Sunday, September 30, 2012

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Protection: Shotguns







photograph by
Staff Sergeant Joseph Roberts

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part One: 6 Reasons You Need One

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Two: Choosing Gauge and Type

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part  Three: Choosing the Gun

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Four: Understanding Loads

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Five: Myths Explained

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Six: Cleaning and Maintenance

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Seven: Accessories You Actually Need

Survival Cache: Survival Shotgun - Part Eight: Mossberg M500SP Loadout


Friday, September 21, 2012

Firearms for Preppers, SKS Rifle


The SKS rifle was manufactured by about seven countries, Russia, China, East Germany, Romania, Yugoslavia, North Korea, and Albania. Notice, I wrote 'was.' The SKS rifle is no longer manufactured by most of these countries; however, a prepper can still purchase a SKS from their local firearms dealer, mostly likely a Chinese or Yugoslavian surplus rifle.


Yugoslavian M59/66 SKS Rifle
by
Thomas Powell

By now, most folks know a little about the SKS rifle. For those preppers that don't or those who would like to know more; I have provided two links (in the link section, of course)

My Family's Situation
We live in a suburban area, like most preppers, so we need a rifle that accurately shoots about  300 meters (325 yards). Plus, we are on a budget, but not that tight of a budget.

Some folks would recommend a Mosin-Nagant rifle at about $100, each. For a family of four that would set you back about $400 for the rifles, another $200 for 1600 rounds of surplus ammo from the 1970's, and another $200 for accessories like cleaning kits, slings, and ammo pouches, $800 total.

But,

The Mosin-Nagant rifle kicks (recoils) like a mule. Not really, but most women and some men will have difficulty shooting a Mosin-Nagant rifle. Children will find it nearly impossible to shoot.

Other folks would recommend a M16/AR15 series rifle. At about $1.000 each, the rifles would set your family back $4.000. Plus, you'll still need magazines, ammo, cleaning kits,  slings, and the necessary kit to carry the magazines, another $2.000, $6.00 total.

My Family's Solution
We decided on the SKS rifle for several reasons. First, for about $400 per rifle I can budget $100 a month for about six months and have a rifle, 500 rounds of ammunition, and other accessories. In two years, my family and I can have four rifles, ammo, and other necessities for under $2.500 total.


Another reason, we choose the SKS; all you really need is the rifle and some ammo. There is no need to purchase magazines, like the AR-15 rifle, for the rifle to effectively shoot.

Lastly, we choose to buy SKS rifles because If we upgrade, we will purchase AK-47 series rifles for the adults. All of the ammunition and most of the tools and other necessities will transfer to the AK-47 type-rifle, but none of the spare parts : - (

Modifications to the SKS Rifle
Chinese SKS Rifle
Bought Used for Under $200
The SKS is a very good rifle, the way it is. I wouldn't make any modifications to the rifle.

That means ...

No extended magazine

No collapsible stock

No rail system

No pistol grip

No telescopic sight

No detachable magazine

No recoil buffer

However,

For some folks, especially folks with older eyes, adding the SKM Mojo sight or the TS-100 Tech sight to the rifle would be helpful.

Spare Parts
Many decades ago, some survival writers suggested getting a second rifle to use as a source for spare parts. Not very smart. : - (

Now a days, you can shop on-line at SARCO Inc. or Numrich Gun Parts Corp. for spare parts for your rifle. I mean any rifle; just not the SKS.

But what spare parts to get?

First, do you really need spare parts? If you're planning for a short disaster, like a hurricane, you don't need spare parts. If you're planning for a long-term disaster, you'll want to store some common spare parts for you'uns' SKS rifles.

Firing Pin
Firing pin retainer

Extractor
Extractor spring

Ejector
Ejector spring

Magazine follower
Follower spring

Recoil spring, Complete assembly

Front sight

Tools and Other Almost Necessities
I'll repeat myself; "all you really need is the rifle and some ammo." Needless to say, every prepper owning a SKS rifle should plan on buying some tools and other necessities for their SKS, to increase the rifles utility.

First, after ammunition, I would suggest a way of carrying the ammo, like ammo pouches or carrier. The soviets (an example) and the DDR (an example) have a little pouch that holds loaded stripper clips or loose ammunition, buy two for each rifle and a belt. The Chinese had a ten-pocket canvas pouch that held 180 to 200 rounds of ammo on stripper clips (an example).

Next, I would suggest a cleaning kit because your rifle needs to be cleaned. The one that comes with the rifle will do, but a U.S. military .30 caliber cleaning kit (an example) is a higher quality. Either way, you will want to add an old (clean) tooth brush, an used (clean) t-shirt, some .30 caliber rifle cleaning patches (an example), and a small bottle of oil.

