What weapons do you have in your Tool Kit, and why?

AR/M4 AR General Discussion
1

I struggled with the title a little. What I’m looking for is an idea of what you guys consider your “needed” rifles. Not in the liberal “why do you need that?” sense, but in what you consider necessary for your needs, from a capability and personal preference stance. I’ve been back and forth in my own mind dwelling upon what I need, what my requirements are, and gun collecting. Let’s face it, with the sunsetting of the AWB, there are just so many options out there that I can’t possibly purchase everything I would like from a collections stand point. So now I am listing what I think I need, and how I went about fullfilling those needs.

My gun list:
1. Pistol for CCW:
Kimber Warrior, Wife: Kimber Pro Carry 2 in 9mm
2. Carbine for home defense:
Three Colt 6920s
2 w/aimpoint M3, 1 w/ACOG TA31
The reason for three is one for me, one for my wife, and a spare.
We plan on attending ThunderRanch, so the spare is a must.
(I’m strongly considering a light)
3. A 5.56 rifle geared to longer range accuracy:
Mk12 Mod1 clone
For some reason in my mind, I like the idea of having the silenced
5.56 with a little more consideration for reach.
4. 7.62 SASS type rifle:
Mk11 Clone
Just a little more hit power out at distance, and more reach
5. Dedicated Distance Rifle:
Accuracy International .338LM
This is the rifle I’m most on the fence about, Its the most expensive,
And the least likely to ever be needed. If there ever is a situation in
which we would have to use our rifles in some sort of conflict, reach
would definitely be a good thing.

Disclaimer: It is very difficult to factor out desire from needs. That’s part of the reason for the post.

That pretty much covers all that I can think that I would possibly ever need. For budget reasons, it also forgoes collecting other rifles such as: Sig 556, XCR, Scar L&H, Masada, PS2000, and an AK.

I’m sure everyone has their own reasons, I would just like an idea of what others, that use their rifles for training, competition and professional use, think when considering their needs. I’m also thinking that now would be the best time to get my house in order… so to speak.

Thanks.

ETA: I’ve edited the title in the hopes to attract a little more attention to get a better understanding. Specifically what I’m asking for, from experienced TRAINED shooters, is what areas have you come to the conclusion that you require a solution, and how did you fill those requirements? This applies only to firearms as tools. For example, if you kick doors for a living, and you use a shotgun… Why did you decide that the shotgun was a better tool than other options, and what other areas have you decided that you required a specific tool. You don’t have to be a Navy Seal to respond, civillian shooters with training are welcome. Please just explain why you chose what you did. This is one of those “There are no wrong answers” type of questions. My hope is to facilitate and understanding of why experienced shooters have purchased the rifles that they did, and what they based their decision on. Also, I know that these answers are all over gun boards, but I’m looking for some consolidation of information, and a better look at your complete tool kit than specifically one aspect. Thanks all.

2

My kit as it is now:

Concealed Carry/Duty-
Sig 226 9mm
Colt 1911

Training/HD/Tactical -
2 Bushmaster Patrolmans Carbines (A2 and A3 versions).
Assorted web gear setups (collected during 18 years of service and counting)
Aimpoint CompM2
C-More Tactical model red dot (for the A3)

Dedicated long range rifle:
Win M70 in .30-06 with 4x Leupold

I am pretty comfortable with the gear I have now, but I have been considering a dedicated 6.8mm 20" A4 type rifle.

When I purchased the carbines I decided on both the A2 as KISS rifle and the A3 for its modular capabilities.

3

Interesting question.

SHTF/bugout

My personal choices:

HK USP Tactical .45 or CT .45 w/suppressor
If too much for wife then .40 both (keeps ammo, training and mags consistant)

LMT MRP 14.5 w/ Ops Inc FS/mount to bring to 16" and Ops Inc model 15 x3 (spare complete) optics TBD

As many mags and bandoleer ammo, medical supplies, food, water, gear (and rifle spare parts), knives, multi-tool, etc as I could grab (pre-packed) and prioritised in the available time.

Now with more time and a place to defend:

Built-up gun 6.5G again suppressed for intermediate to long range
Possibly .458 SOCOM-but I don’t see getting into defense against vehicle or light armor. If they start coming, best to get gone.

Most important is ammo (the new cash medium), spare parts, magazines, food, water, etc. And training, training, training.

Now for the collecting side after you’ve blown a lifetimes income. First spare parts, lowers, uppers, etc. Then the esoteric/exotics XCR, Masada, etc.

Personally I’m a minimalist. Yes it would be fun to have a collection, but I’d rather have the training and supplies.

