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OSRS Steel Full Helm Guide Everything You Need to Know
In the vast world of Old School RuneScape (OSRS), the steel full helm is a staple piece of armor for early-game players looking to bolster their defensive capabilities. As the third-weakest full helm in the game, it offers a balance of affordability and protection, making it a popular choice for those just starting their adventures or engaging in low-level combat. This comprehensive guide dives into everything you need to know about the steel full helm, from its stats and requirements to how to obtain it, its uses in combat, and its place in the OSRS economy. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned adventurer, understanding the steel full helm’s role can enhance your gameplay experience.
The steel full helm is a piece of melee armor worn on the head, providing greater defensive bonuses than its medium helm counterpart, the steel med helm. However, it comes at the cost of reduced offensive bonuses for ranged and magic attacks, making it a melee-focused piece of equipment. With a distinctive look and practical stats, it’s a go-to choice for players progressing through the early stages of OSRS.
Key Stats and Requirements
To equip a steel full helm, players need at least 5 Defence. This low requirement makes it accessible to most players early in their journey. Below are the key stats for the steel full helm:
- Defensive Bonuses:
- Offensive Bonuses: None
- Other: +3 Prayer bonus
These stats make the steel full helm a solid choice for melee combat, particularly against stab and slash attacks, though its negative magic and ranged bonuses mean it’s less ideal for hybrid or tribrid combat scenarios.
Comparison with Steel Med Helm
While both the steel full helm and steel med helm require 5 Defence, the full helm offers superior defensive bonuses. The trade-off is a slight reduction in ranged and magic accuracy, which may influence your choice depending on your combat style. For pure melee builds, the full helm is generally preferred due to its higher protection.
How to Obtain a Steel Full Helm
There are several ways to acquire a steel full helm in OSRS, catering to different playstyles, whether you prefer combat, skilling, or trading. Here are the primary methods:
Purchasing from Shops
The easiest way to get a steel full helm is by buying one from the Helmet Shop in the Barbarian Village. The shop, run by Peksa, stocks steel full helms for 550 coins each, though prices may vary slightly depending on stock levels. This method is ideal for players who want a quick and reliable source without relying on combat or skilling.
Monster Drops
For those who enjoy combat, several monsters drop steel full helms, making them a potential reward while training Slayer or grinding for loot. Notable monsters include:
- Hill Giants: Common in the Edgeville Dungeon, these low-level monsters occasionally drop steel full helms.
- Moss Giants: Found in places like the Varrock Sewers, they have a slightly higher drop rate for the helm.
- Ankou: Located in the Stronghold of Security, these undead creatures offer a chance at the helm alongside other loot.
Training on these monsters not only provides a chance to obtain the helm but also yields experience and other valuable drops.
Smithing a Steel Full Helm
Players with a Smithing level of 37 can craft their own steel full helm, which is a great option for skillers or Ironman accounts. To smith one, you’ll need:
- 2 steel bars
- An anvil
- A hammer
Smithing a steel full helm grants 75 Smithing experience, making it a decent training method for mid-level smiths. You can smelt steel bars (requiring 30 Mining and 30 Smithing) or purchase them from the Grand Exchange.
Trading with Players
If you’re short on time or resources, you can buy a steel full helm from other players via the Grand Exchange. As of May 2025, the market price fluctuates around 150-200 coins, making it an affordable option. This method is particularly convenient for players who don’t want to engage in combat or skilling.
Uses in Combat
The steel full helm shines in early-game melee combat, offering decent protection for its low requirements. Here’s how it fits into various combat scenarios:
Training and Low-Level PvM
For players training combat in areas like the Lumbridge goblins or the Stronghold of Security, the steel full helm provides sufficient defense against low-level enemies. It’s particularly effective in prolonged fights where reducing incoming damage is key. Pair it with a steel platebody and steel platelegs for a full set of budget-friendly armor.
Questing
Many early-game quests, such as Dragon Slayer or The Knight’s Sword, involve combat with moderately strong enemies. The steel full helm is a reliable choice for these encounters, offering enough protection without requiring high-level gear. Its low cost also means you won’t lose much if you die during a quest.
PvP Considerations
In low-level PvP scenarios, such as in the Wilderness or Duel Arena, the steel full helm is less common due to its negative ranged and magic bonuses. However, for pure melee builds focusing on strength and defence, it can still be a viable option, especially for players on a budget.
Role in the OSRS Economy
The steel full helm plays a small but notable role in the OSRS economy, driven by its accessibility and utility for new players. Let’s explore its economic impact:
Market Trends
The steel full helm’s price on the Grand Exchange is influenced by supply and demand. Since it’s a common drop and easily crafted, its price remains low, typically under 200 coins. However, fluctuations can occur due to updates or shifts in player activity, such as new quests or events requiring low-level gear.
Alching Value
For players training Magic, the steel full helm has a High Alchemy value of 330 coins when cast with a fire staff and nature runes. This makes it a decent item for alching, especially if you’re smithing or collecting them in bulk. The profit margin depends on the current Grand Exchange price, so always check before alching.
Ironman and F2P Considerations
In Ironman mode or free-to-play (F2P) worlds, the steel full helm is even more valuable due to limited access to higher-tier gear. Ironmen often smith their own helms or farm them from monsters, while F2P players rely on it as one of the best helmets available without membership.
Tips for Maximizing the Steel Full Helm’s Value
To get the most out of your steel full helm, consider these practical tips:
Upgrade Path
While the steel full helm is great for early-game, plan to upgrade as you progress. The next logical step is the mithril full helm (20 Defence) or the adamant full helm (30 Defence), which offer better stats. Keep an eye on your Defence level and budget to make the transition smoothly.
Combine with Other Gear
To maximize its effectiveness, pair the steel full helm with complementary gear. A steel kiteshield and amulet of defence can further boost your defensive stats, while a steel scimitar provides acolyte provides a fast attack speed for melee training.
| Slot | Item |
|---|---|
| Head | Steel Full Helm |
| Chest | Steel Platebody |
| Legs | Steel Platelegs |
| Weapon | Steel Scimitar |
| Shield | Steel Kiteshield |
This setup provides a balanced mix of offence and defence for early-game players.
Storage and Banking
Since steel full helms are inexpensive, they’re often stored in bulk by players training Smithing or Magic. Keep a few in your bank for quests or training, but avoid hoarding too many, as their low value means they’re not a great investment.
Leverage for Skilling
If you’re training Smithing, crafting steel full helms can be a cost-effective way to gain experience. Buy steel bars in bulk from the Grand Exchange, smith the helms, and either sell them or alch them for a small profit or break-even.
The steel full helm may not be the flashiest piece of gear in OSRS, but its accessibility, low requirements, and practical stats make it an essential item for early-game players. Whether you’re battling monsters, tackling quests, or skilling your way to riches, this humble helmet has a place in every adventurer’s inventory. By understanding its stats, acquisition methods, and uses, you can make informed decisions to enhance your gameplay. So, grab your steel full helm, head out into Gielinor, and start your journey with confidence!