When it comes to prepping, staying mobile is often key. You might find yourself on the move in a variety of situations—whether you’re evading danger, traversing rugged terrain, or covering long distances. A heavy firearm can weigh you down, sap your energy, and make you less agile when you need to be light on your feet. That’s where lightweight firearms shine: they’re easy to carry, quick to deploy, and ideal for situations where speed and endurance matter most. As a prepper, having the right tools can mean the difference between survival and struggle. Here are 14 lightweight firearms that are practical, reliable, and perfect for mobile scenarios.
Ruger 10/22 Takedown
The Ruger 10/22 Takedown is a prepper favorite for a reason. Weighing in at just under 5 pounds, it’s compact and easy to carry. The takedown design allows you to separate the barrel from the stock in seconds, making it highly portable. Chambered in .22 LR, it’s great for small game hunting and practice, and the ammo is light enough to carry in bulk.
Kel-Tec Sub-2000
This folding carbine is designed for ultimate portability. Weighing about 4 pounds, the Kel-Tec Sub-2000 folds down to a mere 16 inches. It’s chambered in 9mm or .40 S&W, making it compatible with common handgun ammunition. Its lightweight build and versatility make it an excellent choice for both defense and survival.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
The M&P Shield Plus is a lightweight, compact pistol weighing about 20 ounces. It’s chambered in 9mm and offers an extended magazine option for higher capacity. Its slim profile makes it easy to conceal and carry for long durations, and it’s well-regarded for its reliability.
Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle
The Henry AR-7 is specifically designed for survival situations. At just 3.5 pounds, it’s one of the lightest rifles on the market. The rifle disassembles easily and all components fit into its waterproof stock, making it ideal for preppers on the go. Chambered in .22 LR, it’s practical for small game and emergency scenarios.
Glock 43
For a reliable, ultra-light pistol, the Glock 43 is hard to beat. Weighing about 18 ounces unloaded, this single-stack 9mm handgun is both durable and concealable. It’s simple to use, easy to maintain, and well-known for its reliability under pressure.
Springfield Armory Hellcat
The Hellcat is a micro-compact handgun that’s made waves in the prepping community. At just over 18 ounces unloaded, it’s one of the lightest in its class. Chambered in 9mm and boasting a high-capacity magazine, it’s a great option for preppers who value firepower and portability.
Marlin Model 60
The Marlin Model 60 is a classic semi-automatic rifle chambered in .22 LR. Weighing about 5.5 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than some alternatives, but its accuracy and reliability make it worth considering. Its tubular magazine holds plenty of rounds, so you’re always prepared.
Savage Rascal
Designed for simplicity and portability, the Savage Rascal is a single-shot, bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 LR. It weighs a mere 2.7 pounds, making it one of the lightest options available. While it’s ideal for small game and practice, its compact design also makes it easy to stash in a bug-out bag.
Ruger LCP Max
For those who want a compact handgun with solid firepower, the Ruger LCP Max is an excellent pick. This .380 ACP pistol weighs just 10.6 ounces unloaded, making it extremely easy to carry. Despite its small size, it offers a 10-round magazine, giving you a good balance of capacity and weight.
Kel-Tec PMR-30
The Kel-Tec PMR-30 is a unique lightweight pistol chambered in .22 Magnum. Weighing only 14 ounces unloaded, it’s an excellent choice for preppers who need a light, high-capacity firearm. Its 30-round magazine provides ample firepower without adding significant bulk.
CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine
While heavier than some options at around 6 pounds, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 is worth mentioning for its versatility. This 9mm carbine is compact, reliable, and excellent for defense. It’s also compatible with various accessories, making it adaptable to different survival needs.
Taurus G3c
The Taurus G3c is a lightweight, budget-friendly handgun chambered in 9mm. Weighing about 22 ounces, it offers a balance of durability, firepower, and portability. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry and shoot, even over long periods.
Chiappa Little Badger
Weighing just 2.9 pounds, the Chiappa Little Badger is a minimalist survival rifle chambered in .22 LR. Its foldable design makes it incredibly compact, and it’s perfect for small game hunting. The Little Badger is a no-frills option for preppers who need something simple and effective.
Mossberg Maverick 88
For a lightweight shotgun, the Mossberg Maverick 88 is a standout. Weighing around 7 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than some rifles, but its utility for hunting and defense is unmatched. Chambered in 12 or 20 gauge, it’s versatile enough to handle various survival scenarios.
24 Best Rifles Under $1200 for Preppers, Hunters, and Homesteaders
When it comes to preparedness, a reliable rifle is worth its weight in gold. Thankfully, you don’t need to empty your wallet to get a solid firearm that’ll stand up to the elements and perform when you need it most. Mid-priced rifles offer the perfect balance of affordability and quality, giving you confidence whether you’re out hunting, practicing at the range, or prepping for emergencies. After running thousands of rounds through a variety of rifles over the years, here’s my list of top picks that hit the mark for both value and reliability. These rifles each offer serious bang for your buck, whether you’re looking for your first gun or adding to a growing collection.
Read More: 24 Best Rifles Under $1200 for Preppers, Hunters, and Homesteaders
34 Best Shotguns of All Time
When it comes to shotguns, few other firearms hold such a range of purpose, heritage, and outright dependability. From the grit of the duck blind to the intensity of a skeet range, shotguns have long been the tool of choice for hunters, competitors, law enforcement, and home defenders alike. Some shotguns on this list helped define their category; others redefined it.
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25 Legendary Hunting Rifles from the Last Half Century
When it comes to picking the “best” hunting rifle, it’s all about what you’re chasing, the features you prefer, and how much you’re willing to spend. Every hunter has their own go-to. But let’s face it—some rifles just stand out. Over the last 50 years, a few have become legends in their own right. I’ve rounded up a selection that spans everything from trusty deer rifles to heavy-hitting big game beasts. Do you see your favorite on the list? Or did I miss one you swear by?
Read More: 25 Legendary Hunting Rifles from the Last Half Century
