Last week I wrote about the handguns that I own as part of my experiment in what some might call self denial, and what I call a minimalist, utilitarian or budget-minded approach, as the mood may find me. Today, I am going to cover the the long arms I have chosen to round out my purely functional battery. Long guns represent an entirely separate class of firearms, and no respectable setup would be complete without at least a shotgun and a rifle.
Shotgun
Since The Lounge is in the middle of a series on defensive shotguns, I will lead this off with mine: the Wilson Combat/Scattergun Technologies Border Patrol. The Border Patrol is a Remington 870 with a heavy-duty set of custom features. Wilson Combat will retrofit your 870 or sell you a complete package; I opted for the latter and mine is an Express model. The action has been slicked up nicely, and the whole gun has been coated in a durable Armor-Tuff finish, OD-green being my preferred color. The magazine tube of the Border Patrol holds six rounds that are pushed by a non-binding, extra-strength spring and a high-visibility follower.
Though this particular model comes standard with a Mesa Tactical sidesaddle, I opted to remove it and increase on-board capacity with a SpeedFeed stock instead. The stock, which holds four extra rounds, has a couple ancillary benefits. First, the weight of the extra ammo at the rear of the gun helps to balance the extended magazine tube. Next, the pistol grip profile works really well with the Vang Comp Systems Big Dome Safety, which I prefer over Wilson Combat’s enhanced safety button. When you assume a firing grip and move your finger onto the trigger, the second joint of your index finger automatically depresses the safety and puts the weapon into firing condition. A strike against the sidesaddle: it prevents the gun from sitting flat against the body when using a two-point sling.
My favorite feature of the Border Patrol is the excellent set of ghost ring sights that is included standard. The extremely robust front blade features a tritium insert for nighttime and low-light use. The yawning rear aperture is adjustable for both windage and elevation and sacrifices little, if anything, in close-range speed. Good sights, like these ghost rings, can turn a shotgun into a 100-yard gun with practice. Even a moderately skilled shooter can consistently place slugs on a human-sized silhouette at that distance. They can also increase the effective range with modern buckshot and render dubious the “scatter” in scattergun. My Border Patrol 870 will keep all nine pellets of a Federal FliteControl round well within an 8” circle out to around 35 yards, and keep them all on a silhouette at fifty. This is well beyond most bedroom, or even front-yard, distances, but I’d rather have it and not need than the other way around. Best of all, the ghost ring arrangement is very similar to that mounted on my rifle of choice, which means familiarity.
The pump shotgun – any pump shotgun – is one of those arms that fit my overarching concept: versatile, utilitarian, and about as flashy as a mud puddle. But again, it does all sorts of things decently, and a few superbly. The shotgun is about as close to “ultimate” as one can get when considering interventions for close-range, interpersonal conflict. With the average 12-gauge one-ounce rifled slug producing somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,500 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, the shotgun is also a formidable defensive tool against heavy hided animals. Loaded properly, a shotgun is also a capable, respected tool for taking game ranging from squirrels to bears, and just about everything in between.
Rifle
A shotgun is a lot of things, but there is one thing it isn’t: a rifle. When a rifle is called for there is no substitute, and no serious collection would be complete without one. A rifle offers a much higher degree of precision, and it carries energy out to much great distances. Though I am not a hunter, I still feel a strong need to keep and maintain a rifle for no other reason than “when a man picks up a rifle [he changes] instantly from a subject to a citizen.” And every Marine is a rifleman, after all.
Before I get into my choice, you should know that I am a chronic sufferer of AR-Fatigue. Though I have trained with this platform, used it on the job, and owned a number of ARs for personal use, I admit to being, quite frankly, no longer passionate about them. They are a fun gun to shoot and, despite numerous opinions on The Internets, it’s a plenty potent fighting arm. Still, I decided to go with something completely, radically different. I don’t routinely get in protracted gunfights, nor do I want to, so I opted for something that meets the spirit of compromise and versatility that this experiment is truly about. I chose another general purpose gun, the utility infielder of shoulder-fired weapons, “The one rifle to have if you could only have one,” the Ruger Gunsite Scout.
