Training Hunter in Old School RuneScape can be a tedious grind or a fast-paced journey depending on your methods. Whether you're aiming for that elusive Skill Cape or just trying to unlock Herbiboar, knowing exactly how many catches stand between you and your goal is essential for planning.
Efficiency and Strategy in Hunter Training
Hunter is a unique skill in OSRS that rewards active gameplay. Unlike Woodcutting or Fishing, where you can often "AFK" (Away From Keyboard) for minutes at a time, Hunter requires constant trap management and movement. Using our OSRS Hunter calculator helps you visualize the finish line, making the grind feel more manageable.
Early Leveling (1-60)
The early levels of Hunter are often considered the slowest. Most players choose to follow this path:
- Levels 1-9: Catching Crimson Swifts in the Feldip Hills.
- Levels 9-29: Copper Longtails or Cerulean Twitches.
- Levels 29-43: Swamp Lizards in Morytania.
- Levels 43-60: Spotted Kebbits or Falconry. Falconry is particularly good XP and requires very little setup.
Mid to Late Game Methods
Once you reach level 60, the skill opens up significantly. This is where you decide between profit, XP, or a balance of both.
- Red Chinchompas (Level 63+): The gold standard for Hunter training. They provide excellent XP and significant profit, as they are used by high-level players for Ranging training.
- Herbiboar (Level 80+): A favorite for those who find trap-setting repetitive. It involves tracking a creature through Fossil Island and yields valuable herbs and a chance at the Herbi pet.
- Black Chinchompas (Level 73+): The fastest Hunter XP in the game, but located in the Wilderness. Be prepared to fend off PKers while you hunt.
Passive Hunter XP: Birdhouse Runs
If you hate active Hunter training, Birdhouse runs on Fossil Island are your best friend. By spending 2 minutes every 50 minutes to reset your traps, you can gain massive amounts of XP over time. Many players have reached level 99 Hunter almost exclusively through birdhouses, treating it like a "Farm Run" for Hunter.
Pro Tips for Faster XP
To maximize the numbers you see on the calculator above, consider these tips:
- Tick Manipulation: Advanced players use "3-tick" or "1-tick" methods to reset traps faster, significantly increasing XP per hour.
- Hunter Potions: These can boost your level to catch higher-tier creatures earlier than naturally allowed.
- Stamina Potions: Essential for Herbiboar and Chinchompas to keep your run energy high while moving between traps.