What are the best weapons for hunting large animals?

Hunting large animals in Red Dead Online requires the right weapons and strategies to ensure clean kills and high-quality pelts. Large animals, such as bears, elk, moose, and bison, are tougher to take down and require powerful, precise weapons. The game mechanics reward players for using the correct weapon type and landing clean shots, as this preserves the quality of the animal carcass and pelt. Using the wrong weapon or damaging the animal excessively can degrade the quality, reducing its value and usefulness for crafting.\n\nFor hunting large animals, the best weapons are rifles and bows with specific ammunition types. The Bolt Action Rifle is a top choice due to its high damage output and accuracy. It is effective for taking down large animals with a single well-placed shot to the head or heart. The Rolling Block Rifle and Carcano Rifle are also excellent options for long-range hunting, as they provide high damage and precision. For players who prefer a more stealthy approach, the Improved Bow with Poison Arrows or Improved Arrows is highly effective. These arrows deliver significant damage and can ensure a clean kill if aimed properly.\n\nTo maximize your success, always aim for the animal''s vital areas, such as the head or heart. This ensures a clean kill and preserves the pelt quality. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shot accurately. For example, when hunting a grizzly bear in Tall Trees or Cumberland Forest, equip your Bolt Action Rifle, activate Dead Eye, and aim for the head. This will drop the bear instantly and yield a perfect pelt. If you prefer using a bow, craft Poison Arrows at your campfire using Arrow, Oleander Sage, and Flight Feathers. These arrows are particularly useful for hunting large predators like cougars or panthers in areas like Roanoke Ridge.\n\nOne common challenge is tracking large animals in dense forests or mountainous terrain. Use Eagle Eye to highlight animal tracks and follow their trail. Large animals often leave clear tracks and clues, such as droppings or broken foliage. For example, when hunting elk in Big Valley, use Eagle Eye to locate their tracks near the riverbanks. Once you spot the animal, crouch to reduce your visibility and approach slowly to avoid spooking it. Patience is key, as rushing can cause the animal to flee and make the hunt more difficult.\n\nAnother challenge is dealing with aggressive predators like bears or wolves. Always be prepared for a fight by keeping your weapon equipped and ready. If you encounter a grizzly bear in the wild, maintain your distance and aim for a headshot. Wolves often travel in packs, so use a repeater or shotgun to fend them off if they attack. For example, in the Grizzlies East region, wolves are common, and carrying a Pump-Action Shotgun can save you from unexpected attacks while hunting elk or deer.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your weapons and abilities to improve your hunting efficiency. Purchase a scope for your rifle to increase accuracy at long distances. Upgrade your camp''s provisions to craft better ammunition and tonics. For example, the High Velocity Ammo for the Bolt Action Rifle increases its range and penetration, making it ideal for hunting large animals from a distance. Additionally, invest in ability cards like Peak Condition, which increases your stamina and damage output, or Focus Fire, which boosts your Dead Eye effectiveness.\n\nIn summary, the best weapons for hunting large animals in Red Dead Online are the Bolt Action Rifle, Rolling Block Rifle, Carcano Rifle, and Improved Bow with specialized arrows. Always aim for vital areas, use Dead Eye for precision, and track animals carefully using Eagle Eye. Be prepared for aggressive predators and upgrade your weapons and abilities to enhance your hunting experience. With these strategies, you can consistently secure high-quality pelts and maximize your rewards.