Is the Blacktail Better Than the Red9 in Resident Evil 4?

If you‘re wondering whether to rely on the quick-firing Blacktail or high-powered Red9 in Resident Evil 4, this guide will break down the key differences to help you decide. After extensive testing and research, my verdict is the Red9 is the definitively better handgun for most players, though the Blacktail remains a solid secondary option.

Red9‘s Superior Stopping Power

The biggest advantage the Red9 holds over the Blacktail is its substantially higher damage output, especially when fully upgraded. Let‘s look at some numbers:

As you can see, the Red9 inflicts over 1 more point of damage per shot out of the gate. When fully upgraded, that gap widens to 0.7.

This means the Red9 can kill standard Ganados with 1-2 headshots, versus 3-4 for the Blacktail. Against bosses and tough enemies, this damage difference really starts to add up. Having to land fewer shots to defeat enemies ultimately conserves ammo.

Faster Fire Rate and Reload Speed

The Blacktail does have superior fire rate and reload speed:

At 0.25 seconds between shots, the Blacktail has a blistering fire rate, allowing you to drop groups of enemies swiftly. Its 1.5 second reload prevents you from getting mobbed while vulnerable.

The Red9‘s slower fire and 4 second reload opens you up to taking damage. You‘ll have to use the stock attachment to reduce exposure from frequent reloading.

Ammo Capacity Favors the Blacktail

Due to its faster fire rate, the Blacktail burns through ammo quicker than the Red9. However, it also has a larger max capacity that helps offset this weakness:

The extra 4 rounds may not seem like much, but it allows the Blacktail to sustain fire longer than the Red9 before requiring a lengthy reload.

Red9 Occupies More Valuable Inventory Space

One of the Red9‘s biggest downsides is the 8 slots it occupies in your case when fully upgraded and loaded:

This hinders inventory management, especially on first playthroughs when case space is limited. The Blacktail only takes 3 slots at max, saving room for other weapons, healing items, and ammo.

Exclusive Upgrades Enhance Both Pistols

Each pistol has an exclusive upgrade that further improves their capabilities:

• Red9 Stock – Reduces recoil for increased stability and accuracy
• Blacktail Burst Fire – Fires 3 rounds per pull of the trigger

The stock helps mitigate the Red9‘s recoil, making it easier to land consecutive headshots. The 3-round burst gives the Blacktail a substantial boost in damage per second against tougher enemies.

Optimal Upgrades for Each Gun

If planning to use both pistols, I recommend upgrading them as follows:

Red9: Firepower, Reload Speed, Stock

Blacktail: Firepower, Reload Speed, Burst Fire

This allows you to maximize the potential of each gun based on their individual strengths and weaknesses.

Recommended Skills to Enhance the Pistols

The handgun skills on the Shooting skill tree can take both guns to the next level:

• Firepower – Increases damage by 0.5 per level
• Reload Speed – Decreases reload time by 5% per level
• Fire Rate – Reduces delay between shots by 5% per level

Maxing these skills out pushes the Red9 and Blacktail to their full potential.

When Should You Use Each Pistol?

Here are some recommended use cases for each handgun:

• Use the Blacktail when ammo is scarce or against groups
• Use the Red9 for sniping, bosses, or when ammo is plentiful
• Pack both late in the game once you have enough case space

Verdict: Red9 Is the Superior Handgun for Most Players

While the Blacktail is a formidable sidearm in its own right, the Red9‘s significantly higher damage, versatility, and ammo efficiency make it the best choice for most players.

Upgraded with the stock, it can counter any situation the game throws at you. The Blacktail makes an excellent backup pistol, but the Red9‘s raw stopping power is hard to pass up.

I suggest trying both handguns yourself to see which better fits your playstyle. Whether you value raw power or rapid fire, Resident Evil 4 provides two fantastic pistols. But for dealing with Ganados and bosses, the Red9 gets my vote.

Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m always happy to provide tips to help fellow RE fans master this classic game.