What’s the best horse breed for combat situations in RDR2?

When it comes to combat situations in Red Dead Redemption 2, choosing the right horse breed is crucial for survival and efficiency. The best horse breed for combat is the **War Horse** category, specifically the **Turkoman** or the **Ardennes**. These breeds excel in health, stamina, and bravery, making them ideal for high-pressure situations like gunfights or predator encounters.\n\nFirst, let’s discuss the **Turkoman**. This breed is a hybrid of war and race horses, offering a balance of speed, health, and courage. The Turkoman can be purchased from the **Scarlett Meadows Stable** in Lemoyne for $950 or obtained during specific missions. Its high health pool ensures it can withstand significant damage, while its speed allows you to quickly reposition during combat. Additionally, the Turkoman remains calm under fire, reducing the risk of it bucking you off during intense battles.\n\nAnother excellent choice is the **Ardennes**, a heavy war horse known for its massive health pool and unwavering bravery. The Ardennes can be purchased from the **Van Horn Stable** for $450 or found in the wild. This horse is particularly useful in chaotic combat scenarios, as it rarely spooks and can absorb a lot of damage. Its size also makes it intimidating to enemies, giving you a psychological edge in fights.\n\nTo maximize your horse’s effectiveness in combat, you’ll need to bond with it. Bonding increases your horse’s stats and improves its responsiveness. Spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse to build trust. At Bonding Level 4, your horse will gain access to advanced maneuvers like sliding stops and quick turns, which are invaluable in combat.\n\nEquipping the right saddle and stirrups is also essential. The **Improved Saddle** or **Panther Trail Saddle** significantly boosts stamina regeneration, allowing your horse to sprint longer during combat. Pair it with **Hooded Stirrups** for additional speed and acceleration. These upgrades ensure your horse can keep up with the demands of combat without tiring quickly.\n\nIn combat, positioning is key. Use your horse’s speed to flank enemies or retreat to cover when overwhelmed. The Turkoman’s agility makes it perfect for hit-and-run tactics, while the Ardennes’ durability allows it to hold the line in prolonged fights. Always keep an eye on your horse’s health and stamina bars, and use **Horse Stimulant** or **Horse Reviver** if necessary.\n\nFinally, practice mounted combat to master shooting and aiming while riding. Use Dead Eye to target enemies accurately, and prioritize taking out threats to your horse first. With the right breed, equipment, and strategy, your horse will become an invaluable ally in any combat situation.\n\nFor new players, focus on saving money to purchase a Turkoman or Ardennes early in the game. Experienced players can experiment with different breeds and tactics to find what works best for their playstyle. Remember, a well-prepared horse can mean the difference between victory and defeat in Red Dead Redemption 2.