Things to Know: Types of Guns
- Reliability and simplicity matter more than advanced features
- Common calibers are easier to find and resupply
- Versatile firearms outperform niche or specialized guns
- Familiarity and training are as important as the firearm itself
- Practical preparedness beats unrealistic “doomsday” fantasies
RELATED: Top 5 Survival Guns
In this article:
- When SHTF, Pick the Best Gun
- The Rifles for Perimeter and Versatile Protection
- The Handguns for Concealment and Convenient Carry
- The Shotguns for Broad Protection and Close-Quarters Combat
Practical Firearm Choices When Survival Matters
When people search for “types of guns for doomsday,” they’re rarely talking about fantasy scenarios. More often, they’re thinking about preparedness. What firearms would actually be useful if normal systems break down due to natural disasters, extended emergencies, or long-term disruptions.
In those situations, reliability, simplicity, and ammunition availability matter far more than firepower or tactical appearance. The right firearm is one you can maintain, supply, and safely use under stress.
This guide looks at realistic types of guns that make sense in a doomsday-style scenario, focusing on versatility, durability, and practical use rather than extremes or hype.
When SHTF, Pick the Best Gun
You can stock up your armory, basement, or bunker with all types of guns, but there’s no guarantee all of them are going to keep you alive.
Sure, you’ll have all the assault rifles or the handguns. The question is, how effective are they in certain conditions, say, close quarters?
Below is an excellent list of types of guns for doomsday from Outdoor Warrior. Check it out and choose the right one for you.
The Rifles for Perimeter and Versatile Protection
Rifles are good for perimeter and versatile protection. I am going to divide them into two categories: the assault rifles and the long-range rifles.
Assault rifles can dish out hundreds of bullets per second, so it’s good for crowd control.
Meanwhile, long-range rifles are better for perimeter security. Those scopes and bullets can do some real damage from afar.
Below is a short list of the types of rifles with staggering firepower:
1. AK-47
The AK-47 is one of the top 10 assault rifles in the world, together with the AR-15. Military units use it, and it’s famous for its durability.
One can expose the rifle in extreme conditions, and it can still fire. Talk about being reliable.
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2. Ruger 10/22 Rifle
The Ruger 10/22 is the king of .22 long-range rifles at least on my list, that is.
The reason why it’s so good to have around is that it can secure small- and medium-sized game. It also has a range in it.
This rifle is quiet, so prey will never know what hit them.
3. Bushmaster Carbon 15 M4 Carbine
The Bushmaster Carbon 15 M4 Carbine is small, light, and durable.
This assault rifle derives its inspiration from AR-15 rifles, but with modern features. These include the space-age carbon 15 composite molded receivers.
4. Henry Arms AR-7
A Comprehensive Review Of The Henry Arms U.S. Survival AR-7 .22 Rifle @HenryRifles https://t.co/SEFSzez07V pic.twitter.com/MbEnZJn0rM
— Eric Nestor (@ericthewoodsman) May 30, 2018
If you want to talk about survival rifles, the Henry Arms AR-7 is the real deal.
It may not be as powerful as the other rifles or as capacious as Ruger or M4, but the AR-7 takes the cake for its convenience.
You can pack the barrel, magazines, and receivers inside its watertight stock and carry it around with you. Assembling the rifle is as easy as assembling LEGOs.
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RELATED: 14 DIY Badass Weapons That Can Save Your Life When SHTF [2nd Edition]
The Handguns for Concealment and Convenient Carry
Handguns are, without a doubt, the most convenient weapons any doomsday prepper should have in their arsenal.
They come in different sizes, but they’re usually small enough to carry around in a bag or purse. You can even holster them around your waist.
Check out this short list of the best handguns that can be reliable when SHTF:
5. Glock 36
This may look tiny, but this “small” pistol right here fires a .45-caliber bullet. It packs a punch, so to speak.
It’s a really slim pistol, making it great for concealment, and it weighs 27 ounces with a full mag of 6.
RELATED: The Glock: Ultimate Gun for Home Defense and Survival?
6. Glock 17
If you want something bigger, then Glock 17 is Glock 36’s big brother. Like Sig Sauer, it’s one of the more popular types of guns for law enforcement.
The weight is slightly heavier than the 36, but it helps to manage the recoil. This makes it one of the most accurate pistols in the market.
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7. Sig Sauer P226
This is probably my favorite handgun for several reasons.
