Mining is one of the oldest and most essential skills in Old School RuneScape (OSRS). It allows players to gather valuable ores and gems, which can be used in various crafting and smithing activities. Achieving level 99 Mining is a significant milestone for any player, as it unlocks access to some of the game’s most lucrative resources. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the journey to reach 99 Mining in OSRS, covering everything from the basics to advanced strategies.
Getting Started with Mining
Understanding the Mining Skill
Mining is a skill that allows players to extract ores, gems, and other resources from rocks scattered throughout the game world. As you level up in Mining, you’ll be able to mine higher-level rocks and access more valuable materials. To start your Mining journey, you’ll need some essential knowledge and tools.
Essential Mining Tools
Before you begin mining, make sure you have the following tools:
- Pickaxe: The pickaxe is your primary mining tool. Different pickaxes have varying levels of effectiveness, so use the best one available to you.
- Axe: Some rocks require a higher Woodcutting level to be cleared before mining, so having an axe is handy.
- Varrock Armor (optional): The Varrock Armor 1, 2, or 3 offers a chance of double ore yields when mining certain ores.
Basic Mining Locations
In the early stages, you’ll be limited to mining basic ores such as copper and tin. Here are some common locations to get started:
- Lumbridge Swamp: Features copper and tin rocks.
- Varrock South-East Mine: Contains a variety of ores, including iron.
- Al Kharid Mine: Home to a collection of copper, tin, and iron rocks.
Leveling Up: Early Stages
Levels 1-15: Copper and Tin
To reach level 15, you can mine copper and tin rocks. These ores are found in numerous locations, and you can quickly progress through these early levels by alternating between the two. Consider banking your ores for later use in smithing or crafting.
Levels 15-99: Iron Ore
From level 15 onwards, iron ore becomes your primary target. Iron rocks are abundant and provide good experience per ore mined. A popular early-game location for iron mining is the Al Kharid mine, but as you level up, you can explore other areas with more iron rocks.
Alternative Training Methods
Power Mining
Power mining involves dropping ores rather than banking them. While this method sacrifices profit, it maximizes experience gain per hour. It’s an efficient way to level up quickly, especially when mining iron.
Motherlode Mine
The Motherlode Mine is a unique training method that offers both experience and a chance at various ores, gems, and the Prospector outfit. It becomes available at level 30 Mining and is a popular choice for players seeking a balanced approach to leveling Mining.
Blast Mining
Blast Mining is an alternative method that becomes available at level 75 Mining. It offers excellent experience rates and the potential for valuable ores like runite. However, it requires more attention and focus than traditional mining methods.
Advanced Strategies
Gem Rocks
Gem rocks can be mined at level 40 Mining and provide valuable gems such as sapphires, emeralds, and rubies. These rocks are found in Shilo Village and the Lunar Isle, making them an attractive option for both experience and profit.
Volcanic Mine
Volcanic Mine is a high-level Mining minigame that offers substantial experience and volcanic shards, which can be used to upgrade the dragon pickaxe. It requires teamwork and coordination, making it a challenging but rewarding option for high-level players.
Amethyst Crystals
Amethyst crystals are a unique form of Mining content found on Fossil Island. They require level 92 Mining to mine and are used to create Amethyst darts and arrows. This method provides excellent experience rates for high-level players.
Mining Boosts and Perks
Mining Outfit
The Mining outfit, obtained from the Motherlode Mine, provides a set bonus that increases Mining experience gained. It’s a valuable asset for those aiming for level 99 Mining.
Mining Potions
Mining potions temporarily boost your Mining level, allowing you to mine higher-level rocks. These potions can be created with the Herblore skill or purchased from other players.
Rockertunities
Rockertunities are random mining events that grant bonus experience when successfully completed. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to accelerate your progress.
Profitable Mining
High-Value Ores
As you reach higher Mining levels, you’ll gain access to more valuable ores, including mithril, adamantite, and runite. Mining these ores can be profitable, especially when they’re in high demand.
Gemstones
Mining gem rocks or using the Gem Bag to store gems can be a lucrative way to earn money while training your Mining skill.
Mining Guild
The Mining Guild, accessible at level 60 Mining, features a plethora of ores, including runite rocks. It’s a prime location for high-level miners looking to maximize profit.
Level 99 Mining Milestone
Skillcape and Perks
Reaching level 99 Mining is an incredible achievement. Upon reaching this milestone, you can purchase the Mining skillcape, which comes with a unique emote. Additionally, you gain access to various skillcape perks, including a 1/2 chance of receiving two ores when mining.
Achievement Diary Rewards
Completing the Ardougne and Falador Diaries provides additional perks, such as the chance to receive noted ores and access to unique shortcuts in the Mining Guild.
