Why every Prepper should have a .22 Rifle:
- The rifles are inexpensive and readily available.
- The ammo is inexpensive.
- The ammo is lightweight, small, readily available (now) and stores/packs easily.
After the Event (A/E), many believe they will be bringing down large animals with their AR or Large Caliber Rifle. In Reality, it is more probable they will be shooting small game, such as, squirrels, rabbits, pigeons, etc. Look around you and what do you see? And while not my first choice, the . 22LR can be used for self defense too.
Popular .22LR options include the Ruger 10/22 Carbine and the Marlin Model 60. Both come in various models with different options. The Standard Ruger Carbine retails for around $200 and the Marlin for about $180. Both can be found everywhere; Walmart, Dicks, Academy and local Hardware Stores. Used versions can be had even cheaper.
Bulk .22LR ammo can be found at the same locations for about $20 for 500 rounds! On-line retailers are also a great resource for .22 ammo. And while there have been shortages in the past, today .22LR ammo is easy to find, so stock up!
My current .22 Rifle platform of choice is the Ruger 10/22 Compact Model #31114. It has a durable, black synthetic stock, highly visible fiber optic sights and a shorter 16.12 inch barrel. Weighing in at only 4.6 pounds, it is a joy to carry!
I use the Ruger BX-25 high capacity 25 round magazines. For those areas where high capacity magazines are prohibited, the Standard Ruger BX-1 10 round magazines work great. Utilizing the Tri Mag Adapter, you can legally connect three of the 10 round magazines together. I use these, as well.
Ruger BX-25 two pack is $51.95
Ruger BX-1 three pack is $47.95
Tri Mag Adaptor is $10.95
So, put aside $300 and get yourself a quality .22LR Rifle, 1000 rounds of ammo and whatever accessories you prefer. After all, every Prepper should have one (or two.)
Peace – until it’s not an option