Best farm guns are an essential tool for many landowners, providing protection against predators, pests, and even unwanted visitors. Choosing the right firearm for your specific needs can be a daunting task, with a wide variety of options available on the market. This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when selecting a farm gun, including the intended use, caliber, action type, and budget.
Whether you’re dealing with coyotes threatening your livestock, snakes slithering near your home, or rodents damaging your crops, a reliable firearm can provide peace of mind and effective control. We’ll explore the pros and cons of different types of shotguns, rifles, and handguns, helping you determine which is the best fit for your farm’s unique challenges. From classic lever-action rifles to versatile shotguns, we’ll cover the features and benefits of each type, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision.
Contents
- 1 Best Farm Guns: A Guide to Choosing the Right Firearm for Your Needs
- 1.1 1 Henry Repeating Arms Classic Lever Action .22LR Carbine: A Reliable and Fun Farm Companion
- 1.2 2 Browning AB3 Hunter Bolt Action Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse for the Farm
- 1.3 3 Savage Arms Axis II Right Hand 22-250 Bolt Action Rifle: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse for the Farm
- 1.4 4 Mossberg & Sons 590 Tactical 18″” 12 Gauge Shotgun: A Reliable Workhorse for Farm Defense and More
- 2 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Farm Gun
- 3 Conclusion: Choosing Your First Farm Gun
Best Farm Guns: A Guide to Choosing the Right Firearm for Your Needs
1 Henry Repeating Arms Classic Lever Action .22LR Carbine: A Reliable and Fun Farm Companion
The Henry Repeating Arms Classic Lever Action .22LR Carbine is a quintessential American rifle, ideal for a variety of farm tasks and recreational shooting. This lever-action rifle offers the nostalgic charm of a classic firearm with the reliability and accuracy needed for pest control, small game hunting, and plinking fun.
Notable Features:
- .22 Long Rifle Caliber: A versatile and affordable rimfire cartridge suitable for small game and varmints, making it a practical choice for farm use.
- Lever Action Operation: Provides smooth and quick cycling for fast follow-up shots, crucial for dealing with multiple pests or hunting small game.
- 18.5-inch Blued Steel Barrel: Offers a good balance of maneuverability and accuracy, ideal for navigating farm buildings and fields.
- American Walnut Stock: Provides a classic and attractive appearance, adding to the rifle’s overall appeal.
- Adjustable Semi-Buckhorn Rear Sight and Brass Bead Front Sight: A traditional and reliable sighting system suitable for close-to-medium range shooting.
- 15-Round Tubular Magazine: Offers ample capacity for pest control or extended shooting sessions.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Makes the rifle easy to carry and handle, perfect for walking the farm or taking on hunting trips.
Pros
- Reliable and Accurate: The Henry Classic Lever Action is known for its smooth action and consistent accuracy, making it a dependable tool for farm use.
- Affordable Ammunition: .22LR ammunition is readily available and inexpensive, making it an economical choice for high-volume shooting.
- Easy to Maintain: The simple design of the lever-action mechanism makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
- Fun to Shoot: The classic lever action and smooth cycling make this rifle enjoyable to shoot, perfect for plinking and target practice.
- Versatile: Suitable for pest control, small game hunting, and recreational shooting, making it a valuable addition to any farm.
Cons
- Limited Range: The .22LR cartridge is best suited for close-to-medium range shooting, not ideal for long-distance targets.
- Traditional Sights: The iron sights, while reliable, may not be as precise as modern optics for some shooters.
- Tubular Magazine Loading: Loading the tubular magazine can be slightly slower compared to detachable box magazines.
The Henry Repeating Arms Classic Lever Action .22LR Carbine is a fantastic choice for a farm gun. Its reliability, accuracy, affordability, and ease of use make it a practical and enjoyable tool for a variety of tasks. While it may not be the best choice for long-range shooting, its strengths make it a valuable and versatile companion for any farmer or rancher.
