[Wildalaska]

OK now hear me out....avoiding all the usual welliftheycometogetemillblowemawayitwillneverhappenanywayiwouldhideeminthebushes canned responses...lets just say...for whatever reason....

YOU...CAN...ONLY...HAVE...ONE...GUN!!! JUST ONE...FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS......

So which one...and why...rifle pistol or shotgun?
WildletseethisoneAlaska

[Gillster]

I'll play. I'd take a Smith and Wesson 627 8 shot .357 magnum. I can and do hunt whitetail here with that caliber, it's a little big for carry but would suffice and is more then adequate for personal protection and I can still use it for steel challenge, bowling pins, falling plates and in a pinch, even IPSC shooting, easy on and off for optics. Plus, I just prefer revolvers. My $.02

[goon]

I would have to go with my M39.
There are more logical choices but I just love that gun. My "plan" is to put away enough reloading components that I can shoot it for the rest of my life and not have to worry about ammo considerations.
If I could only keep one, the Finn would be it.

[Zeke Menuar]

My Tupperware Special

M700 ADL Synthetic. 270 Winchester. Hits the target the first time everytime. For five years it was the only rifle I had.

ZM

[BigBlueEyedDevil]

M1 Carbine.

Self Defense, hunting, whatever.

[olyAR73]

AR-15. I have plenty of ammo, mags, and spare parts. It will handle engagements from point-blank out to 500m. Easy to clean and maintain. Ammo and parts are abundant.

Am I allowed a scope and halo sight in your restrictive fairytale world? :D

[wasrjoe]

870. Hunting: Buckshot, birdshot & rifled slug. Home defense: buckshot & slug. CCW: Pistol grip and a really short barrel combined with a big jacket. :evil:

[4570Rick]

M-1A

[Preacherman]

Saiga in 7.62x51 NATO (.308 Winchester). Plenty of power to handle any game animal in the Lower 48 States; excellent anti-personnel performance if need be; reliable as all heck, being based on the legendary AK-47 action; hi-cap magazines hold 20 rounds, standard hold 8; built-in rail for scope, red-dot sight, or night vision; etc.

[Black Majik]

A Colt Government 1911.

First its handy. Not as much to carry around. Easy to find ammo for. And I'd rather have a sidearm than a rifle/shotgun.

I know im in the minority here, but my concentration is mainly pistols instead of rifle and shotgunning.

[one45auto]

If I had to trim down to only one firearm, period, I would have to go with my Winchester Model 94 Trapper chambered for the .357 Magnum. With its 16" barrel it would be handy enough for home defense at close quarters, yet powerful enough to reach out and touch someone at distances of 100 yards and over - which, in a SHTF scenario, would be the limit of my field of fire from the house. (Besides, target identification beyond that range is somewhat unreliable, as I wouldn't want to drop just anyone with a gun since it might be a fellow THR member or other friendly.)

[71Commander]

My 1971 Combat Commander. Out ot 100 yds, it would get the job done easily without any head breaking calculations. POA=POI (for the most part). It would still allow me to have something to get up close and personal if needed.

[Tamara]

A 4" round-butt Model 19. If it can't be done with that gun, it probably doesn't really need doing. :)

[El Tejon]

Rifle, something lightweight, short-action, .308 would be good. Thompson Center or something with multiple calibers might work as well.

Rifle is the queen, fills the most needs.

[BigG]

You really know how to hurt a guy, Wild! OK, I would keep my Beretta 1201 autoloading riot gun. Sort of a modern day version of the minuteman musket and suitable for taking tasty fowl and stags, too. ;)

[Red Label]

Do it all with a 12ga Remington 870 :cool: Not the gun I always grab because I have selection, but if there was no selection that would be the only one I would need. :)

[psyopspec]

I vote pistol, 1911 type. Something like a Kimber Custom Eclipse because if I can have only one gun, damnit, it's gonna look good. :cool:
Also happens to be the most reliable firearm I've ever owned. I live in a city, so hunting really isn't a consideration, and I don't have any distances for home defense that a 1911 couldn't handle. Therefore, defense of home and self would be my main priorities, and a pistol would allow me to keep the option of CCW.

[ClarkEMyers]

I'd try to finesse with 2 sets of barrels on an O/U - 12 gauge and .30-'06 - otherwise a drilling or even a vierling. Maybe some subtubes for the shotgun barrels?

For one handgun, it would be a 1911 in 10mm with an Ace conversion or a Service Ace or a Marvel.

Let me stretch it a little and I'd add an N-frame, and a Steyr Scout and a .22 (or maybe a .17) rifle.

[joeoim]

I have a Norinco MAK-90 with a thumbhole stock.

