What guns? (SHTF zombie apocalypse)

[Drinkthekoolaid]

I'm Bored so let's have a hypothetical discussion about SHTF zombie apocalypse.

We live in NY and most of us are not LEO so our options are limited.

What guns do you place the higher emphasis and importance on. Which guns do you see as being the most useful, practical, valuable. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, .22s etc and why?

For the sake of discussion let's at least start off envisioning a scenario where we are in NY (a restricted state) and it's an economic collapse. There is still a quasi government with capabilities functioning at about 10-20% what it is right now. There is still a government but it's severely degraded. We are not in outward war or conflict with another nation but people are struggling to pay bills and afford their homes. Unemployment is at 20% +. Crime has dramatically increased and violent crime in the suburbs and country now are becoming common where years ago it was extremely rare.

Would you be willing to carry loaded "truck guns" that could potentially get you jammed up with the DEC? What would be your criteria for carrying long guns outside of your property what would be your threshold?


What do you do? (This is all hypothetical for entertainment of course for our friendly purple tie bots and alphabet bois who are reading along, feel free to contribute your opinions too guys)


I'm starting to think I really need a 10.5 AR pistol just for the sole point of 1 it's on your license so even though it's not always practical it IS LEGAL to carry loaded and "concealed" in ways that perhaps a 12g or mini30 might get you in compliance trouble.



My personal opinion that comes to mind first is if there's still some sort of government even though it's severely degraded it might not be the time to be openly carrying things NY state would frown upon. I think pistols would be extremely valuable and it would be foolish to go anywhere unarmed. Pistols are great for concealment and defense.

 

[ArmedCorgi]

Grey man is a good option. Not sure it would be easy to do with an AR pistol. Plus, if you are in this situation with a degraded government and you are still worried about pistol permits and all the other bs NY in this situation, likely wouldn't have the resources or care to enforce, you'd be limiting yourself with a fixed mag.

 

[Saltwater60]

You need a few guns IMO. I’ll take my pistol with a lot of extra mags for self defense, a .22lr for hunting small game and deer head shots, and an AR with my red dot. Most deer by me can be shot close range and I can also use the AR for hunting big game.
That reminds me I need to pick up a vest some day to carry extra tactical gear because we maybe heading this way.
A for carrying out in the community or whatever yeah I would care. I also live in an area where we never see the Dec officers ever. I know most of the local cops and I’d speak with them and just let them know you have my back and I have yours. Ignore this and come get some deer legs from me. They would all accept that I’m sure. I’ve already told a few that I’m friends with if shut gets crazy call me and use my house as a back up if needed.

 

[GTN]

I'm Bored so let's have a hypothetical discussion about SHTF zombie apocalypse.

We live in NY and most of us are not LEO so our options are limited.

What guns do you place the higher emphasis and importance on. Which guns do you see as being the most useful, practical, valuable. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, .22s etc and why?

For the sake of discussion let's at least start off envisioning a scenario where we are in NY (a restricted state) and it's an economic collapse. There is still a quasi government with capabilities functioning at about 10-20% what it is right now. There is still a government but it's severely degraded. We are not in outward war or conflict with another nation but people are struggling to pay bills and afford their homes. Unemployment is at 20% +. Crime has dramatically increased and violent crime in the suburbs and country now are becoming common where years ago it was extremely rare.

Would you be willing to carry loaded "truck guns" that could potentially get you jammed up with the DEC? What would be your criteria for carrying long guns outside of your property what would be your threshold?


What do you do? (This is all hypothetical for entertainment of course for our friendly purple tie bots and alphabet bois who are reading along, feel free to contribute your opinions too guys)


I'm starting to think I really need a 10.5 AR pistol just for the sole point of 1 it's on your license so even though it's not always practical it IS LEGAL to carry loaded and "concealed" in ways that perhaps a 12g or mini30 might get you in compliance trouble.



My personal opinion that comes to mind first is if there's still some sort of government even though it's severely degraded it might not be the time to be openly carrying things NY state would frown upon. I think pistols would be extremely valuable and it would be foolish to go anywhere unarmed. Pistols are great for concealment and defense.

Under those conditions all bets are off. I’d be carrying 3 pistols @12,4 and shoulder holster of same kind so mags are interchangeable.
Definitely loaded AR stashed behind front seat within reach. Maybe shotgun in trunk. Of course there will be multiple blades within reach.

 

[99cummins]

I’d try to stay home or near home as much as possible. Which is already what I do now. Carry 2 pistols, maybe 3, all concealed. At least 2 with interchangeable mags. 2-3 standard cap mag reloads. I’d have a couple ar’s in the truck. 1 out of sight but fairly easily accessible. 2nd ar and another pistol concealed in the truck where it would take a little work to find. And a number of spare mags in the truck. Do my best to blend in and not show my hand unless I had to. I’d likely be spending a great deal of my time at home securing our farm.

