How can you improve your horse’s handling for chase missions?

Improving your horse’s handling in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial for chase missions, as these sequences often require precision, speed, and control. The first step is to ensure you have a high-quality horse. Horses like the Arabian, Missouri Fox Trotter, or Turkoman are excellent choices due to their speed, stamina, and handling. These breeds can be found in specific locations: the White Arabian is near Lake Isabella, the Missouri Fox Trotter can be purchased in the Scarlett Meadows stable, and the Turkoman is available in the Saint Denis stable.\n\nOnce you have a suitable horse, bonding with it is essential. Bonding increases your horse’s stats and responsiveness. To bond quickly, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse. Additionally, leading your horse on foot or riding it frequently will boost your bond level. At Bonding Level 4, your horse will have improved stamina, health, and handling, making it far more effective during chase missions.\n\nUpgrading your horse’s equipment is another key factor. Purchase a high-quality saddle and stirrups from stables, as these items significantly improve stamina drain and handling. The Improved or Hooded Stirrups, combined with a Trapper-crafted saddle like the Panther or Beaver Saddle, provide the best stats. These upgrades ensure your horse can maintain speed and maneuverability during long chases.\n\nDuring chase missions, managing your horse’s stamina is critical. Use the calm button (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox) to soothe your horse while galloping, which replenishes stamina. Feeding your horse Hay, Oats, or Horse Meal before a mission can also boost its stamina temporarily. Avoid overworking your horse by alternating between galloping and trotting to prevent exhaustion.\n\nTerrain awareness is another important aspect. In chase missions, the environment can be your ally or enemy. Stick to open plains or roads for smoother riding, and avoid dense forests or rocky areas that slow your horse. Use the cinematic camera mode to get a better view of your surroundings and plan your route ahead of time. This is especially useful in missions like ‘The Fine Joys of Tobacco,’ where you need to chase a target through challenging terrain.\n\nFinally, practice makes perfect. Spend time riding your horse in free roam to get accustomed to its handling. Test its limits by navigating tight corners, jumping obstacles, and sprinting across varied terrain. This will help you build muscle memory and confidence, which are invaluable during high-pressure chase missions.\n\nBy following these steps—choosing the right horse, bonding, upgrading equipment, managing stamina, and mastering terrain—you’ll significantly improve your horse’s handling for chase missions. These strategies will help you achieve gold medals and complete missions with ease.