How do I use the lockbreaker to open locked doors?

The lockbreaker is a useful tool in Red Dead Redemption 2 that allows players to open locked doors without drawing attention or breaking stealth. It is particularly handy for accessing restricted areas, looting hidden items, or completing certain missions. To use the lockbreaker effectively, you must first acquire it, understand its mechanics, and follow specific steps to unlock doors.\n\nTo obtain the lockbreaker, you need to progress through the story until Chapter 2, where it becomes available for purchase at a fence. Fences are black market vendors found in locations like Emerald Ranch, Rhodes, and Saint Denis. The lockbreaker costs $35, so ensure you have enough money before visiting a fence. Once purchased, it is permanently added to your inventory and can be used indefinitely.\n\nUsing the lockbreaker requires you to approach a locked door and interact with it. When near a locked door, a prompt will appear on the screen indicating that you can use the lockbreaker. On consoles, this is typically done by holding the interaction button (e.g., Triangle on PlayStation or Y on Xbox). On PC, the prompt will specify the key to press. Once activated, Arthur will kneel and begin working on the lock. The process takes a few seconds, during which you must remain undisturbed.\n\nOne of the key mechanics of the lockbreaker is its stealth advantage. Unlike breaking doors with weapons or explosives, the lockbreaker allows you to open doors quietly, avoiding detection by enemies or lawmen. This makes it ideal for missions requiring stealth or when exploring areas with high security, such as the Saint Denis police station or private homes in Rhodes.\n\nHowever, not all locked doors can be opened with the lockbreaker. Some doors are story-locked or require specific keys, so it is important to identify which doors are compatible. For example, the lockbreaker can open locked doors in random cabins or homesteads scattered across the map, but it cannot open safes or story-critical doors. Pay attention to the context and environment to determine if the lockbreaker is the right tool for the job.\n\nA practical example of using the lockbreaker is during the mission ''The Spines of America'' in Chapter 3. In this mission, you need to retrieve a stolen item from a locked cabin. Using the lockbreaker allows you to enter quietly without alerting nearby enemies, making the mission easier to complete. Another example is exploring the abandoned houses in the Heartlands, where locked doors often hide valuable loot like money, jewelry, or crafting materials.\n\nCommon challenges when using the lockbreaker include being interrupted by enemies or lawmen. To avoid this, ensure the area is clear before attempting to use the tool. Use Eagle Eye to scout for threats and plan your approach. Additionally, some players may struggle to find locked doors worth opening. Focus on exploring remote areas, as these often contain hidden treasures or unique items.\n\nIn conclusion, the lockbreaker is a versatile tool that enhances stealth and exploration in Red Dead Redemption 2. By purchasing it from a fence, understanding its mechanics, and using it strategically, you can unlock hidden areas and complete missions more efficiently. Always scout your surroundings, prioritize stealth, and experiment with different locations to maximize its potential.