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When preparing for survival, having a reliable and versatile firearm is crucial. A do-it-all firearm is one that can protect your home, provide food through hunting, and defend you in emergencies—whether you’re at home or on the move. In uncertain times, these firearms become essential tools, and choosing the right ones can make all the difference.
Here are six versatile firearms that every prepper should consider, as they can serve multiple lawful purposes — including hunting, target practice, or home protection — when handled responsibly.
1. Mossberg 590S: The Tactical Powerhouse
The Mossberg 590S has earned its reputation as a dependable, go-anywhere shotgun. Built with a solid pump-action system, it’s tough enough to handle rough weather, heavy use, and long days in the field. One standout feature is its ability to cycle different shell lengths—from compact 1.75-inch mini shells to full 3-inch loads—giving shooters flexibility for hunting, training, or range time.
That adaptability makes it useful for anyone who values a firearm that can do more than one job.
The controls are simple, the design is rugged, and the action runs smoothly even after heavy use. Whether it’s pulling duty in the outdoors or serving as a reliable tool for home protection, the 590S delivers dependable performance under pressure. It’s a modern take on a proven design—strong, straightforward, and ready to handle just about anything you throw at it.
2. Glock 20: A Pistol with Extra Punch
The Glock 20 stands out as a powerhouse among modern handguns. Chambered in 10mm, it delivers impressive velocity and energy, giving it far more punch than typical 9mm or .45 ACP pistols. That strength makes it a favorite among shooters who want a reliable sidearm that can perform in the field or on the range.
The polymer frame helps absorb recoil, while its solid build keeps it steady even with hotter loads. A 15-round magazine offers plenty of capacity, and the controls are simple, keeping operation fast and consistent. T
he Glock 20’s balance of power, capacity, and durability gives it an edge for those who need a strong and dependable pistol in demanding conditions. It’s not flashy, but it’s proven—straightforward to maintain, accurate, and ready to perform when it counts. For anyone who values rugged reliability with serious punch, the Glock 20 earns respect.
3. Remington 870: The Classic Shotgun for Every Situation
The Remington 870 is a classic pump shotgun known for its simple, rugged design and wide use across many shooting tasks. Available in a synthetic field and home version, it often ships with two barrels so a single gun can be set up for hunting or for close-quarters tasks. Its pump action is easy to learn and keeps the mechanism robust under heavy use.
Many owners like the ability to swap choke tubes and to fire both slugs and buckshot, which lets the same platform cover short-range and longer-range roles. Parts are common and many gunsmiths know the model, which helps with upkeep and repairs.
For people who want one reliable tool that can do several jobs, the 870’s mix of durability, simplicity, and parts support makes it a practical choice. It runs well with routine care and is known for lasting through hard use. It has a proven history.
4. IWI Tavor X95: The Compact Bullpup for Tight Spaces
The IWI Tavor X95 packs a full-size rifle’s performance into a much shorter package. Its bullpup layout keeps the action and magazine behind the trigger, so you get a full-length barrel without the long overall length of a standard rifle. That makes the X95 easy to move in tight spaces while still giving good ballistic performance at distance.
It runs on a gas piston system, which tends to run cleaner and stay reliable under rough use. The rifle accepts common AR-pattern magazines, so users can tap widely available magazine options. Riders and hikers who need a compact, stiff rifle often like the Tavor for its balance of reach and handling.
As with any design, there are trade-offs: the control layout and reload style differ from traditional rifles, so it’s worth handling one first to see if it fits your needs and shooting style.
5. Ruger 10/22 Takedown: Lightweight and Reliable
The Ruger 10/22 Takedown is a smart, workhorse rifle that’s easy on the wallet and simple to use. Chambered in .22 LR, it feeds a common, low-cost round that’s great for small-game hunting, plinking, and practice.
The takedown design splits the gun into two pieces for compact storage and fast packing, which many people find handy for trips or tight storage spaces. It’s light, points well, and can be very accurate with the right ammo and a steady hand. After-market parts and magazines are plentiful, so customizing or fixing one is usually straightforward.
If you want a quiet, efficient rifle for training or basic field use, the 10/22 Takedown is a flexible, no-nonsense option that makes sense for many shooters.
6. Mossberg 500 Field/Security: A True Do-It-All Shotgun
The Mossberg 500 Field/Security pairs a tough pump action with real flexibility. It often comes with two barrels: a 28-inch tube for hunting and an 18.5-inch barrel for tight spaces. Swap barrels and use choke tubes to change shot patterns; the action runs both slugs and buckshot without fuss.
Controls are simple—straight pump, easy-to-read sights—so learning the basics is quick and upkeep is simple. Parts are common and many gunsmiths know the model, which helps if repairs are needed. Built to take hard use, the 500 has a long track record for reliability.
For folks who want one dependable tool that can cover different tasks, the Mossberg 500 is a plain, sturdy choice that gets the job done.
Why Versatility Matters in Survival
When facing survival scenarios, having a gun that can handle multiple tasks is crucial.
Each of the guns listed above is versatile, capable of switching between defense, hunting, and emergency use with ease. This flexibility is key because in a post-apocalyptic world, you won’t always know what’s coming next.
One day you might need to fend off intruders, while the next, you’ll need to hunt for food. Owning firearms that can adapt to any situation ensures you’re prepared no matter what.
Preparing for Long-Term Survival
Long-term survival means thinking beyond immediate threats. While guns are critical tools, preppers should also consider stocking up on the right ammunition and maintaining their firearms to keep them in peak condition.
Each of the guns mentioned requires specific ammo types, and having a steady supply will make the difference between survival and struggle. Regular maintenance is also key—cleaning your guns and checking for wear ensures they’re ready when you need them most.
Balancing Firepower and Portability
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a do-it-all gun is striking a balance between firepower and portability. While a large, powerful firearm like a shotgun or rifle offers excellent defense and hunting capabilities, they can be cumbersome if you’re constantly on the move.
That’s why having a mix of guns like the compact Glock 20 and lightweight Ruger 10/22 is essential for a well-rounded survival strategy. The key is finding a balance that works for you, depending on whether you’re staying put or bugging out.
Be Ready for Anything
In the unpredictable world of survival, versatility is the name of the game. These six firearms provide the adaptability, reliability, and firepower you’ll need to face any situation head-on. Whether you’re defending your home, hunting for food, or navigating a post-apocalyptic landscape, having the right tools will give you the confidence and security to survive. Now’s the time to stock up, prepare, and make sure you have the gear necessary to weather any storm.
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Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.