What’s the best way to counter explosive ammo in PvP?

Explosive ammo in Red Dead Redemption 2 PvP can be devastating due to its high damage and area-of-effect impact. To counter it effectively, you need to understand its mechanics and adapt your gameplay strategy. Explosive ammo is crafted using regular ammo combined with animal fat, which can be obtained by hunting animals like ducks, boars, or bears. This ammo is rare and expensive to produce, so players using it often rely on it for quick kills. However, there are several ways to counter it and turn the tide in your favor.\n\nFirst, maintain distance and use cover. Explosive ammo has a limited range, and staying at medium to long range reduces its effectiveness. Use natural cover like rocks, trees, or buildings to block line of sight and force your opponent to waste their shots. If you''re in an open area, crouch behind terrain features or use the environment to your advantage. For example, in the town of Valentine, you can use the buildings and fences to break line of sight and avoid direct hits.\n\nSecond, use the Slippery Bastard ability card. This card makes you harder to hit by increasing the bloom of your opponent''s reticle, making it difficult for them to land precise shots with explosive ammo. Pair this with the Never Without One card, which reduces headshot damage and can save you from instant death. These cards are especially useful in close-quarters combat where explosive ammo is most dangerous.\n\nThird, prioritize mobility and unpredictability. Explosive ammo is most effective against stationary or predictable targets. Constantly move in zigzag patterns, jump, or crouch to make yourself a harder target. Use the terrain to your advantage by climbing to higher ground or diving into water to break line of sight. For example, in the swamps near Saint Denis, you can use the dense foliage and water to evade enemies using explosive ammo.\n\nFourth, use the right weapons and ammo. Long-range weapons like the Rolling Block Rifle or Carcano Rifle can outrange explosive ammo users, allowing you to pick them off before they get close. Alternatively, use incendiary or high-velocity ammo to deal consistent damage and pressure them into making mistakes. If you''re in close quarters, the Pump-Action Shotgun with slugs can quickly take down an opponent before they can react.\n\nFinally, communicate with your team. In team-based modes, coordinate with your teammates to flank or overwhelm explosive ammo users. A well-timed ambush or distraction can force them to waste their ammo or retreat. For example, in the Showdown Series, assign one player to draw fire while others flank from the sides or behind.\n\nIn summary, countering explosive ammo requires a combination of strategy, awareness, and adaptability. Use cover, mobility, and ability cards to minimize its impact, and choose the right weapons and tactics to outplay your opponents. With practice, you can turn explosive ammo users from a threat into an opportunity to showcase your skills.