When it comes to prepping for a survival scenario, having the right firearms in your arsenal is crucial. While everyone might know about the popular choices like the AR-15 or Glock 19, there are plenty of overlooked firearms that deserve your attention. Some offer unique capabilities, others boast reliability, and a few might just surprise you with their versatility in a pinch. So let’s explore 14 often-forgotten firearms that you should consider adding to your collection.
1. Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle chambered in .22 LR. Its low recoil, affordable ammunition, and easy customization make it a must-have for small game hunting or target shooting. While it may not be your go-to for defense, its reliability and practicality in a SHTF situation shouldn’t be underestimated. You can carry a lot of ammo, and this rifle is perfect for teaching others to shoot as well.
2. SKS
The SKS, a Soviet-era semi-automatic carbine, often flies under the radar. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, it offers solid stopping power, is built like a tank, and comes with an internal magazine that holds 10 rounds. It’s rugged, affordable, and easier to find than an AK-47. In survival situations, its durability makes it a dependable backup for mid-range engagements.
3. Mossberg 500
Though shotguns are popular in prepping circles, the Mossberg 500 often takes a backseat to the Remington 870. The Mossberg 500 is known for its versatility—able to handle everything from birdshot for hunting to slugs for defense. With its proven reliability and wide range of configurations, it’s a no-brainer for home defense and foraging.
4. Marlin 336
For those who prefer lever-action rifles, the Marlin 336 in .30-30 is a classic choice often overshadowed by modern firearms. Lever-action rifles are incredibly dependable and can be cycled quickly with practice. The Marlin 336 is excellent for hunting medium to large game, and its availability in rural areas makes it a viable option in a grid-down scenario.
5. Kel-Tec Sub-2000
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 is a compact, foldable rifle that chambers popular handgun rounds like 9mm or .40 S&W. Because it accepts magazines from widely-used handguns like the Glock, it adds convenience and reduces the need for multiple types of ammo. This makes it a great addition to your SHTF arsenal if space and mobility are your top concerns.
6. CZ 527
The CZ 527 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, the same round used by the AK-47 and SKS. It offers the accuracy and reliability of a bolt-action with the power of a larger round. This combination makes it a great choice for hunting larger game or defense in a long-term survival situation. It’s an underappreciated firearm that can hold its own in tough conditions.
7. Henry AR-7
The Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle is a compact, lightweight .22 LR rifle designed for ease of portability. What makes it unique is its ability to be disassembled and stored in its waterproof stock. Though it’s not meant for heavy-duty use, it’s ideal for backpacking, small game hunting, or as a backup firearm in your bug-out bag.
8. Savage 42 Takedown
A modern twist on the old “over-under” gun, the Savage 42 Takedown combines a .22 LR barrel with a .410 shotgun barrel. This gives you the flexibility to switch between small game hunting and defense, all in one package. The takedown feature means it can be easily disassembled and stored in tight spaces. Its versatility makes it worth considering for any arsenal.
9. M1 Carbine
The M1 Carbine was a standard-issue rifle during World War II and remains a solid option today. Chambered in .30 Carbine, it’s lightweight and has less recoil than larger rifles. Its accuracy, light weight, and historical durability make it great for those who need a reliable rifle for defense or light hunting without the bulk of a full-sized battle rifle.
10. Taurus Judge
A handgun that fires both .45 Colt and .410 shotgun shells, the Taurus Judge is often overlooked but offers significant versatility. It’s great for close-quarters defense, especially in rural settings where you might need to defend against snakes or other small predators. While it may not have the same range as other firearms, its multi-caliber capability makes it highly adaptable.
11. Hi-Point Carbine
Hi-Point carbines are often dismissed due to their low price, but in a SHTF scenario, they offer incredible value. These carbines are reliable, easy to maintain, and can be chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP. Though they aren’t fancy, they get the job done and are excellent for those on a budget looking to add a simple, dependable rifle to their collection.
12. H&R Handi Rifle
The H&R Handi Rifle is a single-shot break-action rifle available in a wide range of calibers. While its slow rate of fire might seem like a disadvantage, it forces you to make each shot count, and it’s incredibly easy to maintain. This makes it perfect for beginners or for survivalists who need a no-frills, accurate rifle for hunting larger game.
13. FN PS90
The FN PS90 is a compact bullpup rifle that fires the 5.7x28mm round. Its small size and high capacity (50-round magazines) make it ideal for close-quarters defense. Although the 5.7mm round isn’t as powerful as other rifle rounds, its armor-piercing capabilities and high capacity make it an interesting option for a survival situation.
14. Rossi Circuit Judge
The Rossi Circuit Judge is a rifle version of the Taurus Judge, capable of firing both .45 Colt and .410 shotgun shells. Its versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of uses, from hunting to defense. The rifle format adds stability and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a hybrid solution in their SHTF arsenal.
