How do I save before upgrading my weapons?

Saving your progress before upgrading weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a smart way to ensure you don’t lose resources or make irreversible mistakes. The game allows manual saves, which can be accessed through the pause menu. This feature is especially useful when experimenting with weapon upgrades, as some modifications are permanent and require rare materials or significant in-game currency.\n\nTo save your game, press the pause button to open the menu. Navigate to the ''Story'' tab, then select ''Save Game.'' You can choose an empty slot or overwrite an existing save file. Always create a new save file before upgrading weapons, as this allows you to revert to the previous state if you’re unsatisfied with the results. This method is particularly helpful when using rare materials like gold bars or unique components that are hard to replace.\n\nWeapon upgrades are performed at gunsmiths, which are located in major towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, and Rhodes. Before visiting a gunsmith, ensure you have enough money and materials for the upgrades. Some upgrades, such as improved barrels or scopes, require specific items like animal parts or crafting components. For example, upgrading the Lancaster Repeater’s rifling requires a Perfect Deer Pelt, which can take time to acquire.\n\nA common challenge players face is accidentally spending resources on upgrades they later regret. For instance, upgrading a weapon’s appearance with gold plating is expensive and irreversible. By saving beforehand, you can test different upgrades without fear of wasting resources. If you’re unhappy with the results, simply reload your save file and try a different combination of upgrades.\n\nAnother practical tip is to experiment with different weapons and upgrades during missions or free roam. For example, if you’re unsure whether a long scope is worth the investment for your rifle, save your game, purchase the upgrade, and test it in combat. If it doesn’t suit your playstyle, reload the save and allocate your resources elsewhere. This approach ensures you make informed decisions without permanent consequences.\n\nFinally, always keep multiple save files to avoid overwriting critical progress. For example, create a save file before entering a gunsmith and another after completing a major story mission. This way, you can revisit earlier points in the game if needed. By following these steps, you can confidently upgrade your weapons while minimizing risks and maximizing your enjoyment of Red Dead Redemption 2.