What are the best weapons for hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2?

Hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a core gameplay mechanic that rewards players with valuable resources like pelts, meat, and crafting materials. To maximize your hunting efficiency, it’s crucial to use the right weapons for different types of animals. The game categorizes animals into small, medium, and large sizes, and each requires specific weapons to ensure a clean kill and preserve the quality of the pelt.\n\nFor small animals like squirrels, rabbits, and birds, the Varmint Rifle is the best choice. This weapon is designed for small game and ensures a clean kill without damaging the pelt. You can purchase the Varmint Rifle from any gunsmith for $72. Alternatively, you can find it for free during the mission ''A Fisher of Fish'' in Chapter 2. Always aim for headshots to maintain the pelt’s quality, as body shots can degrade it.\n\nMedium-sized animals, such as deer, pronghorns, and wolves, require a more powerful weapon. The Bow with Improved Arrows or the Springfield Rifle are ideal for these targets. The Bow is versatile and silent, making it perfect for hunting in areas with predators or when you want to avoid alerting nearby enemies. Improved Arrows can be crafted using Arrowheads, Flight Feathers, and Animal Fat. The Springfield Rifle, available at gunsmiths for $156, is another excellent option for medium game. Aim for the head or heart to ensure a clean kill.\n\nFor large animals like bears, bison, and elk, you’ll need high-powered weapons such as the Rolling Block Rifle or the Carcano Rifle. These rifles are available later in the game and are essential for taking down large, dangerous animals. The Rolling Block Rifle can be obtained during the mission ''Magicians for Sport'' in Chapter 2, while the Carcano Rifle is unlocked in Chapter 6. Always aim for vital organs to ensure a quick, humane kill and preserve the pelt’s quality.\n\nWhen hunting legendary animals, which are unique and offer special pelts for crafting, you’ll need to use the right weapon for their size. For example, the Legendary Buck requires a rifle, while the Legendary Beaver can be taken down with a Varmint Rifle. Legendary animals are marked on your map with a crown icon, and their pelts are always perfect quality, regardless of the weapon used. However, using the correct weapon ensures a quicker kill and reduces the risk of the animal escaping.\n\nTo improve your hunting success, consider using Dead Eye, a special ability that slows time and allows you to target specific body parts. This is especially useful for ensuring headshots or hitting vital organs. Additionally, use Cover Scent Lotions to mask your scent and get closer to skittish animals. These can be crafted or purchased from general stores.\n\nFinally, always check the animal’s star rating before shooting. A three-star animal will yield a perfect pelt, while lower ratings result in damaged pelts. Use your binoculars or study the animal with your weapon to see its quality. By following these tips and using the right weapons, you’ll become a master hunter in Red Dead Redemption 2, earning valuable resources and crafting materials for your journey.