Oh, don't forget a ruptured case/broken shell extractor.

Empty and Loaded Stripper Clips
Next, you'll want some stripper clips. These hold ten rounds and allow a quick reload, with practice.

Remember, your family needs to practice, practice, and practice some more on new skills, especially quickly reloading your SKS rifle with 10-round stripper clips.

Almost lastly, you and your family will want a sight adjustment tool; there are two types. First is the tool that only adjusts for elevation, up and down (an example). Second is the tool that adjusts for elevation and windage, left and right (an example).

Finally, you'll probably want a sling; unless, the rifle came with one.

Lastly,
I'll say it again. The SKS rifle is probably the best rifle for most urban and suburban preppers because it's reasonably priced, rugged, and needs only ammunition to be functional for you and your family.

Link:
Wikipedia - SKS Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SKS

William Sanders - Meet the SKS
http://www.sff.net/people/sanders/sks.html

Yooper John's SKS: Battle rifle of many nations - Section 26
http://yooperj.com/SKS-26.htm
Note: Neat page with two cut away SKS rifles showing the inside of the rifle. Plus, check out the home page for more information.

Pistol Craft - SKS-56 Instruction Manual (html)
http://www.pistolcraft.com/sks/

The Firearm Blog - SKS Manual
http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2007/08/23/sks-manual/

Wonder How To - How to Disassemble and Clean an SKS Rifle
http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-disassemble-and-clean-sks-rifle-152187/


Note:
The following links are supplied for information only. If you have a company you would like to add, write a comment. If you want to complain, call the company.

Ammunition Dealers

Ammo Man - Home
http://www.ammoman.com/

Bulk Ammo - Home
http://www.bulkammo.com/

Cabela's - Home
http://www.cabelas.com

Cabela's - Ammunition
http://www.cabelas.com/ammo-ammunition.shtml

Cheaper Than Dirt - Home and Ammunition

Note:
After Cheaper than Dirt's actions in late 2013, early 2014. I'll never do business with them again. Ever!

Lucky Gunner - Home
http://www.luckygunner.com/

The Sportsman's Guide - Home
http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/Main.aspx?

The Sportsman's Guide - Ammunition
http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/sitemap/ammo-and-shooting.aspx?d=121

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Firearms for Preppers, AK-47 series Rifle, Part Two


A few hours ago, I posted an article about the AK-47 series rifle for preppers that focus on the very basics. This article is going to cover some of the stuff and pictures I left out.


Blackhawk Chest Pouches AK-47
with
Magazine and Stripper Clips
First, you need to have something to carry your magazines. Blackhawk has an inexpensive ($75ish with shipping) chest rig that holds four 30-round magazines that's 150 rounds, ready to go. (120 rounds in the chest rig and 30 rounds in the magazine in the weapon)

For most preppers that 150 rounds is going to be just right. Remember, preppers/survivalists aren't soldiers. As Dr. Who (Matt Smith) says "Run"

Yes, as preppers, you and your family should run away from danger as quickly as possible. Remember, it's about surviving 'til the next day.

Blackhawk Chest Pouch
with
Pouches 'Open'
Next, to the right, here is a picture showing the chest pouches 'open.' You can also see the two pistol magazine, on each side of the rig. You can also notice the velcro closures for the pouches, if you expand the picture.

Now, this rig is a very basic chest rig. The shoulder straps are unpadded, but the straps are wide enough to distribute the weight of the loaded magazines.

One of the downsides, it only comes in coyote brown for an AK-47 series rifle, but that is a good thing too.

Because, ...

Coyote is a good all around color for your family's tactical gear.

Firearms for Preppers, AK-47 series Rifle


First, I would like for you to read the article and comments at Says Uncle (Prepping Stuff) about Firearms for Preppers, SKS Rifle. His readers have some good things to add.

OK, you're back, so let's begin.

You will probably never see a 'real' AK-47 in your local firearms store because an AK-47 rifle is a Class III weapon. These types of weapons require a $200 tax stamp and some federal paper work to purchase, but you will find many semi-auto versions of the AK-47 series rifle. Like the SKS, the AK-47 series rifle was and is made by many countries, including Venezuela.

The Situation
Needless to say, the typical prepper lives in the city or suburbs, so they will need a rifle that can effectively engage villains, say, out to 300 yards (275 meters). The AK-47 series rifle can do this.

My Rifle


My AK-47 series rifle is a Romanian ???. I bought it a few years ago for about $450, including taxes. The rifle has a fixed stock because I have shot an Polish AKM with an under-folder wire stock, a real one, in the military. It was difficult to get a comfortable cheek weld.

