What are the best ways to avoid losing pelts while hunting?

Hunting is one of the most rewarding activities in Red Dead Online, but losing pelts can be frustrating. To avoid this, you need to understand the game mechanics and take specific precautions. First, always use the right weapon for the animal you''re hunting. Using the wrong weapon can damage the pelt, reducing its quality or even destroying it entirely. For example, use a bow with small game arrows for rabbits and squirrels, a varmint rifle for medium-sized animals like raccoons, and a rifle with express ammo for larger animals like deer or bears.\n\nNext, always aim for a clean kill. Headshots are the most effective way to ensure a perfect pelt. If you hit the animal in the body, it may take multiple shots, which can degrade the pelt quality. Practice your aim and use Dead Eye to improve accuracy. Dead Eye is especially useful for hunting fast-moving animals like deer or pronghorns, as it allows you to slow down time and line up the perfect shot.\n\nOnce you''ve successfully hunted an animal, you need to transport the pelt safely. Always carry a horse with you, as it can store multiple pelts and carcasses. Make sure your horse is close by before you start hunting, as running back and forth can waste time and increase the risk of losing your pelts. If you''re hunting in a dangerous area, such as the Grizzlies or Roanoke Ridge, keep an eye out for predators or hostile NPCs that could attack you or your horse.\n\nAnother important tip is to avoid fast travel while carrying pelts. Fast travel can sometimes cause pelts to disappear, so it''s better to ride your horse to the nearest butcher or camp. If you''re far from a town, consider setting up a temporary camp to store your pelts until you''re ready to sell them. This is especially useful if you''re hunting in remote areas like Big Valley or the Heartlands.\n\nIf you''re playing with others, be cautious when hunting in a posse. While hunting with friends can be fun, it also increases the risk of losing pelts due to accidental kills or horse collisions. Communicate with your posse members to avoid shooting the same animal or spooking the herd. Additionally, if you''re hunting in a populated server, be aware of other players who might try to steal your pelts. Always keep an eye on your surroundings and be ready to defend yourself if necessary.\n\nFinally, always check your satchel and horse inventory before logging out. Pelts stored on your horse will disappear if you log out or disconnect, so it''s best to sell them as soon as possible. If you''re unable to sell them right away, consider storing them in your hunting wagon, which is a more secure option. The hunting wagon can be purchased from the Trader role and is a great investment for serious hunters.\n\nIn summary, the best ways to avoid losing pelts while hunting in Red Dead Online are to use the right weapon, aim for clean kills, transport pelts safely, avoid fast travel, and store pelts in a hunting wagon. By following these tips, you can maximize your profits and enjoy a more rewarding hunting experience.