It's surprisingly accurate, simple, easy to clean, reliable, I have a boatload of ammo for it (7.62X39), there ia a lot more out there.

I hate that it's chinese, but it's a good shooter.

Easy choice.

Joe

[sm]

Gov't Model of 1911.

I like Tamara's pick as well.

There is that new Ultitactimate that recently came out. You folks haven't seen this? Oh this bottom feeder converts to wheel gun/pump/auto and comes with a stock that expands/ collaspes and will fire any rd from .22lr to .88 magnum.

sifyoubuildittheywillbuyitm

[Smoke]

A guage...always a gauge.

Mine would be my 870. Only one and it's not a shotgun? :what:

This I do not understand. :scrutiny:

Smoke

[Wild Bill]

Tough call!

First thought’s a para FAL. Does it all from game to defense. It’s portable (if a bit heavy), and easy user care and cleaning. Nice all-around choice.

Second thought is Marlin 30-30. It’s hard to leave an old favorite behind.

Final call (yes Regis, this is my final answer) … Tamara and I will be a nearly matched pair. Model 19 - the real go anywhere do anything popgun for just about all situations. I'll take mine in the 2 inch version please.

WA – why you wanna make us think so hard on a Saturday morning? Working up the next group buy? :neener: :D

[Tamara]

Rifle is the queen, fills the most needs.

Too hard to find an IWB for. :D

If I can only have one gun, it's gonna be one gun I can tote all the time. You can sorta hunt with a magnum wheelie, but you can't sorta CCW a carbine. :uhoh:

[Pappy John]

S&W .44 mag. Mountain Gun.
Accurate enough to hunt with, light enough to wear all day, and very flexible in its diet. From gallery loads to 300 gr stompers. I've never tried to conceal it, but I imagine it could be done with the right leather.

[BeLikeTrey]

I can make my own black powder, don't have to worry about brass availability, can use as a makeshift shotgun if needed, and am not beholden to any technology related issues. (brass, reloading dies, commercial powder availability, primers, etc). Can I have a bow too? (for those times that repacking that beast will take too long or I need a no-noise solution)

-Call me old fashioned :cool:

[Soap]

Brockman Practical Rifle w/ every accessory that enhances function.

[Sistema1927]

In my present world, if I had to "get by" with one weapon, it would probably be a Glock 26.

However, in any world that limited me to only one gun, I would probably choose my AR-15 instead.

[El Tejon]

Tamara, well, good thing I live in an open carry state, although I do get a lot of looks at the grocery store. :D

[M2 Carbine]

Probably the best all around gun (that I own) is a Bushmaster M4.
I've got many dozens of rifles and pistols to choose from, some I like much better than the M4 and I'm not the biggest AR15 fan. Some of the other guns will do a particular job better than the M4 but this rifle will do almost everything well enough.

Cheap to shoot, accurate, plentiful ammo, reasonably small, reasonably powerful, good parts availability and most important of all, it's fun to shoot. :)

[carpettbaggerr]

but you can't sorta CCW a carbine. Speak for yourself. You're just petite, darlin'. But you're right about the .357wheelie -- I'd go with my S&W 686.

[armoredman]

Plasma rifle, in the 40 megawatt range.

[mamba]

An 870 would be a good all-rounder.

[sfhogman]

My Springfield 1911. Couldn't part with it.

[jefnvk]

Rem. 870

Big enough for self defense, capable of shooting small game and birds, and also big enough to hunt deer with.

[Desert Dog]

Ruger Blackhawk, 45 Colt

[RON in PA]

Three inch S&W model 65.

[Darkside852003]

M1a

[Lt. G]

12 gauge pump shotgun. I can use slugs or buck shot. That should take care of defense and eatin' needs.

[s&w 24]

given the choice of one and only one I would have to go with a sst custom 1911 in 10mm with a 16" 410/45 colt single shot bbl, sholder stock adaptable mainspring housing,a marvel 22 lr kit, and 2 old springfield armory single shot units in 7-08 and 358 win.

[Ky Thunder]

Smith and Wesson Mod.65 3 inch barrell.

[cheygriz]

AR-15

No question. didn't even have to stop and think about this one! :)

[Okiecruffler]

If I could have only one it would have to be a 12g pump from one of the big 3. And with a hacksaw and alittle imagination, a pump can become a CCW. :D

[Exposure]

Select fire M-14. Knockdown power, high magazine capacity, most important, reliable in all climates and conditions. With a sling for easy carry and a bipod for stabilization, well, what more could you ask for?

[Joe Gunns]

.30-30 lever carbine.

[Standing Wolf]

I'm keeping all my guns, thanks all the same.

[turbonatr]

Glock 20.

