What are the best weapons for close-quarters combat?

Close-quarters combat in Red Dead Online requires the right weapons and strategies to dominate in tight spaces like saloons, camps, or dense forests. The best weapons for this type of combat are those that deliver high damage quickly and are easy to maneuver. Shotguns and revolvers are particularly effective due to their stopping power and fast handling. Additionally, understanding game mechanics like Dead Eye and weapon customization can give you an edge in these intense encounters.\n\nFor shotguns, the Pump-Action Shotgun is a top choice. It deals massive damage at close range and can take down enemies with a single shot. To unlock it, you need to reach Rank 10 and purchase it from any gunsmith for $270. The Sawed-Off Shotgun is another excellent option, especially for dual-wielding. It’s compact, deals high damage, and can be obtained early in the game. Pairing it with another revolver or pistol allows for rapid fire in close-quarters situations.\n\nRevolvers like the Schofield Revolver and the LeMat Revolver are also ideal for close combat. The Schofield Revolver, unlocked at Rank 1, offers a good balance of accuracy and damage. The LeMat Revolver, available at Rank 40, is unique because it includes a secondary shotgun barrel, making it versatile for both ranged and close combat. Both revolvers can be dual-wielded for increased firepower, but this requires the Off-Hand Holster, which is unlocked at Rank 25.\n\nGame mechanics like Dead Eye are crucial for close-quarters combat. Dead Eye allows you to slow down time and target multiple enemies or focus on critical areas. To activate Dead Eye, press both thumbsticks on your controller or the corresponding keys on PC. Upgrading your Dead Eye ability through story missions or ability cards like Paint It Black can make it even more effective in tight spaces.\n\nWeapon customization is another key factor. Visit a gunsmith to improve your weapons with upgrades like rifling, which increases accuracy, or extended barrels for better range. Adding a scope to your shotgun might seem counterintuitive, but it can help in mid-range encounters if the fight spills out of close quarters. Ammo types also matter—using Express or High-Velocity rounds increases damage, while Incendiary rounds can set enemies on fire, causing panic and additional damage.\n\nPractical examples of close-quarters combat include defending yourself in Valentine’s saloon or clearing out enemy camps in the Bayou. In these scenarios, positioning is critical. Use cover to avoid taking damage and flank enemies to catch them off guard. If you’re overwhelmed, throw dynamite or Molotov cocktails to clear groups quickly. These tools are especially useful in PvP modes like Shootouts or Takeovers, where close-quarters combat is common.\n\nFor new players, focus on mastering the basics of aiming and movement. Practice hip-firing with shotguns and revolvers to improve your accuracy without aiming down sights. Experienced players should experiment with ability cards like Gunslinger’s Choice, which increases accuracy and damage when dual-wielding pistols or revolvers. This card is particularly effective in close-quarters combat.\n\nIn summary, the best weapons for close-quarters combat in Red Dead Online are shotguns like the Pump-Action and Sawed-Off, and revolvers like the Schofield and LeMat. Use Dead Eye and weapon customization to enhance your effectiveness, and always consider your positioning and ammo type. With these tips, you’ll dominate in any close-quarters encounter.