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 2 days 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 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (1 children)

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

[–] butwhyishischinabook@lemmy.world 3 points 2 days ago (1 children)

They also make a takedown PCC in 9mm?

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 3 points 2 days 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 2 days 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 2 days ago* (last edited 1 day 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 2 days 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 2 days ago

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

[–] thr0w4w4y2@sh.itjust.works 3 points 2 days 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)
[–] LilB0kChoy@lemm.ee 5 points 2 days 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 2 days 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 2 days 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 2 days ago

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

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

Kimber makes some nice lightweight mountain rifles

[–] ScientifficDoggo@lemmy.zip 2 points 2 days ago

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