I know the choice of the MRP might seem strange (expensive and ease of service issues ie-proprietary barrel, etc), but they are built like a tank. There is a valid arguement for interchangablility by going with standard (mil spec) A3 uppers, barrels and parts. Do what the wallet will support.

4

My kit:

Short Range (Unplanned interdiction):
1911 - I tend to favor Wilson’s in the $2k sweet spot. You can spend half that, and be just as well-armed. Training trumps all labels.

Short Range (Planned interdiction):
870 - Again, I like what Wilson’s is doing with these, but a stock Remington with an 18" tube will serve you well.

Medium Range:
6920 - I ante’d up for a SAW HB, but a standard Colt LE Carbine (or quality equivalent) is more than adequate. No pimp guns, please.

Long Range:
M1A - It’s hard to beat a walnut glass-bedded Springfield, but if you prefer an EBR chassis (or a Fulton rifle), you’ve certainly got nothing to lose. Top with a Leupold, heat, and serve.

Notice that I’m favoring a simple battle-rifle in 7.62mm for “long range” purposes here. That isn’t because I wouldn’t prefer a bolt gun in an alternate chambering (or a Barrett pushing boat anchors), but rather because I see little practical utility in looking beyond 400-500 meters for personal defense purposes in my corner of the world. Beyond that distance, I’ve still got the time to jump into my M3, light up the rear wheels, and get the heck out of Dodge.

Chief

5

I am actually planning a long post re: my rifles when I get the last couple of pieces of my puzzles in. In the interim…

Large Handgun: Ed Brown Special Forces
Concealed carry, IDPA, training

Medium Handgun: Kimber Compact Aluminum (Series I)
Concealed carry for when the EB is too big/heavy

Small Handgun: Colt Mustang Pocketlite w/ work by SM&A
Concealed carry for when the Kimber is too big/heavy

Tiny Handgun: NAA .22 magnum
Concealed carry for when I’m not supposed to be carrying :wink:

The rifles have been an ongoing project, and I finally am within weeks and a couple $100 of finishing them off. I need the silencer paperwork to clear, the light mounts to come in for the "B"s, and a Surefire scout light for the 2A and I’ll be done.

1A rifle: Colt 6520 (16" barrel) w/ flattop, 3x Compact ACOG, forend rail, 9v light, foregrip, Vltor stock
Main go-to all-purpose carbine for training, competing, and hunting

1B rifle: Colt 6520 w/ M4 handguards, A1 grip, front side sling adapter, rubber butt pad, & light mount
Backup to 1A and handout/loaner (spouse, friend, etc.)

2A rifle: Colt 6933 (11.5" barrel) w/ 1.5x Compact ACOG, 6v light, silencer, otherwise set up to match 1A as much as possible
Home & CQB use

2B rifle: Colt 6933 w/ carryhandle attached & setup to match 1B as much as possible
Backup to 2A and handout/loaner (spouse, friend, etc.)

.22 conversions for the 1911 and AR w/ silencer that can be used on either for training, teaching new shooters, and neighborhood pest control

6

I have a very short list
a G17 . Because it goes Bang EVERY time I press the trigger. It’s simple.reliable and with the proper training and mindset… I will kill you with it as sure as your standing there if it comes to that.

My BCM/LMT AR Carbine with Aimpoint and Light…
Again… it’s reliable, works in any light condition, I have intimate knowledge and practice with it and have mucho muscle memory with it. and if your within 300 meters of me and I have to kill you… it will.

That’s pretty much it… everything else, I can live with out if I have to.

7

Glock 19. I have 6 Glocks, 4 1911s (worth propably 12K total), SW J frame .357, and a beautiful BHP. If I had to grab one, it would be the G19 hands down. it does everything well and is utterly reliable.

Colt factory M4 upper on a Stag lower with all Colt guts. Nobody sells stripped Colt lowers or I’d go ahead and make it all Pony. It has a KAC MRE rail and a Aimpoint M3 with a SF Scout light. Does everything I need. I also have a Noveske 14.5 with a KAC FF and Leupold MR/T 1.5-5x if I need a little more range and accuracy, but it’s not as “important” as the Colt.

Remington 870P, Vang Comp barrel, Sage stock, and Surefire forend. Everyone needs a shotty that will never break.

I can do everything I need with those three save long range sniping. I’d like an AI .308 or M24 for that.

8

J-Frame w/Lasergrip: Best BUG available.

G19/17: Most reliable, proven, out of the box, easily carried pistol available.

S&W M&P: Rapidly becoming a good alternative to the Glock; definitely the best .40 pistol available.

1911: When properly done, the most “shootable” handgun available.

629: Good wilderness BUG.

870: Most durable, reliable, and versatile shotgun available.

M1 Carbine in restricted states/AK in free states: Handy to throw in the trunk and forget about until needed.

