What is the best weapon for long-range hunting in RDR2?

The best weapon for long-range hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2 is the Rolling Block Rifle. This weapon excels in precision, power, and range, making it ideal for hunting large game like elk, bears, and bison without damaging the pelts. It is a single-shot rifle with a scope, allowing you to take down targets from a significant distance while maintaining accuracy. The Rolling Block Rifle is particularly effective for achieving clean kills, which are essential for preserving the quality of animal pelts and carcasses.\n\nTo obtain the Rolling Block Rifle, you must progress through the story mission ''The Sheep and the Goats'' in Chapter 2. During this mission, you will be tasked with assisting John Marston in stealing sheep from a ranch. As part of the mission, you will be given the Rolling Block Rifle to use. After completing the mission, the weapon will be permanently added to your inventory. If you miss this opportunity, you can also purchase the rifle from any gunsmith later in the game for $411.\n\nWhen using the Rolling Block Rifle for hunting, it is crucial to aim for the head or heart of the animal to ensure a clean kill. This will preserve the quality of the pelt, which is graded as Poor, Good, or Perfect. A Perfect pelt is required for crafting high-quality items at the Trapper or for completing certain challenges. To improve your accuracy, use Dead Eye, a game mechanic that slows down time and allows you to mark your target precisely. This is especially helpful when hunting fast-moving or skittish animals.\n\nOne common challenge players face is maintaining stealth while hunting. Animals in RDR2 are highly sensitive to noise and movement, so it is essential to approach your target carefully. Use cover scent lotion, which can be crafted or purchased, to mask your scent and avoid spooking animals. Additionally, crouch and move slowly to reduce your visibility. If you are hunting in open areas like the Heartlands or Big Valley, position yourself on high ground to get a clear line of sight without being detected.\n\nAnother tip for long-range hunting is to study animals before engaging. Use your binoculars or the weapon scope to observe the animal and determine its quality. This will save you time and ammunition by ensuring you only hunt animals that yield Perfect pelts. For example, a three-star elk will provide a Perfect pelt, while a one-star elk will not. Studying animals also unlocks entries in your compendium, which can be useful for tracking specific species.\n\nIn summary, the Rolling Block Rifle is the best weapon for long-range hunting in RDR2 due to its power, precision, and range. Obtain it during the ''The Sheep and the Goats'' mission or purchase it from a gunsmith. Use Dead Eye for accurate shots, aim for clean kills, and employ stealth tactics to maximize your hunting success. By following these steps, you can efficiently hunt large game and collect high-quality pelts for crafting and challenges.