What’s the best way to clean and maintain weapons in RDR2?

Cleaning and maintaining weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for optimal performance, as dirty weapons degrade over time, leading to reduced accuracy, slower reload times, and increased wear. To keep your weapons in top condition, you’ll need to regularly clean them using Gun Oil, which can be purchased from gunsmiths, general stores, or found in the world. Dirty weapons are indicated by a red icon on the weapon wheel, so always check your arsenal before heading into combat.\n\nTo clean a weapon, open the weapon wheel by holding the appropriate button (L1/LB on consoles or Tab on PC). Select the weapon you want to clean, then choose the ''Clean'' option. This will consume one unit of Gun Oil. If you don’t have Gun Oil, you can buy it for $1.50 at any store or loot it from enemies and containers. Cleaning your weapon restores its condition to 100%, ensuring it performs at its best during shootouts and hunting.\n\nWeapons degrade over time due to use, exposure to rain, or immersion in water. For example, if you fall into a river or ride through a storm, your weapons will get dirty faster. To minimize wear, avoid unnecessary firing and holster your weapons during bad weather. Additionally, some weapons degrade faster than others, such as the Double-Action Revolver, so prioritize cleaning these more frequently.\n\nIf you’re low on Gun Oil, you can craft it at a campfire using animal fat, which is obtained by hunting animals like boars, bears, or ducks. Combine one animal fat with one alcohol (such as whiskey or moonshine) to create Gun Oil. This is a cost-effective solution for players who prefer hunting and crafting over purchasing supplies. Keep an eye out for animal fat during your travels, as it’s a valuable resource for maintaining your arsenal.\n\nFor players who want to save time, visit a gunsmith to have your weapons cleaned for a small fee. Gunsmiths are located in towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, and Rhodes. This is a convenient option if you’re in a hurry or don’t have Gun Oil on hand. However, it’s more cost-effective to clean your weapons yourself, especially if you’re managing your finances carefully.\n\nTo maximize weapon longevity, consider upgrading your weapons with improved components, such as rifling or sights, which can be purchased at gunsmiths. These upgrades not only enhance performance but also reduce the rate of degradation. Additionally, store unused weapons on your horse to prevent them from getting dirty unnecessarily. This is particularly useful for rare or expensive weapons that you don’t use often.\n\nIn summary, the best way to clean and maintain weapons in RDR2 is to regularly check their condition, use Gun Oil or crafting materials to clean them, and avoid exposing them to harsh conditions. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your weapons remain reliable and effective throughout your adventures in the Wild West.