AR15: Ergonomic versatile carbine–especially in 6.8mm…

.308 and .338 bolt guns: Long range accuracy.

.45-70 1895GS: Wilderness carry.

9

No.6- you want 3 OpsInc 15th models or 3 complete rifles with 3 suppressors? Seems like overkill. I also don’t think a .458 is any better suited to taking out light armor than a .308.

I’ll just stick with my Glock 32 and 16" midlength with Eotech until I can afford to buy anything and everything out there. I’ve also got the 1911, suppressed 92fs and RO635, and AK to fall back on but am nowhere near as skilled with those.

10

I like the way this guy thinks. I have almost this set up except I have a G19 and an LMT upper on a bushy lower. Both pretty much “plain Jane”. (Well compared to most of you gear queers :stuck_out_tongue: )

What I really need is a nice 870 and a 700. A few lowers would be nice too considering EBR are constantly in the crosshairs:mad: .

Right now my g19 and carbine are serving me just fine. I have never had to pull either of them “god” forbid.

What I really need is a stockpile of ammo. People seem to forget this part of the equation. I’m r3ally happy Grant is carrying that practice Hornady. That is some good stuff.

And for “the why”
G19 is a great all around pistol
LMT upper has a proven record (Crane anyone?)
870 and 700, I simply see these as the best “niche” fillers, combined with a reasonable price to boot.

I have no “need” for custom guns at this point in my life. I simply need them to work when need be.:smiley:

11

I’ve got two catagories of guns. Fun guns and Working guns. Here are the workers

Pistol: Sig P220 SST
Shotgun: Custom 870
Light Rifle: Custom AR
Long Gun: FN SPR 7.62

12

Me: P229 .357 Sig & 1911
Wife: G23 & G26

Me: AR6721 & 6601
Wife: 10.5" 9mm SBR w/ Colt components

Me: Franchi 620
Wife: Browning A5 20 gauge

13

I both agree and disagree.:smiley:

The thread isn’t about what you "need’ (there you go Hawkeye, I said it) but what you have in the toolbox and why. There are no legal restrictions on owning multiple firearms, so why hamstring yourself? If forced to, yes I could more than make do with my Ed Brown and my 1A carbine, but why would I want to? If you have the funds, the time, the resources, and the experience to know what works BEST for you in a given situation, why not have it?

I find that I perform best when I have the best tool for the job. Can I shoot IDPA with my Colt Mustang? Absolutely. Can I take my A2 sight 6933 (2B) carbine to a training class? Of course. But I don’t have to, and I know what tools will allow me to both perform the task at hand and enjoy doing so the most.

I can pound in a nail with a Surefire X200 attached to a pistol, but why would I want to when I can afford to buy a hammer?:stuck_out_tongue:

14

I’m agonizing over responding to this topic.

I have a lot of civilian guns – for I enjoy them and while I do buy things in “niches” I don’t do it because I feel a NEED – I do it because I enjoy it.

As far as an armed civilian goes the only weapons I feel I need are a CCW pistol (Glock19) and a AR (for me a 16" middy with a combat variable scope)

I run the same system in Iraq - and while I may also have a SAW/GPMG and “other” items here that won’t fly CONUS - I cannot see a need for anything else CONUS.

Keep in mind I have 2 HK AG-C Gl’s personal – but I have them for fun – not for any specific NEED.
I have a AR10 Mk11 clone that I have because I enjoy shooting mid ranges – I dont have a .338LM or .50 rifle since while I enjoy shooting Long Range – they are retarded expensive to buy and feed. I have 14 different AR/M16’s from 4" to 20" barrels and a swack of other stuff too

I have a 10" 870 since it looks cool (yeah I bought it for that reason as I dont fool myself with the idea I will be running around breaching with it)

I spent 17 years in the Army – I figured IF the end of the world was coming - odds are work would provide lots of toys and tgts…

These days I figure that IF the end of the world is coming – I’m going to go hang out with some buddies who are still in the Army…

My comments would be to buy the guns you want - and over an above a Glock and an AR, just do it because you like them.

15

By trade and experience, I’m still more of a pistolero than a rifleman, and for that reason, I’m not really feeling all of the Glock love in this thread. That said, I found myself nodding north and south throughout Kevin’s logical and unflinchingly honest post.

Well said.

Chief

16

I have more weapons than I could use and would probably just lend it out to family and friends during an emergency.

