How do you unlock the Bolt Action Rifle early in the game?

The Bolt Action Rifle is one of the most versatile and powerful weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2, offering high damage and accuracy. While it is typically unlocked during Chapter 3 of the main story, there is a way to obtain it early in Chapter 2. This guide will walk you through the steps to unlock the Bolt Action Rifle ahead of schedule, along with tips to make the process easier.\n\nTo unlock the Bolt Action Rifle early, you need to complete a specific encounter with the O''Driscoll gang. This encounter occurs during the mission ''The First Shall Be Last,'' where you rescue Sean MacGuire. However, the key to obtaining the rifle lies in a random event that can be triggered before or after this mission. The event involves a group of O''Driscolls ambushing you near the town of Valentine.\n\nTo trigger the ambush, head to the area just north of Valentine, near the Cumberland Forest. This is a hotspot for O''Driscoll activity. Ride slowly through the forest, and you may encounter a group of O''Driscolls setting up an ambush. They will attack you, and one of them will be carrying a Bolt Action Rifle. Your goal is to kill this specific enemy and loot the rifle from his body.\n\nIf the ambush does not trigger immediately, try reloading your save or leaving the area and returning later. Random events like this can sometimes take a few attempts to spawn. Once the ambush begins, focus on taking out the enemy with the Bolt Action Rifle first. Use Dead Eye to mark and shoot him quickly, as he can deal significant damage if left unchecked.\n\nAfter killing the enemy, loot his body to obtain the Bolt Action Rifle. Be sure to also pick up any ammunition he drops, as this will save you money in the early game. Once you have the rifle, it will be permanently added to your inventory, allowing you to use it in future missions and encounters.\n\nOne common challenge players face is surviving the ambush, especially in the early game when health and ammunition are limited. To increase your chances of success, stock up on health tonics and ammunition before attempting this encounter. Additionally, use cover effectively to avoid taking unnecessary damage. The Bolt Action Rifle is worth the effort, as it is highly effective against both human enemies and large animals.\n\nIn summary, the Bolt Action Rifle can be unlocked early in Chapter 2 by triggering an O''Driscoll ambush near Valentine. Focus on killing the enemy carrying the rifle, loot his body, and add the weapon to your inventory. With proper preparation and strategy, this method allows you to access one of the game''s best weapons long before it becomes available through the main story.