The Gunsite Scout Rifle is probably one of the most written-about and thoroughly photographed firearms of recent years, so I won’t bore you with rote statistics. Instead, I’ll just focus on mine. In the interest of being as economical as possible, I bought my GSR on the second-hand market. It was barely used but available at a deep discount. Because this rifle isn’t meant to be a specialist, I haven’t tried to turn it into one. The only modifications I’ve installed or planned are congruent with the original scout concept: the addition of a Burris Scout 2.75x scope in a set of quick-detach rings. In the very near future, I also plan to add the other requisite component of this package: a Ching Sling or Safari Sling. Other than that, the only additional costs are the relatively expensive spare magazines and plenty of practice ammunition. Zeroing this gun with 150-grain premium hunting ammunition allows me to practice relatively cheaply with military surplus while retaining the ability to switch to the “good stuff” should I need to.
I love the concept of the scout rifle – a light, handy carbine that is hard-hitting, can be carried all day, and fills both hunting or self defense roles adequately. It isn’t a sniper rifle or a super long-range hunter, but I’m perfectly confident in it out to 300 yards, the farthest I’ve been able to shoot it to this point. It obviously isn’t an ideal defensive tool, but against the threats I’m likely to face as a civilian, it’s certainly nothing to disregard, either. I recently did an all-day range session with the Scout, starting at the 10-yard line and working my way back to 300. I used both the optic and iron sights, in the the traditional offhand, kneeling, and prone positions. I walked off the range that day with complete confidence in the Scout and the feeling that any needs I have that can be filled with a rifle are pretty well covered.
The Missing Link?
Between the two of these guns I feel that I can more than adequately defend myself against man and beast, hunt anything I am ever likely to hunt, and satisfactorily entertain myself at the range. And if the “zombie apocalypse” or some other incredibly unlikely event occurs, I certainly won’t feel unarmed or terribly disadvantaged. However, the one thing I sometimes think I may be missing is a very light, very fast carbine, which gets me thinking that the ideal carbine for me might be a lever-action .357 Magnum.
There are several things I like about this idea. First, it wouldn’t require me to stock a new caliber of ammunition. It would compliment my revolvers nicely and shoot everything on the 38 Special/.357 Magnum spectrum. It would also boost the performance of these rounds, especially the heavier .357s, and do so in a more practically accurate form factor than a revolver. This would make a great casual plinking and light hunting gun as well as an excellent home defense carbine, and it’s just offbeat enough to be interesting. The models up for consideration are the Marlin 1894C and the Henry Big Boy Steel Carbine. I like the looks and the factory 16.5” barrel of the Henry much better, but I’m not sure I could live without the Marlin’s ability to be “tactically” reloaded from the side of the receiver… Decisions.
On the other hand, the cost of a new gun would pay for a lot of ammunition or come close to paying tuition for a five-day training course on one of the platforms I already own. Even though I spend a good deal of time shooting these guns, there is no substitute for formal training. Right now I’m tagging my desire for a pistol-caliber carbine with “nice-to-have” and “maybe-one-day” and declaring that there really is no missing link in my long-gun case. At least for me, at least in this moment. I’d rather spend my money where it will give me the most return on investment.
Final Thoughts
Roughly a year into this experiment, I have given you a peek into my own gun lifestyle: I own a grand total of four firearms. Two revolvers, a shotgun, and a high-powered rifle. I am considering adding an additional handgun and possibly a pistol-caliber carbine to my collection in the future. I stock four calibers of ammunition: .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .308 Winchester, and 12 gauge. It has been pointed out by many of my shooting friends that I don’t have an AR-15 or a .22, or (insert pet firearm[s] of choice here). I admit that having more specialized guns is fun, and there will probably come a day when I decide to buy a few more. But for now, I am really satisfied with the spirit of “using what I have and making it work,” learning some new action types, and saving a little money.
