 3.6s attack speed) and tradeable, making it more versatile and accessible. However, the anchor’s higher Strength bonus (+100 vs. +82) and special attack give it an edge in specific Strength-training or PvP setups.
Barrelchest Anchor vs. Dragon Scimitar
The Dragon Scimitar is cheaper and faster, with a +66 Strength bonus compared to the anchor’s +100. For general training, the scimitar wins, but the anchor’s crush focus and special attack make it better for niche scenarios.
Is It Worth Using?
For most players, the Barrelchest Anchor is a situational weapon rather than an everyday go-to. Its untradeable nature and repair costs limit its practicality, but its unique flair and combat potential make it a worthy addition to any collection.
In conclusion, the Barrelchest Anchor is a standout weapon in OSRS, blending style with substance. Whether you’re chasing it for the thrill of the quest, its combat utility, or just to flex on your friends, it’s a rewarding piece of gear to master. So, grab your pirate hat, finish Great Brain Robbery, and give this anchor a swing—Harmony Island awaits!