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I would like everyones opinion on a good defensive rifle.
I am not intersted in using a scope , so it needs to shoot
flat out to around 100 yds.
I am looking into a Ruger mini 14 ranch style in a 223 but
have not made up my mind , just want a good shooter that
I can get some high capacity mags for.
The newer mini 14s are good but some of the older ones were lacking in the accuracy department. The Ruger Pistol caliber carbines are pretty nice too from what I hear. I like some of the offerings from Kel-tec, and they seem to be reasonably priced and reviews are good. These look very nice and take AR mags...
Kel Tec
Kel Tec
Ar-15 hands down.
No other rifle can be as customized or if you prefer a meatier caliber (like .308, 6.8spc, etc) the top end can be changed in minutes. Also availability of magazines makes it a factor. Easily the most versatile platform out there right now...
The AR is King, with the AK being a tough but ugly pretender to the throne.
A .22 mag rifle will get out there...:yup:
It's why I got my Henry lever action .22 mag.:hand10:
For HD a shotgun is tough to beat but for a CQB rifle an AR is king. One thing, you'd better get some earplugs because if you think .223 is loud OUTSIDE get ready for a surprise. Ouch.
I have an AR and agree with all previous posters...you sounded like you were looking for more value and substance than a black rifle per se. I was simply aiming at the best bang for the buck.
I have two that I go to for defense depending on the situation.
Ruger Mini-14: .223, high ammo capacity, quick reloads, good 'varmint' rifle. Have taken many coyotes with mine over the years.
Puma lever action carbine: 45LC, less ammo capacity and slower reloads, better stopping power close range, lighter/easier to handle than the mini. Have taken total of 4 coyotes, none got back up from the first shot. Cannot say that for the 223.
That said; the AR platform is definitely the king, most will shoot rings around a Mini-14. I'm just partial to the feel of wood.
In response to the .22Mag: IMO
I wouldn't stake my life on a .22 rimfire unless there were NO other choice. They have their place, but not as a defensive rifle. (I have a mouse gun that I carry when unable/impractical to carry/conceal anything more substantial.)
Best defensive rifle is the one you are best with.
I have a mossberg 500 and several pistols for in home defense .
I am looking for something that will get their attention as they start up my driveway ( aprox 70 yards ).
Needs to be a good head for the hills weapon also .
Sounds like you already have one. Shotgun with a slug will reach out to 100yards, and for a head for the hills weapon its really good.Quote:
Originally Posted by mjmoore
You can fight with it or get some food up to deer.
TerriLi ,
You are right about the shotgun of coarse , but if I use it I have no reason to buy a new gun .
Best? An AR carbine from a top-tier manufacturer.
An AR15 should fit the bill quite nicely, but they come at a price depending on your budget. I prefer a 12 gauge shotgun for home defense but your mileage may vary. The good thing about the AR15 is you can shoot different calibers to fit your specific needs simply by swapping up uppers.
I used to have a S&W M&P15 that was flawless for me, but there was a recent thread on here about one of them exploding. That wouldn't change my opinion on the rifle, which 'I think is a fantastic black rifle.
Good luck!
The AR's are great right out of the box. And the internet is overflowing with parts and accessories to choose from.