What is the best weapon for hunting small game in Red Dead Redemption 2?

The best weapon for hunting small game in Red Dead Redemption 2 is the Varmint Rifle. This weapon is specifically designed for hunting small animals like rabbits, squirrels, and birds, as it delivers minimal damage to the carcass, ensuring a perfect pelt. The Varmint Rifle is a must-have for any hunter aiming to maximize their profits and crafting materials.\n\nTo obtain the Varmint Rifle, you can purchase it from any gunsmith in the game. It costs $72, which is relatively affordable early in the game. Gunsmiths can be found in major towns like Valentine, Rhodes, and Saint Denis. Once you have the rifle, equip it from your weapon wheel and ensure you have enough ammo, which is also available at gunsmiths or general stores.\n\nWhen hunting small game, it''s crucial to use the right weapon to avoid damaging the pelt. The Varmint Rifle is ideal because it uses .22 caliber rounds, which are small enough to kill small animals without ruining their pelts. For example, if you shoot a rabbit with a shotgun, the pelt will be destroyed, but with the Varmint Rifle, you can achieve a clean kill and a perfect pelt.\n\nTo maximize your hunting efficiency, use Dead Eye to target the animal''s vital areas. This ensures a clean kill and preserves the quality of the pelt. For small game, aim for the head or heart. Dead Eye can be activated by pressing the right stick (R3 on PlayStation, RS on Xbox) and then marking the target with R1 or RB. This mechanic is especially useful when hunting fast-moving animals like squirrels or birds.\n\nAnother tip is to use bait or calls to lure animals closer. Small game bait can be crafted or purchased from general stores. Place the bait in an area where you''ve spotted small game, then hide and wait for the animal to approach. This method increases your chances of a clean shot and reduces the risk of scaring the animal away.\n\nIf you''re struggling to find small game, focus on areas with dense vegetation or near water sources. For example, the forests around Valentine or the swamps near Saint Denis are excellent hunting grounds for small animals. Use your binoculars to scout the area and identify potential targets before moving in for the kill.\n\nFinally, always check the quality of the animal before shooting. Small game like squirrels and rabbits come in different quality levels (poor, good, and perfect). Use your binoculars or aim down sights to inspect the animal''s star rating. Only shoot animals with a three-star rating to ensure you get a perfect pelt. This is crucial for crafting high-quality items and earning more money from traders.\n\nIn summary, the Varmint Rifle is the best weapon for hunting small game in Red Dead Redemption 2. It''s affordable, effective, and ensures high-quality pelts. Combine it with Dead Eye, bait, and strategic hunting locations to maximize your success. Happy hunting!