For an Ironman in OSRS, the usual upgrade from a bone crossbow is dorgeshuun crossbow if you want a cheap step up, then rune crossbow for a bigger jump in power. The rune crossbow can be bought from Lowe’s Archery Emporium in Varrock ; the basic crossbow is also sold in the Bone Yard and Graveyard of Shadows , but that one is just the weakest crossbow, not an upgrade.

Best upgrade path

  • Dorgeshuun crossbow : good early Ironman option, especially before rune crossbow. It uses bone bolts and is a common “next step” after the bone crossbow.
  • Rune crossbow : usually the main midgame upgrade, and players often recommend getting it from the Crazy Archaeologist in the Wilderness rather than relying on shops.
  • Hunter’s sunlight crossbow : another strong Ironman-friendly option mentioned as a worthwhile progression path, depending on your levels and goals.

Where to buy it

If you specifically want a buyable upgrade, the clear answer is Lowe’s Archery Emporium in Varrock for the rune crossbow. The shop-sold crossbow in the Bone Yard is not the better upgrade you’re looking for; it’s the base crossbow.

Practical pick

If you’re low level, go for dorgeshuun crossbow first. If you can handle the content, aim straight for rune crossbow , since that’s the most commonly recommended real upgrade over bone crossbow.

TL;DR

  • Buy rune crossbow at Lowe’s Archery Emporium, Varrock.
  • Early Ironman upgrade: dorgeshuun crossbow.
  • Strong progression target: rune crossbow or Hunter’s sunlight crossbow.