The rifle came with one magazine : - (

The Recommendation
Now, some folks disagree with me about the SKS rifle. They feel an AK-47 series rifle is better since you can purchase one for the same price as an SKS.

Let's take a look.

First, the rifle is about $400, maybe $450. Next, you'll need ten (10) magazines, at least. That's $100 to $150 for ten. Next, you'll need something to effectively carry the magazines. Blackhawk has a simple chest rig, another $75.

Total $575 to $675, just for the rifle and a little bit of kit. Definitely not $400.

But, but, but!!!

You're right. I bought one, and I'm planning to buy another one.

Why?

Remember that spiral of purchases. I mentioned many months ago.

My family and I are ready to "Buy-Up" on our protection preps. Since we started with SKS rifles, the 'best' choice for our next purchase is to buy two AK-47 series rifles, one for me and one for my partner. The kids will keep their SKS rifles until they move out or go to college.

Modification of the AK-47 series Rifle
I would leave the rifle just the way it is. No collapsible stock, rail system, telescopic sight, or recoil buffer. The only modification I would make is installing Tech-sights, for the AK rifle, on the firearm.

Spare Parts
Many decades ago, some survival writers suggested getting a second rifle to use as a source for spare parts. Not very smart. : - (

Now a days, you can shop on-line at SARCO Inc. or Numrich Gun Parts Corp. for spare parts for your rifle. I mean any rifle; just not the AK-47 series rifle.

But what spare parts to get?

First, do you really need spare parts? If you're planning for a short disaster, like a hurricane, you don't need spare parts. If you're planning for a long-term disaster, you'll want to store some common spare parts for y'alls' rifles.

AK-47 Exploded View
from
http://www.schiessen-erzgebirge.de/Blueprints/ak47ddr.gif

Firing Pin (23)
Firing pin retainer (24)

Ejector (25)
Ejector spring (26)
Ejector Retaining Pin (27)

Recoil spring, Complete assembly (29-32)

Front sight (9 and 11) and rear sight (12, 14, 15-17)

Tools and Other Necessities
First, after ammunition, I would suggest magazines, magazines, and more magazines. Detachable magazines are the weak point in most semi-auto firearms designs, except the SKS.

P.S. Buy the magazines from AIM.

Next, I recommend a way of carrying the magazines.

Next, I would suggest a cleaning kit because your rifle needs to be cleaned. The one that comes with the rifle will do, but a U.S. military .30 caliber cleaning kit (an example) is a higher quality. Either way, you will want to add a clean tooth brush, an old t-shirt, some .30 caliber rifle cleaning patches (an example), and a small bottle of oil.

Oh, don't forget a ruptured case/broken shell extractor.

Stripper Clips and Stripper Clip Guides
Next, you'll want some stripper clips and a stripper clip guide. The guide fits over the top of the magazine, making it easier to speed-load the magazine.

Almost lastly, you and your family will want a sight adjustment tool; there are two types. First is the tool that only adjusts for elevation, up and down (an example). Second is the tool that adjusts for elevation and windage, left and right (an example).

Finally, you'll probably want a sling; unless, the rifle came with one.
Lastly,
Isn't it great. You and your family probably already have all this stuff because you built-up your protection preps with the SKS rifle before you spiraled to an AK-47 series rifle purchase. Cool, huh.

Link:
Wikipedia - AK-47
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AK-47

Wired.Com - How the AK-47 Rewrote the Rules of Modern Warfare
http://www.wired.com/magazine/2010/11/ff_ak47/all/1

Wikibooks - Marksmanship
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Marksmanship

Note:
You will have to come back for the pictures. I'm taking my girlfriend out for a movie, so no pictures, yet.

Firearms for Preppers, M16/AR15 series Rifle, Part Two


This should really be "Part One." Oh, well.



M16A1 Rifle with 30-round Magazine

The M16 rifle is a lightweight rifle that most people, including children, could easily shoot. It is used by about 70 countries worldwide.

However;

You will probably never see one in your local firearms store because a M16 series rifle is a Class III weapon. These types of weapons require a $200 tax stamp and some federal paper work to purchase.

Now, the firearm you will see at your local firearms dealer is an AR-15, or some variation since AR-15 is a registered trademark of Colt Firearms. Either way, if you ask to see an AR-15, the clerk will hand you something in black and 5.56 mm.

5.56 mm (.223 caliber) is the diameter of the round (see Week Five - Guns) the rifle uses. The military round will work in a civilian rifle. Heck, civilian rifles have the same identical parts as the military rifle, almost.

