When you’re preparing for the unexpected, having the right tools can make all the difference. For women preppers, choosing a firearm is about more than just safety—it’s about empowerment, confidence, and practicality. A good firearm should be reliable, easy to handle, and suited to your specific needs, whether it’s self-defense, hunting, or general survival. The right firearm can help you feel prepared and capable, no matter what comes your way.
In this list, I’ve carefully considered factors like weight, recoil, ease of use, and versatility to highlight firearms that are particularly suited to women. Whether you’re new to prepping or a seasoned survivalist, these options will help you feel prepared and secure.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is a lightweight, compact pistol that’s a favorite among preppers of all experience levels. Its manageable recoil and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for women. With a magazine capacity of up to 15 rounds and a reputation for reliability, it’s a great tool for self-defense and survival scenarios. The Glock’s simple design also means fewer parts to maintain and clean, which is ideal in a pinch.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ
Designed with ease of use in mind, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ is perfect for women who want a straightforward, dependable pistol. Its slide is easy to rack, and its lightweight frame makes it comfortable to carry all day. Chambered in .380 ACP or 9mm, it’s an ideal choice for self-defense, offering low recoil without sacrificing power.
Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is a versatile rifle, perfect for small game hunting and target practice. Its lightweight design and low recoil make it easy for anyone to handle, regardless of experience. With a variety of aftermarket upgrades available, you can customize it to fit your exact needs. The .22 LR ammunition is also inexpensive and widely available, which is a bonus for long-term prepping.
Sig Sauer P365
The Sig Sauer P365 is a compact, high-capacity pistol that’s ideal for concealed carry. Despite its small size, it boasts an impressive magazine capacity of up to 12 rounds. It’s chambered in 9mm, offering a great balance of power and manageable recoil. The P365 is reliable, easy to use, and comfortable for those with smaller hands, making it a fantastic choice for women preppers.
Mossberg 500
If you’re looking for a shotgun that’s versatile and powerful, the Mossberg 500 is hard to beat. This pump-action shotgun is great for home defense, hunting, and survival scenarios. With its adjustable stock options and various barrel lengths, it’s highly adaptable. Shotguns are excellent for their stopping power and ability to fire a range of ammunition types, including buckshot and slugs.
Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ stands out for its exceptional ergonomics and smooth trigger pull. This 9mm pistol is easy to handle, even for those new to firearms. Its design ensures a comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during extended use. With a reliable track record and excellent accuracy, the PPQ is a solid choice for self-defense and survival.
Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle
The Henry AR-7 is specifically designed for survival situations. It’s a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle that breaks down for compact storage, fitting easily in a backpack. Chambered in .22 LR, it’s perfect for small game hunting and easy to shoot. This rifle is waterproof and floats, making it a great addition to any prepper’s kit, especially for those who may encounter wet or rugged conditions.
CZ P-10 S
The CZ P-10 S is a subcompact pistol known for its reliability and ergonomic design. It’s chambered in 9mm and offers a lightweight frame that’s easy to carry and conceal. Its grip texture ensures a secure hold, even in stressful situations. The P-10 S is ideal for women preppers who want a dependable firearm for everyday carry or emergency use.
Remington 870
The Remington 870 is another outstanding shotgun option, known for its durability and versatility. It’s available in multiple configurations, so you can choose one that fits your needs. Its pump-action design is simple to operate and extremely reliable. Whether you’re defending your home or hunting larger game, the Remington 870 is a tool you can count on.
Kel-Tec Sub-2000
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 is a compact, foldable rifle that’s perfect for preppers on the move. Chambered in 9mm or .40 S&W, it uses the same ammunition as many handguns, which simplifies logistics. Its lightweight design and foldability make it easy to store and carry. This rifle is a versatile addition to any prepper’s arsenal, offering utility for both self-defense and small-game hunting.
