>>267716I like to have options. Overall, I'd argue that the revolver has the edge for ammo flexibility in the outdoors, but a couple of autoloaders make the cut.
>.22 LR Ruger Mk III, 4.75 taper BBL, Hogue thumb-rest grip. CCI mini-mags.For backpacking trips where I actually want to carry a lot of plinking ammo. Also good for bagging a rabbit, popping a venomous snake, and "better than a sharp stick" for rabid creatures or dangerous humans. The thin barrel and light ammunition make the weight easy to manage.
>.38 Special S&W Model 10, 4" Heavy BBL, With a reloading bench, this old police-trade in is probably my favorite for the "pick just one" game. I often have 2x2x2 cylinders loaded: snakeshot, hardcast +P+, and soft lead light-duty "dinner gitters." It's steel but not overly burdening to lug around all day.
>M-57 / Tokarev, 7.62x25 FMJThis round recently got my attention after penetration "testing" on logs, cinderblocks, old appliances, etc.
I carried it camping for the first time this weekend after completing reliability testing and cleaning. I certainly did not feel unarmed! While the penetration of the x25 is very desirable in a defensive woods gun, the ammo is limited in type and availability, effectively limiting its usefulness to the outdoorsman. Furthermore, the x25 in its standard configuration is deafening. Like the .38, the Yugo M-57 is heavy but not cumbersome. The Tokarev rides and packs much more comfortably than the revolver due to the slim design... Am curious to start reloading this fast little round.
>Ruger Redhawk, .44 Magnum, 7.5" barrel (pic related)Bought it for a month long backcountry trip to SE Alaska. With access to a reloading bench, this is a fearsome weapon. The .44 mag is very flexible and easy to reload for. Certain factory loadings approach .30-30 in terms of muzzle energy.
The revolver weighs a metric ton and requires a reinforced duty belt. But goddamn do you sleep soundly with this bad bitch at hand.
