What’s the best horse breed for speed and handling in RDR2?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the best horse breed for speed and handling is the **Missouri Fox Trotter**. This breed is widely regarded as the top choice for players who prioritize speed, agility, and overall performance. The Missouri Fox Trotter boasts a high base speed and acceleration, making it ideal for traversing the vast open world quickly. Additionally, its handling is classified as ''Standard,'' which strikes a perfect balance between responsiveness and stability, making it easier to control during high-speed chases or tight maneuvers.\n\nTo acquire a Missouri Fox Trotter, you have two primary options. The first is to purchase one from the **Scarlett Meadows Stable** in Lemoyne during Chapter 4 or later in the game. This stable is located near Rhodes, and the horse costs $950, making it a significant investment. The second option is to find a wild Missouri Fox Trotter in the open world, though this is rare and requires patience. Look for them in areas like **Big Valley** or **Heartlands Overflow**, but be prepared for a challenging taming process.\n\nOnce you have your Missouri Fox Trotter, it’s essential to bond with it to unlock its full potential. Bonding is achieved by riding the horse, feeding it, brushing it, and calming it during stressful situations. As your bond level increases (up to level 4), the horse’s stats, including speed and handling, will improve. Feeding your horse high-quality items like **Hay**, **Carrots**, or **Apples** will also boost its health and stamina cores, ensuring it performs well during long rides or intense moments.\n\nGame mechanics play a significant role in maximizing your horse’s performance. For example, using the **Horse Stimulant** or **Potent Horse Stimulant** can temporarily boost your horse’s stamina during races or chases. Additionally, equipping the **Nacogdoches Saddle** and **Hooded Stirrups** will further enhance your horse’s speed and stamina regeneration. These items can be purchased from stables and are worth the investment for serious players.\n\nOne common challenge players face is keeping their horse calm during combat or predator encounters. The Missouri Fox Trotter, while excellent in speed and handling, can still get spooked. To mitigate this, always keep your horse’s health and stamina cores full, and use the **Calm** button (L3/LS on consoles) frequently. If your horse does get scared, quickly dismount and lead it to safety before remounting.\n\nFor new players, it’s worth noting that the Missouri Fox Trotter is not available early in the game. If you’re still in the early chapters, consider using the **Arabian** breed as a temporary alternative. The White Arabian, found near **Lake Isabella**, is a solid choice with good speed and handling, though it lacks the stamina and size of the Missouri Fox Trotter.\n\nIn summary, the Missouri Fox Trotter is the best horse breed for speed and handling in Red Dead Redemption 2. Acquire it from the Scarlett Meadows Stable or through rare wild encounters, bond with it to maximize its stats, and equip it with the best gear to enhance its performance. With proper care and attention, this horse will serve as a reliable companion throughout your journey in the wild west.