'nuff said.

[Onmilo]

.45-70 Rifle.
A good one can be loaded to near .458 magnum ballistics.
It can also be loaded with .457 lead round balls and light charges for small game and in a pinch it makes a dandy .410 shotgun.

[photo_guy]

I'd go with my 1911A1 since I am most comfortable with it. Also,on a technicality, I have slide assemblies for 9mm, 45, and .22LR for this "one gun" so I could convert it as needed to different calibers.

[lycanthrope]

M4 style AR. Good for HD. Good enough to bag most game. Good enough for SHTF. Has decent range and good stopping power up close. Ammo is cheap, easy to stockpile and you can carry a lot if you need to.

[mountainclmbr]

Well, :)

MountainWildalaskacangivemetherestofhisifheneedstocutbacktoonegunclmbr

[CB900F]

Wild;

Well, if'n ya aint a-gunna get all technical, I'll take one, just one, BB. Yup, you got it, a BB gun. Of course I want mine in gray, just like they paint most of the U.S. Naval battleships. And if'n I get my choice, I'll take the Iowa.

900F

[Harbinger]

Freedom Arms in .357 with a 5 1/2" barrel.

[Wakal]

Simple choice, complex answer. AR15 lower (since that is the only part that is a "gun" ;) ).

7" pistol upper with a short buffer tube, collapsing stock and a 14" barrel, belt-fed upper, 24" long-range upper, 9mm upper, .45 upper, .50BMG upper...

Ah, variety...with only one gun :neener:




Alex

[spacemanspiff]

psshhaaawwww! i'd have my ruger mkii .22lr. ammos lightweight, can carry far more of it than anything else. slap a red dot on it and i'm good to go!

:neener:

[Charles S]

You have posted a question I have given much thought to. If I could only have one gun it would be a 4 inch medium frame stainless steel revolver. I would prefer adjustable sights and an optic mounting system. I could hunt with this gun, but I would also feel comfortable with it as a day to day carry gun.

Charles

[Red Tornado]

Since most of what I is punching holes in paper (or TEOTWAWKI), I'd probably go with my M1 Garand, if limited to what I currently own.

However, if I could trade in for just one...I'd probably go with something supremely reliable and an intermediate cartridge like a lever action 30-30 or .357. I think of the settlers in the Old West who had one gun, and I think it was most often a lever 30-30.

The real question, WildimgonnastarttroubleandnotanswermyselfAlaska, is what would you choose?
RT

P.S. It's really hard to type without automatically hitting the space bar. :scrutiny:

[sm]

You didn't get the memo?

Wild removed his spacebar - yep. He sold it as " da switch" to a fellow at a gunshow...even tossed in a bag of pork rinds and some Jerkey on the deal...
:D

[Smoke]

45-70 Rifle. ... and in a pinch it makes a dandy .410 shotgun.

Yeah, but that rifling can be hell on your pattern.

Smoke

[Dr.Rob]

The 12 ga. shotgun is the SUV of firearms... it's not the best arm for all needs, but it can certainly do a lot.

From birdshot to slugs to flares... no it's not a precision weapon at 100 yards, but you can still shoot a slug that far with reasonable accuracy. You can also kill an angry bear, repel boarders, and with the right ammunition kill zombies, werewolves and vampires, or just bag dinner.

Not much good for shooting prarie dogs though. :scrutiny:

[Rexrider]

The really hard part is....
Deciding between a handgun and a rifle/shotgun. Since the firearm would have to do everything for you.

I guess my choice is a S&W 686 w/ 6" barrel.

No wait...my Kimber 1911

No wait...my .357 lever

uh....a 20" AR.

:banghead:

I hate these type of questions.

Rexsogladthisisnotarealitywehavetolivewithrider

Whoa, I can't type without hitting the space bar either. That's too weird.

[Wildalaska]

The real question, WildimgonnastarttroubleandnotanswermyselfAlaska, is what would you choose?

I join such luminaries as Tamara and choose a wheelgun....probably a 357 Model 28...or even better a 7 shot L frame

Rationale...

You only get one gun....for ALL your needs....

You cant really conceal a long gun...you can the wheelie...
45s and 9mms are nice, but Id rather use a 357 on antlered game or even nasty game..
Need I mention shot shells for the 357...sneak up on geese and pop em? Or yummy squirrels...switch to wadcutters for wabbits......
Also good on mutant ninja zombies

WildthemsmythoiughtsAlaska

PS Wakal yer cheatin :)

[Tag]

I hate to admit it, but I'd take my Remington 870.

