My choice would be a mini 14 with a folding stock:
- still shooting 556 but without the “assault rifle” stigma
- universally sold, fixed everywhere
- lots of attachment possibilities (acog, offset iron sights)
this post was submitted on 09 May 2025
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I'd take a good lever gun personally. If you could find a used Marlin or Henry in something like 30-30, you would have enough power to deal with most anything you need to shoot. One of the carbines in 44 Rem Mag or 357 would also work well closer up, and give you a few more rounds. Check family owned gun shops or pawn shops in your area. Unless you plan on hunting longer ranges, you wouldn't need to put on a scope. Skinner has nice large aperture peep sights you can put on the back. They're fast and easy to sight with, and durable so you don't need to worry if the rifle gets knocked around while hiking.
this - rossi ranch hand or a henry mare’s leg would be my choice.
Didn't think about a mare's leg. Would be lighter and more compact. Never shot one, would be fun to try out.
immense fun to shoot. easy to stash and holds nine rounds. Not exactly a “sub MOA” rifle of course.
Steer Scout. I’d say your use case would pretty close match what a scout or guide rifle is intended for.
That particular model is out of my price range out the moment, but it's the exact profile im looking for, thanks.
Mossberg MVP? I don’t have Steyr money myself but I like the Mossberg as an alternative and if your in the US it’s American made so much less expensive.
You've been fantastic. The MVP might be the MVP here. Thanks for brainstorming on my behalf. Cheers!
What caliber are you looking for? The Ruger 10/22 has a takedown model specifically for hiking. But you'd be shooting squirrel.
I was thinking of more stopping power, thanks for the suggestion though.
They also make a takedown PCC in 9mm?
Oh nice, that's a pretty compelling form factor for my use case. Thank you.
Yeah np. It's straight blowback but because it's 9mm that's really not a problem imo. Also idk what state you're in but they have versions that are a bit more modernized in addition to the more classic rifle.
Kimber makes some nice lightweight mountain rifles
Thanks for the reply. I'll check them out.