OSRS Melee Weapons Table Guide for Optimal Combat

OSRS Melee Weapons Table Guide for Optimal Combat

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) offers a vast array of melee weapons, each with unique stats, attack styles, and uses. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned veteran, choosing the right melee weapon can make or break your combat experience. This guide provides a detailed OSRS melee weapons table, breaking down the best options for different attack styles, levels, and scenarios. We’ll explore top weapons, their stats, and how to use them effectively in PvM and PvP, ensuring you maximize your damage output and efficiency.

Melee weapons in OSRS are designed for close-quarters combat, typically requiring no ammunition, unlike ranged or magic weapons. They scale with Attack and Strength skills, and their effectiveness depends on three damage types: stab, slash, and crush. Each type excels against specific enemies or armor, making weapon choice critical. Most melee weapons have an attack range of 1 tile, except for halberds, which extend to 2 tiles. Some weapons also require charges, like the Scythe of Vitur or Blade of Saeldor, adding maintenance costs but offering superior performance.

Why Melee Weapons Matter

Melee combat is straightforward and cost-effective, making it ideal for training, Slayer tasks, and bossing. With no need for runes or arrows, melee weapons are accessible for all players, from free-to-play (F2P) to members. High-tier weapons like the Ghrazi Rapier or Scythe of Vitur dominate endgame content, while budget options like the Rune Scimitar suit early-game players.

Key Factors in Choosing a Melee Weapon

When selecting a melee weapon, consider:

  • Attack Style: Stab, slash, or crush, based on enemy weaknesses.
  • Attack Speed: Faster weapons (e.g., 4-tick) yield higher DPS.
  • Strength Bonus: Higher bonuses increase maximum hit.
  • Level Requirements: Ensure you meet Attack or Strength prerequisites.
  • Special Attacks: Some weapons offer unique abilities for PvM or PvP.

OSRS Melee Weapons Table

Old School RuneScape OSRS  Melee Gear Progression Guide  Gamer Empire

Below is a comprehensive table showcasing some of the best melee weapons in OSRS, categorized by their primary attack style. The table includes key stats, requirements, and use cases, helping you pick the right weapon for your needs.

Weapon Primary Style Attack Bonus Strength Bonus Attack Speed (Ticks) Level Req. Best Use
Ghrazi Rapier Stab +94 Stab +89 4 75 Attack PvM, Slayer, Bossing
Scythe of Vitur Slash +110 Slash +105 5 75 Attack, 75 Strength Multi-target PvM, Bossing
Inquisitor’s Mace Crush +95 Crush +97 4 75 Attack PvM, Slayer, Crush-weak enemies
Abyssal Whip Slash +82 Slash +82 4 70 Attack General training, PvM, PvP
Zamorakian Hasta Stab +85 Stab +75 4 70 Attack Slayer, Bossing, Versatile
Rune Scimitar Slash +45 Slash +44 4 40 Attack F2P, Early-game training

Note: Stats assume pairing with an Avernic Defender for one-handed weapons to standardize comparisons.

Top Melee Weapons by Attack Style

OSRS Best F2P Melee Weapons  Highest Damage

Let’s dive into the best melee weapons for each attack style, highlighting their strengths and ideal scenarios.

Best Stab Weapons

Stab weapons excel against enemies wearing chainmail or leather armor, like dragons or certain bosses.

  • Ghrazi Rapier: With a +94 stab bonus and 4-tick speed, it’s the top stab weapon for high-DPS PvM, shining against Vorkath and Kalphite Queen. Obtained from Theatre of Blood.
  • Zamorakian Hasta: Versatile with +85 stab and switchable styles, it’s great for Slayer and PvM. Requires Barbarian Training and 70 Attack.
  • Osmumten’s Fang: Excels against high-defense targets due to its passive effect, ideal for Tombs of Amascut. Needs 82 Attack.

Best Slash Weapons

Slash weapons are effective against cloth, leather, or unarmored targets, making them versatile for Slayer and PvP.

  • Scythe of Vitur: A two-handed weapon with AoE attacks, perfect for multi-target fights like Theatre of Blood. Requires charges and 75 Attack/Strength.
  • Abyssal Whip: Iconic for its +82 slash and affordability, it’s a go-to for mid-level PvM and PvP. Needs 70 Attack.
  • Dragon Scimitar: Budget-friendly with +67 slash, ideal for mid-level players after Monkey Madness I. Requires 60 Attack.

Best Crush Weapons

Crush weapons are strong against platemail and certain bosses, like Cerberus or Tekton.

  • Inquisitor’s Mace: Fast and powerful with +95 crush, it’s best for crush-weak PvM. Dropped by The Nightmare.
  • Abyssal Bludgeon: Scales damage with Prayer points, great for bosses like Cerberus. Requires 70 Attack/Strength.
  • Dragon Warhammer: Its special attack lowers enemy Defense by 30%, invaluable for high-defense bosses. Dropped by Lizardman Shamans.

Melee Weapon Progression Guide

Progressing through melee weapons in OSRS depends on your Attack level, budget, and goals. Here’s a roadmap for F2P and members.

Early Game (1-40 Attack)

F2P players should start with bronze to mithril weapons, upgrading to the Rune Scimitar at 40 Attack for its balance of speed and power. Members can use the Brine Sabre (40 Attack) for a slight edge in PvM after completing quests.

Mid Game (40-70 Attack)

At 60 Attack, the Dragon Scimitar becomes accessible, offering high DPS for training. At 70 Attack, the Abyssal Whip or Zamorakian Hasta are excellent for Slayer and PvM, with the whip being more budget-friendly.

End Game (70+ Attack)

High-level players should aim for the Ghrazi Rapier, Scythe of Vitur, or Inquisitor’s Mace, depending on the combat scenario. These weapons require significant investment but dominate endgame content like raids and bossing.

Tips for Maximizing Melee Weapon Performance

To get the most out of your melee weapons, follow these strategies:

  • Match Attack Style to Enemy Weakness: Check monster weaknesses (e.g., stab for dragons, crush for Cerberus) to optimize DPS.
  • Use Special Attacks: Weapons like the Dragon Warhammer or Bandos Godsword have game-changing special attacks for PvM.
  • Pair with Gear: Combine weapons with strength-boosting gear like Obsidian armor (+10% damage with Obsidian weapons) or Void Knight set (+10% melee damage).
  • Train Strength First: Higher Strength increases max hit, boosting XP rates. Aim for 99 Strength before maxing Attack.
  • Consider Budget: If you can’t afford endgame weapons, the Abyssal Whip or Zamorakian Hasta offer great value.

By understanding the OSRS melee weapons table and tailoring your choices to your level and goals, you’ll dominate Gielinor’s toughest challenges. Whether you’re slashing with a Scythe of Vitur or stabbing with a Ghrazi Rapier, the right weapon will elevate your combat prowess. Start upgrading your arsenal today and conquer those bosses!