As far as your scenario, we are already in an economic decline and day by day more people are going to struggle to make ends meet. Crime is getting worse and for the average person the gov is marginally beneficial in its current state.

 

[22Cool]

Rifle wise, an accurate 22lr semi and an accurate bolt rifle in a larger caliber and a stockpile of ammo should put you in good shape imo. A 500+ round box of 22lr fits in your hand, can last you quite a long time, provides great opportunity to practice and is quite economical.

Handguns seem to depend too much on personal preference and opinions, so just carry what makes you happy and you're comfortable shooting zombies with.

 

[Drinkthekoolaid]

I’d try to stay home or near home as much as possible. Which is already what I do now. Carry 2 pistols, maybe 3, all concealed. At least 2 with interchangeable mags. 2-3 standard cap mag reloads. I’d have a couple ar’s in the truck. 1 out of sight but fairly easily accessible. 2nd ar and another pistol concealed in the truck where it would take a little work to find. And a number of spare mags in the truck. Do my best to blend in and not show my hand unless I had to. I’d likely be spending a great deal of my time at home securing our farm.

As far as your scenario, we are already in an economic decline and day by day more people are going to struggle to make ends meet. Crime is getting worse and for the average person the gov is marginally beneficial in its current state.

Well at least you know why I'm asking this "hypothetical" question......



Random question, but why keep a couple ARs in your car. Are they for trusted people who travel with you?


That brings me to my next question.... For those who have enough pistols "hypothetically" under what circumstances would you consider loaning one out to a trusted friend or family member who does not have a NY license?

 

[Drinkthekoolaid]

Rifle wise, an accurate 22lr semi and an accurate bolt rifle in a larger caliber and a stockpile of ammo should put you in good shape imo. A 500+ round box of 22lr fits in your hand, can last you quite a long time, provides great opportunity to practice and is quite economical.

Handguns seem to depend too much on personal preference and opinions, so just carry what makes you happy and you're comfortable shooting zombies with.

I absolutely think 22s have their place.

i think there might be a huge advantage of God forbid if you ever need to use it, that it's not as loud as a full power cartridge and you will attract less attention.

carrying a large amount of relatively quiet ammo is a positive.

And kids can easily and confidently handle.22s both pistol and rifle

 

[GTN]

That brings me to my next question.... For those who have enough pistols "hypothetically" under what circumstances would you consider loaning one out to a trusted friend or family member who does not have a NY license?

Only when they are standing next to me and we are in SHTF mode

 

[Tisto]

Given your scenario, by that time any "modifications" that I felt were necessary would have already been made. Barrels cut down, stocks cut off, and fire control mechanisms would all have been modified to meet my desires. At that point, NO law applies. It is survival of the fittest.

As far as the hardware itself, there are several theories that prevail, and are arguably true 99.99% of the time. Having guns that use uncommon ammunition can be both good and bad. .300 H&H might be the last thing you find laying around somewhere. By the same token, you might never find another round of it. Having guns that use common .223 / 5.56 ammo or .308 Win ammo will be easier to find. Having a gun that can shoot multiple cartridges is good too, as in the .357 / .38 special. Handguns and rifles that share ammo is smart.

I think you NEED to have all your bases covered. You will need an ACCURATE .22 rimfire rifle. You will need multiple battle rifles, suited for CQB and a moderate range weapon. You will need a long range bolt action of respectable power. You will need multiple shotguns, both for hunting and defense. You will need at least 1 pistol for every member of your group. If available, you may want to have an anti-materiel weapon like a .50 BMG.

Stockpiling ammo for all these weapons could be problematic. Traveling with it would certainly be an issue. This is a problem ypu better have solved LONG before your scenario comes to light.

I believe that by the time we get to your scenario, I would be as far away from any population center as I could be. I would likely not be traveling very much, but there would likely be a select fire SBR on the seat next to me in any vehicle. Sidearms would be a 24/7 clothing item.

FWFA.
FOOD, WATER, FUEL, AMMUNITION.
Those will be the four building blocks on which you may be able to survive. Keep in mind that FUEL comes in many forms. Gasoline and diesel for vehicles and generators. Propane and wood for heating and light. Batteries of various types to power countless devices.

There is far too much to discuss on this topic at one time, but it is something you should have thought about.

 

[Acer-m14]

And kids can easily and confidently handle.22s both pistol and rifle

if its there first time with one ..

teach them young ..

