What’s the best way to clean and maintain weapons?

Cleaning and maintaining weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for optimal performance during combat and hunting. Weapons degrade over time due to use, exposure to weather, and neglect, which can lead to reduced accuracy, slower reload times, and even jamming. To keep your weapons in top condition, you’ll need to clean them regularly using Gun Oil, which can be purchased from gunsmiths, general stores, or found in the world.\n\nTo clean a weapon, open the Weapon Wheel by holding the L1/LB button (on PlayStation/Xbox) or Tab key (on PC). Select the weapon you want to clean, then press the corresponding button prompt to clean it. On PlayStation, this is Triangle; on Xbox, it’s Y; and on PC, it’s R. You’ll need at least one unit of Gun Oil in your inventory to perform the cleaning. If your weapon is severely degraded, you may need multiple applications of Gun Oil to restore it to full condition.\n\nGun Oil can be purchased from gunsmiths in towns like Valentine, Saint Denis, and Rhodes, or from general stores in smaller settlements. It’s also possible to find Gun Oil in lootable containers, such as chests, drawers, and enemy camps. Stocking up on Gun Oil during your travels is a good habit, as you never know when you’ll need it. Additionally, some missions and random encounters may reward you with Gun Oil, so always check your inventory after completing objectives.\n\nWeapon degradation is influenced by several factors. Using your weapon in rain or snow will cause it to degrade faster, as will firing it repeatedly without cleaning. Melee attacks with your weapon also contribute to wear and tear. To minimize degradation, avoid using your weapons in harsh weather conditions unless absolutely necessary. If you’re caught in a storm, consider holstering your weapon or using a less valuable firearm until the weather clears.\n\nFor players who frequently engage in combat, carrying a backup weapon is a smart strategy. This ensures you always have a reliable option if your primary weapon becomes too degraded to use effectively. For example, if your Lancaster Repeater is in poor condition, switch to a secondary repeater or rifle until you can clean it. This approach is especially useful during long missions or extended hunting trips.\n\nHunting is another activity that can quickly degrade your weapons, particularly if you’re using the wrong type of firearm. For example, using a high-powered rifle on small game will damage the carcass and degrade your weapon faster. Instead, use the appropriate weapon for the target, such as a Varmint Rifle for small animals or a Bow for stealthy kills. This not only preserves the quality of your weapon but also ensures you get the best possible pelts and meat.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your weapons at a gunsmith to improve their durability and performance. Upgrades like improved rifling, sights, and wraps can reduce the rate of degradation and make your weapons more effective in combat. These upgrades require money and sometimes specific materials, so plan accordingly. For example, the Long Scope upgrade for rifles is invaluable for hunting and sniping, while the Improved Iron Sights can enhance accuracy in close-quarters combat.\n\nIn summary, maintaining your weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 involves regular cleaning with Gun Oil, avoiding harsh weather conditions, using the right weapon for the task, and upgrading your firearms at gunsmiths. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your weapons remain reliable and effective throughout your journey in the Wild West.