I wrote in the first article of this series that it’s not my intent to discourage you from owning as many guns as you want. Rather I wanted to share the extremely gratifying feeling I have gotten from this experience. I am incredibly familiar with my guns. I can afford to “support” them with accessories and ammunition, and to train hard on them.
I liked the atticle and want to know more. For self defense and Armageddon/Zombies, and since I already have 3 pistols, Glocks and Springfield Armory, 9mm, I want a tactical rifle (AR) and a tactical shotgun (12ga). What do yous recomend?
Justin might chime in later, but I’d say for a shotgun, it’s hard to go wrong with a Mossberg 500 or 590, or an older used Remington 870. For an AR, I’d keep it basic and get a lightweight 16″ barrel model from a solid mid-level brand like Colt or BCM.
Thanks LG Chris. What is BCM? And, your thoughts on Bushmaster vs Colt carbine?
Sorry, I missed this comment earlier. BCM is Bravo Company: http://www.bravocompanyusa.com/
I would not recommend Bushmaster for any serious use. They are often plagued with quality control issues. Colt’s rifles are generally very dependable.
Thanks for your advice Chris. One more question: your thoughts on building/assembling your own AR?
Unless you’re just talking about putting together a lower and upper, I would not recommend it. Greg Ellifritz has a really good article on setting up your first AR that you might find helpful: http://www.activeresponsetraining.net/choosing-and-equipping-your-first-ar-15-rifle
Wao, good article Chris, I signed up to Gregs page. Will follow advice to the letter. Thanks again and be safe.
Hard to beat a Magnum Marine 870 Remington.
I agree with Chris – it’s hard to go wrong with a “defense” or “tactical” model of either the Mossberg 500/590, or an 870 (I am strongly biased toward the 870).
As far as tactical rifles go, I recommend a mil-spec rifle from a reputable manufacturer – and there are good options at just about every price point from Anderson Arms to Noveske (BCM is somewhere in the middle of that range). Keep the accessories you hang on it to a minimum (light, irons, co-witness optic). Also, I’d go with the longest forearm your barrel can accept or you can afford.
Solid meat & potatoes set of guns.
Love this series. I’ve been on a “simplifying” kick lately, especially in jettisoning “dead weight” in regards to firearms and gear, so this series is perfect timing for me. It is really making me rethink why I buy what I do, and how I want to approach a minimalist battery.
John, it’s great to hear you’ve gotten something out this series – greatly appreciated!
Just gotta say, I sincerely appreciate the idea of only owning what you really need and being serious about training what you have. I have a defensive shotgun and pistol. Looking to add a rifle or AR eventually. But I train the crap out of what I have and that is what matters
Had a Marlin 1894C; too ammo picky & would jam. This was a huge disappointment, since I really wanted a lever .357. Replaced it with a Ruger 77/357, & what a HUGE improvement! This gun will shoot ANYTHING very accurately. Yes, mine was a ‘JM’ rifle & not made under Remington’s lack of quality control. The Ruger is so accurate that you shoot a golf ball off a ‘tee’ from 50 yards repeatedly. Also like the rotary mag much better & it really complements my Ruger GP100; what a pair!
I really like your system. I have been thinking a lot about this myself lately. Im somewhat new to being a firearm owner and on a students budget so I have plenty of time to think about my purchases before I can actually afford them. My current arsenal includes:
1. H&R 12ga (my first gun I paid $70 for)
2. Shield .40 (my carry gun)
3. 10/22 (for cheap training/plinking)
4. Savage .30-06 (my hunting rifle)
5. Marlin .30-30 (an impulse buy that my friend was selling)
My ideal array of firearms Im working toward is:
1. Sig P938 (sell the Shield for it; I dont shoot the shield well at all compared to any other pistol Ive shot)
2. Remington 870 (HD gun)
3. 10/22 (Cheap Training/Plinking)
4. Savage .30-06 (Deer & Elk Rifle)
5. Marlin .30-30 (better general purpose rifle but not enough range for hunting in New Mexico)
6. H&R 12ga (only kept because it was my first gun and it has a mysterious way of making me grin)
Its 5 different calibers to keep track of, but it would be hard to consolidate that much more except to combine the two large rifles, but I already own both so Ill just leave good enough alone.
why is the 30-30 a better rifle?
