What’s the best way to hunt for perfect pelts?

Hunting for perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of knowledge, preparation, and precision. The quality of a pelt depends on the condition of the animal when it is killed, and this is determined by the animal''s star rating (1-star, 2-star, or 3-star). To obtain a perfect pelt, you must hunt a 3-star animal and kill it cleanly without damaging the pelt.\n\nFirst, you need to identify the animal''s quality. Use your binoculars or the weapon aiming reticle to study the animal. A 3-star animal will display three stars above its head when you focus on it. This step is crucial because only 3-star animals yield perfect pelts. If you kill a 1-star or 2-star animal, the pelt will be of lower quality regardless of how cleanly you kill it.\n\nNext, choose the right weapon for the job. Different animals require different weapons to ensure a clean kill. For example, small animals like rabbits and squirrels are best hunted with a Varmint Rifle, while larger animals like deer and elk require a rifle or bow with improved arrows. Using the wrong weapon can damage the pelt, reducing its quality. The game provides a handy guide in the compendium, which lists the ideal weapon for each animal.\n\nOnce you''ve identified a 3-star animal and equipped the correct weapon, approach the animal carefully. Use stealth to avoid spooking it. Crouch and move slowly, staying downwind to prevent the animal from detecting your scent. If the animal becomes alert, stop moving and wait for it to calm down. Patience is key here, as rushing can scare the animal away.\n\nWhen you''re in position, aim for a clean, one-shot kill. Headshots are ideal for most animals, as they ensure an instant kill without damaging the pelt. For larger animals, aim for the heart or lungs. If you miss or wound the animal, it may flee, and chasing it down can result in a lower-quality pelt. Always prioritize accuracy over speed.\n\nAfter successfully killing the animal, skin it immediately to collect the pelt. Perfect pelts are highly valuable and can be sold to trappers or used for crafting upgrades at the camp. However, be mindful of your inventory space. Large pelts, like those from bears or bison, must be carried on your horse, so ensure you have enough room before hunting.\n\nOne common challenge is finding 3-star animals consistently. To improve your chances, visit areas with high animal spawn rates, such as the forests near Valentine, the plains of Heartlands, or the swamps of Lemoyne. Additionally, using bait like herbivore or predator bait can attract animals to your location, making it easier to find high-quality targets.\n\nFinally, invest in the Legendary Buck Trinket as soon as possible. This trinket, obtained by hunting the Legendary Buck in West Elizabeth, increases the chances of obtaining perfect pelts from animals. It''s a game-changer for hunters and significantly improves your efficiency.\n\nIn summary, hunting for perfect pelts in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires careful planning, the right tools, and patience. Study animals, use the correct weapon, approach stealthily, and aim for clean kills. Visit high-spawn areas, use bait, and equip the Legendary Buck Trinket to maximize your success. With practice, you''ll master the art of hunting and become a skilled trapper in the wild west.