Anything is better than nothing when it comes to self defense. I would probably wait and buy a 223 later if it's not to long of a wait.

 

A .22 is better than nothing but according to posts I've read here there are 5.56 ARs that are good and half the price of the Colt.

 

What is your budget for an Ar? Do you have a shotgun now?

 

No I dont have a shotgun, I had one for a while and sold it back to the store after a few years for pennies because my work slowed down so much, (never again would I sell a firearm) As far as budget, Im hoping to get more work and be able to get a good quality AR , right now I can only spend about 400 or 500.. Man I miss the days when business was good, I wasnt into guns back when money wasn't an issue, I just carried a handgun for self defense but thats about it. These days, I really enjoy learning about all kinds of firarms, range practice and looking to train someday.

 

IMO everyone should own a Ruger 10/22. It's hard to beat its reliability, versatility, and fun factor for the price to purchase and shoot.

 

my next purchase will probably be the breakdown 10-22

 

At that budget, maybe used would be possible. Or save a bit more. I've seen new S&W Mp-15 for ~700-750, the base model. Windham weapon about 800-850, for Ar. But 400-500, you could get a pretty decent shotgun with no problem

 

Second for the Ruger 10/22
1). reasonable priced
2). fun to shoot
3). ammo is cheap
4). detachable magazines

of course now is the time to purchase the ar.

 

I see a german wood AK22LR GSG Kalashnikov for 299.99 but Im guessing thats a cheap peice of crap?

Also see a Ruger mini-14 .223 for $599

also a czech 32ACP lol Im spinning, thanks for the opinions, well see what happens..

 

at 300 for a 22lr, I would get a10-22. The mini-14 is a great gun, but it lacks the modular nature of the Ar.

 

Have you thought of a KelTec SU16? they are a 223 rifle , and go for $460.

Kel-Tec SU-16-A Sport Utility Rifle 223 19" - Impact Guns

A couple of friends have them. They use AR mags, and have been trouble free for the last two years. The other side of the coin is everyone needs at least one 22 rifle. it will easily pay for itself in ammo cost savings. And you will learn the rifle basics with it. DR

 

With that budget you can likely find and get BOTH the shotgun and a .22 rifle if you shop around and/or look at used firearms. Or you can get a 12ga to .22 LR adapter (yes it's possible, but I'm really just kidding)