What’s the best horse for handling gunfights in RDR2?

When it comes to handling gunfights in Red Dead Redemption 2, the best horse is one that combines high health, stamina, and bravery. These traits ensure your mount can withstand enemy fire, stay calm under pressure, and allow you to focus on combat. The Arabian horses, while fast and agile, are skittish and prone to bucking you off during intense fights. Instead, consider breeds like the Turkoman or the Missouri Fox Trotter, which excel in both durability and temperament.\n\nTo acquire a Turkoman, you can purchase one from the Scarlet Meadows Stable in Lemoyne for $950. This horse boasts high health and stamina stats, making it ideal for prolonged gunfights. Alternatively, the Missouri Fox Trotter, available at the Blackwater Stable for $950, offers a balance of speed and endurance. Both breeds are less likely to panic when surrounded by enemies, giving you a tactical advantage in combat scenarios.\n\nGame mechanics play a significant role in how horses behave during gunfights. Horses have a hidden bravery stat that determines their reaction to gunfire, predators, and other threats. Breeds like the Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter have higher bravery, meaning they are less likely to throw you off when bullets start flying. Additionally, bonding with your horse (reaching Level 4) improves its overall performance, including its ability to stay calm in dangerous situations.\n\nTo maximize your horse''s effectiveness in gunfights, focus on bonding and upgrading its equipment. Use the Horse Care Package from the Valentine General Store to improve your horse''s health and stamina cores. Equip a reinforced saddle and stirrups to boost stamina regeneration, allowing you to gallop away or reposition during combat without exhausting your mount. These upgrades are essential for surviving ambushes or prolonged shootouts.\n\nPractical examples include using your horse to flank enemies or escape when outnumbered. For instance, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil IV,'' you can use your horse to quickly reposition and take out enemies from a distance. If your horse starts to panic, calm it by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) repeatedly. This prevents it from bucking you off and keeps you in control of the situation.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to practice riding and shooting from horseback in less dangerous areas like the Heartlands or Big Valley. This helps you get accustomed to the mechanics of mounted combat. Experienced players can experiment with different breeds and equipment to find the perfect setup for their playstyle. Remember, a well-prepared horse can mean the difference between life and death in Red Dead Redemption 2''s intense gunfights.\n\nIn summary, the Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter are the best horses for gunfights due to their high health, stamina, and bravery stats. Bond with your horse, upgrade its equipment, and practice mounted combat to dominate in shootouts. With the right preparation, your horse will become an invaluable ally in the chaotic world of RDR2.