[pbhome71]

A co-pilot, in 45-70, if I get a really, really, good discount ;)

[MinScout]

A year ago I would have chosen my Marlin 1894 .44 magnum carbine, but due to recent relaibility issues with this rifle I have soured on that choice. Right now I'd have to go with the tried and true '94 Winchester 30-30.

[Dionysusigma]

If I can have one I don't own, then it'd be a SA M1A SOCOM, with a decent LER scope.

If I have to stick with one I do, it'd be my SAR-1.

[Radagast]

Sorry this does not compute. I've just gone through another government gun grab here in Australia and I've been replacing guns, I don't even want to think of getting rid of them.

On the other hand, if I was starting afresh and could have only one firearm, but it was legal for hunting, competition and self defence, it would have to be a six inch S&W model 66. Concealable under a jacket, not too heavy, accurate to 100m, OK for open carry, knock down power on most medium game under 50m, reduced loads for bunnies, able to play in Silhouette, IPSC, IDPA, ICORE, & PPC/Service and has that K frame coolness.

Ken

[ducktapehero]

I'd go with a 357 revolver of some sorts.

[mcmoyer]

My first and still favorite...Nylon 66. :D

[middy]

870

[artherd]

Select-fire M4.

[chaim]

OK, I'll play.

If I could have only one gun (not one handgun, or one revolver, or one rifle, but one gun) I have a couple contenders.

As long as I live in MD or another non-carry state it would probably be a pistol caliber lever rifle. A long gun is more forgiving of accuracy issues at 3am, in the dark, with tons of adrenaline working through me, and possibly without glasses (I can be certain of my target without my glasses as my vision isn't too bad, but my depth perception will be off and the corners of my target will be blurred). Generally a long gun is better for home defense, a carbine is much easier on your shoulder than a shotgun so you'll likely practice more, more ranges allow practice w/ self defense ammo with the carbine than the shotgun (many ranges around here have severe ammo restrictions on shotguns). Also, revolver calibers tend to have more gains from the longer carbine barrel than other pistol calibers, and most rifle calibers overpenatrate for indoor defensive use.

Thus, if I had to go with something I already own it would be my Winchester 94 in .45LC. If I could go with a different gun it would be the same (or Marlin 94) in .357mag, mainly for the cheaper practice ammo.

My close runner up is a Ruger Mini-14 (though that would take buying a new gun). .223/5.56 is the one rifle caliber that is fairly well suited for indoor, close quarters, defensive work (it doesn't overpenatrate as badly as other rifle calibers and at close ranges it hits much harder than most pistol calibers). For HD in a politically correct state like MD there is no way I'd chance it with my evil looking AR in front of a jury, but a wood stocked Mini with a 5 round mag looks pretty benign to all but the biggest anti-gun jerks.

If I was in a carry state it would probably be my S&W 65LS. The 3" K-frame is big and heavy enough for easy practice, yet small enough for relatively easy carry. The .357mag is highly versatile. Close runner ups would be my Taurus 85 (only a .38spl, but easier for carry), 4" S&W 19 (.357mag advantages, 4" only slightly harder to conceal than 3" and maybe a little better at the range), a 1911 preferably in alloy though alloy means I'd need a new gun (they are pretty narrow so they are quite concealable IWB, and in alloy they aren't that heavy), a "midsized" auto like the Taurus PT 911 (big and heavy enough for easy practice and range time, small and light enough for fairly easy carry), or maybe my CZ 75 (though it would be a bit big for ideal carry).

[natedog]

S&W 686+ .357 Magnum. I'm not exactly a revolver fan, but this gun can be used to hunt, for CCW, competition, basically anything except busting clays, making 50+ yard shots, and bird hunting. Plus, if you can only have one, you don't want to be worried about part breakage and such.

[MikeB]

Colt LW Commander .45 ACP 1911.

With various slides in other calibers and a Mech Tech carbine upper.

[gigmike]

I'm dying as I type this because I want to say my Kimber. However, I'd have to grab my S&W 686, it's just so darned versatile.

Does Wild know something we don't? I'm gonna go check my horoscope and see if there are any clues there.

[Farnham]

Rem 870 and a long coat.

[Fred Fuller]

WA,

No offense intended, but if I have one gun, ANY gun, I can get more... . For example:

http://home.pacbell.net/rlhag65/liber.htm

http://www.warsawuprising.com/faq.htm

Also see _Vietnam. Inside story of the guerilla war_, byWilfred G. Burchett (p. 109 or thereabouts) for the "Mother Carbine" story.

-and so on...

lpl/nc (who would prefer using the checkbook)

[bama1911]

Only one gun! :cuss: It would have to be my remington 870 12ga But lets hope we never have to choose just one.

[12-34hom]

Colt M4 - with Luepold armored M4 CQ scope.

12-34hom.