2 Browning AB3 Hunter Bolt Action Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse for the Farm
The Browning AB3 Hunter Bolt Action Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor is a reliable and accurate firearm that excels in a farm setting. This rifle offers a compelling blend of classic design, modern features, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice shooters.
Notable Features:
- Classic Walnut Stock: Provides a traditional aesthetic and comfortable handling, ideal for long days in the field.
- 6.5 Creedmoor Chambering: Offers a flat-shooting, hard-hitting cartridge well-suited for both varmint control and larger game hunting commonly found on farms.
- 60° Bolt Throw: Allows for quick and smooth cycling, crucial for follow-up shots or engaging multiple targets.
- Detachable Double-Stack Magazine: Provides convenient reloading and safe unloading, essential for maintaining control and efficiency on the farm.
- Free-Floated Barrel: Enhances accuracy and consistency, important for ethical harvesting of livestock or pest control.
- Drilled and Tapped Receiver: Allows for easy mounting of optics, expanding the rifle’s versatility for various farm tasks.
- Button-Rifled Barrel: Ensures accuracy and longevity, making it a reliable tool for years to come.
- Inflex Recoil Pad: Reduces felt recoil, improving comfort and shot placement, especially during extended shooting sessions common on farms.
- Budget-Friendly Price: Offers exceptional value for its features and performance, making it accessible to a wide range of farm owners.
Pros
- Accurate and Reliable: The AB3 Hunter consistently delivers accurate shots, thanks to its free-floated barrel, button-rifling, and 6.5 Creedmoor chambering, essential for humane pest control and livestock management.
- Smooth and Fast Cycling: The 60° bolt throw and detachable magazine allow for rapid follow-up shots, crucial when dealing with multiple varmints or protecting livestock from predators.
- Comfortable Handling: The classic walnut stock and Inflex recoil pad provide a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended use, making it well-suited for long days working on the farm.
- Versatile for Farm Use: The AB3 Hunter is effective for a wide range of farm tasks, from varmint control (e.g., groundhogs, coyotes) to protecting livestock from predators or dispatching injured animals.
- Excellent Value: The AB3 Hunter offers a remarkable combination of features and performance at a competitive price point, making it an affordable and practical choice for farm owners.
Cons
- Trigger Pull: Some users find the factory trigger pull to be a bit heavy, though this can be addressed with aftermarket upgrades or professional gunsmithing if desired.
- Scope Not Included: The AB3 Hunter does not come with a scope, requiring an additional purchase for optimal accuracy at longer ranges, though this allows for customization based on individual needs.
- Limited Capacity: The detachable magazine holds a limited number of rounds (depending on the specific cartridge), which might be a consideration for those facing situations requiring a high volume of fire, though this is less common in typical farm settings.
The Browning AB3 Hunter Bolt Action Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor is a practical and dependable firearm that is well-suited for the demands of farm life. Its accuracy, reliability, and affordability make it a valuable tool for managing livestock, controlling pests, and ensuring the safety and productivity of the farm. While the trigger pull and lack of included scope might be minor drawbacks for some, the AB3 Hunter’s overall performance and value make it a strong contender for the best farm gun.
3 Savage Arms Axis II Right Hand 22-250 Bolt Action Rifle: A Budget-Friendly Workhorse for the Farm
The Savage Arms Axis II Right Hand 22-250 Bolt Action Rifle is a practical and reliable firearm designed for varmint control and predator hunting on the farm. This no-frills rifle offers a great balance of accuracy, affordability, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for farmers and ranchers seeking an effective tool for protecting livestock and crops.
Notable Features:
- Rugged Synthetic Stock: Provides a durable and weather-resistant platform for the action and barrel, capable of withstanding the demands of farm use.
- User-Adjustable AccuTrigger: Allows for a crisp and clean trigger pull, enhancing accuracy and shot placement, crucial for ethical varmint and predator control.
- Carbon Steel Button-Rifled Sporter Barrel: Delivers consistent accuracy and is chambered in the versatile 22-250 Remington, a flat-shooting cartridge well-suited for medium to long-range varmint and predator hunting.