My Family's Situation
Just like the SKS rifle, we live in suburbia, like most preppers. Since houses are close and ranges are short, the AR-15 series rifle is also a good rifle for the urban and suburban prepper.

Plus, there is a plentiful supply of spare parts and magazines.

Spare Parts
Just like the SKS rifle, you and your family are going to need to stock spare parts for a long-term disaster, if that's what you're preparing for. If not; don't.

Now, I was an armourer in these United States Army, so I have some experience. First, you need an extractor, an extractor spring with an extractor spring insert, and an extractor pin. After that, you'll need a firing pin retaining pin and a firing pin. Add a front sight for 'just in case,' and that should be it.

For those worried about very long-term stuff, you'll need to add an ejector, ejector spring, and ejector roll pin, action spring/buffer spring, and all of the lower receiver springs and pins. Plus, you will need a rear sight assembly, just in case.

Michael J. Sherman
at
stealthboy.com

I wouldn't get an extra bolt carrier or a bolt because I never saw one fail, ever!

But,

It's up to you and your family; what you buy.

Modifications to the AR-15 series Rifle
As you saw from the first part of the M-16 series rifle article, there are many modifications that can be done to this rifle.

The only modification I would recommend would be to install a quality collapsible stock. The mod will allow everyone in your family to comfortably shoot the rifle, until you get one for them.

Tools and Other Necessities
You are going to need magazines, magazines, and more (Are They Crazy??? $53) magazines. I would feel ok with ten (10) magazines per rifle, but, I would be looking to obtain more, just in case, that's how important magazines are. At about 20 to 25 magazines, per rifle, I would feel all warm and fuzzy.

Next, a cleaning kit is required (an example).

After that, you going to need some kind of kit to carry at least three magazines.

Lastly, a front sight tool and a sling to carry the rifle would top-off my preps for this rifle. On the sling, I wouldn't buy anything fancy. I would stay low-speed and buy a new or used U.S. military silent sling. Unless, you and your family have been to an Appleseed class then you might purchase a M-16 DMP Sling, a M-16/A2 sling, or a M-14 sling.


Link:
Wikipedia - M16 Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M16_rifle

Wikipedia - AR15 Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AR-15

Wikipedia - 5.56 × 45 mm NATO
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5.56×45mm_NATO

Noveske Rifle Works - TM 9-1005-319-10
http://noveskerifleworks.com/impdf/ar15manual.pdf

AR-15.com - TM 9-1005-319-23&P
http://www.ar15.com/content/manuals/TM9-1005-319-23.pdf

Firearms for Preppers, M16/AR15 series Rifle


The last couple of years, my nephew "Forest" has been working for these United States' ...., and one of his responsibilities is to carry a rifle and pistol for work.

Ha, you thought I was going to tell you? ; - )

His Rifle


Forest's Patrol Rifle

The M16/AR-15 series rifle has a flat-top upper receiver, Magpul ACS stock, ACOG sight, a Tango Down pistol grip, and a Magpul handguard with a broomstick vertical foregrip and a flashlight mounted.

The ACOG TA31F sight has an illuminated ranging reticule. Forest also has Magpul MBUS (Magpul Back Up Sights) as backup sights just in case the ACOG fails for some reason.

The flashlight is a (I forgot) with the pressure tape (turns the flashlight on/off) mounted to the broomstick vertical foregrip.

Now, I'm an old school soldier (I had a XM-177E1 style-rifle when I was younger) so I had a few questions about his reasoning behind his rifle.

The Collapsable Stock
Forest likes the Magpul ACS collapsible stock for many reasons. First, the stock locks in two places this keeps it from unexpectedly collapsing. Second, the stock allow him to adjust it to what he is wearing. Body armour - make it shorter; Summer uniform - make it longer; Winter uniform with bulky coat - make it shorter. Plus, a collapsible stock allows for a 'quicker' draw from his vehicle.

I like the ACS stock because it's a lot more comfortable then the old school XM-177E1 collapsible stock.

Handguard
Forest and I grew up with standard handguards that you would find on the M-16A2 rifle. Since he has become a ..., he has had a chance to use handguards with rails.

Forest likes them because he can mount a flashlight and the broomstick vertical foregrip on his rifle. For his line of work, the vertical foregrip allows him better control of his rifle, and the light ... well, it illuminates the dark.

He also like these handguard because they are more "grippy" then others that he has tried.

I tried the foregrip. As a former Infantryman, I think it would be a pain in the *ss shooting from the prone, but shooting standing, kneeling, or squatting. The broomstick vertical foregrip is kind'a comfortable.

