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OSRS Broken Dragon Pickaxe Guide Everything You Need to Know
In the vast world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the dragon pickaxe stands as a coveted tool for miners and adventurers alike. However, its lesser-known counterpart, the broken dragon pickaxe, carries its own unique story and utility. This comprehensive guide dives into the details of the broken dragon pickaxe, exploring its origins, how to obtain it, repair options, and its place in the game’s economy and gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, this blog post will equip you with all the knowledge you need to navigate this intriguing item.
The broken dragon pickaxe is a rare, non-functional version of the dragon pickaxe, one of the most powerful mining tools in OSRS. Unlike its fully operational counterpart, the broken version cannot be used for mining until repaired. It’s primarily obtained as loot and serves as a stepping stone to acquiring or restoring a dragon pickaxe.
Origins and Lore
The broken dragon pickaxe was introduced as part of the Wilderness Rejuvenation update on March 13, 2014, alongside the dragon pickaxe itself. In the game’s lore, it’s often associated with the harsh conditions of dangerous areas like the Wilderness, where tools can be damaged by environmental hazards such as exploding rocks. This ties into the narrative of the Dwarven Mine and other perilous mining locations.
Key Characteristics
- Non-functional: Cannot be used for mining until repaired.
- Tradeable: Can be bought or sold on the Grand Exchange.
- Rarity: Obtained as rare loot from specific sources.
How to Obtain the Broken Dragon Pickaxe
Acquiring a broken dragon pickaxe requires luck, persistence, or a willingness to engage in specific activities. Below are the primary methods to obtain this item.
Volcanic Mine Reward Shop
The most reliable source of the broken dragon pickaxe is the Volcanic Mine reward shop on Fossil Island. Players can open ore packs purchased with points earned from participating in the Volcanic Mine minigame. These packs have a small chance of yielding a broken dragon pickaxe, making it a rare but achievable reward for dedicated players.
Exploding Rocks in the Wilderness
Historically, the broken dragon pickaxe could be obtained when a dragon pickaxe was damaged by an exploding rock in locations like the Wilderness or Dwarven Mine. While this mechanic is less common today, it’s still a part of the item’s legacy. Players engaging in high-risk mining in these areas might encounter this phenomenon.
Grand Exchange and Player Trading
For those who prefer to skip the grind, the broken dragon pickaxe is tradeable and can be purchased on the Grand Exchange. Prices fluctuate based on supply and demand, but it’s often cheaper than a fully functional dragon pickaxe, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious players.
Repairing the Broken Dragon Pickaxe
Once you’ve obtained a broken dragon pickaxe, the next step is to restore it to its full glory. Repairing it transforms it into a functional dragon pickaxe, which requires 61 Mining to use and 60 Attack to wield.
Where to Repair It
The broken dragon pickaxe can be repaired at Nurmof’s Pickaxe Shop in the Dwarven Mine. Nurmof, a skilled dwarf, will fix the pickaxe for a fee, restoring it to a standard dragon pickaxe. This service is straightforward and accessible to all players with the necessary funds.
Repair Costs
The cost to repair a broken dragon pickaxe varies but is typically around 90,000–100,000 GP, depending on game updates and economic factors. Always check the current fee with Nurmof before proceeding. This cost makes repairing a broken pickaxe a potentially cost-effective way to obtain a dragon pickaxe compared to buying one outright on the Grand Exchange.
Is Repairing Worth It
Deciding whether to repair a broken dragon pickaxe depends on your goals:
- Cost Savings: If the combined cost of the broken pickaxe and repair fee is lower than the market price of a dragon pickaxe, repairing is a smart choice.
- Trading Potential: Some players buy broken pickaxes to repair and sell at a profit.
- Personal Use: For miners, a repaired dragon pickaxe offers excellent efficiency for high-value ores like Runite or Amethyst.
Broken Dragon Pickaxe vs. Other Pickaxes
To understand the value of the broken dragon pickaxe, it’s helpful to compare the repaired dragon pickaxe to other top-tier pickaxes in OSRS. The table below highlights key differences.
| Pickaxe | Mining Level | Attack Level | Special Features | Approx. Cost (GP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dragon Pickaxe | 61 | 60 | Special attack for boosted mining speed | 4.5M–5M |
| Crystal Pickaxe | 71 | 50 | 10% faster than dragon pickaxe, requires charges | 10M+ |
| 3rd Age Pickaxe | 61 | 65 | Same speed as dragon pickaxe, rare cosmetic | 2B+ |
| Rune Pickaxe | 41 | 40 | Best free-to-play pickaxe | 30K–40K |
The dragon pickaxe, once repaired, is a strong mid-to-high-tier option, offering a balance of accessibility and performance. It’s outclassed by the crystal pickaxe in speed but remains more affordable and versatile due to its special attack.
Why Choose the Dragon Pickaxe
The dragon pickaxe is ideal for players who:
- Want a high-performance pickaxe without the high cost or requirements of the crystal pickaxe.
- Need a tool for both mining and occasional combat (e.g., Chambers of Xeric).
- Plan to use the special attack for faster mining bursts.
Alternatives to Consider
If the broken dragon pickaxe’s repair cost or requirements don’t suit your needs, consider:
- Rune Pickaxe: Perfect for free-to-play players or those with lower Mining levels.
- Crystal Pickaxe: Best for end-game miners with access to Prifddinas and the resources to maintain it.
Economic and Gameplay Impact
The broken dragon pickaxe plays a small but notable role in the OSRS economy and gameplay meta. Its trade #OSRS #BrokenDragonPickaxe #Mining #Runescape
Market Trends
The price of the broken dragon pickaxe fluctuates based on the demand for dragon pickaxes and the supply from Volcanic Mine rewards. As of May 2025, it’s generally cheaper than a fully functional dragon pickaxe, making it a budget-friendly option for players. Monitoring Grand Exchange prices can help you snag a deal.
Gameplay Strategies
In gameplay, the broken dragon pickaxe incentivizes participation in the Volcanic Mine, a minigame that rewards teamwork and skill. It also encourages players to explore repair mechanics and engage with the game’s economy, whether by repairing for personal use or trading for profit.
Community and Lore Significance
The broken dragon pickaxe adds depth to OSRS’s mining and crafting systems, tying into the game’s rich lore of dwarven craftsmanship and hazardous environments. Community discussions on forums and Discord often highlight its value as both a collectible and a practical item.
Whether you’re chasing profits, XP, or just the thrill of the hunt, the broken dragon pickaxe is a fascinating piece of OSRS’s ecosystem. Happy mining!