1–99 Hunter Guide (OSRS 2026)

Hunter has evolved into a flexible and efficient skill, offering multiple viable paths depending on your playstyle. With new creatures, AFK options, and Hunter Rumours, training Hunter in 2025 is faster and more approachable than ever.

At-a-Glance: Best Hunter Paths

• Fastest XP: Birds → Lizards → Falconry → Salamanders → Black Chinchompas

• Balanced: Falconry, Red Chinchompas, Herbiboar

• AFK: Maniacal Monkeys, Pyre Foxes

• Passive: Birdhouse Runs

Step-by-Step Hunter Training (1–99)

Levels 1–9: Museum Boost

Completing the Natural History quiz grants enough Hunter XP to skip the slow early levels and reach level 9 almost instantly.

Levels 9–12: Crimson Swifts

Bird snares near Piscatoris provide fast early experience with minimal setup.

Levels 12–20: Birds + Butterflies

Boosting with Hunter potions to catch butterflies alongside birds dramatically increases XP rates.

Levels 20–27: Moss Lizards (Optional)

Moss Lizards offer the fastest XP in this range if unlocked. Otherwise, continue birds and butterflies.

Levels 27–29: Quest Boost

Completing Eagle’s Peak unlocks box traps and provides enough XP to reach level 29.

Levels 29–39: Swamp Lizards

A strong multi-trap method that scales well and prepares you for higher-tier hunting.

Levels 39–43: Ember-tailed Jerboa

One of the fastest XP methods in this range, using box traps near the Hunter Guild.

Levels 43–60: Falconry

A highly efficient early-mid game method with low requirements and strong XP rates.

Levels 60–67: Red Salamanders

Fast experience with four traps and minimal danger.

Levels 67–73: Black Salamanders

Located in the Wilderness, these provide excellent XP but require caution.

Levels 73–99: Black Chinchompas

The fastest Hunter XP in the game. Tick manipulation can push rates beyond 250k XP/hr, but even standard trapping is extremely fast.

Alternative Hunter Methods

Tecu Salamanders (79+)

A strong alternative introduced with newer content, offering solid XP and valuable drops.

Red Chinchompas

Less dangerous than black chinchompas and especially useful for Ironmen.

Herbiboar (80+)

A relaxed, consistent method that provides herbs alongside competitive Hunter XP.

Aerial Fishing

Trains both Hunter and Fishing at the same time, useful for players leveling multiple skills.

Drift Net Fishing

The most efficient combined Hunter and Fishing training method, though not the fastest for pure Hunter.

AFK Hunter Methods

Pyre Foxes (51+)

Low XP but moderate AFK intervals. Best used when more active methods are unavailable.

Maniacal Monkeys (60+)

The best AFK Hunter method in the game, scaling up to over 100k XP/hr with minimal interaction.

Birdhouse Runs

A time-based Hunter method that provides strong passive XP and valuable nests when done consistently.

Hunter Rumours

Hunter Rumours assign rotating hunting tasks with competitive XP and unique rewards. Blocking inefficient tasks is key for optimal XP.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring early XP boosts

• Training inefficient methods too long

• Bringing valuables into Wilderness methods

• Skipping Birdhouse runs entirely

FAQ

What is the fastest way to 99 Hunter?

Black Chinchompas provide the highest XP rates, especially with tick manipulation.

Is Hunter AFK?

Yes. Maniacal Monkeys offer the most AFK-friendly training.

Are Birdhouse runs worth it?

Yes. They provide excellent passive XP and valuable resources over time.

What is the safest Hunter method?

Falconry, Herbiboar, and Birdhouse runs are among the safest options.

Efficiency Note

Players with limited playtime often focus on high-efficiency training or external support. ArgenGaming assists players who prioritize time efficiency, security, and consistent progression.