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OSRS Best Early Game Combat XP: Brutus Guide

Apr-08-2026 PST

In the early stages of Old School RuneScape, players are constantly searching for efficient ways to level up their combat skills without risking difficult fights or expensive gear. One of the most underrated training methods for beginners is the Brutus combat training method, which provides consistent experience, low risk, and accessibility for nearly any account type. For players just beginning their journey across Gielinor, learning how to use Brutus effectively can significantly accelerate early combat progression.

OSRS Best Early Game Combat XP: Brutus Guide

This guide explains who Brutus is, why this method is effective, and how you can maximize your combat experience while training.


Who Is Brutus?

Brutus is an NPC found in the Grand Tree training area. Unlike many aggressive monsters scattered throughout Gielinor, Brutus acts as a combat training partner rather than a traditional enemy. The fight is controlled, predictable, and ideal for players who want safe combat practice without worrying about being overwhelmed by multiple monsters or dangerous mechanics.

Because the encounter is structured for training rather than survival, Brutus is especially useful for players with low combat stats who want to build a solid foundation before tackling more dangerous enemies.


Why Train Combat with Brutus?

The Brutus method is considered one of the best early-game combat training techniques for several important reasons.

First, it offers consistent experience rates. Unlike random monster spawns where you might spend time searching for targets, Brutus allows players to focus purely on attacking and gaining experience.

Second, the method is extremely safe. New players often struggle with survival while training combat, particularly when fighting aggressive monsters that attack in groups. Brutus removes this risk, allowing players to focus solely on leveling.

Third, it is gear-friendly. Many early combat training spots require decent armor and weapons, but Brutus can be fought effectively with basic equipment.

Finally, the method helps players learn the fundamentals of combat mechanics in Old School RuneScape without unnecessary pressure.


Recommended Combat Stats

One of the biggest advantages of the Brutus training method is its accessibility. Players can begin using it with very low combat levels.

Recommended starting stats include:

Attack: 10+

Strength: 10+

Defence: 10+

These levels allow you to hit consistently and gain steady experience without struggling to land attacks.

However, even players starting from level 1 combat can benefit from a few training sessions with Brutus.


Best Gear for Brutus Training

Since this is an early-game method, the equipment requirements are minimal. The goal is simply to maximize accuracy and damage using affordable gear.

For melee training, beginners should consider using:

Bronze or Iron Scimitar

Basic armor such as Iron or Steel

A simple shield for defense

If your levels allow it, upgrading to Steel or Black gear will slightly improve experience rates due to better accuracy and damage.

Food is rarely necessary due to the controlled nature of the fight, but carrying a few low-tier food items can provide additional safety.


Training Strategy

The strategy for fighting Brutus is straightforward but effective.

Start by selecting the combat style you want to train. In Old School RuneScape, each weapon allows players to focus experience into specific skills such as Attack, Strength, or Defence.

Many players prefer the following order:

Attack to around level 20

Strength to around level 30

Defence afterward

This progression allows you to unlock stronger weapons quickly while improving overall damage output.

Because Brutus does not behave like a typical monster encounter, you can maintain nearly constant attacks without interruptions. This creates a smooth and efficient training loop.


Expected Experience Rates

While Brutus will not compete with high-level training methods later in the game, the experience rates are excellent for early levels.

Players can expect roughly:

15,000–25,000 combat XP per hour at low levels

These rates depend heavily on your gear, attack speed, and combat style. Faster weapons such as scimitars generally produce the best results due to their rapid attack speed.

For brand new accounts, this experience rate is extremely efficient compared to fighting low-level monsters like chickens, cows, or goblins.


When to Move On

The Brutus method shines primarily during the early combat phase of the game. Once your combat stats begin reaching the mid-30s or higher, other training methods become more efficient.

At that point, players often move on to monsters such as hill giants, moss giants, or other popular training spots across Gielinor.

However, Brutus remains an excellent option until you feel comfortable fighting stronger enemies.


Tips to Maximize Efficiency

To get the most out of Brutus training, keep these tips in mind.

Always use the fastest weapon available. Faster weapons generate more hits per minute, which translates into higher experience rates.

Train Strength early. Increasing your maximum hit speeds up all future combat training.

Upgrade weapons whenever possible. Even a small weapon improvement can noticeably increase experience gain.

Avoid unnecessary downtime. Because Brutus is a controlled fight, you should be able to maintain nearly constant attacks.

Finally, remember that early combat training is about building momentum. The faster you reach higher combat levels, the more options become available throughout the game.


Final Thoughts

Early combat progression can feel slow in Old School RuneScape, especially for new players learning the game's mechanics. The Brutus training method offers a reliable and safe solution that helps players gain valuable experience without complicated strategies or expensive gear.

While it may not be the most widely discussed training method, Brutus provides a surprisingly efficient way to level combat skills during the earliest stages of the game. For players looking to skip the slow grind of chickens and goblins, this method offers a faster path toward stronger weapons, better armor, and more challenging adventures.

If you're just beginning your journey in Gielinor, spending some time training with Brutus could be one of the smartest early-game decisions you make.