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When I think about survival guns for outdoorsmen, I think of three scenarios-the first involves using the firearm as an
audible signaling device. The second involves providing meat to stay alive. And the third involves self-defense. Taking things in that order (which may or may not be the order of importance in any given survival situation), we've tried to
define what makes a good survival gun.
Signaling for Help
When an audible signal is what you need, louder is better. The sharp report of a big-bore rifle or large-caliber handgun will carry farther than the puny pifth of a .22-caliber. Shots fired in groups of three are recommended because the three-shot pattern is a universally recognized distress signal. While it might be tempting to fire into the air, safety must be considered, even in the wild. The audible signal will be just as loud if you fire into a tree trunk or a hillside, and you won't have to worry about where those rounds will fall back to earth.
Another concern with signaling is not to "waste" ammo by firing signal shots unless you are pretty
certain someone is within hearing distance. It might
be prudent to save the ammo for other uses. This is a judgment call you'll have to make using the best information you have at the time.
Gathering Food
You can't always count on a survival situation happening in big-game country. If you find yourself stranded at a time or in a place where there's nothing bigger than squirrels or small birds to subsist on, a
big-bore rifle will be less useful for gathering food than a shotgun or a small-bore survival rifle would be.
Conversely, if you're going into bear country, you'll want to carry the largest-caliber handgun, rifle or shotgun you can comfortably handle. That's why it's
important to match your "survival gun" to the area and season whenever possible. While no single gun suits every purpose, revolvers do offer the option of loading the first two cylinders with birdshot to handle snakes or birds and the rest with magnum cast-bullet loads for big game. They're also ideal for close-
quarters combat should the need arise.
The trade-off, of course, is that at ranges beyond 15 yards, a shoulder-fired long gun (whether shotgun or rifle) will greatly improve accuracy. And in common handgun calibers like the .357 and .44 Magnum, rifles so chambered offer significantly less recoil than their handgun brethren, which, in light-framed versions, can kick like a mule. As you are no doubt beginning to see, choosing a survival gun is a series of trade-offs.
Self-Defense
These days, bad things can happen anywhere-even in the backcountry. It's becoming more common to stumble across illegal activity in the woods-meth labs and other drug farms, for example-which can put you in a tough situation. I'm not
going to tell you what to do in that scenario, but it doesn't hurt to figure it out in advance and then be prepared. For self-defense a lightweight revolver is ideal. Here again, you have the option of mixing and matching birdshot loads with hollowpoint defense rounds and cast-bullet loads for hunting larger game. Shotguns also offer you the option of chambering combinations of loads, as do many of the small-bore lever-action and semi-auto survival guns in 9mm, .357 and .44.
Then there's the possibility of an encounter with an aggressive bear or mountain lion. If you're facing the wrath of a large predator and it comes down to shooting the animal to save yourself, you want the biggest and most powerful firearm you can shoot accurately.
Particularly when considering handguns, it's better to use a lesser caliber that you can control and shoot well than to carry a heavy magnum whose recoil makes you cringe every time you touch off a shot. Instead of a .44, perhaps you'll find a .41 or .357 more controllable and comfortable. The besadvice I can offer is to find a local gun store with an indoor range and try
several styles and calibers before you decide to buy. After that, practice until you are totally confident shooting the arms you carry.
So what do these scenarios prove? In some cases a big-bore rifle is preferable because it lets you take larger game at greater distances. At other times, however, a shotgun or small-caliber firearm is preferable (the smaller the caliber, the more ammo you can carry). And if you're packing light for a fishing trip, a revolver is a better fit. So what is the
ideal survival gun? All of the above.
The trouble is that you can't carry all of the above into a survival situation. In fact, any equipment you're hauling should be as lightweight and compact as possible, because every pound you have to carry drains your energy. At the same time, the equipment must be able to do the job. No firearm is perfect for every instance, but there are some choices that are tailor-made for specific situations hunters and fishermen might face.
