This weekend, we had the chance to sit down with Mike from Mrgunsngear to talk about his absolute favorite firearms. He brought five picks to the table, aiming for one from each major category: shotgun, rifle, PCC, and a couple of others. It’s always interesting to hear what the pros consider top-tier, especially when they’re picking from what they have on hand.

Key Takeaways

• Shotgun: Mossberg 590 is the go-to for new purchases due to reliability.
• Rifle: BCM AR-15, specifically with a 16-inch barrel, offers great value and performance.
• Revolver: Smith & Wesson J-frame is a reliable and lightweight carry option.
• Semi-Automatic Pistol: Glock 19X or 45 are top picks for all-around performance and reliability.
• PCC: CZ Scorpion (Gen 3) provides a great balance of reliability, cost, and shootability.

The Reliable Workhorse: Shotguns

When it comes to shotguns, Mike’s initial thought was an older Remington 870. However, he’s had issues with newer models, finding them less reliable. So, if you’re buying new today, his top pick is the Mossberg 590. The 500 series is also great, but the 590 offers a bit more durability and ruggedness, which he doesn’t mind the extra weight for. Accessories are plentiful, making it easy to set up for home defense or other uses. Plus, the ambidextrous safety is a nice touch for left-handed shooters.

America’s Rifle: The AR-15

For rifles, it’s hard to argue against the AR-15, often called America’s rifle. Mike specifically recommends BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing). He favors their 16-inch barrel with an ELW (Extra Lightweight) profile. He believes BCM offers a fantastic value proposition, providing excellent performance without the premium price tag of some other high-end manufacturers. While more expensive rifles exist, he feels the performance gains are minimal beyond what BCM offers. They’re known for being durable, accurate right out of the box, and made in Wisconsin, which is a nice bonus.

Compact Power: Revolvers

When thinking about revolvers, Mike often sees them as ideal carry guns – something small and lightweight you can easily take with you. His personal choice for a carry revolver is the Smith & Wesson J-frame. This particular model is a .357 Magnum, and it’s incredibly lightweight, weighing in around 13 ounces. J-frames have been around since the 1950s and are known for their proven reliability. While they might have a bit of a kick, especially in .357 Magnum, they are dependable. For those who prefer a larger revolver, he’d lean towards a Smith & Wesson 686 Plus.

The All-Arounder: Full-Size Semi-Automatic

For a full-size semi-automatic pistol, Mike’s pick might be a bit controversial, but he stands by it: the Glock. He grew up with Glocks and finds them incredibly reliable. His top choices are the Glock 19X or the Glock 45. He jokes that the 19X is better simply because it’s tan, but in all seriousness, he believes these models are probably the best all-around Glocks ever made. They come with useful features like a threaded barrel, good sights, and an optic-ready system. They’re reliable, have usable triggers, and are a solid choice for new or experienced shooters.

The Compact Carbine: PCCs

Finally, for Personal Carbines (PCCs), Mike’s choice is the CZ Scorpion, specifically the new Gen 3. He highlights its reliability and cost-effectiveness. These have been used by military and police forces worldwide for years and have a solid reputation for just working. The Scorpion uses a simple blowback system and, with the newer generations, is very accurate. The controls are user-friendly, especially if you’re familiar with AR-15s. While older models had some accuracy issues, the newer ones have fixed that. With a ton of aftermarket support and a compact size, it’s an impressive option, especially for average shooters who might find it easier to get hits with than a pistol, particularly under stress.

It’s a solid list that covers a lot of ground and offers something for almost everyone. It’s always great to get insights from someone with so much experience in the firearms world.