Survival Guns

campfire built for warmth and cooking for survival

Ultimate Guide to Survival Firearms: The Best Guns for Any Situation

Choosing the best survival firearms is crucial for preparedness. Whether you’re facing long-term wilderness survival, defending your home, or preparing for a societal collapse, the right firearm provides protection, food procurement, and security. This guide explores the best firearms for different survival scenarios, detailing their effectiveness and why they should be part of any survival arsenal.

Key Factors When Selecting a Survival Firearm

  • Reliability – A survival gun must be durable and function in harsh conditions.
  • Ammunition Availability – Choose widely available calibers that are easy to stockpile.
  • Versatility – The best firearms should serve both hunting and self-defense needs.
  • Portability – Weight and size matter in a bug-out scenario.
  • Ease of Maintenance – A survival gun should require minimal tools for cleaning and repairs.

Top Survival Firearms for Different Scenarios

1. Best Firearms for Wilderness Survival

Surviving in the wild requires firearms that can hunt for food and provide defense:

  • Ruger 10/22 (.22 LR) – Lightweight, accurate, and great for small game hunting. Compact ammo makes it easy to carry large quantities.
  • Remington 870 (12 Gauge) – A pump-action shotgun versatile enough for hunting birds, deer, and self-defense.
  • Savage 110 (.308 Winchester) – A precision bolt-action rifle ideal for hunting large game over long distances.

Pros & Cons

FirearmProsCons
Ruger 10/22Lightweight, high ammo capacity, excellent for small gameLimited self-defense capability
Remington 870Versatile, powerful, various ammo typesHeavy, limited range
Savage 110Accurate, good for big game huntingSlower rate of fire

2. Best Firearms for Urban Survival & Home Defense

Urban survival demands reliable, easy-to-handle firearms for close-quarters defense:

  • Glock 19 (9mm) – A dependable, easy-to-maintain handgun with a large magazine capacity.
  • AR-15 (.223/5.56mm) – A modular rifle, perfect for close-quarters and mid-range defense.
  • Mossberg 590 (12 Gauge) – A powerful home-defense shotgun with strong stopping power.

FAQ: What is the best firearm for home defense?

Many experts recommend a 12-gauge shotgun for home defense due to its spread and stopping power. However, a handgun like the Glock 19 offers maneuverability and ease of use.

3. Best Firearms for Bug-Out and SHTF Scenarios

When mobility is essential, firearms should be compact and easy to transport:

  • Kel-Tec Sub 2000 (9mm or .40 S&W) – A folding carbine that shares magazines with handguns, making it ideal for a bug-out bag.
  • Henry AR-7 (.22 LR) – A lightweight breakdown rifle that stores inside its own stock for easy carrying.
  • Springfield XD-M Elite (9mm) – A high-capacity pistol great for defensive encounters.

FAQ: What is the best gun for a bug-out bag?

The Kel-Tec Sub 2000 is one of the best bug-out firearms due to its compact size and ability to share ammo with common handguns.

4. Best Firearms for Hunting & Food Procurement

Securing food in a survival scenario requires an effective hunting firearm:

  • Marlin Model 336 (.30-30 Winchester) – A classic lever-action rifle known for its reliability in hunting deer and similar game.
  • Tikka T3x (.270 Win or .30-06 Springfield) – A long-range rifle designed for hunting big game.
  • Ruger Mark IV (.22 LR) – A reliable semi-auto pistol perfect for small game hunting.

Best Ammunition to Stockpile for Survival

Having the right calibers available is essential:

  • 9mm – Lightweight, widely available, and ideal for handguns and carbines.
  • .22 LR – Perfect for hunting small game; compact and easy to carry in bulk.
  • 12 Gauge – Highly effective for both self-defense and hunting.
  • .223/5.56mm – Commonly used in AR-15s; good for defense and hunting medium game.
  • .308 Winchester – Ideal for long-range defense and hunting large game.

Essential Survival Firearm Accessories

To maximize firearm efficiency, key accessories are necessary:

  • Red Dot Sights & Scopes – Enhance accuracy for both hunting and defense.
  • Suppressors – Reduce noise and protect hearing during prolonged use.
  • Weapon Lights – Critical for nighttime self-defense and hunting.
  • Slings – Allow efficient rifle carrying and mobility.
  • Extended Magazines – Increase ammo capacity for defensive situations.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Armed

Selecting the best survival gun is about more than just firepower—it’s about preparation. Owning the right guns is only part of the equation.

Regular training, proper maintenance, and having the right accessories and ammunition stockpile are equally important. Prioritize firearms that fit your specific needs, whether that’s home defense, hunting, or a bug-out situation. With the right tools, skills, and mindset, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.


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