Choosing the right horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 affects every aspect of gameplay, from combat to exploration. There are 19 horse breeds in the game, each with unique stats. This guide ranks them by speed, stamina, handling, and temperament.
How Horses Work
Horse stats in RDR2 include:
- Speed: how fast the horse can run.
- Stamina: how long the horse can gallop.
- Health: how much damage the horse can take.
- Acceleration: how quickly the horse reaches top speed.
- Handling: how responsive the horse is to input.
Horse temperament affects bonding speed. Some horses bond faster than others.
S Tier: Best of the Best
Arabian
The Arabian is the best all-around horse in the game. It has high speed, stamina, and handling, plus a calm temperament that bonds quickly.
Stats: Speed 7, Stamina 7, Health 4, Acceleration 7, Handling 7.
Best for: any play style.
Location: Found in the wild near Lake Isabella. Alternative: bought from stables for $1,250.
Missouri Fox Trotter
The Missouri Fox Trotter is the fastest horse in the game. It is ideal for players who want to cover ground quickly.
Stats: Speed 9, Stamina 6, Health 5, Acceleration 8, Handling 5.
Best for: exploration, long-distance travel.
Location: Bought from stables for $950.
Turkoman
The Turkoman is the best war horse in the game. It has balanced stats and a brave temperament.
Stats: Speed 8, Stamina 6, Health 7, Acceleration 7, Handling 6.
Best for: combat, hunting.
Location: Bought from stables for $950.
A Tier: Strong Choices
Thoroughbred
The Thoroughbred is the fastest horse at full gallop. It has high speed but low stamina.
Stats: Speed 9, Stamina 4, Health 4, Acceleration 9, Handling 5.
Best for: short-distance sprints, races.
Location: Bought from stables for $1,000.
Nokota
The Nokota is a well-rounded horse with high health. It is ideal for combat.
Stats: Speed 6, Stamina 6, Health 8, Acceleration 7, Handling 7.
Best for: combat, hunting.
Location: Found in the wild. Alternative: bought from stables.
Mustang
The Mustang is a fast, agile horse with a wild temperament. It requires more bonding but is rewarding.
Stats: Speed 8, Stamina 5, Health 5, Acceleration 8, Handling 6.
Best for: experienced players, exploration.
Location: Found in the wild near the Rio Del.
B Tier: Reliable Workhorses
Tennessee Walker
The Tennessee Walker has the smoothest ride in the game. It is the best horse for long journeys.
Stats: Speed 5, Stamina 8, Health 5, Acceleration 6, Handling 7.
Best for: exploration, hunting.
Location: Bought from stables for $500.
Morgan
The Morgan is a balanced horse with no major weaknesses.
Stats: Speed 6, Stamina 6, Health 6, Acceleration 6, Handling 6.
Best for: any play style.
Location: Bought from stables for $450.
Kentucky Saddler
The Kentucky Saddler is a versatile horse with good handling.
Stats: Speed 6, Stamina 6, Health 6, Acceleration 6, Handling 7.
Best for: any play style.
Location: Bought from stables for $450.
Best Horse for Each Play Style
Combat
Turkoman or Nokota. Both have high health and brave temperaments.
Exploration
Missouri Fox Trotter. Highest top speed.
Hunting
Turkoman or Nokota. Both are brave around predators.
Racing
Thoroughbred or Missouri Fox Trotter. Both have high speed.
All-Around
Arabian. Best balanced horse in the game.
Horse Customization
Customize your horse with these upgrades:
- New Saddle: improves handling and reduces stamina drain.
- New Stirrups: improves handling.
- New Horn: improves handling.
- New Blanket: cosmetic only.
Horse Bonding
Bonding with your horse unlocks new abilities:
- Level 1: horse stops responding to threats.
- Level 2: horse follows you on foot.
- Level 3: horse responds to whistle.
- Level 4: horse can be summoned from anywhere.
Bond by:
- Feeding the horse (apples, hay, sugar cubes).
- Brushing the horse.
- Patting the horse.
- Riding the horse.
Common Mistakes
- Don't buy the most expensive horse first. Start with a basic horse and upgrade.
- Don't ignore horse bonding. A bonded horse is much more useful.
- Don't ride a horse that has not been bonded. It will buck you off.
Final Tips
- Save before buying a horse. Reload if you buy the wrong one.
- Use the Horse Station upgrade to summon horses from anywhere.
- Customize your horse's saddle for maximum comfort.
With this ranking, you will know which horse to choose for your play style and how to get the most out of your equine companion.
FAQ: Horses
Q: What is the best horse?
A: The Arabian is the best all-around horse in the game.
Q: Can I have multiple horses?
A: Yes, you can have multiple horses but only ride one at a time.
Q: Can I sell horses?
A: Yes, you can sell horses at stables for a small amount.
Q: Can I bond with any horse?
A: Yes, but horses with calm temperaments bond faster.
Best Horse Strategies
For best horse use:
- Buy the Arabian as soon as possible.
- Bond with your horse daily.
- Customize your horse's saddle for maximum comfort.
- Use the Horse Station upgrade to summon horses.
Common Horse Mistakes
- Don't buy the most expensive horse first. Start with a basic horse.
- Don't ignore horse bonding. A bonded horse is much more useful.
- Don't ride a horse that has not been bonded. It will buck you off.
- Don't leave your horse behind. Always keep it close.
How to Bond with Horses
To bond with horses:
- Feed the horse (apples, hay, sugar cubes).
- Brush the horse.
- Pat the horse.
- Ride the horse.
Bonding unlocks new abilities, including the ability to summon the horse from anywhere.
FAQ: Horses
Q: What is the best horse?
A: The Arabian is the best all-around horse in the game.
Q: Can I have multiple horses?
A: Yes, you can have multiple horses but only ride one at a time.
Q: Can I sell horses?
A: Yes, you can sell horses at stables for a small amount.
Q: Can I bond with any horse?
A: Yes, but horses with calm temperaments bond faster.
Best Horse Strategies
For best horse use:
- Buy the Arabian as soon as possible.
- Bond with your horse daily.
- Customize your horse's saddle for maximum comfort.
- Use the Horse Station upgrade to summon horses.
Common Horse Mistakes
- Don't buy the most expensive horse first. Start with a basic horse.
- Don't ignore horse bonding. A bonded horse is much more useful.
- Don't ride a horse that has not been bonded. It will buck you off.
- Don't leave your horse behind. Always keep it close.
How to Bond with Horses
To bond with horses:
- Feed the horse (apples, hay, sugar cubes).
- Brush the horse.
- Pat the horse.
- Ride the horse.
Bonding unlocks new abilities, including the ability to summon the horse from anywhere.