Which rifle

[gm412]

I have found myself without a rifle and have not kept up with them. I was wonder if anyone had a suggestion. I was thinking of an AR-15 but I live in California and looks like they modified them so much not sure they are worth it. The rifle would be a self deference all hell has broken out weapon. Also would like suggestion on a shotgun. I had a Browning Citori at one time. Like a good trap and/or skeet gun.

[Kahrdriver64]

If I had to choose just one SHTF rifle, I would go with my AR-10. It's just me but I don't have much respect for the 556 nato. As far as shotguns, a good ole winchester model 12 isn't a bad place to start. They aren't sexy but they saw use by law enforcement and military for nearly a century.

[Bawanna]

I agree with the lack of faith in the 223.

I'm finding myself enamored with the Ruger Gunsite Scout in 308.

Mag fed, bolt action reliability, forward optics. If I only had one, I think that would be the one or something similar.

I like good ole Mossberg 500's for a defense type shotgun, I have a Model 12 which are nice too but you gotta pay for a good one.

[HenryinFlorida]

Well, if you want a rifle for when "all hell breaks loose" I doubt that a bolt action would fit the bill. The AR platform would be better suited for that. You don't have to go with the .223/5.56 route. The lowers are the same for all. You can build the upper in 308 or 300 whisper. As far as being in CA goes. all rifles will be under the same magazine limits. you just have to get 10rd mags, and have a fixed stock I think. There's also something to do with the Mag release also I think, but all can be easily worked around. There are a ton of AR owners in Calif. I see them on the different AR forums. JUst my opinion.....they sure are fun to shoot and easy to work on.

[Kahrdriver64]

Henry is right on this one, I think. I've been watching the pistol cartridge AR's pretty closely. I hope to have a .40 AR carbine one day. Commonality of ammo is a plus for SHTF.

[Garland]

If you warm up to the .223/5.56, the S&W M&P15 Sport is a bargain if you can find one. I picked one up for $629 a few months ago. I recently bought an older Mossberg 500 also, just because everyone needs at least one.

[chrish]

Henry is right on this one, I think. I've been watching the pistol cartridge AR's pretty closely. I hope to have a .40 AR carbine one day. Commonality of ammo is a plus for SHTF.

I've been debating this for awhile, still no decision on my part. But I want a rifle, just can't decide, .22, AR, pistol caliber. I keep coming back to a pistol caliber, 9mm, for that exact reason...commonality of ammo. Then maybe a .22 of some kind.

I just can't see a scenario where I need to reach out, given my skillset, needs, plans. I don't hunt, have no plans to, if things get THAT bad, well, I suppose I'll just give up. I don't intend on fighting a war, if it gets that bad, same story. If a target is further away than a pistol caliber is effective, then I just need to get the heck out of that area, or sit it out hoping the need for closer range doesn't materialize. SHTF, I just want to sit tight and be able to protect my self coming and going wherever.

The more I read in the news, the more I am disgusted, but in the end...I am only going to be able to defend my immediate family and my immediate area and I don't see the need for anything past 50-100yds or less.

My plans HAD been something like...
- Smith M&P Sport
- Ruger 10/22 or Smith 15-22
- My handguns

Lately, been shifting to...
- Sig 516 10" or a pistol caliber full AR rifle
- Ruger 10/22
- My handguns

Definitely interested in others thoughts.

[Barth]

I only have a shorty 12 gauge.
But have almost bought a Ruger Mini-14 on occasion.
They are worth a look.

[TheTman]

Keltec makes the Sub2000 carbine in 9mm and .40. It accepts pistol magazines, Glock or Beretta. I think Melissa has one, she might be able to tell you more about it. MSRP is around $400.
You might be able to find a used Marlin Camp Carbine in 9mm.
Hi-Point also makes a neat little 9mm carbine with the MSRP starting at under $300.

CDNN Sports has a Sub200 in their last flyer I received for $299.

[Kahrdriver64]

I've seen good reviews on the Sub2000 and it does fit a niche since it folds into such a small size. The Hi-point just seems too heavy to me. If memory serves they weigh in in the 8 lb range. The downside to both from my understanding is they do not hold up well to high volume shooting. But at their price point they have to be considered.

The discontinued Ruger Police Carbine is another candidate I've looked at, too.

[Kahrdriver64]

Although the 762 nato does a great job at distance, I chose it for its penetration capabilities. Most body armor and most automobiles can't be defeated with the 556 and not many handgun rounds do the job either.

[Ken_K]

For a SHTF rifle I'd have to go with a simple AR-15. 16" lightweight barrel, mid length gas system, an AimPoint or Eotech sight, and a quality light mount and light. As far .223 goes, I have plenty of faith in that cartridge because I don't have to shoot NATO approved projectiles

[Alfonse]

I have a Ruger PC4, it's nice. Consider an M1a, loaded, SOCOM or otherwise as well. You haven't mentioned an Ithaca shotgun which is just another option. You can't really go wrong with anything that's been mentioned.

[Bawanna]

I like the Scout Squad, very similar to the SOCOM but wood stocked.

I blew it, I was looking at them prior to the last election and drug my feet, they more than doubled and completely dried up almost over night.

Now they are available but the price is still ridiculous.

[TheTman]

How about a S&W 629 or Ruger Super Redhawk and a Henry Big Boy in .44 mag? Just kiddin mostly, but that's a pair I'd pack for hunting or self preservation. That Big Boy is a beautiful gun.