How do you improve your horse’s bravery during gunfights?

Improving your horse’s bravery during gunfights in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for maintaining control and ensuring your mount doesn’t buck you off when the action gets intense. Horses in the game have varying levels of bravery, which determines how they react to gunfire, predators, and other threats. While some horses are naturally braver, there are steps you can take to improve your horse’s performance in combat situations.\n\nFirst, bonding with your horse is the foundation of improving its bravery. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, and each level increases your horse’s trust in you. To increase bonding, spend time with your horse by feeding it, brushing it, and patting it. You can also bond by riding your horse frequently and calming it during stressful situations. For example, if your horse gets spooked by a gunfight, press the calm button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to soothe it. This helps build trust and reduces the likelihood of your horse panicking.\n\nNext, choose a horse breed known for its bravery. War horses and work horses, such as the Ardennes or the Hungarian Halfbred, are naturally more resilient in combat. These breeds are less likely to buck you off during gunfights or when encountering predators. You can purchase these horses from stables like the one in Valentine or find them in the wild. For example, the Hungarian Halfbred can often be found near the Heartlands or during specific missions.\n\nAnother way to improve your horse’s bravery is by using the right equipment. Equipping your horse with a better saddle and stirrups can enhance its stamina and health, making it more reliable in combat. For instance, the Improved Saddle, available at stables, provides significant stat boosts. Additionally, using Horse Tonics and Horse Stimulants can temporarily increase your horse’s health and stamina, giving it the endurance to stay calm during prolonged gunfights.\n\nTraining your horse in high-stress situations is also crucial. Gradually expose your horse to gunfire by engaging in small skirmishes or hunting predators. Start with minor encounters, such as shooting birds or small animals, and gradually work up to larger battles. This helps your horse acclimate to the noise and chaos of combat. For example, take your horse to areas like Lemoyne, where you can encounter alligators, or the Grizzlies, where wolves are common. These encounters will help your horse build confidence.\n\nFinally, avoid overworking your horse during gunfights. If your horse’s stamina is low, it’s more likely to panic and buck you off. Keep an eye on the stamina bar and use calming techniques to keep your horse steady. If you’re in a prolonged battle, dismount and take cover to give your horse a break. This prevents it from becoming overwhelmed and ensures it remains a reliable companion.\n\nIn summary, improving your horse’s bravery during gunfights involves bonding, choosing the right breed, using proper equipment, training in high-stress situations, and managing stamina. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse remains calm and dependable, even in the heat of battle.