[Crownvicman]

Part of me wants to say my 870 Remington, but I think I would take my Yugo M24 Mauser. I know it may not be the most versital, but it is the one gun I have 100% confidence in. I know it is going to work, and I am confident it is going to keep on working. I have had that gun for ten years and it has never jammed or misfired with decent ammunition. Is has misfired or hang fired a couple times with old Turk ammo. :rolleyes:

[Brian Williams]

S&W Mod 58, is what comes to mind right now.


Another thought is a S&W 35 6 " jframe in 22lr and take one charge hole and ream it to 22 mag.

[crewsr]

My Marlin 336SS 30-30!!!....that and my Snow and Nealley 2 bit axe and I'm set for anything :D

[milcaztra]

Hmmmmm.

Ruger Super Redhawk, cut to 6 1/2", grey stainless, .454 Casull with Wild West moonclip conversion for .45 ACP.

With a scope in quick release rings, a 6 1/2" .454 Super Redhawk has good long range accuracy and power. .454 will handle just about anything, and .45 Colt comes in a wide power range from cowboy to heavy duty.

.45 ACP in moonclips are easy to reload, ammo is everywhere in wide variety, and good defensive ammo is available.

The package would be concealable in a good shoulder rig and jacket.

[gulogulo1970]

Mine would be a Mossberg 500 12Ga with a 20" rifle sight barrel and a 28" VR barrel.

[esldude]

Drilling.

Get two shotgun barrels and a rifle.

[TK73]

Therefore, I'd grab a S&W N-Frame revolver in .44 Remington Magnum if forced to keep just one firearm.

[Augustwest]

12 ga pump shotgun - very, very versatile

[HD]

a such-ka' like this ...

[R.H. Lee]

S&W Mod 28 .357 mag, 6" bbl.

[Series 70]

I'd have to go with an 870. Probably the most versatile choice.

[mack69]

Ruger Gp100 .357 wheelie.....

[cslinger]

Well I am assuming your restrictive environment would pretty much ban any kind of carry so the handgun is out.

For me it really comes down more to sentiment than pure practicality. It would be my late Grandfathers Pre-64 Winchester thutty thutty. Great hunting gun, good self defense gun, short and handy enough for most needs, ,plentiful ammunition, simple and rugged.

If I did not own anything that I own right now or if it was sentimental value be damned, without hesitation I would say AR15. Simply put I can turn that thing into anything I want from a .22 plinker, to a pistol caliber carbine to a self defense rifle to an uber accurate long range firearm. Lots of optics and accessory options to boot.

[Risasi]

WildseemslikeaspookAlaska,

This is ridiculous. You have these crazy threads of yours going for months.

I would have to go along with the Thinking of Tamara (dang, I'm agreeing with her), and Lee Lapin makes a very logical argument.

Personally it would depend upon where I am located. Apparently the US has crumbled at it's foundation, since we can only have one gun. Or I live in another country (isn't going to happen). So I'll conclude this is another one of your "The SHTF Lee Enfied is the Best All Around Rifle" type scenarios:

My first thought is: It depends.

If it's urban I'm going pistol. One of my Springer 1911's, threaded barrel, suppressor. And with a .400 Corbon barrel as a kicker. Quiet headshots, or super steel core .400 all the way. Course I'd have to watch out for BB camaras in the street, and play avoidance/undetection. But either way this let's me grab more firepower from someone else's now dead hands. Use my head, I gotta better weapon. And I got one with an unlimited supply of ammo.

If it's rural/wilderness skip the gun. I'll take a decent knife (Tracker is my first option), and a good fiber recurve bow. Plain Jane, 80lbs draw weight. I can make a new bow/arrows. And it doesn't get any quieter. :D

P.S. If you force me to take a gun with me, it's a toss up between .45 again or .22, either way suppressed, 50-100 rounds for .45. Or 250 22 rounds.

[jdomin]

yep :neener:

[Moondancer]

S&W 686 4" barrel

Small game: .38 Special 148 grain hollow-base wadcutters. I've taken alot of squirrels with this load.
Large game (deer size): .357 Magnum 158 grain jacketed soft-point. Six whitetails so far at ranges from 15 yards to 45 yards.
Predators (four-legged): hard cast 158 grain lead Keith-style semi-wadcutters hand loaded hot. Never had to use 'em and really wouldn't want to, but carried these in northern MI "just in case".
Predators (two-legged): .357 Magnum 125 grain jacketed hollow-point. Need I say more?

In my not-so-humble opinion, this is the single most versatile handgun ever produced. Large and heavy enough to practice with full power loads, small and compact enough to CCW with appropriate belt, holster, and outerwear.
Good for almost any occasion that would normally occur. I suppose that if the need for a battle rifle would arise, the appropriate response would be to ambush someone so equipped and trade weapons, assuming that the only one gun rule would still apply.

