Your cart is empty
Weapon Store Key OSRS Ultimate Guide

The Weapon Store Key in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is a pivotal item for players tackling the Shield of Arrav quest. This key unlocks access to the Phoenix Gang’s weapon storage room, a critical step in completing the quest and advancing your gameplay. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Weapon Store Key, from obtaining it to avoiding common pitfalls like scams. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a new player, this post will help you navigate this quest item with ease.
The Weapon Store Key is a quest item used during the Shield of Arrav quest in OSRS. It grants access to the Phoenix Gang’s weapon storage room, located in southeastern Varrock, where players can obtain Phoenix Crossbows or the shield half needed to progress the quest. The key is obtained by joining the Phoenix Gang or partnering with a Phoenix Gang member, making it a collaborative effort for those in the Black Arm Gang.
Key Details and Stats
Here’s a quick overview of the Weapon Store Key’s attributes:
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Name | Weapon Store Key |
Quest | Shield of Arrav |
Tradeable | Yes |
Members Only | No (Free-to-Play) |
Examine Text | Phoenix Gang weapon store key |
Storage | Can be stored on Steel Key Ring |
Note: The key was originally named “Key” but was renamed to “Weapon Store Key” after the Varrock update to avoid confusion with other keys in the game.
How to Obtain the Weapon Store Key
Obtaining the Weapon Store Key requires aligning with the Phoenix Gang or partnering with someone who has. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the key:
Joining the Phoenix Gang
- Start the Shield of Arrav Quest: Speak to Reldo in the Varrock Palace library to begin the quest.
- Locate Baraek: Find Baraek in Varrock’s center (near the fur stall) and pay 20 coins to learn about the Phoenix Gang.
- Meet Straven: Head to the Phoenix Gang hideout in southeastern Varrock, between two pubs. Speak to Straven.
- Defeat Jonny the Beard: Go to the Blue Moon Inn, kill Jonny the Beard (level 2), and pick up the report he drops.
- Return to Straven: Deliver the report to Straven, who will grant you Phoenix Gang membership and the Weapon Store Key.
Partnering with a Phoenix Gang Member
If you choose the Black Arm Gang, you’ll need a partner in the Phoenix Gang to trade you the Weapon Store Key. Here’s how:
- Join the OSRS SOA Chat Channel: Use the official “OSRS SOA” chat channel to find a Phoenix Gang partner.
- Trade the Key: Your partner can obtain the key from Straven and trade it to you.
- Coordinate Carefully: Ensure your partner hasn’t completed the quest or merged the shield halves, as they won’t be able to retrieve the key or certificates in that case.
Tip: If you lose the key, you can return to Straven for a replacement, but if you’ve lost the thieves’ armband from the Heroes’ Quest and are in a free-to-play world, you may face issues.
Using the Weapon Store Key in Shield of Arrav
The Weapon Store Key is essential for progressing in the Shield of Arrav quest, particularly for Black Arm Gang members who need to steal Phoenix Crossbows. Here’s how to use it:
Accessing the Weapon Storage Room
- Locate the Room: Head to the Phoenix Gang hideout in southeastern Varrock, south of the rune shop. Look for a locked door with a ladder inside.
- Unlock the Door: Use the Weapon Store Key to open the door and climb the ladder.
- Defeat the Weaponsmaster: Face the Weaponsmaster (level 23) and defeat him. You must kill him before you can pick up the crossbows.
- Collect Crossbows: Pick up two Phoenix Crossbows and deliver them to Katrine at the Black Arm Gang hideout.
Pro Tip: If you’re avoiding combat experience, have your Phoenix Gang partner use the drop-trick method to get a duplicate key, defeat the Weaponsmaster, and trade you the crossbows.
Alternative for Phoenix Gang Members
Phoenix Gang members use the key to access the hideout’s chest in the southwest corner, which contains one half of the Shield of Arrav. This half is then taken to Curator Haig Halen at the Varrock Museum to receive certificate copies.
Common Issues and Scams with the Weapon Store Key
The Weapon Store Key has historically been a target for scams in OSRS, especially after the Varrock update when its name change caused confusion. Here are common issues and how to avoid them:
Scams Involving the Weapon Store Key
- Overpriced Sales: Some players try to sell the key for tens or hundreds of thousands of coins, despite it being easily obtainable from Straven. Always verify with Straven before buying.
- Fake Partners: Scammers may take your key or items and log out without providing the certificate or crossbows. Use trusted partners from the OSRS SOA chat channel.
Solution: Stick to the official OSRS SOA chat channel and avoid trading with unverified players. If scammed, report the player via the in-game reporting system.
Losing the Key
If you lose the Weapon Store Key, simply return to Straven at the Phoenix Gang hideout to get a replacement. However, be cautious if you’ve also lost the thieves’ armband from Heroes’ Quest, as this can complicate reobtaining the key in free-to-play worlds.
Tips for Completing Shield of Arrav Efficiently
To make your Shield of Arrav quest experience smooth and efficient, follow these tips:
Preparation and Coordination
- Find a Partner Early: Use the OSRS SOA chat channel to secure a reliable partner before choosing a gang.
- Bring a Weapon: While optional, a weapon is recommended for defeating Jonny the Beard or the Weaponsmaster. Low-level players can use a bronze sword or similar.
- Check Partner Status: Ensure your partner hasn’t completed the quest or merged the shield halves, as this prevents them from assisting fully.
Maximizing Quest Rewards
Completing Shield of Arrav grants 1 Quest Point and 600 coins. To maximize your rewards:
- Combine with Other Quests: Tackle other Varrock-based quests like to efficiently gain Quest Points.
- Use the Coins: The 600 coins can be used to buy early-game gear or supplies for low-level players.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don’t Rush Gang Choice: Decide on Phoenix or Black Arm Gang only after securing a partner to avoid delays.
- Double-Check Inventory: Ensure you have the key and other required items (e.g., 20 coins) before heading to key locations.
- Beware of Combat: The Weaponsmaster is level 23, so low-level players should prepare or rely on their partner.
By following this guide, you’ll master the Weapon Store Key’s role in OSRS and complete the Shield of Arrav quest with confidence. Whether you’re unlocking the Phoenix Gang’s storage room or coordinating with a partner, this item is your ticket to quest success. Happy adventuring in Gielinor!