Top 5 Survival Firearms You Should Own

“Better to have it…”

Growing up, my father used to always tell me, “It’s better to have something and not need it than to need it and not have it.” In other words, be prepared. Later on in life, in my military career, those words were more true than ever. Knowing how to survive in difficult situations can literally mean the difference between life and death.

Today, SOFREP is proud to bring to you our picks for the top five survival firearms you should own…because you never know when you might need one.

Survival situations demand readiness, and for many that means having the right firearm. As gun owners, we are often the epitome of preparedness and understand the value of being equipped for any emergency.

Whether you’re hiking, hunting, or simply ensuring your bug-out bag is complete, a survival firearm can make all the difference. These specialized guns are designed to be lightweight, versatile, and reliable, providing crucial support when you need it most.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best survival firearms available, each with unique features that make them ideal for various survival scenarios.

So, what defines a survival Firearm?

A survival firearm is a versatile tool for hunting game or protecting oneself in a pinch. While many guns can serve as survival firearms, some excel in this role. These firearms are often purpose-built, featuring characteristics that make them ideal for survival scenarios. Unlike typical defensive firearms, survival firearms are designed with a focus on hunting and long-term utility.

Features of Survival Firearms

Survival situations often involve being on foot, so carrying lightweight and compact firearms is essential. You want a gun that’s easy to pack and doesn’t weigh you down. Takedown and folding guns are particularly attractive for this reason.

The right survival firearm should be suitable for your environment. In big game country, a .22LR might not cut it, while in the southeast, it could be perfect. Versatility is key; you want a weapon that can handle various situations.

Chiappa Little Badger Xtreme: Best Single-Shot .22LR

The Chiappa Little Badger series is known for its minimalist design. The Little Badger Xtreme takes it further by being incredibly light and compact. It folds and breaks down into a tiny package, measuring just 17 inches long when separated.

It comes with a waterproof case for storage, keeping dirt and debris out of the rifle’s chamber. Weighing only 1.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry and ideal for small game hunting. The .22LR cartridge limits its use to small game and short-range hunting, but it can still be effective in survival situations.

The rifle features adjustable M1-type peep sights and is ready for optics. Although the stock is minimal, it’s enough to get the job done. The Little Badger Xtreme is an affordable and fun little gun that’s perfect for survival scenarios.

Pros

Lightweight
Extremely compact
Decent sights

Cons

Stock lacks support
Slow to fire

Axor Arms PAF12: Versatile Pump-Action Shotgun

Moving beyond rimfire, the Axor Arms PAF12 is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun that folds in half for compact storage. This Turkish import holds four rounds and chambers up to a three-inch cartridge, making it a versatile survival weapon.

The variety of ammunition types for 12-gauge shotguns makes them suitable for hunting different game and for self-defense. The Axor Arms PAF12 is reliable and comes with a decent set of sights. However, it has a spring in the pump that makes it harder to cycle, which is something you might want to remove.

Pros

Folding design
Repeating design
Versatile

Cons

Stiff pump spring

Smith & Wesson M&P FPC: Compact Folding Semi-Auto Carbine

The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is a semi-auto pistol caliber carbine that folds in half, making it highly portable. This 9mm carbine uses S&W M&P pistol magazines and comes with three magazines, allowing you to carry 63 rounds easily.

It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for beginners. The commonality of 9mm ammo ensures you can find ammo easily, and its minimal recoil makes it pleasant to shoot. Although limited in power, it’s suitable for defensive use and can take down game with good shot placement.

Pros

Folding design
Uses common caliber and magazines
Lightweight

Cons

Only a pistol round

CZ 600 Trail Rifle: Compact Bolt-Action

The CZ 600 Trail is a compact and lightweight bolt-action rifle available in 5.56 or 7.62×39.

It’s designed for trail use, with a collapsible stock, making it only 27.2 inches long. Despite its size, it’s highly accurate and reliable, ideal for medium game hunting. This rifle features an M-LOK rail and is optic-ready. It uses AR-like ergonomics, and the pistol grip is replaceable. It’s a bit picky with magazines, working best with polymer ones.

Pros

Lightweight
Super accurate
Great ergonomics

Cons

Polymer mags only

AR-15 Carbine: Versatile and Reliable

The AR-15 carbine is one of the most versatile and common survival firearms.

It’s not the lightest or smallest, but it breaks down for easy packing. Chambered in 5.56, it’s suitable for medium game hunting and self-defense. The AR-15 is easy to accessorize, though adding accessories can increase its weight.

Pros

Super reliable
Excellent versatility
Common and affordable

Cons

Heavier than most

The World of Survival Firearms

Survival firearms come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. When choosing a survival firearm, consider factors such as caliber, weight, and versatility.

The right firearm will depend on your specific needs and environment. For instance, a lightweight and compact rifle might be perfect for hiking in dense forests, while a powerful shotgun could be essential in areas with larger games.

Understanding these differences helps in making an informed decision. Your survival firearm should be reliable, easy to use, and capable of meeting the challenges you might face in a survival scenario.

Caliber Considerations

The caliber of your survival firearm is crucial, impacting both its utility and ease of use. A .22LR, for example, is lightweight and allows you to carry a substantial amount of ammunition, making it ideal for small game hunting and target practice.

However, it lacks the stopping power needed for larger game or defensive situations. On the other hand, calibers like 12-gauge or .308 provide greater power and versatility, capable of handling both hunting and self-defense. These rounds, though effective, are heavier and bulkier, which might limit the amount you can carry during extended survival situations.

Must-Have Accessories

Accessories can significantly enhance the performance and functionality of your survival firearm, but they can also add weight and bulk. A sling is a must-have, providing a convenient way to carry your firearm and ensuring quick access when needed. Optics, such as red dot sights or scopes, can improve accuracy, especially in low-light conditions.

However, it’s important to balance the benefits of these accessories against their weight. Lightweight, essential accessories that complement your firearm without compromising its portability are ideal. Consider the specific demands of your environment and survival strategy when selecting accessories.

Moving Forward

Survival firearms are an evolving niche with many excellent options to choose from.

This guide aims to provide clarity and help you narrow down your choices based on your needs and circumstances. Whether you’re prepping for a wilderness adventure or the zombie apocalypse, having the right firearm can make a significant difference.

Seriously though, consider your environment, the type of game, and potential threats you might encounter when selecting your survival firearm. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision that enhances your preparedness and confidence in survival situations. What’s your top pick for a survival firearm? Let us know in the comments.

Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.