In OSRS PvP, most fights are decided by special attacks. Your ability to land a knockout blow in just a few ticks can mean the difference between victory and another gravestone in the Wilderness.
Two of the most famous weapons for this are the Dragon Claws and the Godswords. Both have unique mechanics, accuracy modifiers, and KO potential—but which really gives better special attack DPS?
How Special Attacks Work in PvP
A special attack consumes special energy to deliver an enhanced hit. Some focus on raw damage (like the AGS), while others use multi-hit mechanics (like the Claws). DPS in PvP is not just about max hit—it’s about accuracy, attack speed, and reliability under pressure.
- Dragon Claws: 4 rapid hits in one attack cycle. Damage redistributes across hits if the first ones are low.
- Armadyl Godsword: One massive hit with boosted accuracy.
- Other Godswords:
- Bandos GS lowers enemy stats.
- Saradomin GS heals HP and restores prayer.
- Zamorak GS freezes the target.
Dragon Claws: Consistent KO Pressure
The Dragon Claws special attack costs 50% energy and delivers four strikes in a single cycle.
- Accuracy: Very high spec accuracy, making it reliable against tanks.
- Damage spread: If one strike misses, the next rolls redistribute, giving consistent output.
- Combos: Claws + Granite Maul can same-tick KO an opponent before they can react.
- KO style: Fast, consistent, and punishes opponents who let their guard drop for even a second.
For players who want to see the numbers in action, testing setups with the OSRS hit chance calculator can show how often Claws connect compared to godswords.
Armadyl Godsword: High-Risk, High-Reward
The Armadyl Godsword (AGS) uses 50% energy to deliver one of the highest possible melee hits in PvP.
- Accuracy: Boosted spec roll compared to normal hits.
- Max hit: Can reach into the 70s with top-end gear.
- Risk: If the spec splashes or rolls low, you’ve lost momentum.
- KO style: Perfect for one-shot finishes, especially combined with Vengeance or recoil damage.
To compare setups, you can simulate burst potential with the OSRS DPS calculator.
Other Godsword Specs in PvP
While AGS is the star of KO setups, the other godswords see niche use:
- Bandos Godsword (BGS): Great for PvM stat drains, weak in PvP DPS.
- Saradomin Godsword (SGS): Healing spec makes it useful for hybrids, but not as a finisher.
- Zamorak Godsword (ZGS): Freezes opponents—tactical, but weaker raw DPS.
If you want to explore how defence changes the outcome of these specs, the OSRS defence and damage mitigation calculator is a useful tool.
DPS & KO Comparison: Claws vs Godswords
| Weapon | Spec Accuracy | Spec Damage Style | KO Potential | PvP Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dragon Claws | Very high | 4 rapid hits, redistributed | Consistent, reliable | Pures, fast KO combos |
| Armadyl Godsword | High (boosted) | Single massive hit | Extremely high (if it lands) | One-shot KOs, Vengeance finishes |
| Bandos GS | Moderate | Stat drain + hit | Low | Utility, PvM oriented |
| Saradomin GS | Moderate | Damage + heal | Low | Sustain in hybrid fights |
| Zamorak GS | Moderate | Damage + freeze | Medium | Control, tactical setups |
Which Is Better for PvP?
- Choose Dragon Claws if you want reliability and fast KOs. They shine in chaotic fights where landing multiple hits matters more than gambling on one max hit.
- Choose AGS if you’re going for high-risk, high-reward one-shots. When it connects, it ends the fight in style. Maximize your raid performance by testing setups in the OSRS DPS Calculator.
- Other godswords add utility, but don’t match Claws or AGS for pure DPS finishers.
FAQs
Are Dragon Claws stronger than AGS in PvP?
Claws are more consistent; AGS has higher one-hit KO potential.
Why do PKers pair Claws with Granite Maul?
The Gmaul can stack same-tick with claws, creating a lethal KO combo.
Can AGS hit through tank gear?
Yes, its boosted accuracy helps, but misses are still common against 99 Defence setups.
Which godsword is best for PvP?
Armadyl is the only true KO contender; others serve niche roles.
How much DPS do Claws add compared to AGS?
Claws give steadier DPS across multiple rolls, while AGS spikes DPS in one swing.
Edwards is the creator of OSRSDPSCalc.online, a specialized calculator site designed to help Old School RuneScape players optimize their damage output and gear setups. With a focus on accuracy and ease of use, Edwards provides reliable tools and insights that save players time and enhance gameplay. His dedication to the OSRS community ensures each feature is built with precision, helping users make smarter in-game decisions.