My $0.02 worth, and worth just about that I suppose.

[ClarkEMyers]

Interesting how people read into the question. Some folks seem to assume reasons that aren't given - the question I read said for whatever reason - other folks quite usefully imagine reasons that might apply and then say given this reason or that reason the choice is this or that gun. Given more circumstances I'd change my choices too. For carry I like a nice 9x23 but not hunting or for ammunition supply in a SHTF situation. But see below for more thoughts on the 9x23 range of performance.

For my money the .357 in a revolver is like the legendary bum too heavy for light work and too light for heavy work (I picked that line up from one of the greats but I can't remember who?) - but it might be the choice for a resistance fighter who can peen a rim onto assorted 9mm cartridges as well as shoot the carefully hoarded .357. Too heavy for rabbits and too light for deer but the 125 grain does seem to be just right for defensive use on man - though hardly for offensive or fire team or many other notions that might be suggested.

I sort of took the question as implying current social conditions but with special circumstances as a bankruptcy where only one gun of choice was exempt and everything else was forfeit or a living situation where only one gun could be registered.

That is without the circumstances to permit the obvious choice of a Purdey 700 Nitro with assorted barrels including 4 gauges of shotgun/ some of them suitable for sawed off use? and rifle barrels down to .22 rimfire if alien space bats offered one gun of unlimited choice on condition of one gun only.

Of course Donald Hamilton made a good case for the 2 Shoot Gun where open carry is permitted.

[mnrivrat]

Combo rifle/shotgun - like the Savage 24 in 223 Rem. & 20ga. (with chamber insert for 22RF) Only customized ,so both barrels shoot to POA at about 40yds. (instead of 5 feet apart like I have seen some do ! :what: )

[R.H. Lee]

After more consideration, and reading through this thread, I'd like to revise my choice. Instead of the S&W Mod 28 (.357 mag), I'd like to go with the S&W Mod 29 (.44 mag), 6" barrel. More oomph on the upper end, still as versatile with regard to ammo, same frame size. It's also concealable and completely reliable.

[benEzra]

SAR-1.

[ReadyontheRight]

Just one gun?

Practical: I gotta go with a 12 ga remington 870 with a LOT of different barrels and accessories. Use for defense - 18" barrel, deer hunting - rifled barrel and scope, turkey/duck/goose hunting - 26" barrel w/different chokes, and upland bird hunting - 28" barrel. I guess I'd also have to take up trap shooting and sporting clays.

Sentimental: M1A to use for defense, competition and hunting.

Funny -- I don't own either one of these.

[kel]

AK47

[tarrigoni]

I'd go with my 870 that I would subsequently name Neo. Versatility is key when you can only have one.

[Sulaco]

i would take an 870 12 guage and i don't like the new forum layout

:cuss:

[freedomlover]

Like Lindy Cooper Wisdom says, there ain't many problems that a man can't fix with seven hundred dollars and a thirty-ought-six...

I'll take my old faithful U.S. Rifle, Cal. 30 M1. It's only the finest battle implement ever devised by man, ya know.

And I'll be bringin' a buncha loaded clips, too. *PING!*

[harvester of sorrow]

1910 Russian Maxim in 7.62x54. I know I couldn't carry it concealed ;) but I really love these old guns, and the ammo is cheap. And if I had to shoot something, it would certainly know that it had been shot at!

[Stevie-Ray]

My Colt Delta Elite. Small (enough) to carry, powerful enough to protect me in the wilds, capable of hunting with specific loads, downloadable for overpenetration problems in HD role, fits my hand like no other gun, drop-dead gorgeous, (aren't all 1911s?) goes bang every time, and I hit what I aim at with it, especially with my own reloads. No question in my mind.

[mec360]

I'm going to pick something that I don't currently own: A Smith Model 629 Classic DX .44 mag with a 6.5 in. bbl (I'd rather have a 5" but I don't think the DX comes that way). It can do just about anything I would ask a gun to do - it can be carried (and conceals more easily than any long gun) or hunted with, if need be, and you can load it down or up.

Dang it Wild, you may have just cost me $700. :D

[David W. Gay]

Well, first, I was going with practical considerations. I had narrowed my choice down to either my 1911 carry gun, or a basic- but rugged, 12ga.

Then I saw the Alaskan Co-Pilot at wildwestguns.com....

It is the most beautiful weapon that I have ever laid eyes on.

If I could have only one, that would be it.

http://www.wildwestguns.com/CoPilot_And_Guide_Rifles/bigcopilotred.jpg

[Atticus]

12 gauge pump...870 in particular.

