How do you unlock the Double-Barreled Shotgun in RDR2?

The Double-Barreled Shotgun is one of the most powerful close-range weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2, offering devastating damage and reliability in tight combat situations. To unlock this weapon, you need to complete a specific mission in Chapter 2 of the game. This mission, titled ''Americans at Rest,'' is part of the main story and introduces you to the weapon in a natural progression of the narrative.\n\nDuring ''Americans at Rest,'' you will accompany Dutch and Lenny to the saloon in Valentine. After a bar fight breaks out, you will be tasked with retrieving the Double-Barreled Shotgun from the back room of the saloon. This is your first opportunity to acquire the weapon. Simply follow the mission objectives, and the shotgun will be handed to you as part of the story. Once you pick it up, it will be permanently added to your inventory.\n\nIf you miss picking up the shotgun during this mission, don’t worry. The Double-Barreled Shotgun can also be found in other locations throughout the game world. One such location is the Hermit’s Shack in Roanoke Ridge, northeast of Annesburg. The hermit who lives there carries the shotgun, and you can obtain it by either looting his body or stealing it from his home. Be prepared for a fight, as the hermit is hostile and will attack if provoked.\n\nAnother way to acquire the Double-Barreled Shotgun is by looting it from enemies. Certain gangs, such as the O’Driscolls or Lemoyne Raiders, occasionally carry this weapon. Engaging in gang hideout raids or ambushes increases your chances of finding it. Keep an eye out for enemies wielding shotguns during combat, as they may drop the Double-Barreled Shotgun upon defeat.\n\nFor players who prefer purchasing weapons, the Double-Barreled Shotgun is available for sale at gunsmiths after completing Chapter 2. It costs $155, which is relatively affordable compared to other high-tier weapons. Make sure to save up enough money by completing missions, hunting, or looting to purchase it early in the game.\n\nWhen using the Double-Barreled Shotgun, aim for close-range encounters to maximize its effectiveness. Its high damage output makes it ideal for taking down multiple enemies quickly, especially in tight spaces like buildings or dense forests. However, its limited ammo capacity (two shells) means you’ll need to reload frequently, so always be mindful of your surroundings and plan your shots carefully.\n\nTo enhance the shotgun’s performance, consider upgrading it at a gunsmith. Adding a rifled barrel or improved sights can increase its accuracy and range, making it more versatile in combat. Additionally, using express or slug ammunition can further boost its damage output, making it a formidable weapon against tougher enemies like bounty hunters or legendary animals.\n\nIn summary, the Double-Barreled Shotgun is a must-have weapon for any Red Dead Redemption 2 player. Whether you acquire it during the ''Americans at Rest'' mission, loot it from enemies, or purchase it from a gunsmith, this shotgun will serve you well in close-quarters combat. Keep it upgraded and use it strategically to dominate your foes.