Where can I find the best weapons early in the main story?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, acquiring the best weapons early in the main story can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. While the game limits access to high-tier weapons during the initial chapters, there are still ways to obtain powerful firearms that can give you an edge in combat. This guide will walk you through the best weapons you can find early, their locations, and how to unlock them.\n\nOne of the first powerful weapons you can acquire is the Schofield Revolver. This revolver is a reliable sidearm with high damage and accuracy, making it ideal for both close and medium-range combat. To obtain it, you can either purchase it from the Gunsmith in Valentine for $84 or steal it during the mission ''Blessed Are the Meek?'' in Chapter 2. During this mission, you’ll rob the Valentine doctor’s office, where the Schofield Revolver is stored in a lockbox. This method allows you to get the weapon for free, saving you money for other upgrades.\n\nAnother excellent early-game weapon is the Lancaster Repeater. This rifle is versatile, offering a high rate of fire and decent accuracy. You can acquire it during the mission ''Americans at Rest'' in Chapter 2. After helping Javier rescue Bill Williamson, you’ll visit the Rhodes Gunsmith. During this mission, you can loot the Lancaster Repeater from the gunsmith’s basement. Alternatively, you can purchase it later in the game, but obtaining it early gives you a significant advantage in shootouts.\n\nFor those who prefer shotguns, the Double-Barreled Shotgun is a devastating close-range weapon. You can find it in the basement of the abandoned house northwest of Valentine. Look for a small shack near the train tracks, and you’ll discover the shotgun inside. This weapon is particularly useful for clearing out enemy camps or defending yourself in tight spaces.\n\nIf you’re looking for a sniper rifle, the Rolling Block Rifle is a great option. While it’s not available until Chapter 2, you can obtain it during the mission ''The Sheep and the Goats.'' After herding sheep with John, you’ll be tasked with sniping enemies from a distance. The Rolling Block Rifle is provided during this mission, and you can keep it afterward. Its high damage and long-range accuracy make it perfect for hunting or taking out enemies from afar.\n\nTo maximize your weapon effectiveness, it’s essential to maintain and upgrade your firearms. Visit Gunsmiths regularly to clean your weapons, as dirty guns lose accuracy and damage over time. You can also purchase upgrades like improved sights, rifling, and grips to enhance performance. Additionally, crafting or purchasing special ammunition, such as Express or High-Velocity rounds, can further increase your firepower.\n\nA common challenge early in the game is managing limited funds. To save money, prioritize stealing or looting weapons during missions instead of purchasing them. For example, the Schofield Revolver and Lancaster Repeater can both be obtained for free during specific missions. This allows you to allocate your money toward other essentials like horse upgrades or camp supplies.\n\nFinally, always be on the lookout for hidden weapons and loot. Exploring the open world can yield unexpected rewards, such as rare weapons or valuable items. For instance, the Rare Shotgun can be found at the hermit’s shack north of Annesburg. While it’s not available until later in the game, it’s worth keeping in mind for future exploration.\n\nIn summary, the best early-game weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 include the Schofield Revolver, Lancaster Repeater, Double-Barreled Shotgun, and Rolling Block Rifle. By focusing on mission rewards, looting, and exploration, you can acquire these powerful firearms without spending too much money. Regular maintenance and upgrades will ensure your weapons remain effective throughout your journey.