Stowable Survival Guns
Stowable guns are ideal to slip behind the seat of your pickup, in the back of your bush plane or in the bottom of your canoe, where size and weight are not too much of a concern. This is where traditional survival guns shine-those models that disassemble and stow in small carrying cases that can be broken out for use should you find yourself stuck in the backcountry. Great choices include:
* The Henry U.S. Survival. This takedown .22 weighs just
2½ pounds. It breaks down and all parts fit in the hollow stock.
* Springfield Armory M-6 Scout. This fold-down model is also very compact and offers both .22 and .410 barrels.
* KEL-TEC SU-16 Rifle. This gas-operated, self-loading rifle in .223 Rem. also features a fold-down stock for easy
storage. The stock holds spare magazines and the forend folds down to form a bipod for increased accuracy.
* Marlin 70PSS Papoose. This stainless, seven-shot, semi-auto .22 offers a takedown barrel and synthetic stock. It comes in a padded carrying case.
* New England Firearms' Versa-Pack. This rifle has interchangeable barrels that easily swap over from .22 rimfire to .410 shotgun.
* Savage 24F Predator. This over/under combination gun is available with a .22 Hornet, .223, .17 HMR or .30/30 over a 12-gauge barrel or .22 LR, .22 Hornet, .223 or .17 HMR over a 20-gauge barrel. The takedown action makes storage easy.
* Winchester M-9422 and Marlin M-1894PG. Lightweight lever guns like these offer lots of magazine capacity and the versatility of using either birdshot loads or standard bullets.
* Thompson/Center's G2 Contender. This single-shot is known for accuracy. It comes in a number of different
caliber options, is easily scoped and stows effortlessly.
Backpacking and Backup
When you're carrying the whole load on your shoulders, weight and size are definitely factors. Backpacking trips are the time when carrying a revolver (with a traditional
hammer spur so you can cock and shoot single-action for better accuracy) is ideal. Load the first two chambers with snakeshot, just in case you come across a grouse (or something or somebody that needs a serious bit of discouragement), and load the rest with hollowpoints for self-defense.
One of the new models with a titanium cylinder and alloy frame to save weight (with adjustable hunting sights) is just about perfect. Shorter barrel lengths will save weight and keep your choice compact, concealable and easy to wield.
* Smith & Wesson AirLite SC Revolver. Smith offers a whole family of AirLite revolvers in a number of calibers and configurations. Models like the M-386 Mountain Lite would also be an excellent choice for survival use.
* Taurus M617SS2C. The mini titanium revolver in .357 Magnum is a standout candidate for survival because it
offers a seven-round cylinder instead of the traditional
six-shot yet weighs less than 20 ounces.
* Glock 17. These polymer-framed semi-autos can stand up to practically any abuse from Mother Nature and still function. They also offer plenty of magazine capacity in a small, compact package.
Boats and Canoes
In a boat or canoe, weight is not a significant factor, so just about anything goes. Moisture is an issue, however, so lean toward stainless or marine-grade models and synthetic stocks. All of the handgun choices above will work, as will the following:
* Benelli Nova Pump H2O. This gun features nickel-plated parts and is capable of handling just about any shotgun ammo you can feed through it, from 3½-inch magnum shotshells to slugs.
* Winchester Model 1300 Coastal Marine. This stainless-steel pump is a rugged workhorse available in 12-gauge with seven-shot capacity and 3-inch chamber.
* Mossberg Model 500 Pump Action. Available in synthetic stock with a Marinecote finish, Mariner pumps are ideal for use on boats and are the choice of many saltwater skippers.
Fishing and Wading
In bear country one of the short-barreled, big-bore lever guns or one of the marine-grade pump shotguns mentioned previously is a good choice. Loaded with slugs or buckshot, these guns are easy to throw over a shoulder. Other choices include:
* Remington Model 870 Marine Magnum. This version of the 870 is similar to the classic Model 870 Wingmaster,
except the metal parts are plated with electroless nickel. It has a black synthetic forend and stock.
* Marlin Model 1895GS Guide Gun. This stainless lever-
action in .45/70 packs a lot of punch in a small package.
Bigger still is the new .450 Marlin Model 1895MR.
Shotguns offer great reliability and security if you have to stop a bear while fishing. Browning's BPS pump shotgun and Winchester's Super X2 are solid choices.
