In an unpredictable world, being prepared is key. As a prepper, your firearm collection is a crucial part of your overall readiness strategy. A well-rounded arsenal should include at least four to five different types of guns, each serving a specific purpose. This list will guide you through 15 essential firearms that cover all your bases, from home defense to hunting and long-range shooting. Remember, it’s not just about quantity – it’s about having the right tools for various scenarios, with ammo that you can easily and affordably stockpile now and that you’ll find in a post-collapse scenario.
I will add, though, that training, practice, and knowing how to properly clean and maintain your weapons play a huge part in how effective any firearm is. If you don’t keep your guns in good shape, and if you don’t know how to use them effectively, it really doesn’t matter which ones you have – they won’t serve you well.
1. AR-15
The AR-15 is the Swiss Army knife of rifles and often considered the foundation of a prepper’s arsenal. Its versatility, reliability, and customization options make it an excellent choice for various situations. With proper maintenance, an AR-15 can serve you well in home defense, hunting, and even long-range shooting scenarios. The modular design allows for easy part replacement and upgrades, ensuring your rifle can adapt to changing needs. Trust me, once you start customizing your AR-15, it’s hard to stop – it’s like LEGO for adults!
2. Glock 19
A compact and reliable handgun is essential, and the Glock 19 fits the bill perfectly. Its balance of size, capacity, and ease of use makes it ideal for concealed carry and home defense. The Glock 19’s popularity also means that parts and accessories are widely available. With a 15+1 round capacity in 9mm, it offers a good balance of firepower and control. I’ve put thousands of rounds through mine without a single hiccup – it’s like the AK-47 of handguns in terms of reliability.
3. Remington 870 Shotgun
A pump-action shotgun like the Remington 870 is invaluable for home defense and hunting. Its versatility allows you to use various ammunition types, from birdshot for small game to slugs for larger targets. The intimidating sound of racking a shotgun can also be a powerful deterrent. The Remington 870’s simple design makes it easy to maintain and operate, even under stress. I’ve seen this workhorse in action during many hunting trips, and it never disappoints.
4. Ruger 10/22
A .22 rifle like the Ruger 10/22 is an excellent addition to any prepper’s collection. It’s perfect for small game hunting, pest control, and teaching new shooters. The low recoil and inexpensive ammunition make it ideal for regular practice and skill maintenance. With proper shot placement, the .22 LR can be effective for survival hunting up to the size of small deer. I’ve owned mine for over 20 years, and it’s still as accurate as the day I bought it. It’s the firearm equivalent of comfort food – always satisfying and never lets you down.
5. Bolt-Action Rifle in .308 Winchester
For long-range shooting and big game hunting, a bolt-action rifle in .308 Winchester is hard to beat. This caliber offers excellent accuracy and stopping power, making it suitable for both hunting and defensive purposes in rural areas. The .308 Winchester’s popularity ensures ammunition availability even in times of scarcity. I’ve taken down elk at 250 yards with this setup – it’s like having a precision sniper rifle that doubles as a hunting tool.
6. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
A subcompact pistol like the S&W M&P Shield is perfect for concealed carry when you need something more discreet than the Glock 19. Its slim profile makes it easy to conceal, while still offering good capacity and reliability. The M&P Shield’s crisp trigger and good ergonomics contribute to its accuracy despite its small size. It’s a popular go-to for preppers when they need deep concealment.
7. Mossberg 590A1
Another shotgun option, the Mossberg 590A1, is favored by many for its rugged construction and reliability. It’s an excellent choice for home defense and can also be used for hunting. The 590A1’s military heritage speaks to its durability and dependability. Its ghost ring sights provide quick target acquisition, a valuable feature in high-stress situations. This shotgun is built like a tank. I’ve seen it survive drops, mud, and even a dip in a river. It’s the Chuck Norris of shotguns.
8. Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle
The Henry AR-7 is a unique .22 LR rifle designed for survival situations. Its ability to break down and store in its own waterproof stock makes it an excellent choice for bug-out bags or survival kits. Despite its compact size, it’s still effective for small game hunting and self-defense. The rifle’s lightweight design (just 3.5 pounds) makes it easy to carry over long distances. It’s compact, versatile, and always ready.
9. Ruger GP100
A reliable revolver like the Ruger GP100 is a great addition to any prepper’s arsenal. Its simplicity and durability make it an excellent choice for those who prefer revolvers over semi-automatic pistols. The .357 Magnum chambering allows for the use of .38 Special ammunition as well, providing versatility in both power and practice. The GP100’s stainless steel construction offers excellent corrosion resistance, ideal for long-term storage or harsh environments.
10. Kel-Tec Sub-2000
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 is a unique folding carbine that accepts common handgun magazines. Its compact size when folded makes it an excellent choice for a bug-out bag or vehicle storage. The familiarity of using the same magazines as your handgun can be a significant advantage in high-stress situations. When unfolded, the Sub-2000 provides improved accuracy and power over a standard handgun due to its longer barrel and stock.
11. Marlin 1895 Guide Gun
For big game hunting and defense against large predators, the Marlin 1895 Guide Gun in .45-70 Government is an excellent choice. Its compact size and powerful cartridge make it ideal for use in thick brush or dense forests. The .45-70 cartridge’s heavy bullets and moderate velocities result in deep penetration, crucial for taking down large animals.
12. Savage Model 64
Another .22 LR option, the Savage Model 64, offers excellent accuracy at an affordable price. Its semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots, making it great for small game hunting and pest control. The low cost of both the rifle and ammunition makes it an excellent choice for regular practice. The Model 64’s 10-round detachable magazine allows for quick reloads during extended shooting sessions.
13. Mossberg 930 SPX
For those who prefer semi-automatic shotguns, the Mossberg 930 SPX is a solid choice. Its faster rate of fire compared to pump-action shotguns can be advantageous in certain defensive situations. The 930 SPX also comes with several tactical features that make it well-suited for home defense. The gas-operated system helps reduce felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved control.
14. CZ 75 SP-01
The CZ 75 SP-01 is a full-size, steel-framed pistol known for its excellent ergonomics and accuracy. Its weight helps manage recoil, making it a great choice for home defense and target shooting. The rail system allows for easy attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing its versatility. The SP-01’s low bore axis contributes to reduced muzzle flip, allowing for faster, more accurate follow-up shots. This pistol feels like an extension of your hand it’s so comfortable and natural to shoot.
15. Ruger Precision Rifle
For long-range shooting and precision hunting, the Ruger Precision Rifle is an excellent choice. Available in several calibers, this rifle offers match-grade accuracy out of the box. Its adjustable stock and modular design allow for customization to fit the shooter perfectly. The rifle’s free-float handguard and cold hammer-forged barrel contribute to its exceptional accuracy, even at extreme ranges. I’ve seen well-trained marksmen consistently hit targets at 1000 yards with this rifle.
