How do I unlock the Bolt Action Rifle early in Chapter 2?

Unlocking the Bolt Action Rifle early in Chapter 2 of Red Dead Redemption 2 is a great way to gain a powerful weapon before it becomes available through story progression. The Bolt Action Rifle is one of the most versatile weapons in the game, offering high damage and accuracy, making it ideal for hunting large animals or engaging in combat. While the rifle is typically unlocked later in the story, there is a specific mission in Chapter 2 that allows you to acquire it early.\n\nTo unlock the Bolt Action Rifle early, you need to complete the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil - Part II.'' This mission is part of the main story and involves helping John Marston and Javier Escuella rob an oil wagon. During the mission, you will encounter a group of enemies, including a sniper who wields the Bolt Action Rifle. The key to obtaining the rifle is to loot it from this sniper after killing him.\n\nHere’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the rifle: First, progress through the story until you unlock the mission ''Pouring Forth Oil - Part II.'' This mission becomes available after completing ''Pouring Forth Oil - Part I'' and ''An American Pastoral Scene.'' Once you start the mission, follow the objectives until you reach the point where you ambush the oil wagon. During the ambush, a sniper will appear on a nearby hill. Focus on taking him out quickly, as he can deal significant damage if left unchecked.\n\nAfter killing the sniper, make your way to his body. Be cautious, as other enemies will still be active in the area. Once you reach the sniper, loot his body to obtain the Bolt Action Rifle. If you miss this opportunity, the rifle will not be available again until much later in the game, so it’s crucial to act quickly during this mission.\n\nOne common challenge players face is ensuring the sniper drops the rifle. If the sniper’s body despawns or you fail to loot him, you will miss your chance. To avoid this, prioritize killing the sniper early in the encounter and loot him immediately. Additionally, make sure to save your game before starting the mission, so you can reload if something goes wrong.\n\nUnderstanding the game mechanics is also important. The Bolt Action Rifle uses .30-30 ammunition, which can be purchased from gunsmiths or found in the world. It’s a single-shot rifle, meaning you’ll need to reload after each shot, but its high damage output makes it worth the trade-off. The rifle is particularly effective for hunting large animals like bears, elk, and bison, as it can take them down with a single well-placed shot.\n\nFor new players, it’s worth noting that the Bolt Action Rifle is not the only powerful weapon available early in the game. However, its versatility and effectiveness in both combat and hunting make it a valuable addition to your arsenal. Experienced players may already be familiar with this method, but it’s a useful tip for those looking to optimize their gameplay.\n\nIn conclusion, unlocking the Bolt Action Rifle early in Chapter 2 requires completing the ''Pouring Forth Oil - Part II'' mission and looting the sniper’s body. Pay close attention to the mission objectives, prioritize the sniper, and loot him quickly to secure the rifle. With this weapon in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the early game and beyond.