What’s the best way to upgrade the Varmint Rifle for hunting?

The Varmint Rifle is one of the most effective weapons for hunting small game in Red Dead Redemption 2, such as rabbits, raccoons, and birds. To maximize its potential, you’ll need to upgrade and customize it properly. The Varmint Rifle is available for purchase at any gunsmith, such as the one in Valentine or Saint Denis, for $72. Once you have the rifle, focus on upgrading its components and using it strategically for hunting.\n\nFirst, visit a gunsmith to customize the Varmint Rifle. The most important upgrade is the scope, which allows for precise aiming at long distances. This is particularly useful for hunting small, fast-moving animals. You can also improve the rifle’s performance by upgrading its rifling, which increases accuracy and range. These upgrades are available at any gunsmith and cost a modest amount of money, so prioritize them early in the game.\n\nAnother key aspect of upgrading the Varmint Rifle is maintaining its condition. Clean your rifle regularly using gun oil, which can be purchased from general stores or found in the world. A clean rifle ensures consistent accuracy and prevents jamming during critical moments. To clean the rifle, open the weapon wheel, select the Varmint Rifle, and choose the ‘Clean’ option. This simple maintenance step is often overlooked but is essential for optimal performance.\n\nWhen hunting with the Varmint Rifle, aim for headshots to ensure clean kills. This preserves the quality of the animal’s pelt, which is crucial for crafting and selling. For example, if you’re hunting a rabbit, a headshot will yield a perfect pelt, while body shots may damage it. Use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shots accurately. This mechanic is especially helpful for beginners who are still getting used to the rifle’s handling.\n\nOne common challenge is tracking small animals in dense foliage. To overcome this, use Eagle Eye to highlight animals in your vicinity. Eagle Eye is activated by pressing both thumbsticks simultaneously (on consoles) and allows you to see animal tracks and scents. This ability is invaluable for locating elusive prey like squirrels or songbirds. Additionally, crouch and move slowly to avoid spooking animals, as the Varmint Rifle’s noise can scare them off if you’re too close.\n\nFor players looking to maximize their hunting efficiency, consider pairing the Varmint Rifle with the Buck Antler Trinket. This trinket, crafted by a fence after obtaining a Legendary Buck pelt, improves the quality of pelts you collect. Even if you don’t land a perfect shot, the trinket increases the chances of retaining a high-quality pelt. This is particularly useful for new players who are still mastering their aim.\n\nFinally, practice using the Varmint Rifle in different environments to understand its range and accuracy. For example, test it in open fields like the Heartlands or dense forests like Tall Trees. This will help you adapt to various hunting scenarios and improve your overall gameplay. Remember, the Varmint Rifle is not suitable for larger game like deer or bears, so always carry a secondary weapon like a Bow or Bolt Action Rifle for those situations.\n\nIn summary, upgrading the Varmint Rifle involves purchasing a scope, improving rifling, and maintaining its condition. Use Dead Eye and Eagle Eye to enhance your hunting efficiency, and pair the rifle with the Buck Antler Trinket for better pelt quality. With these tips, you’ll become a master hunter in no time.