The thrill of the Wild West in Red Dead Redemption 2 extends to its more nuanced challenges, and few are as satisfyingly tricky as shooting birds from a moving train. It’s a test of patience, precision, and understanding the game’s mechanics. Whether you’re a completionist aiming for 100% or simply looking to hone your skills, mastering this task offers a unique sense of accomplishment. This guide will delve into the strategies and tips to help you successfully bag those elusive avian targets while the landscape blurs past your window.
Understanding the Challenge: Birds on the Move
Shooting birds in RDR2 is already an exercise in timing due to their erratic flight patterns. Add a moving train to the mix, and the difficulty escalates significantly. You’re not only dealing with the bird’s unpredictable movements but also the train’s constant motion, which affects your aim and the trajectory of your shots. The key is to anticipate both the bird’s path and how the train’s speed will influence your ability to line up a clean shot.
Essential Gear and Preparations
Before you even consider boarding a train, a few preparations will make your pursuit of airborne quarry much smoother.
Weaponry Choices
For accuracy at range, particularly with small, fast-moving targets, certain weapons excel:
- Varmint Rifle: This is your go-to for small game. Its .22 caliber rounds are precise enough for birds, and it won’t damage the carcasses, preserving pelt quality if that’s a concern. It’s essential for tasks requiring perfect carcasses.
- Bolt-Action Rifle: A solid alternative if you don’t have the Varmint Rifle yet, or if you encounter larger birds that might require a bit more stopping power. Its accuracy is also very good.
Remember to equip the appropriate ammunition. Regular or high-velocity rounds for the Varmint Rifle are ideal.
Ammunition Stockpile
Don’t let a missed shot or a lucky bird escape be the end of your attempt. Stock up on plenty of .22 caliber ammunition. You’ll likely find yourself taking multiple shots before achieving success, especially when you’re starting out.
Dead Eye is Your Best Friend
The Dead Eye system is invaluable here. Ensure your Dead Eye meter is full before you begin your hunt. This will allow you to slow down time, track the bird’s movement, and even tag multiple targets if you’re lucky enough to have several in your sights. Upgrades to your Dead Eye that allow for manual tagging or auto-filling with kills will be particularly beneficial.
Strategic Approaches to Shooting Birds from a Train
There isn’t just one way to tackle this challenge. Different methods can be employed depending on your playstyle and the specific situation.
Method 1: The Stationary Approach (on a Moving Train)
This method relies heavily on Dead Eye.
- Find a Train Route: Identify a train route that passes through areas known for bird spawns. The Heartlands and areas around rivers are often good spots. Trains typically travel along fixed paths, offering predictable routes.
- Board the Train: Find a train and hop on. You can often find them at stations or even by stopping them in the wilderness. Ensure you have a clear vantage point, ideally from an open car or the tender.
- Activate Dead Eye: As soon as you spot birds, especially those flying alongside or near the train’s path, activate Dead Eye.
- Tagging: Carefully track the bird’s flight path. Tag individual birds as they come into your crosshairs. Focus on birds that are flying relatively parallel to the train’s direction of travel, as their relative speed will be lower, making them easier to hit.
- Fire: Once you have your tags set, release the trigger. The Dead Eye system will then fire shots at each tagged location.
Pro-Tip: Birds are often more active at dawn and dusk. Try these times for increased spawn rates.
Method 2: The Reactive Shot
This approach requires quicker reflexes and less reliance on Dead Eye, though Dead Eye can still assist.
- Positioning: As before, find a good vantage point on the moving train.
- Constant Scanning: Keep your eyes peeled, constantly scanning the environment around the train. Birds can appear suddenly.
- Quick Aim and Fire: When you spot a bird, quickly bring up your weapon and aim. Try to lead your target slightly – anticipate where the bird will be by the time your bullet reaches it. If you have a moment, a quick Dead Eye tag can help, but this method often involves manual aiming.
- Follow-Up Shots: If your first shot misses or only wounds the bird, be prepared to fire again quickly. The train’s momentum will continue to carry you, changing your angle relative to the bird.
A player aims a rifle from a moving train in Red Dead Redemption 2, focusing on a flock of birds in the distance over a scenic landscape
Tips for Maximizing Success
Beyond the core methods, several nuanced tips can significantly increase your chances of success.
Understanding Bird Behavior and Spawns
- Common Spawns: Birds like robins, starlings, and sparrows are common and often appear in groups. Look for them near bodies of water, in open fields, and around wooded areas the train passes through.
- Flight Patterns: Birds often fly in somewhat predictable arcs or straight lines. Watch their direction of travel and try to predict where they will be in a second or two.
- Train Interaction: Sometimes, birds seem to fly alongside the train for a short period. These are prime opportunities.
Using the Train to Your Advantage
- Changing Angles: As the train moves, your angle to the bird constantly changes. This can be a disadvantage, but it can also open up shots you wouldn’t have had if you were stationary.
- Cover: The train cars themselves can offer temporary cover from the elements or even from potential aggressors if you’re in a public lobby.
The Importance of Patience
This is not a task to rush. You might spend a considerable amount of time on the train before spotting a good opportunity. Don’t get discouraged. Keep your eyes sharp, your rifle ready, and your Dead Eye charged. The satisfaction of finally succeeding is well worth the wait.
Specific Scenarios and Advanced Tactics
- When the Train is Slowing Down: Trains often slow down as they approach stations. This can be an excellent time to attempt shots, as the reduced speed makes aiming much easier.
- Dealing with Multiple Birds: If you encounter a flock, use Dead Eye to tag as many as possible. Aim for the densest part of the flock or the birds that are slightly separated, as they might be easier to hit individually.
- The “RDR2 Shooting Birds From Train” Challenge: If you’re specifically aiming to complete a challenge related to this, ensure you understand the exact requirements (e.g., number of birds, type of birds, required carcass quality).
Conclusion: The Reward of the Hunt
Successfully shooting birds from a moving train in Red Dead Redemption 2 is more than just a game mechanic; it’s a rewarding mini-game that tests your skills and your patience. By preparing with the right gear, understanding the train’s movement, utilizing Dead Eye effectively, and keeping a vigilant watch, you can master this challenging aspect of the game. So, saddle up, board that train, and let the hunt begin. The open plains and skies of RDR2 await your marksmanship.