Despite your best efforts to be prepared, survival
situations aren't something you can plan on. Inevitably,
circumstances will find you with whatever gun you happen to be carrying; then it's up to you to know how to use it to your best advantage. itanium revolver in .357 Magnum is a standout candidate for survival because it
offers a seven-round cylinder instead of the traditional
six-shot yet weighs less than 20 ounces.
OutdoorLife.com is part of the Bonnier Outdoor Group Network
Copyright © 2009 Bonnier Corp. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
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Comments (20)
i would think the first item on a survival would be the ability to make a fire for warmth /signalling/ and securty/ if we are just talking about weapons choice then any 12ga, pump or auto would fill the bill , after removing the plug you could choose between bird shot for small game double 00 for selfdefense and slugs for taking larger game ,
Excelent article-Proud members of 2 armed services USN&USCG info was rite on!!Definately agree on the combo of handgun and lever gun of same caliber. Good defense for attacks of 2 or 4 footed preditors. Carry ON!!! YOC
true-i need a pistol
THE ONE HAND GUN I BELIEVE EVERYONE SHOULD CARRY WHILE HUNTING OR FISHING FOR A SURVIVAL HANDGUN WOULD BE THE TAURUS 45/410 REVOLVER THE MODEL IS CALLED THE JUDGE. THIS GUN IS LOADED WITH 410 BIRD SHOT OR 410 DOUBLE 00 BUCK AND ALSO 45 CAL BULLETS IT SOUNDS STRANGE BUT CHECK IT OUT,ITS A PERFECT GUN FOR HOME DEFENCE ALSO STAY SAFE.
id say a regular break open barrels 22/410 would work perfectly because it wont break as easy.
ive always thought that if i was to have 1 gun in the house and to survive it would be a toss-up between my remington 870 shotgun or my marlin 1894 38spl/357mag carbine rifle(with mar-shield weather finish)each has their perks with the shotgun you cant miss at close range(25 yards)and can always carry along a few bird shots for small game but it doesnt handle as good in thick brush holds only 5 shots and it weighs more than my rifle also if you was to run into a predator thats interested in you with no time to respond and had a bird shot in the chamber you'd proably be screwed the marlin can take any game fairly accurately with either 38 or 357 at 50-75 yards ive used it to take squirels,rabbits,snakes and whitetail it may possibly take bear i havnt tried it but have hear of people that did it weighs less and handles extremely well in thick brush,holds 10 rounds and less recoil so my moneys on the marlin carbine
Also a good light revolver would be nice i say revolver because theres virtually no chance that its going to hang like a automatic i always carry a pistol in the woods with me i have a rossi 5 shot .38 snub nose its just an old beat up pistol which i have loaded with birdshot and regular bullets as a just in case gun(its one of those guns that if i loose it its not a big deal i only paid $45 for it from a pawn shop)i guess its set up about like the taurus judge 45/410 but with a regular bullet its more accurate at 10 yards because the judge doesnt have a grooved barrel.
Short-barreled titanium magnum revolvers can be problematic. A barrel less than 4 inches will cost you some of the power of that magnum cartridge, negating your choice of a magnum in the first place. A magnum revolver that is too lightweight can also be difficult to control and shoot accurately.
My weapon of choice is dependent upon my AO Area of Operation. If all I will be needing is something for shooting squirrel or rabbit, I take my Caspian 1911 with a Ciener .22 adapter kit. It's accurate, great for small game and carries easily in-holster on my hip. If I will be going to an area where I may encounter, shall we say, more rigorous conditions, I carry a Smith 629 Classic Hunter loaded with Hornady XTP loads. I have a shoulder holster and this gun is effective for wild pigs, deer, and 2 legged vermin should I be accosted by such in my pursuit of happiness. The 629 is not for the faint of heart but is very accurate and trustworthy. What more could one ask for?
