Red Dead Redemption 2: A Guide to the Best Weapons

Our Red Dead Redemption 2 guide offers suggestions for weapons, highlighting the best options in each category such as revolvers, handguns, rifles, sniper rifles, and shotguns.

Arthur has access to a wide selection of weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2, each with its own set of stats. Initially, weaker weapons are available, but better models can be obtained by purchase, discovery, or other means. This guide will help you obtain the best weapons in RDR2.

• General Information
• The Best Revolvers in RDR2
• The Best Other Sidearms in RDR2
• The Best Regular and Repeater Carbines in RDR2
• The Best Sniper Rifle in RDR2
• The Best Shotguns in RDR2
• The Best Melee and Throwable Weapons in RDR2

General Information

1. It is not necessary to search for better weapons immediately after starting the game. Arthur\’s initial weapons and those obtained from other gang members are sufficient to complete missions. Better weapons are useful for eliminating enemies more quickly or for hunting, increasing the chance of killing animals with one shot.
2. The bow is a unique weapon that cannot be found in better versions. You can only change your arrows.
3. At first, many of the weapons offered at a gunsmith will be locked. Arthur cannot purchase these weapons until he has progressed through the storyline. Some of these weapons can also be obtained during specific main missions.
4. In addition to obtaining better weapons, it is important to remember to buy or craft better ammunition. Some types of ammunition allow you to deal more damage or reduce the risk of damaging an animal\’s skin.
5. Many weapons can be upgraded at the gunsmith. Try to purchase all available upgrades for your favorite weapons. Unique weapons, such as those used by defeated gunslingers, have better base stats but cannot be upgraded. Upgrade \”regular\” weapons to make them more powerful than the unique ones.
6. Every weapon can wear out. Always carry Gun Oil and use it every few in-game hours to keep your weapon in good condition. A worn-out weapon is not useless, but all of its stats (accuracy, damage, reload, etc.) will be affected.
7. Arthur receives an off-hand holster after completing a main mission, allowing him to carry a second revolver or a different sidearm. This enables him to shoot with two weapons at the same time.

The Best Revolvers in RDR2

The Schofield Revolver is one of the best revolvers in the game. The weapon can be obtained in two ways. The first method involves learning about the illegal business behind the drug store in Valentine by looking through the window. After robbing the store, force the doctor to open the door at the back of the store, where a few enemies can be found. Kill them quickly to find the revolver.

To obtain the Schofield Revolver, players can either complete the Blessed Are the Meek? quest in chapter two, or purchase it from any gunsmith store for $84. The Noblest of Men, and a Woman quest also offers unique revolvers from defeated gunslingers, such as Granger\’s Revolver. However, these unique weapons cannot be upgraded. The Double-Action Revolver, which has a faster rate of fire and reload time than Arthur\’s starting Cattleman Revolver, can be purchased for $65 after completing A Strange Kindness in chapter two, or obtained during a homestead robbery in chapter three.

For those seeking powerful pistols, the Volcanic Pistol deals significant damage but has reduced ammo capacity and fire rate, costing $150 after reaching chapter two. The Semi-Automatic Pistol, with its fast fire rate, is unlocked after completing The Joys of Civilization in chapter four for $210. Alternatively, players can defeat Billy Midnight in The Noblest of Men, and a Woman quest to obtain Midnight\’s Pistol. The Sawed-Off Shotgun, which deals massive damage at a short distance, is automatically received during the Enter, Pursued by a Memory mission and can be purchased for $85 at a gunsmith. However, it requires constant reloading and is not ideal for larger groups of enemies.

The Top Regular and Repeater Carbines in RDR2

Repeater carbines are, in our opinion, the most versatile weapons for most fights in the game. They have a high fire rate and are ideal for attacking enemies at medium distances. It\’s worth noting that you don\’t have to buy these weapons as Arthur will receive them during the storyline. The Lancaster Repeater is a great option and will likely be your go-to weapon throughout most of the game. You can get it during the An American Pastoral Scene main quest in chapter 2. Consider upgrading this weapon as the next repeater rifle won\’t be available until chapter 6.

Standard rifles are not as effective due to their low fire rate. They are best used for attacking enemies or animals that are far away as they deal more damage than repeater rifles. The Bolt Action Rifle is our top pick and can be obtained for free after completing the Preaching Forgiveness as He Went main quest in chapter 3. This rifle surpasses the Springfield Rifle in both accuracy and reload speed.

The Best Sniper Rifles in RDR2

The Rolling Block Rifle is the first sniper rifle you\’ll receive during the main storyline. Arthur acquires this weapon when he visits the gunsmith in Valentine during The Sheep and the Goats main quest. This rifle will last you a long time.

You might want to consider switching to the Carcano Rifle once you reach chapter 6. It has a better fire rate and reload speed. Keep in mind that sniper rifles are meant for long-distance shots, so use them to eliminate enemies and animals that are far away. For medium distances, it\’s better to use a bolt action or repeater rifle.

The Top Shotguns in RDR2

The Double-Barreled Shotgun is the first good shotgun you can obtain rather quickly. You can get it during the Paying a Social Call main quest in chapter 2. The shotgun is hanging above the chimney in the bandits\’ cabin (the same chimney that has the stash with money) – the picture above shows this weapon. If you miss this opportunity, you can always purchase a Double-Barreled Shotgun for $95.

The Semi-Auto Shotgun is even better and can be purchased for $225. However, it\’s not available right away as you need to complete A Fine Night of Debauchery, which is only available in chapter 4. Alternatively, you can head to Watson\’s Cabin located northwest of Wallace Station and find the shotgun hidden in the basement.

The Best Melee and Throwable Weapons in RDR2

The Machete is the best melee weapon in RDR2 and can be obtained during chapter 5. You can also find other unique machetes.

As for throwable weapons, the Tomahawk is the best one. You\’ll receive one during The First Shall Be Last main quest, and after that, you can purchase more from fencers.

FAQ

1. What are the best weapons to use in Red Dead Redemption 2?

There are several weapons that are considered to be the best in Red Dead Redemption 2. These include the Lancaster Repeater, the Bolt-Action Rifle, and the Schofield Revolver. The Lancaster Repeater is a reliable weapon that deals decent damage and has a fast fire rate. The Bolt-Action Rifle is great for long-range combat and can take down most enemies with one shot. The Schofield Revolver is a powerful handgun that is accurate and has a fast reload time. Other notable weapons include the Pump-Action Shotgun, the Springfield Rifle, and the Carcano Rifle.

2. How do I unlock new weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2?

To unlock new weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2, you will need to progress through the game\’s story missions and complete certain challenges. Some weapons are also available for purchase from gunsmiths in various towns and cities throughout the game world. You can also find weapons by looting dead enemies or completing certain side missions. It\’s important to note that some of the best weapons in the game can only be unlocked by completing specific challenges or reaching certain levels of proficiency with certain types of weapons.

3. What is the best way to upgrade my weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2?

The best way to upgrade your weapons in Red Dead Redemption 2 is to visit a gunsmith and purchase any available upgrades. These upgrades can improve the weapon\’s accuracy, damage, and fire rate. You can also add customizations such as sights or scopes to some weapons. It\’s important to note that some upgrades may require specific materials or components that can only be found in certain parts of the game world. You can also increase your proficiency with certain types of weapons by using them frequently and completing challenges related to that weapon type. This will unlock new abilities and perks that can be used to further enhance your weapons.