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What’s the best way to avoid enemy fire while riding?

Horseback combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be intense, especially when facing enemies who are shooting at you. To avoid enemy fire while riding, you need to master movement, positioning, and game mechanics. The key is to stay mobile, use cover, and make yourself a harder target to hit. Here’s a detailed guide to help you survive and thrive in horseback combat.\n\nFirst, always keep your horse moving. A stationary horse is an easy target for enemies. Use the left stick to control your horse’s direction and the right stick to adjust your camera. Zigzagging or moving in unpredictable patterns makes it harder for enemies to land shots. For example, if you’re being chased by O’Driscolls in the Heartlands, weave between trees and rocks to break their line of sight.\n\nSecond, use the environment to your advantage. Natural cover like trees, boulders, and hills can block enemy fire. If you’re in an open area, try to find dips in the terrain or ride behind structures. For instance, during the mission ‘Pouring Forth Oil’ in Chapter 2, you can use the train tracks and nearby cliffs to shield yourself from enemy bullets. Always scan your surroundings for potential cover before engaging in combat.\n\nThird, crouch on your horse to reduce your hitbox. Press the crouch button while riding to lower your character’s profile, making it harder for enemies to hit you. This is particularly useful when crossing open areas like the plains of New Hanover. Combine this with erratic movements to maximize your chances of survival.\n\nFourth, use Dead Eye to target enemies quickly. Dead Eye slows down time, allowing you to mark and shoot multiple enemies before they can react. This is especially helpful when outnumbered. For example, during the mission ‘The Battle of Shady Belle,’ activate Dead Eye to take out Lemoyne Raiders before they can focus fire on you. Upgrade your Dead Eye abilities at camp to improve its effectiveness.\n\nFifth, equip your horse with a good saddle and stirrups to improve its stamina and speed. A faster horse can outrun enemies, while a horse with high stamina can maintain speed for longer periods. Visit stables like the one in Valentine or Saint Denis to purchase upgrades. The Nacogdoches Saddle with Hooded Stirrups is a top-tier combination for combat scenarios.\n\nFinally, practice shooting from horseback. Use the L2/LT button to aim and R2/RT to fire. Aim for headshots to take down enemies quickly. If you’re struggling with accuracy, consider using a repeater or pistol, as they are easier to handle while riding. For example, the Lancaster Repeater is a reliable choice for horseback combat due to its balance of power and accuracy.\n\nIn summary, avoiding enemy fire while riding requires a combination of movement, cover, and strategic use of game mechanics. Keep your horse moving, use the environment, crouch to reduce your hitbox, and leverage Dead Eye to eliminate threats. Upgrade your horse’s gear and practice shooting from horseback to improve your combat effectiveness. With these tips, you’ll be able to handle even the toughest horseback combat scenarios in Red Dead Redemption 2.