OSRS 1–99 Fletching Guide: Fastest XP, AFK & Profitable Methods
A complete Old School RuneScape Fletching guide covering the fastest XP routes, AFK options, profitable methods, and Ironman-friendly paths to 99.
OSRS 1–99 Fletching Training Guide
Why Train Fletching?
Fletching is widely considered the fastest skill to max in Old School RuneScape. It offers extremely high XP rates, can be trained passively alongside other activities, and includes several profitable or low-effort methods.
At-a-Glance: Best Fletching Paths
Fastest XP Overall: Darts (high-intensity clicking)
Best Semi-AFK: Arrows and javelins
Best AFK: Bows (cutting & stringing)
Profitable Options: Bow stringing, bolt tipping, weaponry
Ironman Focus: Broad arrows, bows, passive ammo creation
Passive Fletching (Highly Recommended)
One of Fletching’s biggest advantages is that it can be trained while doing other content. This makes it one of the most efficient skills in terms of total account progression.
Between Agility obstacles
While running quests or achievement diaries
During Farming runs
Between skilling boss rounds
Low-Level Training (1–28)
Best Early Methods
Bronze arrows: Fastest XP early, moderate cost
Headless arrows: Slightly slower but often profitable
Arrow shafts from logs: Very AFK, but slow
Headless arrows are created by combining feathers with arrow shafts and offer a strong balance of speed and cost.
Fastest Possible Fletching XP
Darts provide the highest XP rates in the game. This method is extremely click-intensive but unmatched in speed.
Dart Fletching Overview
Requires dart tips and feathers
No quest requirement for fletching darts
XP rates scale aggressively with level
Many players choose to fletch a single dart type all the way to 99 for simplicity, trading some speed for lower cost.
Bolts (Fast & Flexible)
Bolts are similar to darts but slightly slower. They are often cheaper and work well for passive or multitasking training.
Broad bolts are a popular mid-cost option
Dragon bolts can sometimes break even
Trade volume varies heavily by bolt type
Arrows (Semi-AFK & Budget Friendly)
Arrow fletching provides steady XP with some AFK time. It’s a good compromise between cost, speed, and effort.
100k+ XP/hour from early levels
Steel and amethyst arrows are cost-efficient
Avoid adamant and rune arrows due to losses
Javelins
Javelins offer XP similar to arrows but often suffer from low market volume. Dragon javelins are usually the only practical option.
AFK Fletching Methods
Bows (Cutting & Stringing)
Bow fletching is the most AFK-friendly Fletching method. While slower than darts, it can be profitable and very relaxed.
Stringing bows is faster XP than cutting logs
Magic longbows are a common choice to 99
Very stable AFK intervals
Other AFK Options
Battle staves from bark
Antler bolts (low XP, situational profit)
Profitable Fletching Methods
Bows & Bolts
Maple, yew, and magic longbows
Gem-tipped bolts (ruby, diamond, dragonstone)
Weaponry
Weapon fletching offers the highest profit potential but requires patience and capital.
Ballistas
Crossbows (rune and dragon)
Blowpipes
Special bows
Wintertodt Fletching
Fletching during Firemaking training provides passive XP. It’s only recommended if Firemaking is your main goal.
Ironman Fletching Tips
Ironman accounts benefit heavily from Fletching through ammo creation and broad arrows.
Headless arrows from shop-bought supplies
Broad arrows for fast, scalable XP
Bows from kingdom resources
Common Mistakes / Avoid These
Ignoring passive training opportunities
Overpaying for low-volume items
Choosing darts without committing to focus
AFK bow methods when speed is the priority
FAQ
Is Fletching the fastest 99?
Yes. With high-intensity methods, it’s the fastest skill to max.
Is Fletching AFK?
It can be. Bow methods offer long AFK intervals.
Is Fletching profitable?
Several methods generate profit, especially bows, bolts, and weaponry.
Is Fletching good for Ironman?
Yes. It’s essential for ammo and long-term combat progression.
Efficiency Note
Many players train Fletching passively while doing other content to maximize efficiency. When time is limited, some rely on trusted convenience options like ArgenGaming to save time while keeping progression secure and balanced.
