Gotta disagree with the author on several points.
(2) — he doesn’t even mention wheelguns. I would highly recommend something like a good, used .357 revolver, because they’re simple, reliable, and in variants with a long enough barrel suitable for hunting. .44 Mag is too much, .41 Mag is too difficult to find ammo for.
(4) I’d recommend a bolt gun over a semi-auto every time. They’re more accurate, more reliable and for beginning shooters, they force a consideration of the shot rather than an attitude of “oh, I can follow up quickly.” There’s tons of bolt guns out there in ‘06 or ‘06-class rounds that are popular, or .308.
I completely agree with his recommendation of a 12-ga first, tho. If someone has the budget for only one firearm, make it a reliable 12ga.
Actually he does mention wheelguns and says they are too hard to reload. I think most 5 year olds could master a speedloader. And that’s the thing ... a wheelgun is pretty simple for a novice to use. Sure, slapping in a magazine is easier than a wheelgun reload, but how about clearing a jam or dealing with a misfire? Then suddenly the Glock is a Block for most family members.
Not exactly... from the article:
Although oceans of ink have been printed on the best pistol forpersonal and home use, most of the arguments come down to either a revolver of some sort, something in the Glock family or a Colt 1911-style pistol.
The author mentions that there are lots of choices out there, but clearly states his personal preference.
I don't know how long this has been out, but a couple of other Freeps and I have posted very similar lists in the last few days. Where we varied from him was that we said have a revolver and a semi pistol, revolver in the .357 range and the pistol in .40 or .45, we also recommended a .22 pistol. A couple of guys recommended something in a .223, as if it's really an end of civilization scenario, most of the ammo available will probably be stuff scavanged from NATO or UN sources.
Whether bolt or semi-auto on the rifle is not a huge consideration to me. I have semi-auto, so will stick to it. If I had bolt, I'd stick to it.
Exactly what you said, as a matter of fact.
I'll take a pump shotgun, .357 revolver, .30-06 bolt-action and a nice, high quality Kimber .22 myself.
Basic, easy to clean and maintain, they'll shoot any ammo ('specially the revolver(s)) and difficult to break.
AND THEY DON'T GO FLINGING YOUR EMPTIES ALL OVER THE PLACE WHEN YOU GO SHOOTING!
(JMHO. YMMV.)
he doesn’t even mention wheelguns
I agree, that should be on the list. They are practically foolproof.
Come to think of it, my Remington 870 12 Gauge will do the same thing. LOL