In a world where preparation matters, having a gun that can handle both hunting and defense is a serious asset. Whether you’re living off the land, defending your home, or simply preparing for an emergency, a versatile firearm combines practicality with peace of mind. I’ve put together this list of multi-purpose guns, each capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from tracking large game to offering home protection. Some of these are classic go-tos, while others are modern marvels with updated features that pack a punch. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best options on the market, giving you choices to suit different needs, levels of experience, and environments.
1. Remington 870 Pump-Action Shotgun
The Remington 870 is a versatile, reliable shotgun that’s great for both home defense and hunting. It’s one of the most popular pump-action shotguns, with a simple design and multiple configurations for different purposes. This gun is particularly good for hunting birds and small game, and with a tactical barrel swap, it transforms into a solid home-defense weapon.
2. Ruger 10/22 Takedown Rifle
The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most trusted .22 caliber rifles out there. Its takedown model can be easily broken down for transport, making it ideal for camping, backpacking, or survival situations. With enough stopping power for small game, it’s also manageable for beginners and makes for a practical home-defense firearm in close quarters.
3. Mossberg 500 Shotgun
The Mossberg 500 is another excellent choice for a dual-purpose firearm. Known for its durability and versatility, this shotgun has been a favorite among hunters and home defenders alike. You can use it for hunting birds, small game, or even deer with the right load, and it’s also reliable for close-range home defense due to its powerful stopping capability.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport II
The M&P 15 Sport II is an AR-15 style rifle, chambered in .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, giving it enough power for defense and medium-sized game hunting. Lightweight and highly customizable, it can be fitted with optics for hunting or kept minimal for defense. Its ease of handling and accuracy make it a solid option for those wanting an all-in-one firearm.
5. Henry All-Weather .45-70 Lever Action Rifle
The Henry All-Weather .45-70 is a powerhouse when it comes to taking down large game, and it’s rugged enough to handle harsh environments. While it’s primarily for hunting, its caliber is also suitable for defense against large predators or in an emergency. Its lever action adds reliability, and its stainless-steel finish helps it endure rough weather.
6. Glock 19 Gen 5
For those seeking a reliable handgun, the Glock 19 Gen 5 offers the best of both worlds in terms of portability and stopping power. This 9mm pistol is easy to carry, offers quick follow-up shots, and works for both self-defense and protection against predators. Its reliability and simplicity make it a trusted choice worldwide.
7. Savage Axis II XP .308 Rifle
The Savage Axis II XP is a bolt-action rifle chambered in .308 Winchester, giving it plenty of range and power for hunting deer and other big game. Equipped with an AccuTrigger, this rifle is also easy to shoot accurately, making it versatile for defense situations when longer shots are necessary. The .308 caliber provides enough stopping power without excessive recoil.
8. Winchester Model 70
Known as “The Rifleman’s Rifle,” the Winchester Model 70 is a classic bolt-action rifle with a reputation for accuracy and reliability. Chambered in a variety of calibers, it’s well-suited for hunting game of all sizes. With the right optics, this rifle can also provide reliable defense in an outdoor environment, where range is an advantage.
9. Marlin 336 Lever-Action .30-30
The Marlin 336 is a favorite among hunters for its compact size and reliable performance, especially in dense brush or wooded areas. Chambered in .30-30, it’s perfect for deer hunting and has enough stopping power for defense purposes if needed. Its lever-action design is reliable and offers quick follow-up shots in close-quarters scenarios.
10. CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1
The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 is a 9mm pistol-caliber carbine that’s maneuverable, compact, and user-friendly. It’s highly effective for both close-range defense and small to medium game hunting. Lightweight and easy to handle, the Scorpion’s size allows it to be used in tight quarters or wilderness scenarios, offering a unique blend of portability and power.
11. Springfield M1A Scout Squad Rifle
The Springfield M1A Scout Squad is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in .308, offering plenty of power for hunting big game while being compact enough for maneuverability in defense situations. With its semi-auto action, this rifle provides a fast follow-up shot if needed, and it’s rugged enough to handle a variety of environments.
12. Taurus Judge
The Taurus Judge is a revolver that’s designed to fire both .45 Colt and .410 bore shotshells, making it a flexible option for defense and small-game hunting. Its ability to shoot shotgun shells means it can handle snakes and small pests in the field, while the .45 Colt rounds provide adequate power for self-defense. This revolver is ideal for those who want versatility in a compact package.
