How do I unlock the Horse Lantern for night riding?

Unlocking the Horse Lantern in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a valuable upgrade for night riding, as it provides better visibility in dark environments. The Horse Lantern is a unique accessory that attaches to your horse''s saddle, illuminating the path ahead during nighttime or in poorly lit areas like forests or caves. However, it is not available immediately and requires specific steps to unlock.\n\nTo unlock the Horse Lantern, you must first progress through the game''s story until you reach Chapter 2. This is when the majority of the game''s features and side activities become available. Once in Chapter 2, you need to visit the Trapper, a special vendor who sells unique items crafted from animal pelts and materials. The Trapper can be found in several locations across the map, including near Riggs Station, Saint Denis, and the wilderness near Strawberry.\n\nTo craft the Horse Lantern, you will need to gather specific materials. The primary requirement is a Perfect Deer Pelt. Deer are common in the forests and plains of the game, particularly in areas like Big Valley, Cumberland Forest, and the Heartlands. To obtain a Perfect Deer Pelt, you must hunt a three-star deer using the appropriate weapon, such as a rifle or bow with improved arrows. Aim for a clean headshot to ensure the pelt remains in perfect condition.\n\nOnce you have the Perfect Deer Pelt, head to the Trapper and navigate to the Horse Equipment section. Here, you will find the Horse Lantern available for purchase. The cost is relatively low, but you must have the required materials. After purchasing, the lantern will automatically attach to your horse''s saddle, and you can activate it by holding the left D-pad (on consoles) or the corresponding key on PC.\n\nOne common challenge players face is locating a three-star deer. If you''re struggling to find one, try using bait like Herbivore Bait to attract deer to your location. Additionally, using Eagle Eye can help you track deer more efficiently. Another tip is to hunt during the early morning or late evening when deer are more active.\n\nIt''s important to note that the Horse Lantern does not replace your personal lantern, which can be equipped from your inventory. However, the Horse Lantern is more convenient for riding, as it frees up your hands and provides consistent lighting. This is especially useful during missions or exploration in dark areas.\n\nIn summary, unlocking the Horse Lantern involves progressing to Chapter 2, hunting a Perfect Deer Pelt, and visiting the Trapper to craft the item. This upgrade is highly recommended for players who frequently travel at night or explore dimly lit areas. With the Horse Lantern equipped, you''ll have a much easier time navigating the world of Red Dead Redemption 2 after dark.\n\nPractical tips for using the Horse Lantern include keeping an eye on your horse''s stamina during nighttime rides, as the lantern does not affect your horse''s performance. Additionally, consider pairing the lantern with other horse upgrades, such as improved saddles or stirrups, to enhance your overall riding experience. Finally, remember that the Horse Lantern is purely cosmetic and does not provide any gameplay advantages beyond improved visibility.