Be Prepared
Fourteen earthquakes of 6.0 or greater magnitude since June 1st (and many smaller ones), the 7th named storm of 2024 is another Category 3 hurricane, major flooding this year in the northeast, a very contentious election year, wildfires, cyber hacking is at an all-time high including threats to our infrastructure and transportation grids. Wars in Europe and the Middle East are threatening to explode into global-level conflicts, and multiple countries are looking for opportunities in all of this.
Imagine a “perfect storm” of multiple events happening at the same time and we lose law and order in the United States temporarily. I’ve written before about being prepared for hurricanes where I covered things like water, food, having a plan etc. including a gun for possible looters. This time though I’m not referring to “the first 72” I’m talking about having to protect yourself and your family for a month or more God forbid.
The SOFREP News Team posted an article about “Top 5 Survival Firearms” recently and I’m not here to debate the validity of those weapons. Instead, I’m going to offer a few thoughts on what types of weapons you should think about having and why I chose the ones I did.
The Primary
Rifle caliber, semi-auto, you should be able to carry plenty of ammo, and most importantly no matter what, when you pick it up and pull the trigger it needs to go BANG. Most people say pick up an AR in 5.56 because everyone else is going to have one and I don’t disagree with that reason. But….. I’m not a fan of the power of 5.56 with 55 grain bullets which are the most prominent and readily available. Is that something you can overcome, yes you can stockpile 60/62/70/75, and 77-grain ammo, start early and good luck.
I chose an AK-47 made by Arsenal, it shoots straight and consistent, has legendary reliability and 7.62×39 is more versatile than 5.56. The gun has other trade-offs, a safety that can be heard at 300 yards, and the sound of the action is unmistakable, but it will go through hell before it fails me.
The Secondary
Pistol caliber, semi-auto, you should be able to carry plenty of ammo, and most importantly no matter what, when you pick it up and pull the trigger it needs to go BANG. This one isn’t hard to debate, most people will agree Glock makes some very reliable handguns, you just have to pick your caliber. I chose 45cal but 9mm or 40S&W are just as good so carry what you are comfortable with.
Backup
Not required but if you have the option I’d recommend a revolver. Some people will say stay semi-auto and the same caliber as your secondary weapon and that’s not a bad idea, just remember the goal of the backup is a last resort. Mine happens to be the Taurus Poly Defender, the 45 Long Colt is very damaging at close range.
Shotgun
12 or 20 gauge? With advancements in shell technology 20 gauge shotguns are seeing a resurgence in popularity especially in female shooters. Now the question is, pump or semi-auto? Pump action shotguns require practice under pressure and can have a greater kick but semi-auto’s can cost more. The two 12 gauge shotguns I have here are devastating weapons and as an added bonus the Remington Vtac is concealable with minimal effort.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
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Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
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