Blowing up four enemies at once with dynamite in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of those optional challenges that sounds simple in theory, but proves tricky in execution. Whether you’re trying to complete a daily objective in Red Dead Online or just want to add some explosive flair to your gameplay in the story mode, this challenge demands timing, precision, and a bit of luck. The open-world environment of RDR2 provides multiple scenarios where enemies cluster together, but creating the perfect opportunity to take down four foes with a single stick of dynamite requires thoughtful setup.
Understanding Dynamite in Red Dead Redemption 2
How Dynamite Works
Dynamite is a throwable explosive weapon that creates a wide blast radius capable of killing multiple enemies instantly. You can light it before throwing to delay the explosion or toss it unlit to have it detonate on impact. Dynamite can be used in both single-player and online modes, though the conditions in which it is effective may vary slightly between the two.
To access dynamite, open your weapon wheel and select the throwable section. If you don’t already have dynamite in your inventory, you can purchase it from fences after completing Chapter 2’s Pouring Forth Oil mission in the story mode. In Red Dead Online, dynamite becomes available after reaching rank 16.
Tips to Kill 4 Enemies with Dynamite
Find or Create a Group of Enemies
The key to this challenge is getting at least four enemies close enough to one another that a single explosion can eliminate them all. Dynamite has decent range, but it’s not infinite. The blast radius is large enough to kill enemies within roughly a three-meter radius from the center point, so positioning is everything. Here are a few strategies to increase your chances:
- Bounty Missions: In both single-player and online modes, bounty missions frequently spawn groups of enemies. Wait until at least four of them cluster near a target area like a wagon or doorway.
- Gang Hideouts: These locations are loaded with enemies, and if you approach carefully, you can lure several of them together. Wait until they’re in a small area, then throw the dynamite.
- Lawmen Ambushes: If your wanted level is high, lawmen will chase you in groups. Lead them into tight quarters and use Dead Eye to time your throw.
Use Stealth to Set Up the Kill
Charging into an enemy camp guns blazing will often scatter your targets. Instead, use stealth to get close and observe their patterns. Once you see four or more standing close together perhaps around a fire or guarding a path position yourself, equip dynamite, light it (optional), and throw.
Lighting the fuse before throwing allows a short delay before detonation, increasing the chances that all four enemies remain in place. However, if you throw lit dynamite too late, it may explode midair or before reaching the target.
Try During Missions or Set Pieces
Some story missions naturally gather enemies in one place. Missions where you defend or assault a fort, train, or bridge often feature bottleneck areas with groups of foes huddled together. Use these moments to plan a well-timed dynamite throw.
One such mission is An American Pastoral Scene in Chapter 2, where enemies gather at a wagon convoy. Another good opportunity appears during The Battle of Shady Belle where enemies are grouped along the path and in the building.
Executing the Kill
Positioning and Accuracy
Make sure you’re close enough to throw the dynamite into the middle of the enemy group. Aim a little above their heads to ensure the dynamite lands directly at their feet rather than bouncing too far. If you’re having trouble with timing, use Dead Eye before you throw, as it can help slow the moment and allow more precise targeting.
Stay Safe After Throwing
After you throw the dynamite, move away immediately to avoid being caught in the blast. It’s easy to misjudge the explosion radius, especially in narrow spaces or uneven terrain. Taking self-damage not only puts you at risk but also might interrupt your chance to see the full effect of the explosion.
Best Locations to Attempt the Challenge
Single-Player Mode
- Fort Mercer: Known for densely packed enemies during certain missions.
- Hanging Dog Ranch: Offers tight spaces and enemy clusters around barns and houses.
- Van Horn Trading Post: If you cause enough trouble, lawmen or bounty hunters gather quickly.
Red Dead Online
- Player Bounties: PvE bounties that include gang leaders often spawn with a handful of henchmen.
- Gang Hideouts: These repeatable locations spawn clusters of enemies that you can clear quickly with explosives.
- Free Roam Events: Some events have players defending or attacking NPCs in close quarters.
In Red Dead Online, teaming up with friends can help control the battlefield better. You can distract enemies or herd them into one area while someone else throws the dynamite.
Alternatives and Variants
Train Robbery Ambush
In story mode, robbing trains often causes enemies to spawn in large groups. If you stop a train and wait for lawmen or bounty hunters to arrive, you can sometimes find the perfect chance to toss dynamite into their path. The narrow train cars also help cluster enemies, which increases your chances of hitting multiple targets.
Use Cover and Bait
In tight combat zones, hide behind cover and let the AI enemies group up while attempting to flank you. As they come close, throw the dynamite and watch the explosion do its job. You can also shoot near the ground to lure enemies toward your position before detonating.
Tracking Progress and Confirmation
Challenge Notifications
If you’re working on a challenge or daily objective, the game will usually notify you once it’s completed. Pay attention to the top left of the screen after the explosion. If the challenge isn’t completed, that may mean not all four enemies were killed in the blast some may have been downed but not dead.
Try Again If Needed
Sometimes it takes a few tries to get the perfect scenario. Don’t worry if it doesn’t work the first time. Focus on refining your setup and identifying the best choke points or enemy clusters. With a bit of persistence, you’ll land the perfect dynamite throw.
Killing four enemies with dynamite in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a thrilling way to spice up your gameplay, test your combat awareness, and master the game’s explosive mechanics. The challenge lies in more than just throwing a stick it’s about finding the right opportunity, reading the enemy’s behavior, and executing with precision. Whether you’re doing this for a mission, a challenge, or just for fun, nothing beats the satisfaction of watching a single explosion take out a group of foes in one fiery blast. Use the tips above to make every throw count, and enjoy the chaos that follows.