What’s the best way to use the varmint rifle for hunting?

The Varmint Rifle is one of the most versatile and effective weapons for hunting small animals in Red Dead Redemption 2. It is particularly useful for hunting animals like rabbits, raccoons, badgers, and birds, as it ensures clean kills without damaging the pelts. To maximize its effectiveness, you need to understand its mechanics, how to use it properly, and where to find the best hunting spots.\n\nFirst, the Varmint Rifle is a low-caliber weapon designed for small game. It uses .22 ammunition, which is cheap and widely available at general stores or gunsmiths. The rifle’s high accuracy and fast rate of fire make it ideal for taking down small, fast-moving animals. However, it is not suitable for larger animals like deer or bears, as it lacks the stopping power needed for clean kills on bigger targets.\n\nTo use the Varmint Rifle effectively, you must aim for headshots. This ensures a clean kill, which is crucial for preserving the quality of the animal’s pelt. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shot precisely. For example, when hunting rabbits in the Heartlands or near Rhodes, crouch and move slowly to avoid spooking them. Once you spot a rabbit, activate Dead Eye, mark its head, and fire. This method guarantees a perfect pelt every time.\n\nAnother key mechanic to consider is the animal’s star rating. Animals in RDR2 have a quality rating of one to three stars, with three stars being the best. To maintain the highest quality, always hunt three-star animals and use the appropriate weapon. The Varmint Rifle is perfect for small animals, but using it on larger animals will degrade the pelt. For example, if you encounter a three-star squirrel near Strawberry, the Varmint Rifle is the ideal choice, whereas a rifle or bow would be better for deer.\n\nOne common challenge players face is finding small animals in dense areas. To overcome this, use Eagle Eye to track animals. Eagle Eye highlights animal trails, footprints, and scents, making it easier to locate your target. For instance, in the forests near Valentine, activate Eagle Eye to spot raccoons or opossums hiding in the underbrush. Once you locate the animal, switch to the Varmint Rifle and take your shot.\n\nFor birds, the Varmint Rifle is particularly effective. Birds like ducks, geese, and cranes can be found near water bodies such as Flat Iron Lake or the Dakota River. Approach these areas quietly, as birds are easily startled. Use Dead Eye to target multiple birds in a single volley, especially when they take flight. This method allows you to collect multiple perfect carcasses in one go, which is useful for crafting or selling.\n\nFinally, always carry enough ammunition and maintain your Varmint Rifle. Clean your weapon regularly using gun oil to ensure its accuracy and performance. You can purchase gun oil from general stores or find it in lootable containers. Additionally, consider upgrading your rifle with a scope for better long-range accuracy, especially when hunting birds or small animals in open areas.\n\nIn summary, the Varmint Rifle is an essential tool for hunting small game in RDR2. Use it for headshots, focus on three-star animals, and leverage Dead Eye and Eagle Eye to improve your success rate. By following these tips, you’ll consistently obtain perfect pelts and carcasses, making your hunting endeavors more rewarding.