What is the best weapon to use for hunting small animals like squirrels and rabbits?

To obtain perfect pelts from small animals like squirrels and rabbits in Red Dead Redemption 2, the best weapon to use is the Varmint Rifle. This weapon is specifically designed for hunting small game and ensures that you do not damage the pelt, which is crucial for achieving a perfect quality rating. The Varmint Rifle can be purchased from any gunsmith in the game, such as the one in Valentine or Saint Denis, for $72. It is unlocked early in the game, making it accessible for both new and experienced players.\n\nBefore heading out to hunt, it is essential to study the animal using your binoculars or by aiming your weapon at it. This will reveal the animal''s quality, which can be poor, good, or perfect. Only animals with a perfect quality rating will yield perfect pelts. For squirrels and rabbits, you will often find them in wooded areas, such as the forests near Valentine or the Heartlands. These locations are ideal for hunting due to the high spawn rates of small game.\n\nOnce you have identified a perfect-quality animal, equip the Varmint Rifle and aim for a clean, one-shot kill. Headshots are highly recommended as they ensure a quick and humane kill, which is necessary to preserve the pelt''s quality. If you miss or hit the animal in a non-lethal area, the pelt''s quality may degrade. Additionally, avoid using weapons like shotguns or repeaters, as they are too powerful and will ruin the pelt.\n\nA common challenge players face is tracking small animals due to their size and speed. To overcome this, use Dead Eye, a special ability that slows down time and allows you to mark your target precisely. This is especially useful when hunting fast-moving animals like rabbits. You can activate Dead Eye by pressing the right stick on consoles or the middle mouse button on PC. Once activated, mark the animal''s head and fire for a guaranteed clean kill.\n\nAfter successfully hunting the animal, skin it immediately to collect the pelt. Skinning is done by approaching the carcass and holding the appropriate button prompt. The perfect pelt can then be stored on your horse or taken to a trapper or camp to craft valuable items. Remember to store pelts on your horse as soon as possible, as leaving them on the ground for too long may cause them to despawn.\n\nFor players who prefer a more stealthy approach, using small game arrows is another viable option. These arrows are crafted by combining regular arrows with flight feathers and can be used to hunt small animals without damaging the pelt. However, they require more precision and are less forgiving than the Varmint Rifle. To craft small game arrows, you will need to collect flight feathers from birds, which can be found in abundance near rivers and lakes.\n\nIn summary, the Varmint Rifle is the most reliable weapon for hunting small animals like squirrels and rabbits in Red Dead Redemption 2. Study the animal''s quality, aim for a clean headshot, and use Dead Eye for precision. Always skin the animal immediately and store the pelt on your horse to avoid losing it. With these tips, you can consistently obtain perfect pelts and make the most of your hunting endeavors in the game.