What’s the best way to avoid horse injuries during gunfights?

Horse injuries during gunfights in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be frustrating and costly, but with the right strategies, you can minimize the risk and keep your mount safe. The key is to understand the game mechanics, plan your approach, and use the environment to your advantage. Horses are vulnerable to gunfire, falls, and collisions, so protecting them requires a mix of positioning, timing, and preparation.\n\nFirst, always position your horse strategically during gunfights. Avoid leaving your horse in open areas where it can be easily targeted by enemies. Instead, tie your horse to a tree, rock, or other cover nearby. This keeps it out of the line of fire while still allowing you to access it quickly if needed. For example, during missions like the Valentine shootout, tie your horse behind the buildings or near the stables to keep it safe.\n\nSecond, use the ''Stay'' command to keep your horse stationary. When dismounting, hold the ''Call Horse'' button (L2/LT on consoles) and select ''Stay.'' This prevents your horse from wandering into danger or following you into combat. If you need to move quickly, whistle for your horse, but only when the area is relatively safe. This is especially useful in chaotic situations like ambushes or gang hideouts.\n\nThird, invest in a good saddle and stirrups to improve your horse''s stamina and health. The best saddles, like the Panther Trail Saddle or the Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle, provide significant bonuses to your horse''s core stats. These upgrades make your horse more resilient to injuries and allow it to recover faster. You can purchase these items at stables in major towns like Saint Denis or Valentine.\n\nFourth, always carry Horse Reviver and Horse Medicine in your inventory. Horse Reviver is essential for reviving your horse if it gets critically injured, while Horse Medicine restores its health. You can buy these items at general stores or craft them using herbs like Burdock Root and Sage. Keep at least two or three of each in your satchel to handle emergencies.\n\nFifth, avoid reckless riding during gunfights. If you''re being chased or shot at, don''t gallop blindly through rough terrain. Instead, use the environment to your advantage. For example, ride through dense forests or narrow paths to break line of sight with enemies. This reduces the chances of your horse being hit by stray bullets or tripping over obstacles.\n\nFinally, consider using a war horse or a breed with high health and stamina for combat-heavy missions. Breeds like the Ardennes, Turkoman, or Andalusian are excellent choices because they are more durable and less likely to panic under fire. You can find these horses at stables or through specific missions, such as the Turkoman available during the ''Horse Flesh for Dinner'' mission.\n\nBy following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of horse injuries during gunfights. Always prioritize your horse''s safety, plan your movements carefully, and be prepared with the right tools and equipment. With practice, you''ll be able to navigate even the most intense battles without putting your loyal companion in harm''s way.