How do I craft the Improved Volatile Dynamite in RDR2?

Crafting Improved Volatile Dynamite in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a powerful way to enhance your arsenal, especially for taking on large groups of enemies or dealing massive damage to tough targets. This explosive is a step above regular dynamite, offering increased blast radius and damage. To craft it, you’ll need to gather specific materials and unlock the recipe, which requires some progression in the game.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the recipe for Improved Volatile Dynamite. This is done by finding the recipe pamphlet, which can be purchased from a fence. Fences are special vendors found in locations like Rhodes, Saint Denis, and Emerald Ranch. The pamphlet costs $350, so ensure you have enough money saved up. Once purchased, read the pamphlet from your satchel to learn the recipe.\n\nTo craft Improved Volatile Dynamite, you’ll need three key ingredients: one regular stick of dynamite, one animal fat, and one moonshine. Dynamite can be purchased from general stores or found in specific locations, such as gang hideouts or treasure chests. Animal fat is obtained by hunting animals like ducks, boars, or bears. Moonshine can be looted from enemies, found in camps, or purchased from general stores.\n\nOnce you have all the materials, open your satchel and navigate to the crafting menu. Select the Improved Volatile Dynamite recipe and confirm the crafting process. The game will automatically combine the ingredients, and the explosive will be added to your inventory. Keep in mind that crafting requires you to be at a campfire or in a safe location, so plan accordingly.\n\nOne common challenge players face is finding animal fat. Ducks are the easiest source, as they are abundant near water bodies like Flat Iron Lake or the Dakota River. Use a varmint rifle to hunt them efficiently. For moonshine, check enemy camps or loot bodies after gunfights. If you’re short on dynamite, consider visiting the fence to purchase it or explore gang hideouts for a chance to find some.\n\nImproved Volatile Dynamite is particularly useful in missions with large enemy groups or when facing armored vehicles. For example, during the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil IV,'' you can use it to destroy the oil wagons quickly. It’s also effective in free roam for clearing out enemy camps or defending yourself against ambushes.\n\nA practical tip is to always carry a few sticks of Improved Volatile Dynamite in your inventory, as it can turn the tide in tough situations. However, be cautious when using it, as the blast radius is large and can harm you or your horse if you’re too close. Always aim carefully and throw it from a safe distance.\n\nIn summary, crafting Improved Volatile Dynamite requires unlocking the recipe, gathering dynamite, animal fat, and moonshine, and using the crafting menu. Focus on hunting ducks for animal fat and looting enemies for moonshine to streamline the process. With this explosive in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to handle even the toughest challenges in Red Dead Redemption 2.