Experience (XP) is a crucial aspect of skill progression in Old School RuneScape (OSRS). For budding blacksmiths, understanding the XP rate per level in Smithing is vital for planning and optimizing their training methods. This guide will delve into the intricacies of Smithing XP per level in OSRS, ensuring you're well-informed to make the most of your game time.
OSRS' Smithing skill allows players to craft metal bars into various items like weapons, armor, and tools. Each level of Smithing requires a specific amount of XP, with the XP needed increasing as you progress. Understanding this XP curve can help you predict your Smithing level progression and plan your training accordingly.
Smithing XP Requirements
The total XP required to reach each Smithing level is well-documented, with the actual amounts serving as a benchmark for your progression. However, the rate at which you gain XP is dynamic, influenced by the items you're smithing and your currently equipped Smithing cape.
As a starting point, here's a breakdown of the total XP required to reach specific Smithing levels:
- 60 Smithing: 210,000 XP
- 70 Smithing: 378,500 XP
- 80 Smithing: 618,250 XP
- 90 Smithing: 978,200 XP
XP per Smithing Action
The XP you gain per action (smithing an item) is influenced by several factors, including the item's size, the bar's type, and the Smithing level required to craft it. For example, crafting dragon platebody grants more XP than crafting iron platebody due to the former's higher Smithing requirement and larger size.
To maximize your XP gain per hour, consider focusing on high-level, high-XP items. However, be mindful of your current Smithing level and the required Smithing capes to craft these items. For instance, crafting dragon weapons and armor requires 60 and 75 Smithing, respectively, along with the completion of certain quests.
Smithing Cape Bonuses
Wearing a Smithing cape provides an XP bonus, further boosting your XP gain per hour. The cape's tier (normal, master, or completionist) determines the size of this bonus, with completionist offering the highest boost at 12.5%. To claim these capes, you must participate in Loyalty Program Tiers or achieve 100% completion.
Equipping a Smithing cape not only boosts your XP gain but also provides access to additional Smithing boosts, such as the ability to smelt gold and silver ore without using a furnace.
Optimizing Smithing XP Gain
With knowledge of the XP requirements and gain rates, you can now focus on optimizing your Smithing XP gain and, consequently, your level progression.
Here are some tips to maximize your Smithing XP:
- Master the crafting methods you'll use, ensuring that you can craft items quickly and efficiently.
- Prioritize high-level, high-XP items that you're capable of crafting. Consider using the Smithing Training guide on the OSRS Wiki for personalized advice.
- Equip your highest-tier Smithing cape to benefit from its XP bonus.
- Combine Smithing with other activities, such as Woodcutting or Fishing, to claim additional Bonus XP if you have relevant perks unlocked via the Arcane Pedestal reward.
AFK Smithing Methods
Some Smithing methods allow for (Almost) F2P (AFK) training, enabling you to perform other actions or enjoy the game's storytelling while still progressing your Smithing skill. Keep in mind, though, that AFK Smithing methods typically have lower XP rates, so they're best suited for players who value time and multitasking efficiency.
Consider using methods like crafting stud, ruby, or sapphire bolts, which have low Smithing requirements and can be performed relatively quickly. Alternatively, crafting runite bodies can provide higher XP rates, but requires 85 Smithing, making it less accessible for lower-level players.
Efficient Smithing Rotations
Optimizing your Smithing rotation involves cycling through Smithing actions, maximizing your XP gain while minimizing effort. For example, you might focus on crafting a mix of high-XP items and lower-XP, empty unequipped inventory slots to create a smooth, efficient rotation.
Rotating through different bars can also help maintain a consistent crafting pace. For instance, alternating between crafting dragon and iron bars allows you to efficiently use lower-level items while you wait for higher-level bars to finish smelting.
Ultimately, the key to efficient Smithing training lies in finding a balance between XP gain, personal enjoyment, and multitasking opportunities. Experiment with different methods and rotations to discover the approach that best fits your playstyle and goals.
By applying the insights gained from this guide, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the full potential of your Smithing skill in OSRS. Happy crafting, and may your bars never run cold!