 

[Acer-m14]

That brings me to my next question.... For those who have enough pistols "hypothetically" under what circumstances would you consider loaning one out to a trusted friend or family member who does not have a NY license?

under SHTF .. i'm sure i could get a pistol from a licensed owner ..

hell i carry my friends wife purse at times when were shopping .. i know why its heavy .. LOL ..

 

[22Cool]

That brings me to my next question.... For those who have enough pistols "hypothetically" under what circumstances would you consider loaning one out to a trusted friend or family member who does not have a NY license?

I wouldn't "loan" any pistols...just rifles because I wouldn't trust someone who is unfamiliar with a pistol to not shoot me by accident. XD

 

[Acer-m14]

Given your scenario, by that time any "modifications" that I felt were necessary would have already been made. Barrels cut down, stocks cut off, and fire control mechanisms would all have been modified to meet my desires. At that point, NO law applies. It is survival of the fittest.

As far as the hardware itself, there are several theories that prevail, and are arguably true 99.99% of the time. Having guns that use uncommon ammunition can be both good and bad. .300 H&H might be the last thing you find laying around somewhere. By the same token, you might never find another round of it. Having guns that use common .223 / 5.56 ammo or .308 Win ammo will be easier to find. Having a gun that can shoot multiple cartridges is good too, as in the .357 / .38 special. Handguns and rifles that share ammo is smart.

I think you NEED to have all your bases covered. You will need an ACCURATE .22 rimfire rifle. You will need multiple battle rifles, suited for CQB and a moderate range weapon. You will need a long range bolt action of respectable power. You will need multiple shotguns, both for hunting and defense. You will need at least 1 pistol for every member of your group. If available, you may want to have an anti-materiel weapon like a .50 BMG.

Stockpiling ammo for all these weapons could be problematic. Traveling with it would certainly be an issue. This is a problem ypu better have solved LONG before your scenario comes to light.

I believe that by the time we get to your scenario, I would be as far away from any population center as I could be. I would likely not be traveling very much, but there would likely be a select fire SBR on the seat next to me in any vehicle. Sidearms would be a 24/7 clothing item.

FWFA.
FOOD, WATER, FUEL, AMMUNITION.
Those will be the four building blocks on which you may be able to survive. Keep in mind that FUEL comes in many forms. Gasoline and diesel for vehicles and generators. Propane and wood for heating and light. Batteries of various types to power countless devices.

There is far too much to discuss on this topic at one time, but it is something you should have thought about.

wanna guess how much this box weighs ?? i won't even carry it to the truck lol .. and the box is still full .. like in the photo today ..

 

[Acer-m14]

I wouldn't "loan" any pistols...just rifles because I wouldn't trust someone who is unfamiliar with a pistol to not shoot me by accident. XD

so you have no friends that have shot your pistols your saying .. ??

but a rifle is ok and that cant shoot you from 300 yrds ..

 

[FLA45fan]

Grey man, redundancy, teamwork, supplies.
Keep a low profile. Wrangler and Carhartts, not multicam and moral patches.
Have multiples of like models - Me? 2 each of Glock 19, Sig 220, Beretta 92, S&W J-frame, 1911, AR15, pump shottys, and at least 3 mags for each. Just starting out? Multiple handguns like Canik or PSA Daggers are good AND reasonably priced. After doubling up on basics .223/9mm/12 ga. maybe grab singles of other calibers .45,.40, 7.62x39, 20 ga. etc. Get a decent, scoped high power rifle - .308 is common. A good .22 is a must for light hunting or quieter dispatch. Rifle like a 10/22 or pistol like a Ruger Mk series.
Teamwork by pairs, at least. Family or trusted people when traveling with redundant weapons.
FWFA - Absolutely.
Travel is light, pistol and rifle, 3 mags each. Std cap. Yeah if it's gone south you probably will need some drywall work later.
So back to the initial post . . . yup, A concealed pistol like a G19, with and extra mag or two, A BUG like a Sig P365, G43 or 26, or J-FRAME revolver and something like a truck gun that doesn't scream tactical and a box of ammo, maybe a 30-30 or 357 lever gun to start. You would be surprised to see how fast you can snick a few rounds in the loading gate of a lever gun. As things get worse you're swapping out to an AR and mags, and taking a friend or two. You may even have a go bag with extra loaded mags, bear spray for crowd control or a back pack with a Roni and extra handgun. If it gets that bad the least of your worries will be the DEC.

 

[tc556guy]

I'm Bored so let's have a hypothetical discussion about SHTF zombie apocalypse.

We live in NY and most of us are not LEO so our options are limited.

