Firearms for the Homestead

[chrissum]

We only keep two.....a 16 gauge shotgun with slugs and shot rounds and a .22 rifle. Both are used as tools for varmints, hunting or protection, if need be. No need to complicate things. Now, if we lived where bears were more prevalent we might pack something a little heavy duty in addition to the two usual homesteader's guns.

You can buy a whole lot more ammo when you only have two guns!

 

[Beekissed]

The ammo is more available and cheaper if they are a more common gun like these two. They are versatile and all that is needed for simple homestead living.

 

[the funny farm6]

it helps us that our friend reloads most types of ammo.

 

[BarredBuff]

I think that Homesteaders should have a good selection of common, reliable weaponry.

 

[heatherlynnky]

Shotguns are impressive home protection...even if you are a poor shot, you are gonna hit somethin' with a shotgun. Not much room for error at close range.

I agree, I bought the longest dang shotgun. 12 gauge. Man I love that thing. People look at you funny when you say momma wants a new shotgun. Makes the best noise when you are getting ready to fire. Its sounds distinctly like something to run from. Mine is mostly for predators. I got one with a choke on it. I figure big( 2 legged) or little predators i can probably take them out with it.

We have the 22, something high powered and the shotgun at present. We just had this discussion and automatic's came into the conversation as did handguns.

I do agree though. stocking up bullets gets a bit much with more than 3. Right now its right where i can handle it. I order stuff in for him before he even knows he was low on it. If it got to be more complicated I'm not sure how easy it would be to A) keep up with it all B) Store a proper stock of ammo for each.

 

[Jared77]

If I was unarmed and wanted firearms Id start with a 12 gauge with both a smooth barrel and a rifled barrel. Many times you can get a package deal and get both barrels when you buy the gun. Much cheaper than buying them separately. The smooth barrel is good for small game, birds (both waterfowl and upland birds), and home defense. The rifled barrel with sabot slugs will give you increased range (especially with the new rounds they are coming out with I know the Hornaday SST your looking at a flat trajectory at 150 yards which is plenty far enough for most hunting situations with open sights on your slug barrel.

Plus lots of places sell 12 gauge ammo. Its easy to find, and a variety of pellet sizes will cover you in most situations. Its nice to have a point and pull kind of gun

Id also get a revolver. Less moving parts, easy to clean, reliable, and come in a lot of different calibers. Good for close quarters, and a good back up to your 12 gauge.

Id also look at getting a .22 which is another great caliber for the homestead as many have already outlined.

That's what Id have as a foundation/at a minimum

 

[Boogity]

Smart people never discuss their armament.

 

[BarredBuff]

Smart people never discuss their armament.

We dont discuss what we have just try and brainstorm

 

[Jared77]

Smart people never discuss their armament.

Is exactly why I put

If I was unarmed and wanted firearms Id start with

The key word being if. I was just outlining where Id guide someone if they asked. The rest is up to you, but I feel those are essentials. I'm with Barred on this one, its just brainstorming session.

 

[Beekissed]

Smart people never discuss their armament.

Really smart people don't fear dying or the loss of their armament...it's a temporary setback in a mere blip of existence on this planet.