Lastly, he cautioned me about selecting handguards made of aluminum or some other metal. He said they can get hot, if you fire a bunch of rounds.

The Scope and Backup Sights
At about $1.000, the ACOG sight with an illuminated ranging reticule is probably out of range for most preppers, but Forest sees the scope as a necessary cost for work.

So, I am not going to dwell on this too much, but I am going to tell you some of his thoughts.

* The lower priced ACOG scopes are OK.

* A red reticule is better at night, and a green reticule most folks will concentrate on

and,

* When choosing what reticule to purchase, go with what you know. Forest likes crosshairs because he grew up using crosshairs.

Lastly, you have to practice with your scope. Shooting at the ranges; your scope can handle.

Magazines
We were talking about magazines. He really likes the H&K 416 magazines. They are steel and very rugged, but at $40+ a piece, they are too expensive. He has tried and really likes Magpul Pmags, especially at $15 or less a magazine.

The Pmag is what he carries for work.

We also talked about US military M16 magazines. We decided they are the best for most preppers, inexpensive and plentiful.

M-4 with a C-MAG 100-round magazine
by
 Staff Sgt. Leopold Medina, Jr. 
Lastly, we got to talking about Beta Mag's 100 round magazines. Forest has used them. Forest said, if sand gets in the Beta Mag, it's finished. He also said, you have to use the special graphite lube that comes with the magazine, or it's finished.

Almost lastly, at $150 to $300 a piece, you and your family could buy 15 to 30 USGI 30-round magazine this would give you 450 to 900 rounds loaded, ready to shoot, compared to 100 rounds in the Beta Mag.

Lastly, he also said if the Beta Mag 100-round magazine jambs after the first three or four rounds, you are going to dump (through a magazine change) over 90 rounds of ammo. Ouch

Lastly,
Forest made a couple of good points while we were talking and one of those points stuck with me.

"You need to be great with your basic rifle before you add all these accessories to your rifle. Because all this stuff are just cheaters, they won't make you a better shooter."

Link:
Military.com: Kit-Up - AFG, Vertical Grip or No Grip
http://kitup.military.com/2011/11/afg-vertical-grip-or-no-grip.html

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Firearms for Preppers, ... Pro/Cons of the Rifles


French Garde Nationale Soldier
with Tabatière rifle (ca 1870)
source
unknown


The last two articles in this series, I wrote about bolt action rifles and semi-auto rifles. This article is about some of the pros and cons of these rifles.

All of the bolt-action rifles, I listed, are rugged rifles. They were designed by the military to be used by soldiers that had little experience at war. They have survived, for over 100 years, for many reasons. They work, they are relatively simple, and millions were manufactured.




Members of the Sydir Kovpak Partisan Detachment
with Mosin-Nagant Rifles and scopes (ca 1940s)
source
Ukrainian or Ukrainian SSR


Mosin-Nagant
The Mosin-Nagant rifle design is over 100 years old, and there is a problem with that. The Mosin-Nagant lacks a safe method of expelling gases, if a cartridge is ruptured during shooting. In other words, the hot gases will shoot back into the shooter's (your) hand or face, if there is an accident. Ouch!!!

Another problem with the Mosin-Nagant is its cartridge. The cartridge isn't used by any major country, so you will have to stockpile more ammo.

There are a few great things about the rifle. The rifle and its ammo are inexpensive, so a prepper on a very tight budget can at least afford a military-grade rifle. 

 
Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk I (ca 2007)
photograph by
M62


Lee-Enfield
Just like the Mosin-Nagant, the Lee-Enfield is a 100 year old design, but the Lee-Enfield has a safe way of expelling gases from a ruptured cartridge case. Just like the Mosin-Nagant, the Lee-Enfield .303 round isn't used by any major military, so you will have to stockpile ammo for this rifle. Lastly, the Lee-Enfield is a little bit more expensive then the Mosin-Nagant.


Mauser M-1898 Rifle
The Mauser '98 rifle, except rifles rebarreled to 7.62 NATO, primarily uses the 8mm cartridge. The 8mm isn't used by any major military power, so you have to stockpile more ammo, again. Plus, certain '98 Mausers are a little bit more expensive then the Lee-Enfield.


Springfield 1903 series Rifle
Just like the first three rifles, the 1903 Springfield rifle uses a cartridge that isn't used by a major military power. The rifles have become collector items, so they are a lot more expensive then any of the other bolt-action rifles mentioned in the previous articles.


