What’s the best way to clean and maintain my weapons?

Cleaning and maintaining your weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for optimal performance. Dirty weapons degrade over time, leading to reduced accuracy, slower reload times, and increased chances of jamming. To keep your weapons in top condition, you need to clean them regularly using Gun Oil, which can be purchased from general stores, gunsmiths, or found in the world. You can also craft Gun Oil using animal fat, a resource obtained from hunting animals like boars, bears, and ducks.\n\nTo clean a weapon, open your weapon wheel by holding the L1/LB button (on PlayStation/Xbox) or Tab key (on PC). Select the weapon you want to clean, then press the corresponding button prompt to clean it. On PlayStation, this is Triangle; on Xbox, it’s Y; and on PC, it’s R. If your weapon is too dirty, you’ll need to use Gun Oil. Each cleaning restores the weapon’s condition, but frequent use will require more frequent maintenance.\n\nWeapon degradation occurs faster in harsh environments, such as rain, mud, or water. For example, if you ride through a swamp or fall into a river, your weapons will get dirty much quicker. To minimize this, avoid exposing your weapons to these conditions unnecessarily. Additionally, using your weapons in combat, especially in prolonged firefights, will accelerate wear and tear. Always clean your weapons after intense battles to ensure they remain effective.\n\nIf you’re low on Gun Oil, you can find it in various locations throughout the game. General stores in towns like Valentine, Rhodes, and Saint Denis sell it for a reasonable price. Alternatively, you can loot Gun Oil from enemy camps, homesteads, or even from the bodies of enemies you defeat. Crafting Gun Oil is another viable option, especially if you’re exploring the wilderness and hunting animals. Animal fat is a key ingredient, so prioritize hunting animals like boars, which are commonly found in areas like Big Valley or the Heartlands.\n\nFor players who want to maximize efficiency, consider upgrading your weapons at a gunsmith. Upgrades like improved rifling or sights not only enhance performance but also slow down the rate of degradation. Gunsmiths in major towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, and Blackwater offer these services. While upgrades require money, they are a worthwhile investment for long-term weapon maintenance.\n\nFinally, always carry a backup weapon. If your primary weapon becomes too dirty during a mission or fight, switching to a secondary weapon can save your life. For example, if your rifle jams during a shootout, having a revolver or shotgun ready can make all the difference. This strategy is particularly useful in high-stakes situations like gang hideouts or bounty hunts.\n\nIn summary, clean your weapons regularly using Gun Oil, avoid exposing them to harsh conditions, and upgrade them at gunsmiths for better durability. Hunt animals for crafting materials, and always carry a backup weapon for emergencies. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your weapons remain reliable and effective throughout your journey in Red Dead Redemption 2.