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What are the best weapon upgrades for the Varmint Rifle in RDR2?

The Varmint Rifle in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a versatile weapon, particularly effective for hunting small game and taking down enemies quietly. While it lacks the raw power of other rifles, its accuracy and rate of fire make it a valuable tool in your arsenal. To maximize its potential, upgrading the Varmint Rifle is essential. Here’s a detailed guide on the best upgrades and how to obtain them.\n\nFirst, the Varmint Rifle can be purchased from any gunsmith in the game for $72. Locations like Valentine, Rhodes, and Saint Denis have gunsmiths where you can buy the rifle. Once you own it, you can customize it at the same gunsmith. The key upgrades for the Varmint Rifle include the Improved Iron Sights, Long Scope, and various aesthetic improvements like engravings and wraps. These upgrades enhance its functionality and make it more effective in different scenarios.\n\nThe Improved Iron Sights are a must-have upgrade. They increase the rifle’s accuracy, making it easier to hit small or fast-moving targets like rabbits, squirrels, or birds. To unlock this upgrade, visit any gunsmith and navigate to the customization menu. The Improved Iron Sights cost around $20 and are available immediately after purchasing the rifle. This upgrade is particularly useful for hunting, as it ensures clean kills, preserving the quality of pelts and carcasses.\n\nAnother valuable upgrade is the Long Scope. While the Varmint Rifle is primarily a close to mid-range weapon, the Long Scope allows you to engage targets at a distance. This is especially helpful when hunting animals that are easily spooked, such as deer or pronghorns. The Long Scope costs $45 and can be equipped at any gunsmith. To use it effectively, aim down the sights and press the appropriate button to toggle the scope view. This upgrade is ideal for players who prefer a stealthy approach.\n\nIn addition to functional upgrades, aesthetic improvements like engravings and wraps can be applied to the Varmint Rifle. While these don’t affect performance, they allow you to personalize your weapon. Engravings can be added for $10-$20, depending on the design, and wraps like the Leather Wrap improve grip and reduce wear. These upgrades are purely cosmetic but can make your rifle feel more unique.\n\nTo get the most out of your Varmint Rifle, consider pairing it with the right ammunition. Regular ammo is sufficient for most tasks, but using High-Velocity ammo can increase its range and penetration. This ammo type is available at gunsmiths or can be crafted if you have the necessary materials. High-Velocity ammo is particularly useful when hunting larger animals or engaging enemies at longer distances.\n\nOne common gameplay challenge is maintaining the rifle’s condition. Like all weapons in RDR2, the Varmint Rifle degrades over time. To keep it in top shape, regularly clean it using Gun Oil, which can be purchased from gunsmiths or found in the world. A well-maintained rifle performs better and is less likely to jam during critical moments.\n\nFinally, practice using the Varmint Rifle in different scenarios. For example, use it to hunt small game in areas like Big Valley or the Heartlands, where rabbits and birds are abundant. This will help you master its handling and improve your accuracy. Additionally, use it in stealth missions to take out enemies quietly without alerting others.\n\nIn summary, the best upgrades for the Varmint Rifle include the Improved Iron Sights, Long Scope, and High-Velocity ammo. These enhancements improve accuracy, range, and overall effectiveness. Don’t forget to maintain your rifle and practice using it in various situations to fully leverage its potential. With these upgrades, the Varmint Rifle becomes a reliable tool for both hunting and combat in Red Dead Redemption 2.