It is Oin's reading of the return of Erebor's birds to the Mountain that convinces his brother Gloin to fund the quest, but it is his expertise as an apothecary that makes him one of the most valued members of the Company.

Learned in herbology and the creation of tinctures and salves as well as a skilled surgeon and bone-setter, Oin possesses talents of the kind Thorin hopes never to need, but is pleased to have in his service.

Though long in the tooth and increasingly hard of hearing, the elderly Dwarf is nonetheless strong in limb and swift of arm, wielding his battle staff with a proficiency and might to match his younger companions. In an effort to mitigate his failing ears, he carries with him a brass ear horn. The battled implement bears many an indignity and misuse during Oin's long journey east toward Erebor.