How do I craft special ammo in Red Dead Online?

Crafting special ammo in Red Dead Online is a valuable skill that enhances your combat effectiveness and provides unique advantages in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Special ammo types, such as Explosive, Incendiary, and High Velocity rounds, offer increased damage, fire effects, or improved accuracy, making them essential for tackling tougher enemies or outsmarting other players. To craft special ammo, you need to unlock the required recipes, gather materials, and use a Campfire or Portable Camp.\n\nFirst, you must unlock the recipes for special ammo. These are available through the Fence, a vendor found in various locations like Rhodes, Saint Denis, and Thieves'' Landing. Visit the Fence and purchase the recipe pamphlets for the specific ammo type you want to craft. For example, the Explosive Ammo Recipe costs $850, while the Incendiary Buckshot Recipe is $500. These pamphlets are a one-time purchase and permanently unlock the ability to craft the corresponding ammo.\n\nOnce you have the recipe, gather the necessary materials. Special ammo requires specific ingredients, which can be found through looting, hunting, or purchasing from vendors. For example, crafting Explosive Rifle Ammo requires 1x Regular Rifle Ammo, 1x Animal Fat, and 1x Volatile Fire Bottle. Animal Fat is obtained by hunting ducks, geese, or boars, while Volatile Fire Bottles can be crafted or bought from the Fence. Incendiary Buckshot, on the other hand, requires 1x Regular Buckshot, 1x Animal Fat, and 1x Moonshine.\n\nTo craft the ammo, you need access to a Campfire or Portable Camp. Campfires are found in towns, campsites, or your own Camp. If you''re on the go, the Portable Camp is a convenient option, which can be purchased from the Wilderness Outfitters in your Camp. Approach the fire, select the Crafting option, and navigate to the Ammo section. Choose the special ammo type you want to craft, and if you have the required materials, confirm the crafting process.\n\nOne common challenge is finding Animal Fat, a key ingredient for many special ammo types. To efficiently gather Animal Fat, focus on hunting ducks and geese near water bodies like Flat Iron Lake or the Dakota River. These animals are abundant and drop Animal Fat consistently. Additionally, always loot enemies and search cabins for Moonshine and other rare materials.\n\nAnother tip is to stockpile materials in advance. Since special ammo is limited in quantity and cannot be purchased, having a steady supply of ingredients ensures you''re always prepared. Use the Satchel to store materials and keep an eye on your inventory to avoid running out during critical moments.\n\nFinally, consider your playstyle when choosing which special ammo to craft. Explosive Ammo is ideal for taking down heavily armored enemies or players, while Incendiary Buckshot is perfect for close-quarters combat. High Velocity rounds are great for long-range engagements, offering improved accuracy and penetration.\n\nIn summary, crafting special ammo in Red Dead Online involves unlocking recipes, gathering materials, and using a Campfire or Portable Camp. Focus on hunting for Animal Fat, stockpile materials, and choose ammo types that suit your playstyle. With these steps, you''ll be well-equipped to dominate in any situation.