These are unprecedented times we find ourselves in and with civil unrest in many areas of the country and so much uncertainty much of the firearms and ammunition supply has dried up. While we can point fingers to all those that failed to stock up and prepare accordingly, that not very productive. So this article is dealing with the current situation NOW – not 6 months or 6 years ago. There are many who are just now looking to purchase a firearm. Available choices are slim.
For those wishing to purchase a firearm for the first time here are a few ideas in no particular order:
.22LR Semi-Auto Rifle
When it comes to self-defense the #1 rule is to be armed. Next – being able to hit your target while engaging the threat is a must. The topic of the .22LR being used for self-defense has been discussed numerous times. It’s not the best self-defense round. Everyone knows it. ‘Nuff said.
Why?
Ruger 10/22’s are still available online for purchase and at some Wal-Marts and other sporting goods stores. They are inexpensive and immensely reliable. While .22LR ammunition has become more difficult to find, it is available and inexpensive compared to all other calibers. Magazines with capacities ranging from 10 to 25 rounds are readily available and can function very reliably.
Shotgun
Shotguns of various configurations are available from most gun dealers, online, and at Wal-Mart and other stores that carry firearms. The most versatile firearm made, the shotgun is an extremely capable firearm for medium to short distance self-defense. Shotgun ammunition is still readily available.
Lever Action/Bolt Action Hunting Rifle
Take a gander at your local gun shop long gun area and it will still be filled with lever action and bolt action rifles. These are most often looked at as hunting firearms. Lever actions have an advantage over bolt actions in reloading speed. This is the case for most people. Bolt actions generally have an accuracy advantage due to their longer barrels and better triggers.
Numerous calibers in lever actions are available and include .30-30 Winchester as the most common. This ammunition can be found on shelves right now. Bolt actions can be found in a variety of calibers including .243, .270, and .308 which all can be found readily available in most gun shops.
None of these are perfect for self-defense. Some have advantages where others do not. No pistol is represented. This is on purpose as most ammunition in pistol calibers have skyrocketed in price and are difficult to find.
So – comment below. What would you recommend?
Take care all!
Rourke
All three are good options.
As a kid, the 10/22 was my only option, for various reasons. Never felt bad about having it, myself. The people who were laughing at me, and saying I should get a galil, etc, never actually had those expensive guns, themselves. Just ‘knew better than me’.
Now, my packmate has a pretty, purple 10/22, all kitted out, and I don’t have a problem with that, at all.
A 10/22 in your paws is better than a HK in a picture of your tactical periodical.
Have you checked out the Mossberg shockwave?
Very nice, especially in 20 gauge. Recoil is very manageable.
Nice alternative to handgun challenged folk.
Sounds like a good choice for smaller framed people, youths. .410 is better then nothing too
I agree.
I actually have a Shockwave with a “brace” installed. A review is upcoming. It is in 12 gauge and recoil is minimal with mini-shells. I have the adapter installed that all the use of mini-shells. With mini-shells the capacity is increased quite a bit.
I hope you include a pic in the review. Have not seen one with a brace, yet.
Yes looking forward to this review and more information and pictures. Thanks for sharing. I’m looking for another lever action but having trouble getting it in my area.
– Keep Looking Up
I love the looks of the brace. Any more information about the adapter for the mini-shells?
– Keep Looking Up
Any firearm is better than no firearm. -and make sure you have more ammo than you
think you will need. Arlene
Very true!
I’ve recently been considering the Lever Action. Its “innocent” appearance could make it ideal in less forgiving states so to speak.
That is a benefit of the lever-action. It does not attract the attention some other firearms do.
Advice appreciated-what handguns would you recommend for a woman ? Thanks.Arlene
Its entirely dependent on you, hand size, purpose, what you are comfortable with, what state you live in etc. A reputable dealer will let you hold each one and explain laws for open carry vs conceal. Some have ranges that you can test fire AND there should be knowledgeable staff to answer competently all your questions/concerns. There are national stores that have good staff but I usually prefer mom n pop type store fronts. If you are uncomfortable for any reason with the personnel, leave and go somewhere else. Many places offer female friendly/only classes.
As a suggestion I would steer you towards steel frame handguns; less kick
Whiskey- thanks for your information. I once rode a horse named Whiskey- he was fast -smile !!! Arlene
bolt action for reaching out and touching something .308 / 6.5 – yes there’s bigger and better but for being able to attain ammo…
lever for “blending in” or general purposes – 30/30 / .45-70
small game and general annoyance – 10/22 – quiet mode(ish)
shtf – desert tech mdr with backup pump action 12ga (all modded to personal preference)
last resort – semi 9m / 45 / 357. Once again personal preference and ammo thats available
You can argue the efficacy of each and personal preference; many many articles out there to reference.