- Detachable Box Magazine: Offers convenient and quick reloading, essential when dealing with multiple varmints or predators.
- Thread-In Barrel Headspacing: Ensures consistent and precise headspace, contributing to the rifle’s overall accuracy.
Pros
- Affordability: The Axis II is priced competitively, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious farmers and ranchers.
- Accuracy: The AccuTrigger and button-rifled barrel contribute to impressive accuracy, allowing for precise shot placement on varmints and predators.
- Reliability: Savage Arms is known for producing reliable firearms, and the Axis II is no exception. Its simple design and quality construction ensure consistent performance in the field.
- Versatility: The 22-250 Remington chambering provides versatility for taking down a variety of varmints and predators at various ranges.
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle: The Axis II’s synthetic stock and overall design make it a relatively lightweight and easy-to-handle rifle, ideal for carrying around the farm or ranch.
Cons
- Basic Features: The Axis II is a no-frills rifle, lacking some features found on higher-end models. However, its basic features are more than adequate for most farm and ranch applications.
- Synthetic Stock: While durable, the synthetic stock may not be as aesthetically pleasing as wood stocks preferred by some shooters.
- Limited Customization Options: The Axis II offers fewer customization options compared to some other rifles in its class. However, its out-of-the-box configuration is well-suited for its intended purpose.
The Savage Arms Axis II Right Hand 22-250 Bolt Action Rifle is a solid and dependable firearm that excels as a farm gun. Its affordability, accuracy, and reliability make it a valuable tool for varmint control and predator hunting on the farm or ranch. While it may not be the most feature-rich rifle on the market, its simplicity and practicality are ideal for the demands of farm use.
4 Mossberg & Sons 590 Tactical 18″” 12 Gauge Shotgun: A Reliable Workhorse for Farm Defense and More
The Mossberg & Sons 590 Tactical 18″” 12 Gauge Shotgun is a rugged and versatile firearm that has earned its reputation as a reliable workhorse for farm use and home defense. This pump-action shotgun offers a potent combination of firepower, durability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable firearm for various tasks, including predator control and protecting livestock.
Notable Features:
- 12 Gauge Chambering: Delivers substantial stopping power, suitable for a wide range of threats, from varmints to larger predators.
- 18″” Barrel Length: Offers a good balance between maneuverability and effective range, ideal for farm environments and close-quarters situations.
- Pump-Action Operation: Provides reliable cycling and allows for quick follow-up shots when needed.
- 8+1 Capacity: Holds a substantial amount of ammunition, ensuring you have enough firepower to handle multiple threats.
- Ghost Ring Sights: Allow for quick target acquisition and accurate aiming, even in low-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built with a parkerized finish and synthetic stock, the 590 Tactical can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling.
- Ambidextrous Safety: Conveniently located on the tang, making it accessible for both right- and left-handed shooters.
Pros
- Reliability: The Mossberg 590 is renowned for its dependability and ability to cycle a variety of 12 gauge ammunition without issue.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of farm tasks, including predator control, livestock protection, and general defense.
- Ease of Use: The pump-action operation is simple and intuitive, making it easy to learn and operate.
- Affordability: Compared to other tactical shotguns, the Mossberg 590 offers excellent value for its price.
- Customization Options: Numerous aftermarket accessories are available, allowing you to tailor the shotgun to your specific needs.
Cons
- Weight: At around 7.5 pounds, the 590 Tactical can be a bit heavy for some users, especially during extended periods of carrying.
- Recoil: 12 gauge shotguns can produce substantial recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters, particularly those new to shotguns.
- Limited Capacity: While 8+1 is a decent capacity, some users may prefer a higher capacity for certain applications.
