What’s the best way to preserve a perfect pelt while traveling back to camp?

Preserving a perfect pelt in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for crafting high-quality items and earning the best rewards. The key to maintaining a perfect pelt lies in understanding the game mechanics, proper hunting techniques, and safe transportation methods. This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your pelts remain in pristine condition while traveling back to camp.\n\nFirst, always hunt with the right weapon and aim for clean kills. Using the correct weapon for the animal size is essential. For small animals like rabbits or squirrels, use a Varmint Rifle or Small Game Arrows. For medium-sized animals like deer or wolves, a Repeater or Bow with Regular Arrows works best. For larger animals like bears or bison, use a Rifle or Improved Arrows. Aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill, as this preserves the quality of the pelt. If you damage the animal too much, the pelt quality will drop from perfect to good or poor.\n\nOnce you’ve successfully hunted an animal and obtained a perfect pelt, skin it immediately. Approach the animal carcass and hold the appropriate button to skin it. The pelt will then be added to your inventory. Be cautious, as leaving the carcass unskinned for too long can attract predators or scavengers, which may damage the pelt. After skinning, store the pelt on your horse. Larger pelts, like those from bears or elk, will occupy the back of your horse, while smaller pelts can be stored in your satchel.\n\nTransporting the pelt safely is the next critical step. Avoid fast travel, as it can sometimes cause pelts to disappear or degrade. Instead, ride your horse carefully back to camp or a trapper. Be mindful of your surroundings, as ambushes, predators, or collisions with obstacles can damage the pelt. If you encounter hostile NPCs or animals, prioritize protecting your horse and the pelt. Dismounting and using Dead Eye can help you eliminate threats quickly.\n\nIf you’re far from camp or a trapper, consider setting up a temporary camp to save your progress. This ensures that if something goes wrong, you won’t lose the pelt. Additionally, avoid engaging in unnecessary combat or risky activities while carrying a perfect pelt. For example, don’t start a shootout in a town or attempt to rob a train, as these actions can lead to losing your pelt.\n\nFinally, once you arrive at camp or a trapper, sell or store the pelt immediately. Trappers are located in specific locations like Saint Denis, Strawberry, and near Riggs Station. Selling the pelt to a trapper unlocks crafting options for unique clothing and gear. If you’re saving the pelt for a specific crafting recipe at camp, store it in Pearson’s wagon. This ensures the pelt is safe and ready for use when needed.\n\nIn summary, preserving a perfect pelt requires careful hunting, proper storage, and cautious transportation. Always use the right weapon, aim for clean kills, and avoid risky activities while carrying pelts. By following these steps, you’ll maximize your rewards and unlock the best crafting options in Red Dead Redemption 2.