What’s the best weapon for hunting rabbits and raccoons?

The best weapon for hunting rabbits and raccoons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is the Varmint Rifle. This weapon is specifically designed for small game hunting, as it delivers precise shots without damaging the pelts. The Varmint Rifle is ideal for maintaining the quality of the pelts, which is crucial for crafting and selling purposes. It can be purchased from any gunsmith in the game, such as the one in Valentine or Saint Denis, for $72.00. Alternatively, you can find it for free during certain missions or by looting enemies.\n\nTo use the Varmint Rifle effectively, you need to aim for headshots. This ensures a clean kill and preserves the pelt quality. Rabbits and raccoons are small and fast-moving targets, so using Dead Eye can help you line up the perfect shot. Dead Eye is a game mechanic that slows down time, allowing you to mark multiple targets or focus on a single one with precision. To activate Dead Eye, press the right stick (R3) on consoles or the middle mouse button on PC.\n\nWhen hunting rabbits and raccoons, it’s important to approach them quietly. These animals are easily spooked, so crouching and moving slowly will increase your chances of getting close enough for a clean shot. You can also use cover scent lotion, which can be crafted or purchased from general stores, to mask your scent and avoid alerting the animals. This is particularly useful in areas with dense vegetation or when hunting in groups.\n\nRabbits and raccoons are commonly found in grassy areas, forests, and near water sources. For example, the Heartlands region near Valentine is a great spot for rabbits, while raccoons are often found in the forests around Roanoke Ridge. Use your binoculars or Eagle Eye (activated by pressing both thumbsticks on consoles or Caps Lock on PC) to track their movements and identify their locations. Eagle Eye highlights animal trails and scents, making it easier to locate your prey.\n\nOne common challenge when hunting small game is dealing with predators or other distractions. Wolves, cougars, or even other hunters can interrupt your hunt. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your Varmint Rifle ready. If you encounter a predator, switch to a more powerful weapon like a repeater or shotgun to defend yourself. After dealing with the threat, return to your hunting spot and resume your search for rabbits or raccoons.\n\nFor players who want to maximize their hunting efficiency, consider upgrading your Varmint Rifle with a scope. This attachment can be purchased from gunsmiths and allows you to take long-range shots with greater accuracy. Additionally, crafting small game arrows is an alternative for hunting rabbits and raccoons, but they require more skill to use effectively. Small game arrows are crafted using flight feathers and arrows, which can be found or purchased.\n\nIn summary, the Varmint Rifle is the best weapon for hunting rabbits and raccoons due to its precision and ability to preserve pelt quality. Use Dead Eye for accurate shots, approach quietly, and utilize Eagle Eye to track your targets. Be mindful of predators and upgrade your rifle with a scope for better performance. With these tips, you’ll be able to hunt small game efficiently and gather high-quality pelts for crafting and trading.