[Highpower1]

A dan wesson .44mag with interchangeable barrels (customized and tuned of course).

[Yooper]

A 12 ga. shotgun. You can hunt about anything with it and use it for home defense. Ammo is available everywhere you go.

[SlowStar]

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My choice would be a Rem870 in 12 gauge. Good for food animals and a good choice for protection.
SlowStar

[bratch]

Going to have to follow the crowds and go with the 870 in a 12.

[Luku]

I was originally going to say my 12 guage, but as someone pointed out earlier in this thread, you can't take it everywhere with you. I would be more comfortable knowing that I had my firearm with me everywhere i went. That being considered, it would take a 357 magnum. And hope I could handle it, (I have never owned or shot a handgun before). Question: Doesn't the 357 magnum also take the 38 caliber bullets also?

[grimlock]

Remington 870 MCS (http://www.remingtonmilitary.com/870mcs.htm)

Can be configured as a full-size, a shorty, or a "breaching tool" a.k.a. CCW. 4 rounds of #00 should suffice for most encounters.

[W Turner]

One gun only- a Glock 20 with a AACK conversion. It can fire .40 and 10mm, can take any game from bushytail to whitetail, can be carried pretty much anywhere, and it will last forever.

If I get to add one longgun, then a Remington 870 with three barrels would complement this nicely.


W

[Obiwan]

Ruger SRH in 454....

I can shoot 45LC....for small problems...

And I can vaporize large problems

[docfubar]

My1858 remington 44 c&b with a 45long colt r&d conversion cylinder

[JeepDriver]

Mossberg 500 w/ 2 barrels

20" Fully rifled and 18" cyl Bore

[MrMurphy]

12 ga 870 Police Magnum, with a extra 26" barrel.

Short barrel for combat and house defense, a 26" for hunting. Slugs for wild game out to 100 yards along with slugs/buck for antipersonnel.

With a folding stock, you could even conceal it in a bag.


If I was down to one pistol, a S&W 625 in .45 Colt or .44 Mag.

[ny32182]

I'd take my VEPR K 7.62x39.

Nothing short of a truck running over it would stop it from running; it takes cheap/common mags, cheap/common/effective ammo, and once the folding stock gets put on there, it will be a fairly compact package.

[Malamute]

A rifle to make meat and keep bears at a polite distance is at the top of my list. My first instinct is my Browning 1886 Carbine, (cut to 20", receiver sight) I carry it full time in the mountains here anyway, and it is about right for my impending semi-retirement to Interior Ak. If it's my only gun, then I want it set up with a forward mounted scope that is easily detachable.

Runner up is the 1903 Springfield sporter in 35 Whelen cal, it can go iron sights for a summer gun, and put the scope back on for hunting meat.

Neither can be carried concealed, but I dont do that anyway. Either would do a passable job for personal protection duty.

[beaverboard]

While my initial reaction to this question was like many others, the 870. Then as I read I begin to think that perphaps the gp100 might be a better choice.

Eventually though I have decided that if I could have only one gun it must incorporate many unique features seen in a variety of firearms. I propose a ruger revolver (probably in .357 since I like the caliber) as a base given there legendary durability. Said revolver must then be adapted to use Dan Wesson like interchangeable barrels, so that one could switch from a 16 or 20 inch carbine barrel down to a snub nose if so desired or any length in between. A quick detachable shoulder stock would also be mandatory, as would be quick detachable guaranteed zero scope rings. Also I remember reading about a revolver (perphaps Medusa?) that had an extractor that would allow it to shoot a variety of ammunition, ranging from .380 to .357, this too would be a nice touch if ammunition availability was an issue. The final touch necesary to complete this gun would of course be a quality set of night sights.
Sure this would require some NFA paperwork, but what's a $200 stamp if you can only have one gun?
SowildalaskawhencanIfieldtesttheprototype?

[Matt G]

I'm afraid Tamara beat me to it, but just to be different, I'll make mine a M66 roundbutt in 3", rather than her M19. Hunting, home defense, carry gun. Shotshell to 110g to 200g. It's a Jack of All Trades firearm.

[Snake Jenkins]

After a lot of thought I'd have to say my 5" m29 Smith. For general purpose carry/use loaded with a 250 grn LSWC pushed at 900 fps, and for hunting situations (it doesn't matter if I'm the one hunting or the one being hunted) a 250 grn hard cast LSWC with gas check pushed at 1200 fps.

Snake

[Black Snowman]

Rem 870 w/ multiple barrels and a pistol grip folding stock with an AOW OK from the ATF so I can make it short enough for CCW under a big coat if I needed to.

