How do I keep my horse safe during a gang hideout raid?

Keeping your horse safe during a gang hideout raid in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial, as losing your horse can severely impact your mobility and overall gameplay experience. Horses are vulnerable to enemy fire, and if they die, you lose your bonded companion and any stored items. To ensure your horse survives, follow these detailed steps and strategies.\n\nFirst, before approaching a gang hideout, make sure your horse is in good condition. Feed it to restore its health and stamina cores, and brush it to clean off dirt and improve bonding. A well-maintained horse is less likely to panic during combat. Additionally, equip your horse with a saddle that boosts its stats, such as the improved saddle or one with stirrups that enhance speed and stamina.\n\nWhen you arrive at the hideout, do not ride your horse directly into the fray. Instead, dismount and leave your horse at a safe distance. Find a spot behind cover, such as a rock formation or dense trees, where your horse is out of the line of fire. Use the ''Stay'' command by holding the ''Call Horse'' button (L2/LT) and selecting ''Stay'' from the radial menu. This ensures your horse remains stationary and avoids wandering into danger.\n\nDuring the raid, keep an eye on your horse''s position. If enemies start to flank your location, they may target your horse. In such cases, use Dead Eye to quickly eliminate threats before they can harm your horse. Dead Eye is especially useful for taking out multiple enemies rapidly, reducing the risk of stray bullets hitting your horse.\n\nIf your horse does get injured, immediately use Horse Reviver to save it. Always carry at least one bottle of Horse Reviver in your inventory. You can purchase it from general stores or stables. To use it, approach your downed horse and follow the on-screen prompt to administer the reviver. This item is essential for preventing permanent loss of your horse.\n\nAnother strategy is to use your horse as a mobile cover during the raid, but this requires careful positioning. If you must ride your horse into combat, keep it moving to make it a harder target. Use the ''Calm'' command (pressing the ''Calm'' button while riding) to reduce its fear and prevent it from bucking you off. However, this method is riskier and should only be used if you are confident in your ability to control the situation.\n\nFor new players, it’s recommended to avoid bringing your horse into gang hideouts altogether until you are more experienced with combat mechanics. Instead, use a temporary horse or steal an enemy horse for the raid. This way, your bonded horse remains safe, and you can focus on the mission without worrying about its safety.\n\nIn summary, keeping your horse safe during a gang hideout raid involves preparation, positioning, and quick decision-making. Always leave your horse at a safe distance, use the ''Stay'' command, and carry Horse Reviver. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse survives even the most intense battles.\n\nPractical Tip: If you’re raiding a hideout like Hanging Dog Ranch or Six Point Cabin, scout the area first to identify safe spots for your horse. Use binoculars to plan your approach and avoid surprises. This preparation can make all the difference in keeping your horse safe.