What’s the best way to handle the Pinkertons in "The Sheep and the Goats"?

The mission ''The Sheep and the Goats'' in Red Dead Redemption 2 involves a confrontation with the Pinkertons, and handling them effectively requires a mix of strategy, preparation, and quick reflexes. The Pinkertons are heavily armed and will swarm your position, so staying calm and using the environment to your advantage is key. This mission takes place near Valentine, where you and John are tasked with herding sheep, but things quickly escalate into a shootout.\n\nFirst, ensure you are well-prepared before starting the mission. Stock up on health tonics, ammunition, and Dead Eye tonics. A repeater or rifle is highly recommended for this mission due to the long-range engagements. The Lancaster Repeater or Bolt Action Rifle are excellent choices. Equip yourself with a sidearm like the Schofield Revolver for close-quarters combat. Additionally, wear clothing that provides some protection, such as a reinforced outfit, to mitigate damage.\n\nWhen the Pinkertons arrive, immediately take cover behind the large rocks or the wooden fence near the sheep pen. These provide solid protection and allow you to peek out and take shots without exposing yourself too much. Use Dead Eye to target multiple enemies quickly, especially those on horseback. Prioritize taking out the Pinkertons on horses first, as they are more mobile and can flank your position.\n\nPay attention to the mini-map for enemy positions. The Pinkertons will approach from multiple directions, so stay alert and adjust your cover as needed. If you are overwhelmed, fall back to a more defensible position, such as the barn or the nearby hills. This will give you a better vantage point and reduce the number of angles you need to defend.\n\nUse Dead Eye strategically. If you have upgraded Dead Eye, you can manually mark targets, which is incredibly useful for taking out multiple enemies in quick succession. Focus on headshots to conserve ammunition and eliminate threats faster. If your Dead Eye meter is low, use tonics to replenish it during the fight.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with the Pinkertons'' reinforcements. They will keep coming in waves, so don’t get complacent. Keep moving between cover spots to avoid being pinned down. If you run low on ammo, loot fallen enemies for supplies. Be cautious, though, as looting can leave you vulnerable to attacks.\n\nFinally, work closely with John during the mission. He will provide covering fire and can help thin out the Pinkertons. Stick near him, but don’t rely solely on his assistance. Stay proactive and keep the pressure on the enemy. Once the Pinkertons are dealt with, follow the mission prompts to complete the objective and escape the area.\n\nIn summary, preparation, cover usage, and Dead Eye management are crucial for handling the Pinkertons in ''The Sheep and the Goats.'' Stay mobile, prioritize threats, and use the environment to your advantage. With these strategies, you can overcome the Pinkertons and complete the mission successfully.