What are the best weapons for hunting small game?

Hunting small game in Red Dead Online requires precision and the right tools to ensure you maximize your profits and maintain the quality of pelts and carcasses. Small game includes animals like rabbits, squirrels, birds, and other creatures that are easily spooked and require specific weapons to avoid damaging their pelts. The best weapons for hunting small game are the Varmint Rifle, Bow with Small Game Arrows, and the Small Game Arrow variant for the Bow. Each of these weapons is designed to deliver clean kills without ruining the animal''s pelt, which is crucial for earning higher rewards.\n\nFirst, the Varmint Rifle is the most accessible and effective weapon for hunting small game. It is available for purchase at any Gunsmith for $72 and is unlocked at Rank 8. The Varmint Rifle uses .22 caliber ammunition, which is perfect for taking down small animals without causing excessive damage. To use it effectively, aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill. This weapon is particularly useful for hunting rabbits, raccoons, and birds like ducks and geese. Always carry extra ammo, as small game can be plentiful in certain areas like the Heartlands or Big Valley.\n\nSecond, the Bow with Small Game Arrows is another excellent choice for hunting small game. Small Game Arrows are crafted using regular arrows, flight feathers, and shotgun shells. These arrows are specifically designed to kill small animals without damaging their pelts. To craft them, open your Satchel, go to the Crafting menu, and select Small Game Arrows. The Bow is ideal for stealthy hunting, as it doesn''t scare nearby animals as much as gunfire. Use it to hunt squirrels, chipmunks, and small birds like songbirds. Aim carefully, as the arrows have a slight arc and require practice to master.\n\nThird, the Small Game Arrow variant for the Bow is particularly useful for hunting the smallest animals, such as frogs, toads, and rats. These creatures are often found near water sources like rivers, swamps, and ponds. For example, the Bayou Nwa region near Saint Denis is a great spot to find frogs and small birds. When using Small Game Arrows, aim for the head or center mass to ensure a clean kill. This method is essential for maintaining the perfect condition of the pelt, which is required for crafting and selling at the Trader role or Butcher.\n\nOne common challenge when hunting small game is spooking animals before getting a clean shot. To avoid this, use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shot perfectly. Dead Eye is especially helpful when using the Bow or Varmint Rifle, as it allows you to target small, fast-moving animals with precision. Additionally, crouch and move slowly when approaching animals to reduce noise and avoid detection. Wearing camouflage clothing or using scent cover can also help you get closer to your prey.\n\nAnother tip is to focus on areas with high concentrations of small game. For example, the Heartlands in New Hanover are teeming with rabbits and birds, while the forests of Big Valley are great for squirrels and chipmunks. Use your Eagle Eye ability to track animals and identify their trails. This ability highlights animal tracks and scents, making it easier to locate and hunt small game efficiently.\n\nIn conclusion, the Varmint Rifle and Bow with Small Game Arrows are the best weapons for hunting small game in Red Dead Online. Use the Varmint Rifle for its ease of use and effectiveness against slightly larger small game, while the Bow with Small Game Arrows is ideal for stealth and precision. Always aim for clean kills to preserve pelt quality, and use Dead Eye and Eagle Eye to improve your hunting efficiency. With these tools and strategies, you''ll be able to hunt small game effectively and maximize your profits in Red Dead Online.