What are the best starting weapons for beginners in Red Dead Online?

Starting in Red Dead Online can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right weapons early on can make a significant difference in your gameplay experience. As a beginner, your primary focus should be on versatility, affordability, and effectiveness in both PvE (Player vs Environment) and PvP (Player vs Player) scenarios. The game provides a few starting weapons, but investing in the right upgrades early can set you up for success.\n\nYour first weapon is the Cattleman Revolver, which is a decent sidearm for beginners. While it lacks the power of later revolvers, it has a good rate of fire and accuracy. Use this weapon for close to mid-range encounters, especially when dealing with NPC enemies during missions. To improve its performance, prioritize upgrading it with a longer barrel and improved sights at a Gunsmith. These upgrades are relatively affordable and can make a noticeable difference in combat.\n\nFor ranged combat, the Carbine Repeater is your starting long-arm. This weapon is reliable for mid to long-range engagements and is effective against both NPCs and players. Its ammo capacity and rate of fire make it a solid choice for beginners. However, consider saving up for the Lancaster Repeater as soon as possible. The Lancaster has better accuracy and damage, making it a superior choice for most situations. You can purchase it from the Gunsmith in Valentine or Rhodes for around $400.\n\nShotguns are essential for close-quarters combat, and the Double-Barreled Shotgun is a great starting option. It’s powerful and can take down enemies quickly at close range. However, its limited ammo capacity means you need to aim carefully. Once you have the funds, consider upgrading to the Pump-Action Shotgun, which offers better range and ammo capacity. You can find the Double-Barreled Shotgun early in the game, but the Pump-Action Shotgun will cost around $300 at a Gunsmith.\n\nFor hunting, the Varmint Rifle is a must-have. It’s inexpensive and perfect for hunting small game like rabbits, raccoons, and birds. These animals provide valuable materials for crafting and trading, making the Varmint Rifle a worthwhile investment. You can purchase it for around $72 at any Gunsmith. Pair it with the Bow for a silent, versatile hunting tool that can also be used in stealth missions.\n\nAmmo management is crucial in Red Dead Online. Always stock up on Regular Ammo for your weapons, but consider purchasing High-Velocity or Express Ammo for tougher enemies. These ammo types deal more damage and are especially useful in PvP encounters. You can buy ammo from Gunsmiths or loot it from enemies and chests during missions.\n\nFinally, don’t forget to customize your weapons. Adding scopes, improved barrels, and wraps can enhance their performance. These upgrades are available at Gunsmiths and can be purchased with cash or gold. While gold is harder to come by, it’s worth saving for high-tier upgrades that significantly improve your weapons.\n\nIn summary, focus on the Cattleman Revolver, Carbine Repeater, Double-Barreled Shotgun, and Varmint Rifle as your starting weapons. Upgrade them as soon as possible and save for better options like the Lancaster Repeater and Pump-Action Shotgun. Manage your ammo wisely and customize your weapons to suit your playstyle. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of Red Dead Online.