If I Could Only Have ONE Gun in the Apocalypse

Published on May 17, 2025
Duration: 56:10

This discussion from Trench Grenade and Nighthawk explores firearm selection for a post-apocalyptic scenario, emphasizing practicality and weight management. They advocate for a 14.5-inch or 16-inch AR-15 as the primary rifle due to its versatility and commonality, and a Glock 19 or Beretta M9A4 as a reliable handgun. Body armor is deemed impractical due to weight and limited coverage in a survival context.

Quick Summary

For a post-apocalyptic survival scenario, instructors recommend a reliable AR-15 with a 14.5-16 inch barrel as the primary firearm due to its versatility, common ammunition, and manageable weight. A 9mm handgun like a Glock 19 or Beretta M9A4 is considered a crucial secondary option, while body armor is deemed impractical due to weight.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: One Gun for the Apocalypse
  2. 00:32Survival Pack Parameters (25-30 lbs)
  3. 01:22Scenario: The Last of Us / Fallout
  4. 04:13Mandatory Loadout Items
  5. 05:17Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) Contents
  6. 07:15Body Armor vs. Chest Rig Decision
  7. 11:27Handgun Discussion: 9mm Preferred
  8. 12:04Recommended Handguns: Glock 19 / Beretta M9A4
  9. 13:03Concealability vs. Open Carry in Apocalypse
  10. 19:17Shotgun Discussion: Expert Weapon, Low Priority
  11. 29:08Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) Analysis
  12. 38:01AK Platform vs. AR-15 Debate
  13. 40:25Rifle Selection: The AR-15
  14. 40:36AR-15 Barrel Length Discussion
  15. 46:03Suppressors and Weight Considerations
  16. 48:06Final Weapon Selection: AR-15 and Handgun
  17. 49:06Realistic Survival Mindset & Gear Choices
  18. 52:03Body Armor: Not Worth the Squeeze
  19. 54:42Final Ratings: AR-15, Handgun, DMR, Shotgun
  20. 55:52Conclusion & Future Video Ideas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best single gun for an apocalypse scenario?

For a post-apocalyptic survival scenario, instructors recommend a reliable AR-15 with a 14.5-16 inch barrel as the primary firearm due to its versatility, common ammunition, and manageable weight. A 9mm handgun like a Glock 19 or Beretta M9A4 is considered a crucial secondary option.

Why is body armor not recommended for survival bugouts?

Body armor, weighing 15-20 lbs, is generally not recommended for survival bugouts because it significantly hinders mobility and the ability to carry essential supplies like water, food, and ammunition. Its weight and limited coverage make it impractical for sustained movement in a survival situation.

What handgun caliber and models are best for survival?

In a survival context, 9mm is the preferred handgun caliber due to its widespread availability and manageable recoil. Reliable and common models like the Glock 19 and Beretta M9A4 are highly recommended for their durability and ease of maintenance in austere conditions.

What AR-15 barrel length is best for survival?

For survival, a 14.5-inch or 16-inch barrel AR-15 is considered the most versatile. This length balances sufficient velocity for effective engagement at various ranges with maneuverability, making it suitable for both open terrain and closer-quarters situations like urban environments.

Are shotguns or DMRs good choices for a single survival firearm?

Shotguns and Designated Marksman Rifles (DMRs) are generally not recommended as the sole firearm for survival. Shotguns are heavy, have limited capacity, and significant recoil, while DMRs are heavier, carry less ammo, and are designed for ranges rarely encountered in a mobile survival scenario.

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