Picture this: a major disaster strikes, and you need to get out fast. What firearms do you grab to keep you and your loved ones safe?
When you’re on the move in a crisis, it’s a different ballgame. You’re exposed, traveling light, and maybe even unsure of your destination. That’s why having the right guns for various scenarios is critical.
The firearms you bring along during a bug out might not be the same as the ones you’d rely on at home. With limited space in your vehicle or pack, you need to be strategic. Here’s my take on some of the best guns to carry when survival is the name of the game.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm
If you’re looking for a dependable concealed carry gun, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm should be on your list. It’s slim, lightweight, and easy to conceal, making it perfect for staying low-profile while you’re on the move. Despite its small size, it delivers good accuracy and has manageable recoil. With 7- and 8-round magazines, it offers decent capacity while remaining compact and easy to carry.
Ruger 10/22 .22 LR
The .22 LR round is often underrated, but it’s a survivalist’s friend. It’s small and light, meaning you can carry a lot of it. The Ruger 10/22 is a favorite for its minimal recoil and noise, making it ideal for hunting small game without attracting unwanted attention. The standard 10-round magazine is reliable, but you can also find higher capacity options if needed. This rifle is a great option when you need to be stealthy and conserve space.
Marlin 336 .30-30 Winchester
When it comes to lever-action rifles, the Marlin 336 in .30-30 Winchester is a classic that’s hard to beat. It’s known for its ruggedness and is great for hunting medium to large game. The .30-30 round offers a good balance of stopping power and accuracy, making it versatile for both defense and hunting. With its simple and dependable lever-action mechanism, the Marlin 336 is a trustworthy companion when you’re on the move.
Mossberg 590A1 12 Gauge
Shotguns are all about versatility, and the Mossberg 590A1 takes it to the next level. Whether you need buckshot for defense, birdshot for small game, or slugs for larger game, this shotgun can do it all. The 590A1 is a beefed-up version of the 590, featuring a thicker barrel, parkerized finish, and a metal trigger guard. It even has a bayonet lug if you’re feeling old school. This shotgun has been through the US Army’s torture tests and came out on top, proving it’s built to last.
Remington 870 12 Gauge
The Remington 870 is the kind of shotgun you can always count on. It’s one of the most popular pump-actions out there, known for its durability and versatility. Whether you’re defending your camp, hunting, or breaching doors, the 870 has you covered. It can fire anything from buckshot to birdshot and slugs, making it adaptable to a wide range of situations. With its proven design and widespread availability, this shotgun is a no-brainer for your bug out list.
Kel-Tec Sub-2000 9mm
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 is a neat little carbine that folds down to a compact size, perfect for slipping into a backpack. Chambered in 9mm, it’s compatible with Glock magazines, which is a huge plus if you already have a Glock 19. Lightweight and straightforward to operate, this carbine offers good accuracy, making it a versatile tool whether you’re defending yourself or hunting small game. Its ability to fold up means it’s easy to carry and quick to deploy when needed.
Beretta Cx4 Carbine and Beretta 92FS 9mm Luger
Pairing a pistol caliber carbine (PCC) with a handgun that uses the same magazines and ammo is just plain smart. The Beretta 92FS and its variants like the 92A1 or M9A3 are legendary for their reliability and accuracy. The magazines are easy to find, affordable, and come in sizes ranging from 15 to 30 rounds.
The Beretta Cx4 Carbine is an ergonomic PCC that’s been around since 2003. It’s easy to handle, whether you’re right or left-handed, and has plenty of mounting options for scopes, sights, or lights. With its short length, it’s ideal for tight spaces or as a vehicle gun. And let’s not forget the main advantage: the 9mm round performs better from the Cx4’s 16-inch barrel, giving you more power and accuracy. Together, the 92FS and Cx4 make a formidable duo for any survival scenario.
NOTE: The Cx4 is also available in versions that use Beretta Px4 9mm or .40 S&W magazines, but I recommend sticking with the 92 variant. The magazines are more common and easier on the wallet.
Ruger GP100 .357 Magnum
A revolver might seem old school, but the Ruger GP100 in .357 Magnum proves its worth. Revolvers are about as reliable as it gets, and the GP100 is built to handle a lot of heavy-duty shooting. The stainless steel model with a 4 to 6-inch barrel is rust-resistant and absorbs recoil well, making it easier to shoot accurately. Plus, it can fire both .357 and .38 Special rounds, giving you more ammunition options.
Henry AR-7 .22 LR Survival Rifle
The Henry AR-7 is a survival rifle with a unique twist—it breaks down and stores inside its own stock. Chambered in .22 LR, it’s lightweight and incredibly portable, making it easy to stash in a backpack. Originally designed for Air Force pilots, it’s reliable and accurate, perfect for small game hunting or just having a compact rifle on hand. Its portability is a huge advantage when space is at a premium.
Henry Big Boy .44 Magnum
The Henry Big Boy lever-action rifle in .44 Magnum is a powerhouse. The .44 Magnum packs a punch, making it great for both self-defense and taking down larger game. This rifle is built tough, with a smooth action and a classic design that’s hard to beat. When you need a dependable firearm that can handle rough conditions, the Henry Big Boy is a solid choice.
Sig Sauer P320 9mm
Modularity is the name of the game with the Sig Sauer P320. This handgun, chambered in 9mm, is reliable, comfortable to shoot, and can be customized to fit your needs. Its modular design means you can swap out grip sizes or even change calibers, giving you flexibility in the field. Whether you’re in a self-defense scenario or just need a reliable sidearm, the P320 is a worthy contender.
Springfield M1A .308 Winchester
If you need something with long-range capabilities, the Springfield M1A is a top pick. This semi-automatic rifle, chambered in .308 Winchester, is accurate, powerful, and built like a tank. The M1A is a civilian version of the military’s M14, so you know it’s designed to perform in tough conditions. The .308 round is widely available and packs plenty of power, making this rifle ideal for both hunting large game and defending against threats from a distance.
AR-15 5.56x45mm NATO
The AR-15 is everywhere for a reason. It’s ergonomic, easy to customize, and perfect for both self-defense and hunting. The 5.56x45mm NATO/.223 Remington round is effective for taking down deer or wild boar, and it’s a strong choice for defense as well. AR-15s are known for their accuracy and dependability, especially when you stick to reputable brands. You can outfit it with a red dot sight, flashlight, and sling to make it your go-to weapon for bugging out. Plus, 30-round magazines are plentiful and cheap, so stock up now if you haven’t already.
