RS3 Leagues Best Tier 1 Relic Guide | Catalyst League
Written by Andrew Hammel
When starting RuneScape 3’s Catalyst League, your first major decision is picking a Tier 1 relic. This choice sets the pace for your account’s early progress, so getting it right matters. With skills like Archaeology, Mining, and Smithing playing such a big role in the league, the Tier 1 relic can either smooth your grind or hold you back.
Best Tier 1 Relic in RS3 Leagues
The best Tier 1 relic in RS3 Leagues is Excavator. This relic increases your Archaeology and Mining efficiency, making it the strongest starting option by a wide margin. Since Archaeology is a slow skill that goes all the way to level 120, and it ties directly into unlocking some of the most powerful buffs in the game, anything that speeds it up gives you an immediate advantage.
Why Excavator is the Best Pick
Archaeology unlocks relic powers, one of the most game-changing systems in RS3. With Excavator, you’ll gather materials and progress through the skill much faster, which means earlier access to relic perks like Persistent Rage, Luck of the Dwarves, and other best-in-slot passives. Mining also benefits, which helps if you’re going for early Smithing or crafting supplies.
If you’re playing as an Ironman or want to min-max your account for the long run, Excavator saves you dozens of hours over the league’s duration.
Other Tier 1 Relic Options
While Excavator dominates, here’s how the others stack up:
Animal Wrangler – Improves catch rate and auto-cooks food, but Hunter isn’t a high priority in RS3 compared to Archaeology.
Divine Woodcutter – Boosts Woodcutting, Firemaking, and Divination. Nice for casual skilling, but Divination already has strong relic alternatives later.
Five Finger Discount – Increases loot from stealing, but Thieving won’t carry your account in a league setting. Easily the weakest pick.
These relics aren’t useless, but they don’t compare to the long-term value Excavator provides.
Final Thoughts
In RS3 Catalyst League, Excavator is hands down the best Tier 1 relic. It accelerates two of the most important grinds in the game and sets you up with long-term power advantages through Archaeology relics. Unless you want a gimmicky start or are only playing casually, skip the others and grab Excavator from the beginning.
FAQ
What is the best Tier 1 relic in RS3 Leagues?
Excavator, since it speeds up Archaeology and Mining, two of the most important long-term skills.
Is Animal Wrangler worth picking?
Not really. While it helps with Hunter, the skill doesn’t provide enough benefits compared to Archaeology.
Can I change my Tier 1 relic later?
No, relic choices are permanent in the league, so you should pick carefully.
Why is Excavator so strong?
Because Archaeology is slow, capped at 120, and directly tied to unlocking the most powerful relic powers in RS3.
More RuneScape 3 (RS3)