CETME/HK-91/PTR-91 Rifle
CETME rifles are inexpensive, HK-91 rifles are very expensive. Magazines for CETMEs are expensive, but the CETME can use inexpensive HK-91 magazines. Almost lastly, CETME will probably need some work from a professional to insure the rifle is reliable. Lastly, the HK-91 messes up the cartridge case making it hard (almost impossible to reload)


FNFAL
Parts are cheap, but magazines have gotten expensive. ($20+) Plus, it's a long rifle, but according to Boston's Gun Bible, it is #2 after the ...


M1A
The M1A is a great rifle, but it has problems. You must cant the magazine to load the rifle. It's expensive, some versions of this rifle are very expensive. Magazines, in the past, can be very expensive, so you will have to make sure you stockpile a lot of M1A magazines, upfront. Lastly, a plus, the M1A uses a cartridge that is used by most major militaries.


AR-15
There is a reason the AR-15 is still used by these United States military. The rifle is easily used by a solider because of the AR-15's ergonomics and light weight. The 5.56 NATO cartridge is a lot smaller and lighter than the 7.62 NATO cartridge, so a person can carry more 5.56 ammo. Plus, parts are plentiful and magazines, too.

but,

The rifle and ammunition has problems. The current ammo (M855) can easily penetrate a person (not wearing body amour), so you use 2 or 3 shoots to finally kill a villain. Plus, it's the 'evil' assault rifle everybody wants to ban, just like the ...


AK-47 series Rifle
The rifle is rugged, designed to be used by peasants, but it has problems. The 7.62X39 cartridge is basically like the Winchester 30-30, so the round has some limitations. The rifle is loose, so it's not as accurate as other rifles. Plus, the folding stock (underfolder wire stock) sucks if you plan to use proper firing techniques. Plus, the 7.62X39 cartridge isn't used by these United States military.

but,

The AK-47 is inexpensive, and it uses 30-round magazines.


SKS
I believe the SKS rifle is the best all around rifle for the urban and suburban prepper. It is inexpensive, and the SKS doesn't need a detachable magazine. Most members of your family will be able to shoot the rifle. Plus, it doesn't need a lot of gear to make it an effective defensive rifle, but it has limitations.

The magazine only holds 10 rounds, The 7.62X39 cartridge doesn't have a lot of distance making it a poor weapon for the rural prepper.


Semi-Auto Vs. Bolt-Action Rifles
I have a bias towards semi-auto rifles because of my military experience. I believe semi-autos are faster in the follow-up shot, and you don't have to get out of your firing position to load another round. Modern magazine fed semi-autos also allow a prepper to reload the weapon a lot faster then a bolt-action rifle.

But,

A bolt-action rifle, especially the Mauser '98 and the Mosin-Nagant, have less parts when compared to most semi-auto. Bolt-action rifles are also not sensitive to ammo. If the ammo goes bang and the bullet will leave the barrel, a bolt-action can shoot it. A semi-auto on the other hand has a limit to what kind of ammo the rifle will properly shoot and function properly.

And,

The bolt-action rifles in 7.62R, .303, and 30.06 are long distance man killers. The semi-autos in 7.62X39 and 5.56 have a limited range.

And,

Semi-autos are usually more expensive then bolt-action rifles. Plus, (except for the SKS) semi-autos need detachable magazines to easily load a cartridge into the rifle, an added expense.

Note:
I have excluded many military-type rifles from this list because I believe rifles like the Israeli Galil, Swiss K-31, Daewoo DR200, Sig Sauer 556, Valmet M76, Mauser 1893 and 1895 series of rifles are either too rare or unsafe because they lack modern safety features.

With that said,

I have provided a brief overview of the military-style rifles available for you and your family to defend yourselves during a disaster, so make sure you do more research and choose a rifle for you and your family's needs.

OK, one last bias.

I believe the typical hunting rifle is inadequate for defensive purposes because the rifle was designed to only be shot, maybe, 20 times a year while a surplus military rifle was designed to be shot a few hundred times in a day.

Now, don't get me wrong. The typical hunting rifle (Savage, Ruger, Winchester, Sako, Marlin, Weatherby, and many others) with a quality scope would make great precision rifles (sniper rifles) for the prepper.

But, honestly ...

Do you have the time to learn all of the skills a sniper needs (camouflage, tracking, stalking, range determination, lead, and ...) to survive?

Firearms for Preppers, ... Semi-Auto Rifles



A Romanian Soldier, Nenciu Marian,
stands guard duty,
Craiova, Romania (1996)
photograph by
TSGT. Russ Pollanen

Last article, I highlighted the most common military bolt-action rifles from Russia, Great Britain, Germany, and these United States. This article, I will highlight the military-type semi-auto rifles commonly available to the prepper/survivalist.

Prices were found at Gun Broker. Magazine prices were found from various places on the internet.