The Taurus Judge is a good call but accuracy depleats after about 15 feet or 5 yards with the .45 LC due to the barrel in those pistols arent groved so the bullet misses stabilization so you could get bird shot for a .38 or .357 and still have great accuracy out to 25 yards with practice with your regular round and im checking on a Mossberg M-500 Mariner J.I.C. (just in case kit)which is a mossberg 12 guage pump 18 1/2 barrel with pistol grip,marine cote finish,plastic water tight tube with strap,great looking survival shotgun in a tube im thinking of one to keep in my camper and you can also get a slugster barrel for it from mossberg its something for ya'll to check out i was amazed myself
I have always been well pleased with the choice of a handgun and carbine combo that uses the same caliber. I have several to include, .22, .357, .44, .45 acp, .45 colt. And time after time I find the .357 stainless revolver and the .357 lever action marlin...have proven weight wise and usage wise..the best combo. I can carry the weapns loaded and with a assortment of ammo choices from cci shotshell to heavy 180 grain loads for the rifle....I can handle almost anything. When Backpacking I choose the 3 inch model 60 stailess revolver with adjustable sights and a rubber grip, and slip a ammo wallet of 18 additional rounds in the backpack. 10 125 grain hollowpoints and 8 shotshells, and the gun loaded with 5 more 125 grain .357 rounds. Its a good compromise, as I strongly beleive in having a gun...not dreaming about the ones you COULD of chosen...but didnt as they were to heavy or to many of them.
The Taurus Judge is a great choice. It actualy has a rifled barrel, so the .45 colt rounds are fine. The trouble is that any shot shells will spread sooner because of the twist. But that happens with any rifled barrel, right? In most cases I would opt for a 12 guage with a mix of shells.
i was fly fishing in south east canada and a black bear attacked my buddy. 9mm hydryo shok rounds works perfectly. i fired six time but we only found 5 entrences wounds (bad shoot) (three exit wounds). after the first shot it was a spray and pray. dont underestimate the 9mm
About 10-15 years ago, (time flies when you're having fun) I took care of a guy who had been shot 3 times in the head with a 9 mm. He survived (with significant disability) Since that time I have been a strong proponent of nothing smaller than a .45. A guy I met worked on a Fugitive Apprehension Team (who carried .45's)that was working with Federal Marshals (who carried .40's). They were involved in a shooting with a known felon who was trying to escape in a pickup and fired on the officers. The bad guy was taken out with .45's as the .40's were stopped by the doors of the truck (an old beatup Ford F100 or F150) The guy I met was proud of the fact that the locals were the ones that stopped the bad guy and that the Feds'rounds never penetrated the shell of the truck. There were a lot of rounds fired in the exchange and the bad guy died from big holes in multiple places all over his body. The guy who I met said something like "always go big" He carried a 1911, similar to mine which is what started the conversation to begin with.
Alot of good advice and opinions. I suppose it sums up easiest when you factor in what you're doing in the outdoors as to what type of survival gun you will use. I'm never in the bush unarmed and most of the time I'm hunting so that activity is going to dictate what type of arms I carry. If I'm hunting birds or rabbits with a shotgun I will generally carry my .357 Colt or Rossi .44 Special for critters in need of a little more knockdown power. If I'm hunting with center-fire rifle I will generally go lighter with my Heritage Arms .22 with the first 2 rounds being snake shot. Living in the Southwestern corner of Arizona this has always worked well for me. Back-packers and fishermen who normally go unarmed on their ventures would be well served with any of the advice in the comments section and carry according to threats in their neck of the woods. Foot-note: I found it odd in the movie "Snow-Walker", (great movie), that the main character kept a "Survival" gun in his bush plane. It was a .22LR bolt gun. His route was the Yukon Territories! I think even the marmots there are too big for the .22LR aren't they?
Nomad, the .22 survival rifle was for the mosquitoes up there. If you had seen the size of them, you would understand. A bunch of people I have known who were from Alaska, swear that the mosquito is their state bird.
You might consider the rossi trifecta. Interchangable barels of .22, .243, and 20 guage.
