How do I improve my horse’s acceleration and handling?

Improving your horse’s acceleration and handling in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for faster travel, better maneuverability, and overall performance during missions or combat. Acceleration determines how quickly your horse can reach top speed, while handling affects how well it responds to your commands, especially during sharp turns or difficult terrain. Both attributes can be enhanced through specific in-game actions, equipment, and bonding levels.\n\nFirst, focus on increasing your horse’s bonding level. Bonding is a core mechanic that directly impacts your horse’s stats, including acceleration and handling. You can increase bonding by spending time with your horse, such as riding, brushing, feeding, and calming it. Each bonding level (up to level 4) improves your horse’s responsiveness and overall performance. For example, at bonding level 4, your horse will have better acceleration and handling compared to lower levels. Spend time riding your horse across different terrains and patting it regularly to build trust quickly.\n\nNext, equip your horse with better gear. Saddles and stirrups play a significant role in improving your horse’s stats. Visit a stable to purchase or upgrade your saddle and stirrups. The best saddles, such as the Improved or Special Saddles, provide bonuses to stamina, health, and acceleration. Additionally, high-quality stirrups, like the Hooded Stirrups, offer a noticeable boost to acceleration and handling. These items can be found at stables in major towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, or Blackwater.\n\nAnother way to improve your horse’s performance is by feeding it the right diet. A well-fed horse performs better in terms of speed and responsiveness. Use high-quality horse meals, such as Hay, Oats, or Carrots, to keep your horse’s core stats in good condition. You can purchase these items from general stores or find them in the wild. Avoid overfeeding or underfeeding your horse, as this can negatively impact its performance.\n\nTraining your horse in specific environments can also help. For example, riding your horse through dense forests or rocky terrain can improve its handling over time. Similarly, sprinting across open plains can enhance its acceleration. Practice these activities regularly to see noticeable improvements. Additionally, avoid overworking your horse by letting it rest and recover when its stamina is low.\n\nFinally, consider the breed of your horse. Some breeds naturally have better acceleration and handling than others. For example, the Arabian horse, found near Lake Isabella in the Grizzlies West region, is known for its excellent handling and acceleration. Other breeds, like the Missouri Fox Trotter or the Turkoman, also offer strong performance in these areas. Choose a breed that aligns with your playstyle and invest time in bonding and training.\n\nIn summary, improving your horse’s acceleration and handling involves increasing bonding levels, equipping better gear, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing in diverse environments. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse performs at its best, whether you’re racing across the plains or navigating tight spaces during missions.