How do you unlock the Lancaster Repeater early in the game?

The Lancaster Repeater is one of the most versatile and powerful weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2, offering high accuracy, a fast fire rate, and a large ammo capacity. While it is typically unlocked during the mission ''The First Shall Be Last'' in Chapter 2, it is possible to obtain it earlier through a specific method. This guide will walk you through the steps to unlock the Lancaster Repeater early in the game, along with tips to overcome any challenges you might face.\n\nTo unlock the Lancaster Repeater early, you need to visit the Rhodes Gunsmith. This method involves a side activity that is not tied to the main story, allowing you to acquire the weapon before progressing too far into the game. Head to the town of Rhodes, located in the southern part of Lemoyne. The gunsmith shop is easily identifiable by its sign and is situated near the center of town. Once inside, you will notice a suspicious basement door behind the counter.\n\nTo access the basement, you need to interact with the gunsmith in a specific way. Approach the counter and aim your weapon at the shopkeeper. This will trigger a robbery scenario. Threaten the gunsmith by aiming your gun at him, and he will eventually comply and open the basement door. Be cautious, as this action will lower your honor and may attract law enforcement if you are seen. Once the basement is open, head downstairs to investigate.\n\nIn the basement, you will find a man locked in a cell. This is part of a side activity involving the gunsmith''s illegal activities. You can choose to free the man or leave him, but freeing him will grant you additional honor. More importantly, the Lancaster Repeater is located on a table in the basement. Simply pick it up to add it to your inventory. This method allows you to bypass the main story requirement and obtain the weapon much earlier in the game.\n\nOne common challenge players face during this process is dealing with the law. If you are spotted threatening the gunsmith or breaking into the basement, the law will be alerted. To avoid this, ensure you are not seen by any townsfolk or lawmen before entering the gunsmith shop. You can also use stealth by crouching and moving quietly. If the law does arrive, quickly exit the area and lose your wanted level by hiding or fleeing on horseback.\n\nAnother tip is to save your game before attempting this method. This allows you to reload if something goes wrong, such as accidentally killing the gunsmith or failing to access the basement. Additionally, consider using a mask or bandana to conceal your identity, reducing the chances of being recognized by witnesses. This is especially useful if you want to maintain your honor level while still acquiring the weapon.\n\nIn summary, the Lancaster Repeater can be unlocked early by visiting the Rhodes Gunsmith, threatening the shopkeeper, and accessing the basement. This method provides a significant advantage in combat, especially in the early stages of the game. By following these steps and using the tips provided, you can successfully obtain the Lancaster Repeater without waiting for the main story progression. This weapon will greatly enhance your combat effectiveness, making it a valuable addition to your arsenal.