How do you train your horse to stay calm during gunfire?

Training your horse to stay calm during gunfire in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for effective horseback combat and overall gameplay. Horses in RDR2 have a bonding system, and their behavior during stressful situations like gunfire depends on their bond level and temperament. To achieve a calm horse, you must focus on building trust, exposing your horse to gunfire gradually, and using specific in-game mechanics to reinforce positive behavior.\n\nFirst, ensure your horse has a high bond level. Bonding is increased by spending time with your horse, feeding it, brushing it, and leading it. You can check your bond level in the Player menu under the Horse section. A bond level of 4 is ideal for maximum calmness during combat. To speed up bonding, feed your horse regularly with items like hay, wild carrots, or horse meal, and pat or brush it after stressful situations to soothe it.\n\nNext, gradually expose your horse to gunfire. Start by firing your weapon while mounted in a safe area, such as near your camp or in a secluded part of the map like Big Valley or the Heartlands. Begin with a single shot and observe your horse''s reaction. If it becomes agitated, dismount and calm it by patting or feeding it. Repeat this process, increasing the intensity of gunfire over time, such as firing multiple shots or using a repeater rifle.\n\nUse the Horse Calming mechanic during gunfire. While mounted, hold the left stick down (on consoles) or the appropriate key on PC to calm your horse. This reduces its fear level and prevents it from bucking you off. This mechanic is especially useful during intense combat scenarios, such as ambushes or shootouts in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis. Practice calming your horse during low-stress situations to make it second nature.\n\nChoose a horse breed with a calm temperament. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Hungarian Halfbred, are naturally more resilient to gunfire and combat stress. These breeds can be purchased from stables like the one in Valentine or found in the wild. While all horses can be trained to stay calm, starting with a breed that has a higher tolerance for stress will make the process easier.\n\nFinally, avoid overwhelming your horse. If you''re in a prolonged gunfight, consider dismounting and taking cover to give your horse a break. This prevents it from becoming too stressed and bucking you off. Additionally, avoid riding directly into large groups of enemies, as this can cause your horse to panic. Instead, use cover and strategic positioning to minimize exposure to gunfire.\n\nBy following these steps, you can train your horse to remain calm during gunfire, making horseback combat more effective and enjoyable. Remember to be patient and consistent, as building trust with your horse takes time. With practice, your horse will become a reliable partner in even the most intense battles.