this post was submitted on 09 May 2025
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Socialist Rifle Association

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Howdy y'all!

What options do I have for a lightweight backpacking rifle? I've had experience with the M4 / AR-15 platform, but am looking for something lightweight and portable. Preferably something I can stow on a hike and such.

Any insight is appreciated. Thanks!

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[–] huskypenguin@sh.itjust.works 7 points 1 month ago (1 children)

What caliber are you looking for? The Ruger 10/22 has a takedown model specifically for hiking. But you'd be shooting squirrel.

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 4 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago) (1 children)

I was thinking of more stopping power, thanks for the suggestion though.

[–] butwhyishischinabook@lemmy.world 3 points 1 month ago (1 children)

They also make a takedown PCC in 9mm?

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 3 points 1 month ago (2 children)

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.

[–] EchoCranium@lemmy.zip 6 points 1 month ago (1 children)

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.

[–] thr0w4w4y2@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago) (1 children)

this - rossi ranch hand or a henry mare’s leg would be a great lever action choice.

[–] EchoCranium@lemmy.zip 1 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Didn't think about a mare's leg. Would be lighter and more compact. Never shot one, would be fun to try out.

[–] thr0w4w4y2@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 month ago

immense fun to shoot. easy to stash and holds nine rounds. Not exactly a “sub MOA” rifle of course.

[–] LilB0kChoy@lemm.ee 5 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Steer Scout. I’d say your use case would pretty close match what a scout or guide rifle is intended for.

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 1 points 1 month ago (1 children)

That particular model is out of my price range out the moment, but it's the exact profile im looking for, thanks.

[–] LilB0kChoy@lemm.ee 3 points 1 month ago (1 children)

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.

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 3 points 1 month ago

You've been fantastic. The MVP might be the MVP here. Thanks for brainstorming on my behalf. Cheers!

[–] thr0w4w4y2@sh.itjust.works 3 points 1 month ago

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)
[–] shittydwarf@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Kimber makes some nice lightweight mountain rifles

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 2 points 1 month ago

Thanks for the reply. I'll check them out.