What’s the best weapon for hunting cougars and panthers?

Hunting cougars and panthers in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires precision and the right weapon to ensure a clean kill and preserve the quality of the pelt. These predators are fast, aggressive, and can easily ruin your hunt if you’re unprepared. The best weapon for hunting cougars and panthers is the **Springfield Rifle** or the **Bolt Action Rifle**, both of which are powerful enough to take down these animals with a single well-placed shot. These rifles use high-velocity ammunition, which is essential for maintaining the pelt’s quality.\n\nTo get the Springfield Rifle, you can purchase it from any gunsmith for $156 after completing Chapter 2. The Bolt Action Rifle, on the other hand, can be obtained earlier in Chapter 1 during the mission ''Old Friends'' by looting it from a dead enemy or purchased later in the game. Both rifles are excellent choices, but the Bolt Action Rifle has a slightly faster reload time, making it more forgiving if you miss your first shot.\n\nWhen hunting cougars and panthers, aim for the head or the heart to ensure a clean kill. A clean kill is crucial for preserving the pelt’s quality, which is graded as Poor, Good, or Perfect. Using the right ammunition is also important. High-velocity or express rounds are recommended for their stopping power and ability to penetrate the animal’s thick hide. Avoid using shotguns or repeater rifles, as they can damage the pelt and reduce its quality.\n\nCougars and panthers are found in specific locations. Cougars are commonly found in the forests of West Elizabeth, particularly around the area north of Owanjila Lake and near the Trapper’s location in Big Valley. Panthers, on the other hand, are rarer and can be found in the dense forests of Lemoyne, specifically in the area south of Braithwaite Manor. These animals are most active during dawn and dusk, so plan your hunts accordingly.\n\nOne common challenge is the aggressive nature of these predators. If you’re too close, they will charge and attack, often resulting in a failed hunt or even death. To avoid this, use cover scent lotion to mask your scent and approach slowly while crouching. Always keep your rifle ready and use Dead Eye to line up a precise shot. If the animal detects you, it will often circle before attacking, giving you a brief window to take your shot.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to practice your aim and familiarize yourself with the rifle’s mechanics. Spend time hunting smaller game to get comfortable with the weapon’s handling and Dead Eye system. Experienced players can use bait to lure cougars and panthers into a more favorable position. Predator bait can be crafted using animal fat and raw meat, which can be obtained from hunting other animals.\n\nIn summary, the Springfield Rifle or Bolt Action Rifle with high-velocity ammunition is the best weapon for hunting cougars and panthers. Aim for the head or heart, use cover scent lotion, and hunt during dawn or dusk for the best results. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to secure perfect pelts for crafting valuable items at the Trapper.