Where can I find the legendary buck, and what’s the best strategy to hunt it?

The legendary buck is one of the most sought-after animals in Red Dead Redemption 2, primarily because its pelt can be used to craft the Buck Antler Trinket, which improves the quality of pelts you obtain from hunting. To find the legendary buck, you need to head to the area west of Strawberry, near the border of Big Valley and Tall Trees. Specifically, the buck’s territory is located just north of Owanjila Lake, near the western edge of the map. Look for the buck icon on your map, which will appear once you’re close enough to the area.\n\nBefore heading out, make sure you’re well-prepared. Equip a rifle with high accuracy, such as the Rolling Block Rifle or the Carcano Rifle, as these weapons are ideal for taking down large animals like the legendary buck. Additionally, bring along some potent ammunition like Express or High-Velocity rounds to ensure a clean kill. You’ll also want to stock up on health tonics and stamina-replenishing items, as the terrain can be challenging and you may encounter predators like wolves or cougars.\n\nOnce you arrive in the area, use Eagle Eye to track the buck. Eagle Eye will highlight clues such as tracks, droppings, and fur, which will lead you closer to the animal. Follow these clues carefully, as the legendary buck is highly elusive and will flee if it detects you. Move slowly and stay crouched to avoid making noise. If you’re having trouble spotting the buck, try climbing to a higher vantage point to scan the area with your binoculars.\n\nWhen you finally spot the legendary buck, take your time to line up a perfect shot. Aim for the head or neck to ensure a clean kill and preserve the quality of the pelt. If you miss or wound the buck, it will flee, and you’ll need to track it again. Be patient and avoid rushing the shot, as the buck is fast and can easily escape into the dense forest. Once you’ve successfully taken down the buck, skin it immediately to obtain the legendary pelt and antlers.\n\nAfter securing the pelt, you’ll need to transport it to a trapper or a fence. The trapper can use the pelt to craft unique clothing items, while the fence can craft the Buck Antler Trinket. Be cautious on your way to these locations, as losing the pelt to bandits or predators will require you to hunt the buck again. If you’re worried about losing the pelt, consider fast traveling to a nearby town or using your horse’s cargo to store it safely.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that the legendary buck won’t spawn until you’ve completed the mission ''Exit Pursued by a Bruised Ego'' in Chapter 2, which unlocks the legendary animal hunts. Additionally, the buck’s location is marked on your map after you’ve discovered the first clue, so you don’t need to search blindly. Experienced players can use Dead Eye to ensure a precise shot, but remember that the legendary buck is more skittish than regular animals, so timing is crucial.\n\nIn summary, the legendary buck is located west of Strawberry, near Owanjila Lake. Use a high-powered rifle, follow the clues with Eagle Eye, and take your time to secure a clean kill. Transport the pelt carefully to a trapper or fence to unlock its benefits. With patience and preparation, you’ll successfully hunt the legendary buck and gain access to valuable crafting items.