[PaladinX13]

So it's your job to create a totally new gun based on the M6 concept: Simple cheap inexpensive novelty gadget versatile robust survival folding multi-role ammo-storing gun...

http://www.mammoth-hunter.org/m6scout/m6scout/m6full.jpg

What do you like and what would you do differently?

[MolonLabe416]

The folding mech results in an awkward package when folded. It should either break into two pieces or it should fold to the side to minimize the footprint. Improve the trigger. Otherwise, handy for it's intended purpose.

[4v50 Gary]

Detachable polymer stock & configured like the original Marble's Game Getter. Carbon fiber barrel with steel liner (lighter).

[mainmech48]

They used to offer a quick-release hinge pin complete with an attached ring for the M6 that was very handy for fast take-down into two pieces. You could make a sort of lanyard out of small diameter, plastic coated cable and attach the pin to the weapon so it didn't get lost. Very usefull, and I haven't the faintest idea why it went away.

The squeeze bar trigger is about as simple and robust as these things get. It made sense for ease of use in extreme climates and conditions. Takes some getting used to, but it works.

Actually, there isn't much of anything that I can think of that would significantly "improve" this simple, functional, and rugged design for it's intended purpose. Now that it's offered in SS, you don't even have to keep it oiled to prevent rust anymore.

One personal wish: upsize it slightly to accomodate a .357/20 ga. combo. The old Savage 24 with those chamberings was nearly perfect for camping and backpacking, but was too heavy and bulky. Almost impossible to find a nice one now, too.

[PaladinX13]

True take down would be nice, that lanyard concept sounds great. I'd be tempted sacrifice some simplicity for a better trigger. Ghost sights would be nice... or if you want to go crazy- integrated G3-like optics. Add tubular ammo storage on the sides of the barrels, so that the stock could be either a wire-frame, aid in making the gun a floater, or just used as additional storage space.

Aside from cost, though, does this do anything better than- say- a revolver with ammo in a floating bag?

[s&w 24]

single shot 12 ga(NEF) with a case holding a 30-30 barrel liner(MCA sports) and a 22lr chamber insert(CZ). also in the case 100rnd s 22lr(40 gr solids),20 rnds 30-30(170 gr SP) and 50 rnds 12 ga(#5 shot).

[mainmech48]

"Aside from cost, though, does this do anything better than-say- a revolver with ammo in a floating bag?"

I suppose that a lot of one's perspective on that would depend upon whether your primary definition of "survival tool"placed its emphasis on personal defense needs or maximizing the odds of a steady protein supply.

Let's face it, most folks can hit smaller targets at longer ranges with a long arm, even one as rudimentary as this. The original design was for a tool to give military pilots an adjunct to their issuse sidearm which would give them a more versatile option for keeping themselves alive during a protracted E&E scenario. Nothing like "Marooned", but rather a period that could be a week or two.

The chambering of the original upper barrel in .22 Hornet rather than .22LR was a Geneva Convention thing. Ammunition for all issue weapons except shotguns that could conceivably be used against belligerent personnel must have an FMJ projectile. IMO, .22LR is way more practical in a civilian context.

Having the option of any scattergun, even the lowly .410 bore, is an extremely comforting thing when your stomach has been rumbling for a couple of days. Those rabbits, squirrels, or what-have-you are most likely to be doing some E&E of their own when you run across them. Even if your supply of cartridges isn't strictly limited to the handfull in the buttstock compartment, it's still an exactly finite quantity. The amount of time that you may have to spend fending for yourself is an unknown: EVERY cartridge expended must get you something to eat if your snares and other devices aren't doing it. Those pellets are your ace in the hole. I like my chances for dropping a running bunny a lot better with a single .410, especially if I'm tired, hurt, and very hungry.

Value is still subjective: it's your personal-favorite behind. You're not going to have the option of loading yourself down with everything you might conceivably need. In most of the highest probability scenarios where my own BOB comes into play, mobility=much-enhanced life expectancy. I want to cover the most bases with the fewest items in the smallest package that I can hump fast and far with.

Should I find myself with only one firearm at hand (God Forbid!, but an unfortunate possibility) when the Unthinkable happened and the BOB and its contents are suddenly all I've got, I believe that the M6 as I've got mine rigged gives me the most from the least of what's readily available.