Growing Your Arsenal: Firearms Every Gun Owner Should Have

Getting into any new hobby or specialized product can be challenging and take extensive research. Especially in the gun world, where learning the ins and outs of what is best for who and why. If you’re a new gun owner, there are a few basic firearms to consider adding to your collection.

These are tactically useful but have specific purposes, so make sure to do additional research on what is best for you if you do purchase any of these. Seasoned gun enthusiasts have their place here too, since having a variety like this can be a great thing to consider.

Reliable Concealed Carry: Glock-19

Glock 17 specs — Glock shows detailed measurements, which may help some customers gauge if it’s right for them. [Photo credit: Glock]

Everyone needs a hearty concealed-carry handgun. As a general rule, instead of getting the popular” or “cool” option, you should get what works for you instead. But, Glock creates some great options for handgun lovers or new owners trying to carry for self-defense.

This is a pretty basic option for most, specifically with the Glock 19 being a ‘compact’ version of a Glock 17 (which is already a fan favorite). Obviously, if you have larger than average hands, maybe consider the ladder in this situation but for most, a small, light handgun is exactly what many want.

Its polymer frame makes it a durable, lightweight option ideal for daily carry. Not to mention its capacity (15+1) keeping the user prepared for whatever comes at them while still maintaining its light status. Its overall small size makes it a great option not only for more comfortable concealed carry but also having a full grip to aid in recoil control.

An Oldie, but a Goodie: Colt 1911

If you don’t like Glock, chances are you love the Colt 1911 or know someone who has that bias. Objectively, these are both great pistols, they’re just better for different needs. But the infamous argument will always stand that the 1911 ‘won wars’ in America’s history, making it a grandfathered-in favorite at times (and no…1911s technically didn’t win any wars in the end). It has been very successful for over 100 years, so it’s for good reason.

There’s plenty to love. Its frame is a bit heavier than others since it’s largely made of steel or aluminum, having its own beneficial effect to recoil control. Its frame is also considered to be durable for long-term use, especially with its historical use and reliability over time.

The trigger is also a loved feature, noted as the ‘world’s best trigger’ by many news outlets. It has a steady, linear movement when pulled, contrasting with the style of other pistols. Many believe this change increases accuracy and contributes to its longevity. This can be another great EDC pistol, or great for sportsman use, home defense, or another addition to the collection so you own a piece of ballistic history.

A Trusty Shotgun: Mossberg 500

The shotgun behind so many action/apocalypse movies and racked-slide sound effects is the Mossberg 500. 12 or 20 gauge will serve as a great option depending on what you may want it for. Also, consider if you’d prefer the field model (best for hunting) or the special purpose model (self-defense).

It’s not super heavy, yet not overly light. Though it definitely isn’t the lightest, it isn’t too much to carry in the end. You want some weight anyways since there isn’t really a way to avoid a shotgun’s recoil.

Its long barrel basically assures accuracy as well as its engineering keeps it rugged and durable even if you miss a cleaning. It’s less likely to misfire than other shotguns, especially since it is the only pump action to pass the MIL-Spec 3443 test.

So, I’d say it’s pretty accurate to its well-loved presence in apocalypse movies. It can stand the test of time, dirt, and stress and have little to no issues. And, who doesn’t love a good shotgun to keep around the house?

From Beginner to Experienced: Ruger 22 LR Rifle

The Ruger .22 LR rifle is a great starter rifle, especially when teaching youth about rifles. Regardless of age, however, it’s a good option for learning how to shoot due to its lightweight, easy handling, low recoil, and cheap ammunition. It’s simple to understand, clean, and repair as well due to its basic structure.

I learned how to shoot rifles on a Marlin .22 bolt-action rifle starting around age seven. Though it’s foggy, I can remember any nerves I had slowly going away as I got comfortable with the rifle. It was a little big, but not so big I couldn’t use it. Marlin was bought out by Ruger, so this is a close replacement.

Having a .22 rifle is great even after you move up calibers, or if you only have higher calibers on hand. These rifles are great for small game and even pest control if you live in an area where it’s needed (such as rural Texas where rattlesnakes can run rampant). If prepping is on the books, consider this as well. Its size and versatility make it a great addition to a bugout bag for survival situations.

Large Game Hunting: Smith & Wesson M&P 10 Semi-Auto 6.5 Creedmoor

Smith&Wesson 6.5 Creedmoor — The 6.5 Creedmoor is a popular choice among outdoorsmen. Smith & Wesson makes a beautiful model ready for a challenge. [Photo credit: Smith&Wesson]

Another important rifle to have is one meant for large game animals, and the 6.5 Creedmoor is by far the most versatile. It’s known to be great for short and long-range (depending on the model), as well as only having moderate recoil. Any game around the size of a deer is best for this rifle.

Smith & Wesson has made the typical bolt-action 6.5 Creedmoor into a semi-auto rifle for those who prefer autoloading (which can be nice when hunting, but it’s up to personal preference). Landing a second or third shot with ease isn’t the only benefit, it’s fitted with a two-stage match trigger and is easily customizable.

It is heavier than other rifles, so don’t plan on traveling great distances or climbing rough terrain with this strapped on your shoulder. It also is best for moderate distances, so don’t rely on this rifle for long-distance precision. Its build makes it great for hog hunting and building some strength during target practice, though.

Conclusion

Though I gave specific manufacturers, don’t feel as if you’re limited to them. Be sure that whatever you purchase fits your needs and body, rather than assuming it’ll work out. Just about any 9mm pistol or .22 rifle will do great, just do your research. These make a great starting arsenal for new gun owners but are definitely essentials for even seasoned enthusiasts.