[Combat-wombat]

I'd probably take a nice, like a VEPR or Arsenal Inc., AK in 7.62 Combloc. The caliber is sufficient for most medium game, it has a large magazine capacity for defense purposes, and it's totally reliable.

[homeka45]

Freedom Arms Model 83 in .454 Casull w/ extra cylinders in .45 Colt, .45 ACP and .45 Win. Mag. Simple so I can't break it, robust so I can't break it, and stainless so I'll have a hard time rusting it. Versatile w/ multiple calibers. :)

[Specter]

If I have to choose only one...

It would be my Defender 12 gauge

Versitile and deadly all in one 8 shell holding steel package!:D

[cracked butt]

Krieghoff Drilling

[joeoim]

I'd still say my MAK-90 because it is so simple and durable. It's got a short thumbhole stock and is surprisingly accurate.

Although I wasn't there I have vivid memories of the Los Angles riots.

If things came to the point that everyone had only one gun, I'd want to be able to protect my home from something like that.

I can think of several revolvers (and a couple .45 pistols) that I'd like to keep but they would be my second choice.

Wild, you do get around.

Joe

[4v50 Gary]

Thompson Center Encore. Many barrels, many different guns. Besides, I can always make my own flintlocks.

[Flinter]

.40 caliber flintlock. Powerful enough to kill anything that walks in my area, super accurate, easy to care for, and as long as the worlds made of rock it'll shoot. Besides, sentimentally (is that a word?), I could never be without it. I've just relied on it too often.

[Brian Dale]

870.

[datasmith]

OK I'll bite. If I had to give up all my guns, both long and short, except one, I think I would keep my CZ P-01. It's a compact 75, fires the universal 9mm NATO round, 13 + 1 capacity, fit, trim and accurate, small enough to conceal.

[skich]

300 win mag - long range or short - it does it all. :)

[schromf]

Wild,

You just have to start these threads don't you. I react like a bull and you waving the red handkerchief in front of my nose.

The whole concept of being able to own only "one" gun infuriates me. Or one gun from each type, or any restrictions on how many firearms I may legally own at all.

This is a concept so foul and alien to me that I don't even like the concept being discussed in jest or concept. Kind of like: lets talk about the benefits of rape.

No I won't play and I know we have disagreed on this in the past, this time I will hold my temper though and not charge. But I hope we can come to a concensus that we agree to disagree on these threads.

[cracked butt]

Thanks for playing :neener:

[Wildalaska]

Waaay to serious....

WildmutantninjazombieAlaska

[The_Antibubba]

If a single firearm is all I'm allowed, it'll be a Lever Action carbine in .357. I'm not sure I'd want it to be my Rossi-a Winchester, if I could have one. But the darned thing is so versatile; hunting, home defense-I could even carry concealed, if I had a trench coat ;) And it takes .38s, too, and both are very common and readily reloaded.

[skich]

It's been said before but I'll say it again. 870. It goes relatively long. It go short. It stops birds. It stops bears. It stops the home intruder without going through six walls. It subscribes to the KISS principle. :evil:

[Wildalaska]

Currently, the best factory pocket pistol is the Kahr PM9 9mm.

All righty then, case closed this thread is done :)

WildwenowknowhowitisAlaska

[Satch]

The Sig 229 .40 I already have. You can "dropin" a 357sig,or 9MM barrel from Bar-sto,using the 40/357 mags that come with the gun and have three guns in one. :D

[Fatshooter]

stg58

[saltydog452]

Rifle....Marlin 39A.
Sidearm..Ruger Super Single Six. Both cylinders please.
Shotgun..Two barrel SXS or OU where both barrels print in the same area.

salty.

[denfoote]

Only I'd substitute my M28-2!!!
As was stated above, if I need more, I could get them!!! :evil:

[CAPTAIN MIKE]

For me, I hate the idea of having ONLY ONE.....but if I had to choose, I think I'd go with my Rock River AR-15 Carbine, even though I'm in love with my shotgun and my Kimber CDP 1911.

[Curare]

AR

[Mark8252]

12 guage pump shotgun with variable choke(s) and a rifled slug barrel.
Rem 870 or a Moss 500 likely.
1) Home defense using the short slug barrel
2) Bird Hunting using the standard length variable choke barrel
3) Deer Hunting using the slug barrel
4) Trap and Skeet shooting using the standard length variable choke barrel

[why_me]

Dillon Mini gun.
Check this out! lol! Serious if you dont check this out your missing something
http://www.gregbruns.com/images/fridaypage/100804the_doom_buggy.wmv


http://dillonaero.com/layout1/image/home/i_0001.jpg

[why_me]

check out the video on above link its awesome and funny