What guns do you place the higher emphasis and importance on. Which guns do you see as being the most useful, practical, valuable. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, .22s etc and why?

For the sake of discussion let's at least start off envisioning a scenario where we are in NY (a restricted state) and it's an economic collapse. There is still a quasi government with capabilities functioning at about 10-20% what it is right now. There is still a government but it's severely degraded. We are not in outward war or conflict with another nation but people are struggling to pay bills and afford their homes. Unemployment is at 20% +. Crime has dramatically increased and violent crime in the suburbs and country now are becoming common where years ago it was extremely rare.

Would you be willing to carry loaded "truck guns" that could potentially get you jammed up with the DEC? What would be your criteria for carrying long guns outside of your property what would be your threshold?


What do you do? (This is all hypothetical for entertainment of course for our friendly purple tie bots and alphabet bois who are reading along, feel free to contribute your opinions too guys)


I'm starting to think I really need a 10.5 AR pistol just for the sole point of 1 it's on your license so even though it's not always practical it IS LEGAL to carry loaded and "concealed" in ways that perhaps a 12g or mini30 might get you in compliance trouble.



My personal opinion that comes to mind first is if there's still some sort of government even though it's severely degraded it might not be the time to be openly carrying things NY state would frown upon. I think pistols would be extremely valuable and it would be foolish to go anywhere unarmed. Pistols are great for concealment and defense.

If government at all levels is operating at 10% of normal, DEC most likely has stopped operating as a functional agency. As has every other law enforcement agency,. You might, MIGHT still have some few personnel for any given agency operating in emergency mode, but it would be more like the old west Sheriff who stayed in town and only rode out to the sticks on major issues. Small villages might still have some version of local law enforcement they can turn to, but my guess is that its whatever officers were living in the village when things collapsed. You might have a Sheriff's Deputy and a Trooper who are village residents who the locals are turning to for advice and guidance on legal issues.
You most likely are hunkered down at home and can't drive anywhere because that would mean tapping into your single can of irreplaceable lawnmower gas that you have hidden in the garage.
If you live in suburbia or a bigger city, you're already screwed and you waited too long to move somewhere more sustainable.
At the point you're describing any gun in your collection is a good gun. Just look at how hysterical people got two years ago over a virus. In your scenario any guns that were commercially available are long gone. If people can't pay bills you might find some people bartering for guns and ammo and fuel

 

[Drinkthekoolaid]

if its there first time with one ..

teach them young ..

On a family vacation (in free America) I took my kids shooting at a local range. We rented a Glock44 (.22) and after they had some experience on that shot my 9mm I brought along. They did very well I was proud of them. Sadly I can't regularly train them here but I know if there was a hypothetical emergency they would be ok listening to my directions.

 

[dsdmmat]

Any gunfight you can avoid is a good gunfight. You will survive longer by staying out of sight and making your property look like it has already been ransacked. Any stranger is a threat and some of your neighbors are as well. Hope you stocked up on essentials because you are going to need them. With winter coming heat is going to be an issue. If you don’t have a way to stay warm you are going to die. If you don’t have the ability to defend what you have you are going to lose it.

as @tc556guy said any gun you have is a desirable one.

good luck

 

[Saltwater60]

Well at least you know why I'm asking this "hypothetical" question......



Random question, but why keep a couple ARs in your car. Are they for trusted people who travel with you?


That brings me to my next question.... For those who have enough pistols "hypothetically" under what circumstances would you consider loaning one out to a trusted friend or family member who does not have a NY license?

Outside of my sight I would not loan a gun to anyone. With me or in my home sure.
I have told everyone for years buy what you can and most don’t listen, well none have listened. Many think a few boxes of ammo are sufficient and most balk and think I’m nuts when I say I’m buying a case do you want to split it?

 

[Donniehotts]

I wish I woulda knew about solvent traps before it was too late.i would have got a few and converted them after shtf.nothing like a quiet 22 for not attracting attention.id say a suppressed air rifle would be great for taking small game incognito as well.walmart sells a gamo whisper.

 

[GOPerfect]

I have all that I need and want. I have what could be needed.

 

[prambo]

 

[22Cool]

so you have no friends that have shot your pistols your saying .. ??

but a rifle is ok and that cant shoot you from 300 yrds ..

View attachment 174122

I have friends that have shot my pistols under my supervision and training, but in general I feel rifles are safer and easier for "non-gun peeps", which would naturally be the ones who need a gun (my opinion, but I'm sure I'm not alone). I'm sure more ppl have accidentally shot themselves with a pistol vs a rifle.

