How can I maximize damage with explosive ammo in tough missions?

Explosive ammo in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal, especially during tough missions where enemies are heavily armored or in large numbers. To maximize its effectiveness, you need to understand its mechanics, craft it properly, and use it strategically. Explosive ammo deals massive damage, often killing enemies in one shot, and can destroy vehicles or structures. However, it is limited and expensive to craft, so using it wisely is key.\n\nFirst, you need to unlock the recipe for explosive ammo. This is done by purchasing the pamphlet from a fence, such as the one in Rhodes or Saint Denis. The pamphlet costs $350, so ensure you have enough money. Once purchased, read the pamphlet in your satchel to learn the recipe. Crafting explosive ammo requires specific materials: a regular bullet (rifle, pistol, or shotgun), animal fat, and a volatile substance like moonshine or fire bottle. Animal fat can be obtained by hunting ducks, geese, or boars, while volatile substances are found in loot or purchased from general stores.\n\nTo maximize damage, aim for critical areas like the head or torso. Explosive ammo has a small blast radius, so grouping enemies together can allow you to take out multiple targets with a single shot. For example, during missions like ''The Battle of Shady Belle,'' where you face waves of enemies, use explosive ammo on groups of enemies clustered around cover or vehicles. This will save time and resources while dealing massive damage.\n\nAnother tip is to pair explosive ammo with the right weapon. Rifles like the Bolt Action Rifle or Springfield Rifle are ideal for long-range precision, while shotguns like the Pump-Action Shotgun can clear rooms quickly with explosive slugs. For close-quarters combat, explosive revolver or pistol rounds are devastating. Always switch to explosive ammo when facing tough enemies like armored Del Lobos or O''Driscolls in missions like ''The Delights of Van Horn.''\n\nOne common challenge is running out of explosive ammo mid-mission. To avoid this, stockpile materials and craft ammo before starting tough missions. Visit areas like the swamps near Saint Denis for ducks and boars to farm animal fat. Additionally, loot enemies and camps for volatile substances. Always carry a backup weapon with regular ammo in case you run out of explosive rounds.\n\nFinally, use Dead Eye to maximize accuracy and efficiency. Dead Eye allows you to mark multiple targets, ensuring each explosive round hits its mark. For example, during the mission ''My Last Boy,'' where you face the Pinkertons, activate Dead Eye to mark enemies behind cover and take them out with explosive rifle rounds. This strategy minimizes wasted ammo and ensures maximum damage output.\n\nIn summary, explosive ammo is a game-changer in tough missions. Unlock the recipe, craft it in bulk, aim for critical areas, and pair it with the right weapon. Use Dead Eye for precision and always have a backup plan. With these tips, you''ll dominate even the hardest missions in Red Dead Redemption 2.