Sks or 9mm carbine

[bayouvol]

In a shtf scenario, which would you rather have? Bear in mind weight to carry, having the same caliber for pistols and such. I am actually debating this in my mind.

[runco]

Given this was my only choice, the SKS.  Great proven rifle in all elements.  Not sure the 9mm carbine has been proven.  However, the availability of ammo could be the main driver of decision.  Flip a coin. :shrug:

[peejman]

SKS all day long.

[1gewehr]

Not enough information. Bug out? Retreat in place? Urban, suburban, country, backwoods? Probable ranges, most probable use, your expertise and experience?
If you buy ammo by the box, shoot 2-3 times a year and aren't experienced in the woods, I'd recommend the carbine.

[MrBrian]

I believe I'd choose the 9mm carbine....  While I like the SKS, it's a heavy gun to tote around.   It's also nice to be able to use the same ammo and magazines as your pistol.   But know, that neither of these guns would be my first choice.  Also know that the 9mm carbine does not replace a true rifle, as I would only recommend it up to maybe 150 yards (100 yards really for the 9mm round)  We lobbed in 9mm rounds at 500 yards with my dad's carbine, but we had to aim about 40 ft over the target.      But of the 2, I believe the weight, ease of cleaning, and hopefully ample supply of 9mm ammo would win out.

[Troutburger]

SKS hands down.

Rugged, dependable, plus they gave us hell in the early years of Vietnam. 

7.62x39 is still pretty reasonable in price. 

 

SKS is a proven combat effective weapon.

9mm carbine is a great range toy and home defense weapon, but can't match the SKS long term SHTF.  IMHO. 

[TNWNGR]

SKS. It might be heavy but you've got the equivalent, or near enough, to a 30/30 hunting rifle in a semi auto rifle platform with ready availability of ammunition. So you can effectively protect yourself and others as well as hunt game for food with it as well. I have a lot of confidence in a 9mmP SMG or SA Carbine as a PDW but it has limitations. The Red Army and German Army found this out first hand during WWII. 

 

Now if your really going to get technical on weight and commonalty of calibers you should look at the .357 Magnum or .22WMR. Me? I'd rather have a decent rifle and handgun in readily available calibers neither of which need to be the same.  

Edited July 2, 2015 by TNWNGR

[Clod Stomper]

If being able to use the same ammo in your handgun and long gun is a factor, I think you're really limiting yourself.

Given the two options, I'd go with the SKS.

BUT, if you really want one cartridge for two guns, think about the .357 Mag or Max. Or .44 Mag. While the 9mm will usually gain some speed out of a longer barrel, the magnum rounds will gain enough to reach out a couple hundred yards or more.

[Moped]

SKS, is what I would choose.  10 rounds of hi-powered ammunition, 300 yard range and a bayonet in a very reliable and rugged package.