5 Guns Every Gun Owner Should Have in Their Arsenal

Whether you're a seasoned firearm enthusiast or a new gun owner looking to build out your collection, it’s essential to have a variety of guns that serve different purposes. From personal defense to hunting and target practice, each firearm brings unique features and capabilities to the table. But with so many options available, how do you know which ones are truly must-haves?

In this article, we’ll dive into the five types of guns every gun owner should consider owning. These firearms will cover your bases, ensuring you’re prepared for self-defense, home protection, and recreational shooting.

1. Handgun for Self-Defense: Glock 19 Gen 5

A quality handgun is arguably the most important firearm every gun owner should have. Handguns are easy to carry, quick to deploy, and ideal for personal defense. Whether you're at home or out and about, a reliable handgun will provide the peace of mind you need.

Why the Glock 19 Gen 5?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 is one of the most popular handguns on the market and for good reason. Known for its reliability, ease of use, and minimal maintenance, the Glock 19 has long been favored by law enforcement and civilians alike. The Gen 5 model improves on an already outstanding design, offering a flared magwell for faster reloads, an ambidextrous slide release, and an improved trigger.

With a compact size and 15+1 capacity, the Glock 19 strikes a perfect balance between being small enough for concealed carry and large enough to offer comfortable shooting. Its polymer frame also makes it lightweight, while the ergonomic grip ensures a firm hold, even in high-stress situations.

Key Features:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Barrel length: 4.02 inches
• Weight: 23.63 oz (unloaded)

Alternative Option:

If you prefer a smaller, more easily concealable option, consider the Sig Sauer P365. With a 10+1 capacity and a subcompact design, it’s a solid alternative for concealed carry.

2. Shotgun for Home Defense: Mossberg 590A1

When it comes to home defense, few firearms are more effective than a shotgun. The versatility, power, and ease of use make shotguns a staple in many homes for protecting loved ones. A shotgun’s ability to deliver high-impact shots in close-quarters situations is unmatched.

Why the Mossberg 590A1?

The Mossberg 590A1 is the ultimate home-defense shotgun. Built to military standards, it features a heavy-walled barrel and metal trigger guard, making it incredibly durable. Its pump-action design is simple to operate, even for beginners, and the audible sound of the pump-action itself can act as a deterrent in a home invasion scenario.

This shotgun is also highly customizable. You can add tactical accessories like lights, sights, or side saddles for extra shells. The Mossberg 590A1 comes in various configurations, allowing you to choose barrel length, stock options, and more, ensuring it fits your specific needs.

Key Features:

• Caliber: 12 gauge
• Capacity: 8+1 rounds
• Barrel length: 18.5-20 inches
• Weight: 7.25 lbs

Alternative Option:

For a semi-automatic option, the Benelli M4 is an excellent, albeit pricier, choice. It offers quicker follow-up shots but at the cost of being slightly more complicated to maintain than a pump-action shotgun.

3. Rifle for Hunting: Remington Model 700

If you enjoy hunting, owning a high-quality rifle is essential. Rifles are designed for accuracy, power, and long-range shooting, making them the perfect tool for taking down game.

Why the Remington Model 700?

The Remington Model 700 has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable bolt-action rifles for hunters worldwide. Available in a wide range of calibers, from .243 Winchester for smaller game to the powerful .30-06 for larger animals like elk, the Model 700 can be tailored to suit your hunting needs.

This rifle is renowned for its accuracy and comes with a crisp trigger pull, making it easier to hit your target at extended ranges. Its rock-solid design, paired with a reputation for customization, allows you to fit it with different scopes, stocks, and barrels to enhance its performance.

Key Features:

• Caliber: Available in a wide range (e.g., .308, .30-06)
• Capacity: 3+1 rounds
• Barrel length: 24 inches
• Weight: 8.1 lbs

Alternative Option:

If you prefer a more tactical approach to hunting or need a semi-automatic rifle, the Ruger AR-556 offers versatility and ease of use in a platform that can be used for both hunting and target practice.

4. AR-15 for Versatility: Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II

Every gun owner should have a versatile rifle for both defense and recreational shooting. The AR-15 platform is perhaps the most customizable firearm out there, and its widespread use means you’ll never be short on parts, accessories, or support.

Why the Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II?

The Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II is one of the best AR-15 rifles for the money. It offers outstanding reliability, ease of use, and is perfect for a range of applications, from home defense to target shooting. Chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington, the M&P15 Sport II offers plenty of firepower while remaining lightweight and manageable for shooters of all experience levels.

With its Picatinny rail system, you can easily attach optics, lights, and other tactical accessories, further enhancing its versatility. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a multi-purpose rifle.

Key Features:

• Caliber: 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington
• Capacity: 30+1 rounds
• Barrel length: 16 inches
• Weight: 6.45 lbs

Alternative Option:

If you’re looking for a higher-end AR-15, the Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 is a top-of-the-line choice with more advanced features and superior build quality.

5. .22 LR Rifle for Target Shooting: Ruger 10/22

No firearm collection is complete without a .22 LR rifle. While not as powerful as other guns on this list, a .22 rifle is perfect for beginners, small game hunting, and cheap, enjoyable target practice.

Why the Ruger 10/22?

The Ruger 10/22 is arguably the best .22 LR rifle on the market. It’s affordable, reliable, and incredibly fun to shoot. The 10/22’s semi-automatic action is smooth, and its 10-round rotary magazine makes reloading a breeze.

Additionally, the Ruger 10/22 is highly customizable. You can find countless aftermarket parts, from stocks to barrels, allowing you to tweak the rifle to your preferences. Whether you’re teaching a new shooter the basics or honing your own skills at the range, this rifle is a must-have.

Key Features:

• Caliber: .22 LR
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds
• Barrel length: 18.5 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs

Alternative Option:

For a bolt-action alternative, the Savage Mark II offers pinpoint accuracy and a similarly fun shooting experience in a more traditional package.

Conclusion

Owning a variety of firearms can provide versatility and peace of mind in different scenarios, whether it's for self-defense, home protection, hunting, or recreational shooting. The five firearms listed here—handgun, shotgun, hunting rifle, AR-15, and .22 LR rifle—cover all the essential bases for any responsible gun owner.

When building your collection, prioritize reliability and versatility. Always ensure you receive proper training and follow all safety protocols when handling any firearm.

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