Better when compared to my Savage because its all around a faster rifle. The irons are faster than the scope (and when I put a red dot on it it will be even faster), the lever is faster than the bolt, and the tube holds more and reloads faster than the box.
I’m up in Canada, we have some strict and silly laws that classify AR types and handguns as “restricted”. They require a separate license and have to be registered because they are scary. You can only shoot them at a gun range, no farms or big properties. Add to the fact that our dollar is weak and a good AR or handgun can run much higher here. I decided to stick to long guns til all my kids are in school and I can afford decent restricted weapons. Also, having the government know exactly what you own is pretty terrifying. If things went south with gun control, I can at least hide my long guns and play dumb. With utility in mind this is what I’m running.
1. Ruger American Rimfire .22. Great system for scoped or iron, mags are proven to be the best and are easy to source. Eats anything, is easy to clean and it’s really accurate.
2. Mossberg MVP in .308/762 NATO. Much like a Scout rifle, detachable mags, takes cheap and easy to source M1A1/LR/SR. Semi auto’s are limited to 5 rounds here, but I can load up 10 legally and hunt, protect, etc. It has decent fiber optic sights and it’s short enough to carry anywhere. I have a short 3×9 on it to keep weight down.
3. Hatsan Escort Tactical MA Pump 12ga. It has 7+1 capacity, fiber optic ghost ring, 2 shell storage in the stock and runs really smooth. It came stock with a rail on top and a molded picatinny rail on the extended forend. It was a great deal and satisfied my needs well. I have it set up for HD right now, but I can take it out for short range hunting or longer with slugs. I’d rather have a Rem or Moss, but this fell into my lap at the right time. I’m planning on a reflex sight for it this fall.
I’m looking at the JR carbine in 9mm, as I can shoot it anywhere, it’s a good platform for HD and short range battles and 9mm ammo is much cheaper than .223 up here. I’ll probably get a 9mm pistol, so that helps with cross over on that. Less than one in 10 people up here own guns and most are in rural areas. If SHTF, I’m less worried about being outgunned than people in the US would.
Yes! I’ve done the same thing recently. Purged myself of most of the plastic in my safe to get what I really wanted to become proficient with, while also adding to the amount of “required” add-ons and support for my less numerous inventory. I too have a 870 (old Wingmaster) with a 18.5″ replacement barrel and a mag extension. I have a GSR with the same scope and Andy’s Rhodesian sling on the way. I have a new Colt 1911a1 series 70 repro. And a Glock 26 to carry around discretely. A GP100 3″ on the way. Next purchase will be a carbine, likely in .357.
Also a former Marine with AR fatigue… Semper Fi.
Justin,
Love the series and can relate to the AR fatigue. After much contemplation as well… I too landed on the .38/.357 pistol platform w/ a 2″ Taurus 85 (.38), 3″ SP 101, 5.5″ .357 Single Action (for fun and tactical SA shootin partner), 6″ 686 (for social work n hunting), and a… 10″ .357 Maximum TC Encore Pro Hunter for getting out there to 300 yds. The .357 Maximum, at long range is something to consider if you really want to work on your pistolero skills: breathing, trigger control, KY windage, etc. Also, no bulky 9 pound rifle to huff around should you decide to hunt or… run from zombies. Just toss it in your go bag and keep your side arm at the ready. And yes, I do reload which makes all of this much more affordable and practical. Cheers from this former SWCC Boat Guy, HooYa!
I feel the exact same way as you, every gun I own has a purpose and is in common calibre:
1.) Glock 19: Camery of guns, reliable, simple, huge aftermarket, and 9mm is cheap for shooting and effective with modern ammunition. I heavily modified mine though with front serrations, new trigger, and of course good iron sites to name a few.
