Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a vast, immersive world, and sometimes, the most engaging challenges are the smaller, more specific ones. One such task that often perplexes players is the requirement to kill 5 birds from a moving train. This objective, while seemingly straightforward, can be surprisingly tricky due to the dynamic nature of both the train and its avian targets. Mastering this skill not only helps you complete challenges but also enhances your hunting prowess in the game. If you’re struggling to hit this mark, don’t worry; this guide will provide you with the strategies and insights needed to succeed.
Understanding the Challenge: RDR2 Kill Birds from Moving Train
The core of this challenge lies in the intersection of movement and precision. You need to be on a moving train, and you need to accurately shoot birds that are also in motion, often flying at considerable distances. The game’s mechanics, including bullet drop and the speed of the train, add layers of complexity. Therefore, a simple run-and-gun approach won’t suffice. It requires a combination of preparation, strategic positioning, and the right equipment.
Strategic Approaches to Targeting Birds from a Train
Several methods can be employed to tackle this objective. Each has its pros and cons, and the best approach for you might depend on your playstyle and available resources.
1. The Sniper’s Perch: Utilizing Long-Range Accuracy
One of the most effective ways to hunt birds from a moving train is to leverage long-range weaponry.
- Weapon Choice: A rifle with good range and accuracy, such as the Springfield Rifle or the Bolt Action Rifle, is ideal. If you have a scope, even better.
- Ammunition: High Velocity or Express rounds can provide a slight edge in velocity, reducing the need to compensate as much for bullet drop.
- Positioning: Find a vantage point on the train where you have a clear line of sight. The roof of a carriage or the rear platform often works well. Try to avoid obstructing your view with train elements.
- Execution: As the train moves, scan the skies and surrounding areas for birds. Turkeys, hawks, and even smaller birds like crows can spawn. Aim slightly ahead of the bird’s trajectory, taking into account the train’s speed and the bullet’s travel time. Don’t be afraid to use Dead Eye to slow down time and line up your shots precisely.
2. Dead Eye Mastery: Slowing Down Time
Dead Eye is your best friend for any precision shooting challenge in RDR2, and this one is no exception.
- Activation: Activate Dead Eye as soon as you spot potential targets. This will slow down time, allowing you to acquire multiple targets and plan your shots.
- Targeting: Manually tag each bird you intend to shoot. For birds in flight, estimate their path and tag a point slightly ahead of them. Remember that Dead Eye does not completely freeze time, so still anticipate movement.
- Firing: Once your targets are tagged, fire away. The system will then execute your shots in rapid succession. You can often get all five birds with a single Dead Eye activation if you’re quick and have a good spawn.
3. The Power of Observation: Knowing Where and When
Spawn locations and timings are crucial for any hunting-related challenge in RDR2.
- Train Routes: Certain train routes are known to have higher bird populations. The routes through the Heartlands, Scarlett Meadows, and near Benedict Point are often good starting points. Trains traveling through mountainous or forested areas might offer different bird species.
- Time of Day: Birds are generally more active during the early morning and late afternoon. If you’re having trouble finding targets, try initiating the train journey during these times.
- Environmental Cues: Look for areas where birds are typically found – near bodies of water, open fields, or perched on trees and rock formations along the train’s path.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Shoot 5 Birds from a Train in RDR2
Here’s a consolidated plan to help you achieve this objective:
- Prepare Your Loadout: Equip your preferred rifle (Springfield or Bolt Action) and ensure you have plenty of regular, high-velocity, or express ammunition. Max out your Dead Eye meter.
- Initiate Train Travel: Start a train journey from any station. A longer route will give you more opportunities. Consider traveling east from Valentine towards New Hanover, or south through Scarlett Meadows.
- Find Your Spot: Board the train and find a strategic position, preferably on the roof or an open platform, offering a wide field of view.
- Scan and Await: Move with the train and actively scan the skies and the landscape for birds. Be patient; good spawns can take a few minutes.
- Engage Targets: Once you spot birds, consider your approach:
- If Multiple Birds Appear: Immediately activate Dead Eye. Tag all visible birds, aiming slightly ahead of their flight paths. Fire.
- If Birds Appear Sequentially: Use regular aim or Dead Eye to pick them off one by one. Aim for headshots if possible for quicker kills. Remember to account for bullet drop and lead your target.
- Repeat if Necessary: If you don’t get all five birds in one go, continue your journey. Birds will respawn, and you’ll have more chances. Sometimes, simply moving to a different part of the train can help trigger new spawns.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to hunting in RDR2, spend some time practicing your aim on stationary or slower-moving targets before attempting this challenge.
- Patience is Key: Don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries. Finding the right combination of train speed, bird spawns, and your aiming skills can be challenging.
- Use Cover Wisely: While you need a good view, be mindful of carriage roofs or other structures that might block your shots unexpectedly.
- Consider the Train’s Speed: A faster train means you need to lead your targets more significantly. Sometimes, slightly slower sections of the track might offer easier shots.
- Don’t Forget the Smaller Birds: Crows and pigeons often fly closer to the train and can be easier targets than larger birds of prey.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Missing Birds Due to Speed: Always aim ahead of the bird. The faster the bird and the train, the further you need to lead.
- Bullet Drop: Long-range shots will drop. Practice compensating for this, or use Dead Eye to automatically adjust.
- Poor Spawns: Sometimes, you just get unlucky with spawns. If you travel for a long time without seeing birds, consider restarting your journey or trying a different route.
- Obstructions: Ensure your view isn’t blocked by parts of the train. Standing near the edge of a carriage or on the roof is usually best.
By following these strategies and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of taking down five birds from a moving train in Red Dead Redemption 2. It’s a rewarding challenge that adds another layer of depth to the game’s already rich world. Happy hunting!