A rifle is usually easier to train a child or beginner with because there is more awareness of where the barrel is pointing...since it's longer. However I've seen many instances of people (beginner as well as experienced) point a pistol barrel in an unsafe direction because it's almost a natural extension of the hand that's holding it. That's less likely with a rifle that usually isn't held one handed with the finger at or near the trigger (beginners) and is a long object they have to be mindful of swinging.

Where I live I believe a 14 yo can fire a rifle, but only 21+ can fire a handgun. Why is that?

Plus rifles are usually simpler and more accurate, so I'd trust a beginner to shoot a zombie fighting me (vs shooting me) more with a rifle than a pistol...have you ever seen beginners flinch, close their eyes, or turn their heads away firing a pistol?

Plus pistols have more recoil, muzzle blast, muzzle flip and are LOUDER.

Imagine a beginner pistol gunner firing a .45 for the first time in a stressful situation without hearing protection. You'd be lucky if they don't drop the pistol and are able to do a double tap.

Just saying...YFMV (Your Friends May Vary).

BTW - I'm originally from NYC where the brainwashed sheeples (including family AND most friends) blame the evil guns, so most of my acquaintances weren't raised in the country shooting cans for fun.

 

[FLA45fan]

I wish I woulda knew about solvent traps before it was too late.i would have got a few and converted them after shtf.nothing like a quiet 22 for not attracting attention.id say a suppressed air rifle would be great for taking small game incognito as well.walmart sells a gamo whisper.

I have a Benjamin Nitro Piston air rifle in .22 that is the quietest air rifle I have ever shot. It was about $100 a few years ago. Took woodchucks and raccoons with ease.

 

[spat]

I'm Bored so let's have a hypothetical discussion about SHTF zombie apocalypse.

We live in NY and most of us are not LEO so our options are limited.

What guns do you place the higher emphasis and importance on. Which guns do you see as being the most useful, practical, valuable. Pistols, rifles, shotguns, .22s etc and why?

For the sake of discussion let's at least start off envisioning a scenario where we are in NY (a restricted state) and it's an economic collapse. There is still a quasi government with capabilities functioning at about 10-20% what it is right now. There is still a government but it's severely degraded. We are not in outward war or conflict with another nation but people are struggling to pay bills and afford their homes. Unemployment is at 20% +. Crime has dramatically increased and violent crime in the suburbs and country now are becoming common where years ago it was extremely rare.

Would you be willing to carry loaded "truck guns" that could potentially get you jammed up with the DEC? What would be your criteria for carrying long guns outside of your property what would be your threshold?


What do you do? (This is all hypothetical for entertainment of course for our friendly purple tie bots and alphabet bois who are reading along, feel free to contribute your opinions too guys)


I'm starting to think I really need a 10.5 AR pistol just for the sole point of 1 it's on your license so even though it's not always practical it IS LEGAL to carry loaded and "concealed" in ways that perhaps a 12g or mini30 might get you in compliance trouble.



My personal opinion that comes to mind first is if there's still some sort of government even though it's severely degraded it might not be the time to be openly carrying things NY state would frown upon. I think pistols would be extremely valuable and it would be foolish to go anywhere unarmed. Pistols are great for concealment and defense.

You seem to have a pretty optimistic view of the coming decade for NYers....

 

[spat]

I wish I woulda knew about solvent traps before it was too late.i would have got a few and converted them after shtf.nothing like a quiet 22 for not attracting attention.id say a suppressed air rifle would be great for taking small game incognito as well.walmart sells a gamo whisper.

There are oil filters that are factory threaded 1/2-20, and 1/2-28 taps are cheap.

Just saying.

 

[Drinkthekoolaid]

You seem to have a pretty optimistic view of the coming decade for NYers....

No lol. Just the next 6 months...

 

[meketrefe]

Cool.thread ... Think about this:
What is more important singlnepopular caliber or several calibers that might be not as popular or at least one is.
Then can take even more calibers wo changes to the firearm mechanically?
Can hunt small birds with birdshot and next shot take a mule dear or even am elk cleanly And at a distance?
What about a bolt action that can be almost semi olauto If needed?
What about absolute reliability.

 

[GOPerfect]

Cool.thread ... Think about this:
What is more important singlnepopular caliber or several calibers that might be not as popular or at least one is.
Then can take even more calibers wo changes to the firearm mechanically?
Can hunt small birds with birdshot and next shot take a mule dear or even am elk cleanly And at a distance?
What about a bolt action that can be almost semi olauto If needed?
What about absolute reliability.

First, why don't you have a profile picture? Looks weird, one blank color.

I am a fan of the Keep it simple. I do not like to tie my inventory up with a bunch of different calibers. A few different ones is all I need.