2.) AR-15: I agree with you, great battle rifle… but civvies don’t exactly go to battle. Fun to shoot but it was my first buy and I did because ti looked cool. Too many people have a fantasy that it will be used when they go to war against the tyrannical govt fantasy.
3.) Ruger 10/22: Any .22 rifle I think is a must have to teach yourself shooting and others shooting. Cheap, fun, easily suppressed to near silence. Small game hunting and dirt cheap ammo. Picked the Ruger because it’s so popular so a myriad of aftermarket parts and support.
4.) Mossberg 590: It was either a mossy or a 870, went with the mossy because I like where the safety is. Iron sights and rail installed. Got a Mossy 500 mag tube, 26″ barrel and chokes too so I can hunt with it as well. Most versatile gun I bought.
5.) Ruger GSR: Exact same reasons you did.
I get shit for not getting a hunting rifle, but I don’t need a specialized hunting rifle, never took game out over 300 yards, makes no sense.
Loved you “Frugal firearm” series of writings. I have similar philosophy in regards to firearms as you. Other part of it is due to future gun legislature. Sort of along the same lines of why you selected revolvers as your handgun of choice.
If I could add to my previous post. I also try to take future gun legislation into account as much as possible as well as newbie/inexperience shooter when I’m putting together my firearm collection.
Aside from AR fatigue, I see future legislation making things difficult for AR owners as well as high capacity limits on handguns. Combine this with young inexperience shooters or you wife/significant other who’s also probably unfamiliar with firearms gives my pause for safety concerns regarding giving them an AR or high capacity striker fired 9mm.
While I love my 308win, my past experience with both new adult male shooters in addition to women is that it has too much recoil for them which intimidates them thus causing them to flinch. Whereas a 223rem bolt action rifle they like much, much better. Plus I’m also leaning towards 357mag 4″ revolvers despite some of their disadvantages that you discussed.
Same with shotgun, I like 12gauge do to it’s versatility and ubiquitous ammo but realize 20ga may be better even though I can find low recoil 12 gauge ammo. It’s the whole package with 20gauge, smaller, slimmer, and (usually) lighter firearm that fits smaller stature shooters better. Even though I like pumps and my bias against semi auto firearms for inexperience shooters, I think I’d break my rule and get a gas operated 20ga as it has less manual of arms to learn than pump and have to live with learning to keep them cleaned more often.
Just wanted to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed your write up on the “Frugal Gun Owner”. I certainly fall into that category, however I kind of did the opposite of you, I moved to a state with WAYY less legislation lol. It just makes me even more sure that the gun laws put in place in other states to arbitrarily ban certain guns or to lower magazine limit to an arbitrary number haven’t changed anything. Anywho, getting off topic. I thought your explanation of revolvers as your choice of carry weapon/handgun was certainly well thought out. I have a 9mm semi that I’ve had since 21 for carry purposes and I’d like to add a full size 9 as well, so I’m totally with you on the standardization there. Though they are not made by the same company, they are both polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols that disassemble almost identically, and work on the same function. They have all the same features, so I think that’s pretty dang close. I would, however, like to add a .357 magnum for many of the reasons you stated, so unfortunately that’s a bit of a different swing.
As far as long guns go, man, you hit it right on the head: 12 gauge pump and a .308 scout. I can’t think of any other guns I would “need” or couldn’t go without. I do have a milsurp and an old single shot 12, but honestly I’ve really thought about ditching the single because I just don’t use it. It doesn’t fit me, and I don’t shoot trap. Plus I bought my pump with a 28inch bird barrel for the odd occasion that I do get to shoot trap. And the milsurp? Well I’ll be keeping that because it’s practically bulletproof and I want to have a gun that I can literally drag through the dirt or hand to a friend if need be.
Anyways, that ended up being longer than needed lol. Just wanted to give you some props and say that I thought you did a great job and I think that a lot of newbie gun owners/people looking to stay on a budget should really read this series. Bravo.