What are the best horse breeds for combat and speed in Red Dead Online?

In Red Dead Online, choosing the right horse breed for combat and speed is crucial for maximizing your efficiency in missions, PvP, and free roam activities. Horses in the game have unique stats, including health, stamina, speed, and acceleration, which determine their performance in different scenarios. For combat, you need a horse with high health and bravery to withstand gunfire and remain calm under pressure. For speed, you want a horse with high speed and acceleration to outrun enemies or quickly traverse the map.\n\nOne of the best horse breeds for combat is the **Turkoman**. This breed excels in both health and stamina, making it durable during intense firefights. The Turkoman is also known for its bravery, meaning it won''t easily buck you off when surrounded by predators or under heavy gunfire. To acquire a Turkoman, you need to reach Rank 56 and purchase it from the stables for $950. The Dark Bay and Gold Coat variants are particularly popular for their balanced stats.\n\nFor speed, the **Missouri Fox Trotter** is a top-tier choice. This breed boasts the highest speed and acceleration stats in the game, making it ideal for races or quick getaways. The Missouri Fox Trotter is available at Rank 58 and costs $950. Its high stamina also ensures you can maintain speed over long distances, especially when paired with the right saddle and stirrups.\n\nAnother excellent option for combat is the **Arabian**. While it has slightly lower health compared to the Turkoman, its high speed and acceleration make it a versatile choice for both combat and travel. The White Arabian, available in the wild near Lake Isabella, is free but requires taming. Alternatively, you can purchase the Black Arabian at Rank 66 for $1,020, which offers better stats and is more suitable for experienced players.\n\nTo optimize your horse''s performance, invest in a high-quality saddle and stirrups. The **Nacogdoches Saddle** is widely regarded as the best in the game, as it significantly reduces stamina drain and boosts speed and acceleration. Pair it with **Hooded Stirrups** for additional stat bonuses. These upgrades are essential for maintaining your horse''s stamina during long rides or intense combat situations.\n\nWhen engaging in combat, always keep your horse''s health in mind. Use **Horse Tonics** to restore health and stamina during battles. Additionally, bonding with your horse to Level 4 will unlock its full potential, including improved stats and better responsiveness to commands. To bond quickly, feed, brush, and pat your horse regularly, and take it on long rides.\n\nFor new players, the **Mustang** is a budget-friendly option that offers a good balance of speed and health. Available at Rank 27 for $500, it''s a solid choice for early-game combat and travel. As you progress and earn more money, consider upgrading to higher-tier breeds like the Turkoman or Missouri Fox Trotter.\n\nIn summary, the Turkoman and Missouri Fox Trotter are the best horse breeds for combat and speed, respectively. Pair them with the Nacogdoches Saddle and Hooded Stirrups for optimal performance. Always prioritize bonding with your horse and use tonics to keep it in top condition during battles. With the right setup, you''ll dominate both PvP and PvE scenarios in Red Dead Online.