I get a bonus in February & one thing I'm going to get is a rifle for home/property protection just in case the SHTF (I live out in the country). I own a 9mm handgun, a home defense-type shotgun, & a .22 (rifle), but I'm not overly technical about guns or have a lot of knowledge about them. Price isn't a huge issue, but personally, I see no reason to spend a lot of money on something I'll rarely use (other than to learn to be competent with it). Obviously, reliability is a concern, though. What would you guys suggest these days, & what would it cost? Any extras I need? BTW, I wouldn't have anything against an AK for this use (at least from what I've heard), but isn't ammo availability a problem (or could become a problem)? I'd much appreciate any opinions/help.
You can get a decent AR for about $800-$900. I have seen a few Del-Ton and DPMS at gun shows for about $699. I have seen Ak's in the $400 range. Either will suit your purpose. Ammo for the AK is not hard to get. This website has 1260 rounds for $249 http://www.classicarms.us/ . Since you live out in the country have you looked at Ruger Ranch Rifles- Mini 14 variants? I have one with the ATI Strike Force stock, tapered 581 barrel and flash hider. Contrary to what some say the rifle is extremely accurate with a "forgiving" Garand style action. Older Mini's were not as accurate without allot of work. http://www.ruger.com/products/mini14RifleATIStock/index.html I paid around 700 for mine and it has been flawless with about 2k round through it. Just my 2cents.
Some may wince, but I just picked up a CMMG Bargain Bin for $599. If you google it, you will see a lot of satisfied customers, including me. Mine is brand new with no marks. I am extremely happy with the deal I got. www.cmmginc.com
Budsgunshop has a good deal on AR rifle here: read the reviews (http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=411537957)
Like above, CMMG Bargain for $600. Cant beat that. Got a DPMS trade in the $600 myself. nothing fancy but works well.
Depends on your budget. I wouldn't go cheaper than Stag Arms, but it wouldn't cost much more to get a BCM. A good compromise might be a complete Stag lower and a complete BCM upper.
+1 - Read the reviews! I'm in the process of building my own Stag lower and LMT or BCM upper... still shopping. good luck!