SKS


SKS Rifle
by
BigBattles, cropped and retouched by Atirador

The SKS rifle was built, primarily, by the soviets and the Communist Chinese. It has a 10 round internal magazine that can be loaded with a stripper clip or individual rounds. The rifle fires the 7.62X39 cartridge, same as the AK-47.

Price: $300 to $500 Magazines: 10 round internal


AK-47 series Rifle

Soviet AK-47, first model variation
by
Cpl. D.A. Haynes

The AK-47, I am writing about is the semi-auto rifle you will most likely find in your nieghbors' hands or the local gun shop. It is a variation of the AKM rifle used by/against every nation on this planet.

Note:
Yeah, yeah, I know it's a little technical, but my point is if you have a "real" AK-47, you better have the $200 federal tax stamp to go with the rifle, or you're going to prison.

The AK-47 series of rifles uses a 30-round magazine. There are some less common (kind'a rare) 20-round magazines for the rifle. The AK-47 rifle fires the 7.62X39 cartridge, just like the SKS rifle.

Price: $475 to $1.000 Magazines: $10 to $20 each




CETME and HK-91

CEMTE B
by
Muretperplagun

Retractable and fixed stock versions of the H&K G3 rifle
by
Edmond Huet, DCB Shooting

The CETME and G-3 are basically older brother (CETME) and younger brother (G-3) The   civilian version of the G-3 is the HK-91. 'Real' HK-91s run in the $2.000+ range. A variation that is less expensive is the PTR-91 rifle. All the rifles use a 20-round magazine.

The CETME can use CETME magazines or inexpensive G-3 magazines (aluminum or steel), but the HK-91 can't use CETME magazines.

Price: CETME $600, HK-91 $1.600+, PTR-91 $1.150 Magazines: CETME $9.00, HK-91 $2.50 each


FN FAL

German G1 Rifle
by
Kevin Murray

Belgian FN FAL
by
Atirador

FN FAL
by
Joe Loong

British L1A1
by
Jan Hrdonka

The FNFAL was used by about 90 nations. With all these countries using the FN FAL there are basically two variations, inch and metric. The inch pattern rifle was used by the British Commonwealth solider, and the metric version was used by everyone else.

The FN FAL fires the 7.62 NATO cartridge and has a 20 round magazine. There are 25 round and 30 round magazines available.

Oh yeah, according to Boston's Gun Bible, the FN FAL is #2 to the ...

Price: $1.000 to $2.000+ Magazines: $15 to $30 each


M1A

M1A Rifle with Bayonet
by
Kafziel

The M1A is the semi-auto version of the M-14 rifle. It uses a 20-round magazine, and it fires the 7.62 NATO cartridge.

Price: $1.500 to $2.500+ Magazines: $20 to $50 each


LAR-8, SR-25, AR-10, and ...

AR-10 T
by
Martin Lotz

These are the bastard 'big' brothers of the AR-15/M-16 series of rifles. They all fire the 7.62 NATO cartridge.

And,

The various rifles are all different and most (if not all) parts are non-interchangeable between each model of rifle. Plus, they all use a different magazine.

So,

They suck for the prepper planning to be able to access a large pool of spare parts and inexpensive magazines like the ...

Price:


AR-15

AR-15 A3 Tactical Carbine
by
Stag1500

The AR-15 rifle is the semi-auto version of the rifle carried by these United States' military, M-16 rifle and M-4 carbine. Parts are plentiful and magazines are inexpensive. Plus, it is an easy to shoot rifle with a light recoil for most shooters.

The fires the 5.56 NATO cartridge. There are 20 and 30-round magazines for the rifle.

Price: $750 to $1.500 Magazines: $10 to $20 each


Mini-14

Ruger Mini-14
by
LWF

The Ruger Mini-14 rifle is, basically, a scaled down version of the M-14. The rifle fires the 5.56 NATO cartridge. Normally, 10-round magazines are provided with the rifle. 20-round magazines are available at $40ish a piece.

Price: $500 to $800 Magazines: $35 to $50 each


M1 Garand

M1 Garand with Three En-bloc clips
by
Curiosandrelics

The M1 Garand is a WWII era rifle. It shoots the 30.06 cartridge, same as the 1903 rifle.


