What’s the best weapon for hunting small game in RDR2?

The best weapon for hunting small game in Red Dead Redemption 2 is the Varmint Rifle. This weapon is specifically designed for hunting small animals like rabbits, raccoons, and birds, ensuring you get perfect pelts and carcasses. The Varmint Rifle is a low-caliber weapon that minimizes damage to small game, making it ideal for preserving the quality of pelts and meat. It is available early in the game and can be purchased from gunsmiths in towns like Valentine, Rhodes, or Saint Denis for $72.00. Alternatively, you can find it for free during certain missions or by looting enemies.\n\nTo use the Varmint Rifle effectively, you must first equip it from your weapon wheel. When hunting small game, always aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill. This is crucial because damaging the animal’s body with excessive force will lower the quality of the pelt. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shot perfectly. Dead Eye is especially helpful when hunting fast-moving animals like squirrels or birds. Additionally, make sure to study the animal beforehand using your binoculars or by aiming at it with your weapon. This will reveal its star rating (1-3 stars), indicating the quality of the pelt.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating small game in the wild. Small animals like rabbits and squirrels are abundant in areas like Big Valley, Cumberland Forest, and the Heartlands. Birds, such as ducks and pheasants, are often found near water bodies like the Dakota River or Flat Iron Lake. To increase your chances of finding small game, use cover scent lotion to mask your scent and crouch while approaching animals. This reduces the likelihood of scaring them away. If you’re struggling to spot animals, listen for their sounds, such as rustling bushes or bird calls, and use your Eagle Eye ability to highlight them in the environment.\n\nAnother tip is to hunt during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Avoid hunting at night, as visibility is low, and you may accidentally scare off your target. If you’re hunting birds, consider using small game arrows instead of the Varmint Rifle. Small game arrows are crafted using regular arrows, flight feathers, and shotgun shells. They are even more precise and deal less damage, making them ideal for hunting tiny animals like songbirds or chipmunks. However, crafting arrows requires resources, so the Varmint Rifle remains the most convenient option for most players.\n\nFor players who want to maximize their hunting efficiency, consider upgrading your Varmint Rifle with a scope. This allows you to take long-range shots without spooking the animal. Scopes can be purchased from gunsmiths and are relatively affordable. Additionally, always carry a backup weapon like a bow or a repeater in case you encounter larger predators while hunting. This ensures you’re prepared for any situation in the wild.\n\nIn summary, the Varmint Rifle is the best weapon for hunting small game in RDR2 due to its precision and low damage output. To use it effectively, aim for headshots, study animals before shooting, and hunt in areas with high small game populations. Use Dead Eye and Eagle Eye to improve your accuracy and tracking abilities. For the best results, hunt during daylight hours and consider upgrading your rifle with a scope. By following these tips, you’ll consistently earn perfect pelts and carcasses, which are essential for crafting and trading in the game.