Basilisks are a classic Slayer monster in Old School RuneScape, remembered for their distinctive appearance and dangerous gaze. While they may not be the toughest foe in the game, their unique mechanics and valuable drops make them a worthwhile target for any Slayer enthusiast. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fighting Basilisks, from preparing your gear to locating them in the game world and tackling their stronger variant, the Basilisk Knight.

 

Understanding Basilisks

 

Basilisks are level 61 monsters that require at least level 40 Slayer to kill. Unlike some lower-level Slayer creatures, Basilisks have a unique special attack that makes them stand out: their gaze attack. If you face them without proper protection, this attack can drastically drain your combat stats, leaving you weak and vulnerable.

 

Because of this mechanic, Basilisks pose a real threat to unprepared players, even those with higher combat levels. Proper planning and Adequate RuneScape gold are absolutely essential before taking them on.

 

The Gaze Attack

 

The Basilisk's gaze is its most dangerous weapon. When not properly shielded, it reduces your key combat stats, lowering your ability to hit accurately and defend against incoming damage. In longer fights or when surrounded by multiple Basilisks, this stat reduction can quickly spiral into a dangerous situation.

 

Fortunately, the attack is entirely avoidable if you come prepared.

 

How to Counter the Gaze

 

The only way to protect yourself from the Basilisk's gaze is by equipping a Mirror Shield. This item, available from Slayer masters, prevents the stat-draining effects entirely, allowing you to fight safely.

 

Later in the game, after completing the Fremennik Exiles quest, you can upgrade to the V Shield, which provides the same protection but with stronger defensive bonuses. For players who frequently receive Basilisk tasks, upgrading to the V Shield is highly recommended.

 

Where to Find Basilisks

 

There are two main locations where players can hunt Basilisks, each with its own advantages:

 

1. Fremennik Slayer Dungeon

 

The Fremennik Slayer Dungeon is the most common spot. Found east of Rellekka, this dungeon is accessible to most players without requiring any specific quests. Basilisks here are grouped among other Slayer creatures, so you'll need to navigate through the winding pathways to reach them.

 

The dungeon is easy to access via the fairy ring code AJR or a Slayer ring teleport, making it the go-to option for many players.

 

2. Jormungand's Prison

 

Unlocked after starting the Fremennik Exiles quest, Jormungand's Prison offers an alternative hunting ground. Located beneath the islands of Jatizso and Neitiznot, this location is less crowded than the Fremennik Slayer Dungeon and offers access to both regular Basilisks and their stronger counterpart, the Basilisk Knights.

 

For players who enjoy less competition for kills and are willing to complete the required quest, Jormungand's Prison is an excellent choice.

 

Essential Gear and Inventory

 

When preparing for Basilisks, your equipment and supplies are key to a smooth fight.

 

Mandatory Shield

 

Mirror Shield or V Shield – Non-negotiable items to block the gaze attack.

 

Combat Gear

 

Melee setup: Slayer helmet or Helm of Neitiznot, Abyssal whip or stabbing weapon (Zamorakian hasta), Bandos or Barrows armor, Dragon boots, Amulet of glory (or better), Berserker ring.

 

Ranged setup: Slayer helmet or Archer helm, Rune crossbow or stronger, Black dragonhide or Armadyl armor, Snakeskin/Armadyl boots, Archer's ring.

 

While Basilisks don't have particularly high defense, using weapons with a stab bonus or ranged attacks is the most efficient way to cut through their health quickly.

 

Food and Potions

 

Bring high-healing food such as sharks or monkfish if you expect to tank hits. Potions like super attack and super defense can increase efficiency, while super combat potions provide an all-in-one boost. If you rely on Protect from Melee, consider prayer potions to extend your trips and reduce food usage.

 

For extended stays, the Bones to Peaches spell or tablets can help by converting Basilisk bone drops into food.

 

Basilisk Knights

 

With the release of the Fremennik Exiles quest, Basilisk Knights were introduced as a stronger version of the standard Basilisk. These level 204 monsters require 60 Slayer to fight and deal significantly more damage than their weaker cousins.

 

The main reason players seek out Basilisk Knights is their chance to drop the Basilisk Jaw, a valuable item used to upgrade the Neitiznot Faceguard. This upgrade creates one of the best non-degradable helmets in OSRS, making the jaw a highly prized and expensive drop.

 

Given their higher stats, Basilisk Knights demand stronger gear, high-level potions, and solid combat knowledge. They are not recommended for beginners but provide a rewarding challenge for more experienced players.

 

Slayer Masters Who Assign Basilisks

 

Several Slayer masters can assign Basilisks, including:

 

Vannaka

 

Chaeldar

 

Konar quo Maten

 

Nieve/Steve

 

Duradel

 

The number of Basilisks assigned varies depending on the master, but all provide Slayer points upon task completion. For mid- to high-level players, Basilisks are a consistent and manageable task with moderate profit potential.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Basilisks may not be the toughest Slayer creatures, but their unique mechanics make them memorable and engaging. Whether you're camping them for consistent Slayer XP, chasing drops at Basilisk Knights, or simply working through a task, preparation is the key to success. One of the preparations is to have a large amount of RS gold.

 

Equipping the right shield is essential, and pairing it with solid combat gear, food, and potions will ensure efficient and safe kills. For those willing to take on the challenge, Basilisk Knights add another rewarding dimension to the hunt.

 

If you're building your Slayer levels and want a balance of XP, profit, and variety, Basilisks are a monster worth adding to your list.