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
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My weapon of choice is dependent upon my AO Area of Operation. If all I will be needing is something for shooting squirrel or rabbit, I take my Caspian 1911 with a Ciener .22 adapter kit. It's accurate, great for small game and carries easily in-holster on my hip. If I will be going to an area where I may encounter, shall we say, more rigorous conditions, I carry a Smith 629 Classic Hunter loaded with Hornady XTP loads. I have a shoulder holster and this gun is effective for wild pigs, deer, and 2 legged vermin should I be accosted by such in my pursuit of happiness. The 629 is not for the faint of heart but is very accurate and trustworthy. What more could one ask for?
Nomad, the .22 survival rifle was for the mosquitoes up there. If you had seen the size of them, you would understand. A bunch of people I have known who were from Alaska, swear that the mosquito is their state bird.
i would think the first item on a survival would be the ability to make a fire for warmth /signalling/ and securty/ if we are just talking about weapons choice then any 12ga, pump or auto would fill the bill , after removing the plug you could choose between bird shot for small game double 00 for selfdefense and slugs for taking larger game ,
Excelent article-Proud members of 2 armed services USN&USCG info was rite on!!Definately agree on the combo of handgun and lever gun of same caliber. Good defense for attacks of 2 or 4 footed preditors. Carry ON!!! YOC
THE ONE HAND GUN I BELIEVE EVERYONE SHOULD CARRY WHILE HUNTING OR FISHING FOR A SURVIVAL HANDGUN WOULD BE THE TAURUS 45/410 REVOLVER THE MODEL IS CALLED THE JUDGE. THIS GUN IS LOADED WITH 410 BIRD SHOT OR 410 DOUBLE 00 BUCK AND ALSO 45 CAL BULLETS IT SOUNDS STRANGE BUT CHECK IT OUT,ITS A PERFECT GUN FOR HOME DEFENCE ALSO STAY SAFE.
ive always thought that if i was to have 1 gun in the house and to survive it would be a toss-up between my remington 870 shotgun or my marlin 1894 38spl/357mag carbine rifle(with mar-shield weather finish)each has their perks with the shotgun you cant miss at close range(25 yards)and can always carry along a few bird shots for small game but it doesnt handle as good in thick brush holds only 5 shots and it weighs more than my rifle also if you was to run into a predator thats interested in you with no time to respond and had a bird shot in the chamber you'd proably be screwed the marlin can take any game fairly accurately with either 38 or 357 at 50-75 yards ive used it to take squirels,rabbits,snakes and whitetail it may possibly take bear i havnt tried it but have hear of people that did it weighs less and handles extremely well in thick brush,holds 10 rounds and less recoil so my moneys on the marlin carbine
About 10-15 years ago, (time flies when you're having fun) I took care of a guy who had been shot 3 times in the head with a 9 mm. He survived (with significant disability) Since that time I have been a strong proponent of nothing smaller than a .45. A guy I met worked on a Fugitive Apprehension Team (who carried .45's)that was working with Federal Marshals (who carried .40's). They were involved in a shooting with a known felon who was trying to escape in a pickup and fired on the officers. The bad guy was taken out with .45's as the .40's were stopped by the doors of the truck (an old beatup Ford F100 or F150) The guy I met was proud of the fact that the locals were the ones that stopped the bad guy and that the Feds'rounds never penetrated the shell of the truck. There were a lot of rounds fired in the exchange and the bad guy died from big holes in multiple places all over his body. The guy who I met said something like "always go big" He carried a 1911, similar to mine which is what started the conversation to begin with.
Alot of good advice and opinions. I suppose it sums up easiest when you factor in what you're doing in the outdoors as to what type of survival gun you will use. I'm never in the bush unarmed and most of the time I'm hunting so that activity is going to dictate what type of arms I carry. If I'm hunting birds or rabbits with a shotgun I will generally carry my .357 Colt or Rossi .44 Special for critters in need of a little more knockdown power. If I'm hunting with center-fire rifle I will generally go lighter with my Heritage Arms .22 with the first 2 rounds being snake shot. Living in the Southwestern corner of Arizona this has always worked well for me. Back-packers and fishermen who normally go unarmed on their ventures would be well served with any of the advice in the comments section and carry according to threats in their neck of the woods. Foot-note: I found it odd in the movie "Snow-Walker", (great movie), that the main character kept a "Survival" gun in his bush plane. It was a .22LR bolt gun. His route was the Yukon Territories! I think even the marmots there are too big for the .22LR aren't they?
