[Joe 6-pack]

While not technically a "firearm", on should not overlook a quality pneumatic spring piston or pump pellet rifle/pistol. Ammo is still wayyyyy cheap and portable, and the propellant is free. In an urban or suburban setting one can silently harvest foodstuffs up to rabbit size without broadcasting the fact that you're armed, and save the brass and powder rounds for more serious work. In a breakdown of sanitation services, they can also be invaluable for pest control.

[antiRepublicrat]

Good idea. I have a gas spring Weihrauch match air pistol that should be able to take down most smaller edibles given how far it penetrates a phone book. It’s quite accurate, so a head shot should be able to take down the plentiful geese who think they own the neighborhood.

Speaking of that, propellant. Stay away from spring air, as they are less accurate, have more recoil and the springs can weaken so it’s not a good idea to walk around cocked. IMHO all those overcome the only advantage they have, which is higher muzzle velocity. CO2 ignores the whole point. Gas spring or a single-stroke pump is best, with fairly high velocity, high reliability (especially gas spring), excellent accuracy and a quicker trigger pull.