Concealed carry: Glock 19 and Colt 1911 Lightweight Officers .45

Sidearm: HK USP Full .40 and Sig P226 9mm

(My other pistols: 3X Colt 1911, Sig P220 .45 and CZ-75 9mm clone)

Home defense: LMT 16" M4 CAR with EOTech and Surefire M951 light, RRA A4 9mm CAR and Benelli M1 Super 90 shotgun

Short to medium range outdoors rifle: Colt 6721 with medium contour, mid length gas system barrel, LaRue 9.0 rails, Aimpoint and Surefire M961 light

(My backups for severe weather conditions: 2X Steyr AUG, 3X AK-47 7.62X39 and SKS)

Long range: M1 Garand and AR-15A2 with Colt M16A2 upper half

I’m currently building a SPR upper to use on my A2 AR lower and I’m planning to build a .308 AR type rifle after I finish my current project.

During the '92 L.A. Riots when I was living there at that time all I had with me was my AR Lightweight carbine with ten full 30 rd mags, Benelli M1S90 shotgun, Sig P226 and Colt compact 1911 .45 and I was better prepared with those weapons than most of my neighbors and coworkers.

All my other rifles, pistols and thousands of ammo are in my parents house which was outside the city about 70 miles away, I retreated there after three days when the riot ended and the national guards were in the city.

Lessons learned during SHTF, some neiborhoods (not mine) the guys got together to guard their entrances to their blocks with vehicles to prevent drive by shooters, rioters and looters.

That’s a better way to secure the blocks because armed men and the blocked entrances are a good deterrent rather than unblocked streets without anyone guarding the area.

I’m only a typical civilian that’s been shooting since I was a young boy, I did about ten years of USPSA-IPSC pistol combat shooting and DCM/ CMP rifle competition and I’m still shooting now for practice and fun.

17

KevinB,

To that I would say don’t agonize. It’s always best to be honest, direct, and polite. It is people like you that the thread was intended to attract. One of the greatest benefits of the internet is the ability to connect to people who can provide valuable advice. I can choose to listen, or not, but I greatly prefer the chance to ponder what people like you have to say. Several times, I’ve received advice from wise people, and at times that advice has been contradictory to my own instincts. In some cases, I’ve trusted them, and found out I was right. In others, well let’s just say I should have listened more closely.

When I first started purchasing firearms, I decided that I needed a short, medium, and long range capability. My thoughts are the short for CCW. The medium for (as Army Chief calls it) planned interdiction. Basically, Katrina type stuff, which are bound to happen in the future.

The long range capability is the hard part. As an American, and someone who believes in the Second Amendment, I have to consider the implications that such a belief entails, no matter the likelihood. Believe me when I say that I don’t consider this based on paranoia, but what I consider prudence. With the ever encroaching sense of entitlement in this country, and along with it the sense that it is someone else’s responsibility to provide that entitlement, I do grow more concerned. Add to that a rather fast changing culture (read: multiculturalism), and I believe that makes a nice recipe for friction. Who can say what the future holds, but I believe if I am to honor my fore fathers, I should be prepared for that future. And, as described by my first disclaimer, I may also be guilty of letting desire bleed into my “needs” category.

Another Disclaimer: I believe the best way to avoid problems is through the political process and in NO WAY do I advocate “voting from the rooftops”. Most people who do, often forget that when we declared independence, the fight was brought to our doorstep, we did not take it to theirs.

18

I have 3 rifles:

Vector UF - Trunk Gun.

Custom AR - This will be my main defense gun when I get finished building it, and test it to make sure it’s reliable.

Remington 870 - This pretty much just sits in the safe as I’m not a big fan of shotguns really. Good to have one though.

I don’t currently own any handguns because I’m not 21 yet. Later this year when I’m of age I’m going to get my carry permit and a Glock 19. I’ll also inheirit a very nice Colt 1911 :smiley: .

19

I guess I’m with Kevin as to want vs. need.

My Thoughts on the tool box based on my experience is this…
Nothing wrong with having a big tool box… I just like having a small one for the simple fact is… When the guy with the big tool box is rooting around in his looking for the “Right tool for the job” I will have already pulled out my choice of “Tool” and executed my strategy is a fast and violent manner…:wink:

Sure, I could have added to my list my M1A or the AK-47
or the Rem PSS 700 with the 10X Leupold
of the 870 Shotty with extended tube and Ghostring sights
or the M-1 Garand…
or.etc,etc,etc…

But for me… I want my tool box to be streamlined and efficient, as opposed to cluttered. One thing I learned from Uncle Sugar in 21 years of working for him…KISS…

The original Poster as I understand him asked what we felt we “Needed” or was"Necessary" for our personnel preference. As to all the different gun games and having the right gun for the game… I have a M1A for Highpower and the G17 I can use for all the IDPA/USPSC,IPSC,games…

A $2000 Pistol will not make me shoot better. Shooting and mastering the basics will…

I picked my 2… everything else I have… is just for fun or to collect.

20

:stuck_out_tongue: Good point. If I had more money I would definitely have much more of a collection.