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
true-i need a pistol
id say a regular break open barrels 22/410 would work perfectly because it wont break as easy.
Also a good light revolver would be nice i say revolver because theres virtually no chance that its going to hang like a automatic i always carry a pistol in the woods with me i have a rossi 5 shot .38 snub nose its just an old beat up pistol which i have loaded with birdshot and regular bullets as a just in case gun(its one of those guns that if i loose it its not a big deal i only paid $45 for it from a pawn shop)i guess its set up about like the taurus judge 45/410 but with a regular bullet its more accurate at 10 yards because the judge doesnt have a grooved barrel.
Short-barreled titanium magnum revolvers can be problematic. A barrel less than 4 inches will cost you some of the power of that magnum cartridge, negating your choice of a magnum in the first place. A magnum revolver that is too lightweight can also be difficult to control and shoot accurately.
The Taurus Judge is a good call but accuracy depleats after about 15 feet or 5 yards with the .45 LC due to the barrel in those pistols arent groved so the bullet misses stabilization so you could get bird shot for a .38 or .357 and still have great accuracy out to 25 yards with practice with your regular round and im checking on a Mossberg M-500 Mariner J.I.C. (just in case kit)which is a mossberg 12 guage pump 18 1/2 barrel with pistol grip,marine cote finish,plastic water tight tube with strap,great looking survival shotgun in a tube im thinking of one to keep in my camper and you can also get a slugster barrel for it from mossberg its something for ya'll to check out i was amazed myself
I have always been well pleased with the choice of a handgun and carbine combo that uses the same caliber. I have several to include, .22, .357, .44, .45 acp, .45 colt. And time after time I find the .357 stainless revolver and the .357 lever action marlin...have proven weight wise and usage wise..the best combo. I can carry the weapns loaded and with a assortment of ammo choices from cci shotshell to heavy 180 grain loads for the rifle....I can handle almost anything. When Backpacking I choose the 3 inch model 60 stailess revolver with adjustable sights and a rubber grip, and slip a ammo wallet of 18 additional rounds in the backpack. 10 125 grain hollowpoints and 8 shotshells, and the gun loaded with 5 more 125 grain .357 rounds. Its a good compromise, as I strongly beleive in having a gun...not dreaming about the ones you COULD of chosen...but didnt as they were to heavy or to many of them.
The Taurus Judge is a great choice. It actualy has a rifled barrel, so the .45 colt rounds are fine. The trouble is that any shot shells will spread sooner because of the twist. But that happens with any rifled barrel, right? In most cases I would opt for a 12 guage with a mix of shells.
You might consider the rossi trifecta. Interchangable barels of .22, .243, and 20 guage.
i was fly fishing in south east canada and a black bear attacked my buddy. 9mm hydryo shok rounds works perfectly. i fired six time but we only found 5 entrences wounds (bad shoot) (three exit wounds). after the first shot it was a spray and pray. dont underestimate the 9mm
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
As the writer mentioned the choices of survival firearms can vary based on what you are doing in the woods. A guy fishing a remote river with a casting rod and pack of tackle may find a long firearm more hassle than it's worth. The guy on the long hike is adding up the weight of his food and essentials, his weapon must be light. The point is you pack the gear you have to have related to your activity in the wilds in order to have a safe and fun outing, then choose the firearm that accommodates your needs. A pack of matches, some insect repellent, a piece of jerky, a bag of trail mix, extra socks or a GPS address the real and constant risks in the wilds...nevertheless in my years in Alaska and Northern Alberta I always had room for a firearm. Hell, that's half the fun of owning one, if your biggest concern is starving then the .22 is in the pack or on your hip. If the Brown bear of grizzly is likely to be sharing your favorite fishing spot then you carry the biggest rifle you own and suffer its weight gladly. The firearm people have been pretty innovative lately in turning out breakdown guns and compact guns so there are some fun choices out there. So pick your dream survival gun as you plan from the comfort of your living room; but, make no mistake the mosquitos are more likely to be eating you than the bears.
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