First, this is the gun carried by police and other law enforcement personnel. You know it has some power despite its size.
It’s compact and light, weighing around 34 ounces with a full mag. At over $1,000 (as of January 2019), it may be pricey, but you will surely get your money’s worth.
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8. Taurus Judge
Of course, I am not going to avoid revolvers for this list, and the Taurus Judge is the best choice.
The Judge is capable of shooting both .410 and .45 Long Colt loads. This feature makes it perfect for close-quarter combat and self-defense.
It’s big, so it’s not exactly fit for concealed carry. Its presence is enough to send a message, though.
The Shotguns for Broad Protection and Close-Quarters Combat
Shotgun Definition:
It is a weapon that can shoot at shorter ranges and works well on moving targets. Most shotguns don’t have rifled barrels, which separates them from rifles.
I appreciate the value of having a shotgun by my side when doomsday comes. They can do so much damage despite their limited range.
Take, for example, you’re in a corridor, and these mutants/zombies/hoodlums come running right at you.
A handgun can only dish out so many rounds before they overrun you. A shotgun messes them up real bad.
One shell can take out multiple attackers within a confined space. Shotguns can also carry around 10 to 12 shells, depending on the model.
Below is a short list of shotguns to consider having before doomsday comes:
9. Mossberg 590 Mariner
I love the 590 Mariner because it’s a 12-gauge shotgun capable of carrying 9 shots. You can switch the stock for a pistol grip, so it’s awesome for closed or tight spaces.
You can also customize this bad boy with accessories. It’s also one of the modestly priced guns online at less than $600 (as of January 2019).
10. Remington 870
If you want something more powerful and more reliable than Mossberg, then the Remington 870 is everything you need.
It has a smooth pump action and can fit an extension tube to hold 7 shells in total. It is ideal both for hunting and tactical operations.
11. Benelli Nova Pump Tactical
The Benelli is a name popular among shotgun owners. Like Remington, it is reliable and powerful.
Benelli Nova can use two 3/4-inch loads and three 1/2-inch magnum loads, as well as every caliber in between. Talk about flexibility right there.
The only downside is it carries only 5 shells. At this point, though, 5 shots can drop any perpetrator.
The Best Guns Are the Ones You Can Rely On
In any long-term emergency, the most valuable firearm isn’t the most powerful. It’s the one that works consistently, is easy to maintain, and fits your real-world needs.
Rifles, shotguns, and handguns all have a place depending on context, but no single firearm does everything perfectly. Thoughtful selection, paired with training and responsible ownership, matters far more than owning the most gear.
Preparedness is about reducing risk, not escalating it. Choosing practical firearms is one part of a broader mindset focused on safety, responsibility, and adaptability.
Watch this video from WatchMojo.com and find out the types of guns that would be helpful in case of a zombie apocalypse:
These types of guns are all powerful enough to drive attackers away and keep them off your tracks.
Build Capability, Not Just a Collection
If you’re thinking about firearms from a preparedness perspective, take time to understand why certain types are recommended, not just which ones are popular online.
👉 Visit GunCarrier for practical preparedness guides, responsible firearm education, and realistic ownership advice. Focused on reliability, legality, and real-world use.
What are your top types of guns on doomsday? Share your list in the comments section below!
Editor’s Note: Legal “Loophole” Allows You To Carry Concealed In 28 States
Up Next:
- Self-Defense Weapons: 11 Guns You Need For When SHTF
- 5 Calibers For Self-Defense | Self-Defense Firearms
- Hidden Gun Storage Ideas
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FAQ: Types of Guns for Doomsday
What type of gun is best for a doomsday scenario?
There is no single “best” gun. Reliable firearms using common calibers and simple designs are generally the most practical.
Are rifles better than handguns for survival situations?
Rifles typically offer better accuracy and range, while handguns provide portability and ease of carry. Both serve different purposes.
Should I choose military-style firearms for preparedness?
Not necessarily. Function, reliability, and maintenance matter more than appearance or tactical features.
What calibers make the most sense for long-term emergencies?
Common calibers are easier to resupply, train with, and maintain over time.
Is firearm training important for preparedness?
Yes. Training, familiarity, and safe handling are just as important as the firearm itself.
Do laws still apply in a doomsday scenario?
Yes. Firearm ownership and use are governed by law, and responsible ownership remains essential even during emergencies.
