Where Do Price and Performance Meet? Randy's Firearm Picks 2015

This topic was addressed over five years ago: it is time for an updated look. The imaginary intersection of price, performance, and resultant performance is different for everyone, of course, and the price of the gun is the smallest part of gun ownership by far, if you actually use them. Prices have moved around quite a bit, though, and so has the list of firearms that are worthy of your consideration in the bang for the buck department. I've decided to try to mention at least two offerings in each category, where it is possible to do so.

SELF-DEFENSE HANDGUN

I like the Ruger LC9s Pro very much for intimate self-defense, although if you can tolerate more bulk and more capacity has appeal, the Glock 19 is hard to beat. If diminutive compactness is a priority for you, or as a back-up / deep concealment gun, the North American Arms Black Widow in .22 WMR is something you'll want to check out.

RIMFIRE RIFLE

The Savage Mark II BV .22LR heavy barrel is still the pick of the accuracy litter. The Ruger 10/22 is so much fun and so very popular, it richly deserves a mention.

HOME DEFENSE SHOTGUN

Lots of things work for self-defense in the home, of course. The Mossberg 930 SPX Tactical is a reliable, controllable autoloader.

WALKING VARMINTER SMALL BORE C. F. RIFLE

CZ 527 American .223 Remington

HUNTING RIFLE – Budget

Mossberg Patriot, Weatherby Vanguard

HUNTING RIFLE Mid-Range

Browning X-Bolt, Weatherby Vanguard (Yes, the Weatherby makes both categories as the price varies substantially based on trim level.)

WATERFOWL SHOTGUN

It is hard not to call the Mossberg 930 an excellent value. Another value pick, if you want a 3-1/2 inch chamber, is the Remington Versa Max Sportsman. Another competitive pick in either 3 or 3-1/2 inch chamber is the Winchester SX3.

O/U UPLAND SHOTGUN

Browning Cynergy Field 20 Gauge: if you liked them before, at current price levels, you'll love them.

AUTOLOADING UPLAND SHOTGUN

There are two twelve gauges in particular of great appeal: the Fabarm L4S and the Winchester SX3 in 3 inch. In twenty, the Weatherby SA-08 is an extremely appealing choice.

MUZZLELOADER

The LHR Redemption was good, then it was gone, but now it is back as the T/C Strike with a starting MSRP of $499.

By no means are these the only firearms worth having in their respective classes and they may not be your favorites due to personal preferences. They are all worthy of your consideration though, and generally excellent, excellent for the money, or both.

Opinion by Randy Wakeman

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Where Do Price and Performance Meet? Randy's Firearm Picks 2015