Top 3 Best Guns that Every Prepper Should Consider
In today’s unpredictable world, the concept of preparedness has taken center stage. Whether it’s natural disasters, economic instability, or social unrest, more and more people are embracing the prepper lifestyle to ensure their safety and survival in uncertain times. A crucial part of any prepper’s arsenal is a reliable set of firearms. But with countless options available, selecting the right guns can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide explores the top three guns that every prepper should consider. These selections are based on versatility, reliability, ease of use, and availability of ammunition.
1. AR-15: The Quintessential Modern Sporting Rifle
Overview
The AR-15 is often regarded as the “Swiss Army knife” of rifles due to its versatility and modular design. Originally designed by Eugene Stoner in the 1950s, the AR-15 has evolved to become the most popular rifle in America. Its adaptability makes it a perfect choice for preppers who need a firearm suitable for various scenarios, from home defense to hunting and tactical operations.
Key Features
- Versatility: The AR-15’s modular design allows users to easily swap components, such as barrels, handguards, stocks, and optics. This means you can configure the rifle for different purposes, whether it’s close-quarters combat or long-range shooting.
- Reliability: Modern AR-15s are known for their reliability. The gas-operated direct impingement system or piston systems used in these rifles are highly refined, providing consistent performance in various conditions.
- Ammunition Compatibility: The AR-15 is typically chambered in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, both of which are widely available and relatively affordable. Additionally, the rifle can be adapted to fire different calibers with a simple upper receiver swap.
- Ease of Use: With minimal recoil and a user-friendly design, the AR-15 is suitable for both novice and experienced shooters.
Why Preppers Should Consider the AR-15
The AR-15’s adaptability is unmatched, offering a one-size-fits-all solution for various prepper needs. Whether it’s defending your home, hunting game, or participating in tactical training, the AR-15 can handle it all. Its widespread popularity also means parts and ammunition are abundant, which is crucial in post-disaster scenarios where supplies might be limited.
2. Glock 19: The Ultimate Handgun for Personal Defense
Overview
The Glock 19 is a compact, semi-automatic pistol that has gained a reputation for its reliability, simplicity, and effectiveness. Introduced by the Austrian manufacturer Glock Ges.m.b.H in 1988, the Glock 19 has become one of the most popular handguns worldwide, favored by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike.
Key Features
- Reliability: Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability. The Glock 19, in particular, performs exceptionally well under various conditions, including extreme temperatures, dust, and moisture.
- Compact Size: The Glock 19’s compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry while still offering a substantial magazine capacity.
- Capacity: The standard magazine holds 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, with the option to use extended magazines for higher capacity.
- Ease of Maintenance: The Glock 19 is easy to disassemble and clean, making maintenance straightforward even for beginners.
- Customization: A wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories are available, allowing users to customize the Glock 19 to their preferences.
Why Preppers Should Consider the Glock 19
For preppers, a reliable and easily concealable handgun is essential for personal defense in various situations. The Glock 19’s balance of size, capacity, and reliability make it an excellent choice. Its widespread use means that 9mm ammunition and spare parts are readily available, ensuring you can keep your firearm operational even in challenging circumstances.
3. Mossberg 500/590 Series: The Go-To Shotgun for Versatility and Power
Overview
The Mossberg 500 and 590 series of pump-action shotguns are celebrated for their durability, ease of use, and versatility. Since their introduction in the 1960s, these shotguns have been employed by military and law enforcement agencies, as well as civilian shooters, for various applications, including home defense, hunting, and tactical operations.
Key Features
- Durability: The Mossberg 500 series is known for its robust construction. The dual action bars and steel-to-steel lockup provide smooth and reliable operation.
- Versatility: These shotguns can be easily configured with different barrels, stocks, and magazine capacities, allowing them to adapt to various roles.
- Ease of Use: The pump-action mechanism is straightforward and reliable, and the ambidextrous safety makes it user-friendly for both right and left-handed shooters.
- Ammunition Flexibility: The ability to use different types of shotgun shells (birdshot, buckshot, and slugs) makes the Mossberg 500/590 series extremely versatile for different tasks.
- Capacity: The Mossberg 590A1 model, for example, can hold up to 9 rounds, providing substantial firepower.
Why Preppers Should Consider the Mossberg 500/590 Series
A shotgun is a crucial component of a prepper’s arsenal due to its immense stopping power and versatility. Whether it’s for home defense, hunting small game, or even breaching, the Mossberg 500/590 series excels in all these areas. The ability to quickly switch between different loads makes it adaptable to various situations, and its reliability ensures consistent performance when you need it most.
Key Considerations for Preppers When Choosing Firearms
While the specific models mentioned above are top recommendations, preppers should also consider several key factors when selecting firearms:
1. Ammunition Availability
In a survival situation, the availability of ammunition can be a matter of life and death. Choosing firearms chambered in common calibers, such as 9mm, .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, and 12 gauge, ensures that ammo will be easier to find and stockpile.
2. Reliability and Durability
Your firearms need to function reliably under all conditions. Look for models with a proven track record of reliability and robust construction. The ability to withstand harsh environments and heavy use is crucial for long-term survival.
3. Ease of Maintenance
Firearms that are easy to disassemble and clean will be easier to maintain in a survival situation. Simple designs with fewer moving parts generally require less maintenance and are more reliable.
4. Training and Familiarity
It’s essential to select firearms with which you are comfortable and proficient. Regular training and practice with your chosen firearms will ensure you are ready to use them effectively in high-stress situations.
5. Versatility
Guns that can perform multiple roles are invaluable. For example, a shotgun like the Mossberg 500/590 series can be used for home defense, hunting, and breaching. Similarly, a modular rifle like the AR-15 can be configured for various tactical scenarios.
Conclusion
When it comes to prepping, the choice of firearms is a critical decision that can significantly impact your ability to survive and protect yourself in uncertain times. The AR-15, Glock 19, and Mossberg 500/590 series stand out as top choices for their versatility, reliability, and ease of use. Each of these firearms offers unique advantages that make them invaluable tools in a prepper’s arsenal.
The AR-15’s modularity allows it to adapt to a wide range of scenarios, from home defense to hunting and tactical operations. The Glock 19’s combination of reliability, compact size, and substantial capacity makes it an ideal personal defense weapon. The Mossberg 500/590 series’ versatility and power ensure it can handle everything from home defense to hunting and tactical breaches.
By considering factors such as ammunition availability, reliability, ease of maintenance, training, and versatility, you can make an informed decision on the best firearms to include in your prepper arsenal. Remember, the key to effective preparedness is not just having the right tools, but also being proficient with them through regular training and practice. With the right firearms and the skills to use them, you’ll be better equipped to face whatever challenges may come your way in a survival situation.