The Mossberg & Sons 590 Tactical 18″” 12 Gauge Shotgun is a reliable and practical choice for farm owners and anyone seeking a robust and affordable shotgun for defense. Its combination of firepower, durability, and ease of use makes it a valuable tool for a variety of tasks. While the weight and recoil might be considerations for some users, the 590 Tactical’s strengths make it a solid option for those who prioritize dependability and effectiveness.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Farm Gun
1. Intended Use: What are you Primarily Using the Gun For?
The first step in choosing a farm gun is to identify its primary purpose. Will it be used mainly for predator control, varmint hunting, pest control, or self-defense? Different tasks require different firearm capabilities.
- Predator Control: For larger predators like coyotes or wild hogs, a rifle chambered in a powerful caliber like .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, or .308 Winchester is often preferred.
- Varmint Hunting: Smaller varmints such as rabbits, squirrels, or groundhogs can be effectively controlled with a .22 LR rifle or a shotgun with small shot.
- Pest Control: Snakes and rodents can be managed with a .22 LR rifle, a shotgun loaded with birdshot, or even a .22 caliber pistol.
- Self-Defense: If personal protection is a primary concern, a shotgun or a handgun in a suitable caliber may be the best choice.
2. Caliber: Choosing the Right Ammunition for the Job
Caliber refers to the diameter of the bullet or shot used in a firearm. Selecting the appropriate caliber is crucial for effectiveness and safety.
- .22 Long Rifle (LR): A versatile and affordable caliber suitable for small game and pest control.
- .223 Remington/5.56 NATO: A popular choice for predator control and varmint hunting, offering a good balance of power and accuracy.
- .243 Winchester: A powerful caliber suitable for larger varmints and deer-sized game.
- .308 Winchester: A versatile caliber capable of taking down large game and providing excellent long-range performance.
- 12 Gauge Shotgun: A versatile option for a wide range of applications, from bird hunting to self-defense. Offers a variety of shot sizes for different targets.
- 20 Gauge Shotgun: A lighter recoiling option than the 12 gauge, suitable for smaller-framed shooters and still effective for many tasks.
3. Action Type: Understanding How the Firearm Operates
The action of a firearm refers to the mechanism that loads, fires, and ejects cartridges. Common action types include:
- Bolt Action: Known for their accuracy and reliability, bolt-action rifles are a popular choice for hunting and precision shooting.
- Lever Action: Classic and easy to use, lever-action rifles are popular for their quick follow-up shots.
- Pump Action: Common in shotguns, pump-action firearms are reliable and offer a good rate of fire.
- Semi-Automatic: Firearms that automatically cycle a new round after each shot, offering a high rate of fire.
4. Budget: Finding a Firearm that Fits Your Financial Needs
Farm guns are available at a wide range of price points. Determine your budget beforehand and consider the long-term costs of ammunition and accessories.
5. Other Considerations:
- Accuracy: Choose a firearm known for its accuracy, especially if you’ll be shooting at longer ranges.
- Reliability: Opt for a firearm with a reputation for reliability, as you’ll need it to function flawlessly in various conditions.
- Ergonomics: Ensure the firearm fits comfortably in your hands and is easy to operate.
- Weight and Size: Consider the weight and size of the firearm, especially if you’ll be carrying it for extended periods.
- Scope or Sights: Determine whether you need a scope for longer-range shooting or if iron sights are sufficient for your needs.
Conclusion: Choosing Your First Farm Gun
Selecting the right farm gun is a crucial decision for any property owner. It’s an investment in safety, security, and the effective management of your land. While the best choice depends on your individual needs and circumstances, we highly recommend the Henry Repeating Arms Classic Lever Carbine 22 Long Rifle Lever Action Rifle as an excellent starting point for most farm owners. Its versatility, ease of use, and affordability make it a valuable tool for controlling small pests and varmints.
Remember to prioritize safety in all aspects of firearm ownership and handling. Invest in proper training, secure storage, and always follow the laws and regulations in your area. With careful consideration and responsible practices, your farm gun will be a valuable asset for years to come, helping you protect your livelihood and enjoy peace of mind on your property.
