Rat pole

The Rat Pole is a unique and whimsical item in Old School RuneScape (OSRS), primarily known for its quirky aesthetic and utility in capturing rats. Crafted from a simple wooden pole, this tool is adorned with a colorful ribbon, making it both functional and visually appealing. Players often acquire the Rat Pole during quests or from specific NPCs, and it serves as a delightful nod to the game’s charming sense of humor. Its primary use is in the quest “Rat Catchers,” where players are tasked with catching various types of mischievous rats that have infested the area.

Beyond its quest-related function, the Rat Pole has become a nostalgic item for veteran players, evoking memories of simpler times in Gielinor. While it may not hold significant combat value, its role in the game highlights the importance of quirky and creative gameplay elements that OSRS is known for. Players often keep the Rat Pole in their banks as a collector’s item, celebrating its whimsical design and the fun adventures associated with it.

Category	Details
Released	25 July 2019 (Update)
Members	Yes
Quest item	No
Properties
Tradeable	No
Equipable	No
Stackable	No
Noteable	No
Options	Read, Drop
Examine	A fishing pole used to catch rats.
Values
Value	1 coin
High alch	0 coins
Low alch	0 coins
Weight	0.5 kg

Overview of the Rat Pole

The Rat Pole is a unique item in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Originally designed as a tool for catching rats, the Rat Pole has become a beloved piece of equipment among players, particularly those interested in training their Agility or engaging in humorous gameplay. Its quirky design, resembling a simple stick with a rat attached, makes it a memorable item in the game.

How to Obtain the Rat Pole

Acquiring the Rat Pole involves a specific quest line and some in-game tasks. Players must complete the following steps:

Quest Requirement: Players must have completed the Rat Catchers quest to unlock the Rat Pole.
Speak to the Quest Giver: Head to Canifis and speak with Velorina to initiate the quest.
Complete the Quest: Follow the quest objectives, which include capturing various rats and defeating a boss. Once completed, the Rat Pole is awarded.

The Rat Pole can also be obtained as a drop from some specific rat-related monsters, providing an alternative method for players who enjoy monster hunting.

Uses of the Rat Pole

The Rat Pole has several interesting uses that enhance its value beyond mere decoration:

Catching Rats: Players can use the Rat Pole to catch rats in various locations, particularly in the Canifis area.
Combat Tool: While not highly effective, the Rat Pole can be wielded in combat, providing a fun way to engage enemies.
Quest Items: Some quests may require the Rat Pole to complete specific objectives involving rats.
Training Agility: It can also be used in Agility training, specifically in the Gnome Stronghold course.

Stats and Attributes

The Rat Pole may not boast impressive stats like other weapons, but it has some notable attributes:

Attribute	Value
Attack Style	Stab
Weapon Speed	4 ticks
Damage	1-4 (depends on player stats)
Special Effect	None

While these stats may not make it the best weapon for typical combat scenarios, players often enjoy using it for its novelty value.

Rat Pole in the Community

The Rat Pole has garnered a unique status within the OSRS community. Players often share their experiences using the item on various forums and social media platforms.

Memes and Jokes: The quirky nature of the Rat Pole has led to countless memes portraying players “fighting” with the Rat Pole.
Community Events: Some players organize events where they use the Rat Pole exclusively in PvP scenarios, adding a layer of fun to the competition.
Influence on Gameplay: While not a top-tier item for combat, the Rat Pole encourages creative gameplay and interaction between players.

Limitations of the Rat Pole

Despite its charm, the Rat Pole comes with its own set of limitations:

Low Damage Output: Due to its low damage potential, it is not a viable option for serious combat situations.
Limited Use Cases: The Rat Pole is best suited for specific quests or comedic play rather than general gameplay.
Non-tradable: The Rat Pole is a non-tradable item, meaning players cannot sell or trade it, which limits its economic utility.

Strategies for Using the Rat Pole

To maximize the enjoyment of using the Rat Pole, players can implement various strategies:

Join Friends: Use the Rat Pole in group activities to enhance the fun factor. Invite friends to join you in rat-catching challenges!
Role-playing: Embrace the quirky nature of the item by role-playing as a rat catcher during gameplay sessions.
Combine with Other Items: Pair the Rat Pole with other humorous or thematic items to create a unique character build.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if I lose my Rat Pole?

If you lose your Rat Pole, you can obtain another one by completing the Rat Catchers quest again or by defeating the appropriate rat enemies.

Can I use the Rat Pole in PvP?

Yes, you can use the Rat Pole in PvP scenarios, though it is not recommended due to its low damage output. It is mainly for fun!

Is the Rat Pole worth keeping?

While it may not be practical for combat, many players keep it for its novelty and nostalgic value. It’s a fun item to pull out during casual gameplay.