Price: $600 to $1.000 Magazine: Uses an En Bloc Clip $1.00 to $1.50 each



Links:

SKS Rifle

Wikipedia - SKS
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SKS


AK-47 Rifle

Wikipedia - AK-47
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AK-47

Wikipedia - AKM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AKM

Wikipedia - WASR series rifles
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WASR_series_rifles


CETME/HK-91/PTR-91 Rifle

Wikipedia - CETME
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CETME_rifle

Wikipedia - HK G3
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heckler_%26_Koch_G3

Wikipedia - PTR 91F
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PTR_91F


FN FAL Rifle

Wikipedia - FN FAL
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FN_FAL

Wikipedia - L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L1A1_Self-Loading_Rifle


M1A Rifle

Wikipedia - M-14
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M14_rifle

Wikipedia - M1A Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M1A_rifle


LAR-8, SR-25, AR-10, and ...

Wikipedia - SR-25
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SR-25

Wikipedia - AR-10
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AR-10


AR-15 Rifle

Wikipedia - M-16 Rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M16_rifle

Wikipedia - AR-15
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AR-15


Mini-14 Rilfe

Wikipedia - Mini-14
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mini_14


M1 Garand

Wikipedia - M1 Garand
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M1_Garand

Firearms for Preppers, ... Bolt Action Rifles


Two Soldiers Firing Their Rifles (ca 1880 - 1890)
source
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Gift of Mrs. Robert Ingersoll Aitken

These articles (here, too) are an overview of the most common military-type firearms available to the prepper/survivalist. I will provide links (in the links section) for more information.

Prices ranges for the rifles, I found at Gun Broker. Price for ammunition was ... later


Mosin-Nagant Rifle


Mosin Nagant series of rifles
by
Antique Military Rifles

From Top to Bottom

1. Model 1891
2. Model 1891 "Dragoon"
3. Model 1907 Carbine
4. Model 1891/30
5. Model 1891/30 with 3.5x PU scope.
6. Model 1938 Carbine
7. Model 1944 Carbine
8. Model 1959 Carbine







The Mosin-Nagant series of rifles have been around for over 100 years. The rifles were primarily manufactured by the Russian and soviets (after they took over). The rifle shoots a 7.62x54mmR cartridge.

Price: $75 to $200


Lee-Enfield Rifle

Lee Enfield Mk I (1903)
by
Armémuseum
(The Swedish Army Museum)

Lee-Enfield Mk III (No 1 Mk 3)
by
Armémuseum
(The Swedish Army Museum)

Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk.1 (1944)
by
Victor

Lee-Enfield No. 5 MKI "Jungle Carbine
by
www.adamsguns.com

Rifle 7.62mm 2A1 (1966)
by
Commander Zulu

The Lee-Enfield series of rifles have been around for over 100 years, in various configurations. They were manufactured by the British, and some Commonwealth countries, from just before WWI to just after WWII. The rifles shoots .303 cartridges.

There is an exception, the Rifle 7.62mm 2A/2A1. These rifles were made by the Indians, in the 1960s, and the rifle shoots a 7.62 NATO cartridge.

Price: $200 to $500+


Mauser M-1898 Rifle

Mauser M98 Rifle with Bayonet (1905)
by
Vaarok

German Gewehr 98 (1916)
by
Adams Guns

Karabiner 98K in mint condition (1940)
by
Armémuseum
(The Swedish Army Museum)

Yugoslavian M48: version of the German K98
by
Antique Military Rifles

Polish Wz 29: version of the German K98
by
Antique Military Rifles

Spanish FR 8
by
Klewitz-Shotgun

The Mauser 1898 series of rifle were primarily manufactured by the Germans, during WWI and WWII. The M1898 is the most advanced design of the Mauser series of rifles. The German version of the rifle shoots a 8x57mm JS (8mm Mauser) cartridge.

There were some Mauser M1898s that are designed to shoot 7.62 NATO. I know of one rifle the Spanish FR-8. The Israelis converted (rebarreled) their '98 rifles to shoot the 7.62 NATO cartridge.

Price: $250 to $750+


Springfield 1903 and 1903A1 Rifle

Rifle Springfield 1903

Rifle Springfield 1903A1

Rifle Springfield M1903A3

The Springfield 1903 series of rifle was introduced by these United States just before WWI. The rifle shoots the 30-06 Springfield cartridge.

Price: $500 to $1.000+

Note: Sporterized rifles are are a lot cheaper, $300


Links:

Mosin-Nagant Rifle

Wikipedia - Mosin–Nagant
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosin-Nagant


Lee-Enfield Rifle

Wikipedia - Lee-Enfield
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee-Enfield

Wikipedia - Ishapore 2A1 rifle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishapore_2A1_rifle


Mauser M-1898 Rifle

Wikipedia - Mauser: Model 1898
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauser#Model_1898

Wikipedia - FR-8
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FR-8


M1903 Springfield Rifle

Wikipedia - M1903 Springfield
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springfield_1903