Keep and Stable That Black Horse Partner!
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If you‘ve just acquired the big black Shire horse early in Red Dead Redemption 2, you‘re likely wondering – should I sell it or keep it stabled? My expert advice is to hold onto that magnificent stallion. Selling it just isn‘t worth it. Let me explain why in this comprehensive guide.
The Black Shire‘s Value – A Mighty Steed For Free
The black Shire breed is one of the absolute best draft horses in the game. Shires are known for their towering size, hulking strength, and calm temperament. At the start of Chapter 2, Hosea lets you take ownership of a fine black Shire for free.
Now at the stables, you do have the option to sell the Shire. But don‘t do it cowpoke! Here‘s why:
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Selling only gets you $5 – Practically useless money in RDR2‘s economy. You won‘t even be able to buy a decent hat with that.
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Replacing it costs hundreds to thousands – Buying a new quality horse is damn expensive.
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The black Shire is a top-tier horse – Draft or not, it‘s still mighty fine stock. Don‘t look a gift horse in the mouth!
So in summary, you‘d be a fool to sell this majestic beast. Instead, for just a handful of dollars, you can stables this tank of a horse and make it your own. It‘s a great opportunity you don‘t want to waste.
The Powerful Pros of Stabling a Shire
Trust me friend, holding onto the black Shire has some big advantages:
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Intimidating size – Shires stand at a towering 19 hands high! Enemies quiver at the sight.
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Built sturdy for combat – With great health and stamina, this tank can absorb damage while stomping foes.
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Plows through snow and swamps – Thanks to its heavy body and strength, deep snow and mud won‘t stop this horse.
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Carries large animal carcasses – Store your giant hunted pelts and skins on a Shire‘s back with ease.
Below I‘ve put together a helpful table comparing the Black Shire to an Arabian, one of the best horses you can buy:
| Breed | Health | Stamina | Speed | Acceleration | Handling | Temperment | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Shire | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 2 | Calm | FREE |
| Black Arabian | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | Skittish | $1,050 |
As you can see, the Shire has better health than the costly Arabian, and decent stamina too. It makes up for lower speed with its strength and bravery in combat. And you get this beast for free!
A Few Minor Cons to Consider
I won‘t lie to you partner, there are a couple small drawbacks to shires:
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Handling can be sluggish – Their large size makes them a bit plodding and clumsy. But this can be managed with good riding.
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Not built for racing – With only average speed and acceleration, Shires won‘t win you any races. Race horses they are not.
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Requires bonding – Fresh Shires can be stubborn. But show some patience and you‘ll have a loyal companion.
These are minor issues you can overcome with time and practice. They pale in comparison to the mighty benefits of a Shire! But weigh them carefully in your unique situation.
Expert Tips for Managing Your Shire
Here are my top pro tips for handling a Shire horse:
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Bond completely – Max out bonding to ensure unwavering loyalty and bravery.
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Use horses for jobs that suit them – Ride lighter horses for herding or fast travel, and save the Shire for combat or tough terrain.
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Clean regularly – Keeping it groomed calms temperament.
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Pat and praise often – Shires love attention, just take it slow with skittish ones.
Apply my veteran advice and that Shire will be your best four-legged friend for life!
The Verdict – Stable That Horse, Don‘t Sell It!
Selling that mighty black Shire horse would be a huge mistake you‘d regret, partner. A horse of that quality for free is an incredible opportunity.
Hold onto your Shire, bond with it, and train it well – and it will serve you better than any expensive Arabian or Thoroughbred. Its strength, health pool, and bravery make it the perfect combat horse. I‘ve ridden my fair share of Shires, and they have never let me down.
So ride on out of that stable tall in the saddle of your new tank of a steed. That black beauty will be your best friend ‘til the end if you treat it right. Just hold onto the reins and spur it on alongside you into adventure!
Your fellow cowpoke,
Jason Striegel