A truck gun needs to do more than just sit behind the seat. It should be reliable, easy to grab, and still pack enough punch to handle real problems—whether that’s a coyote in the pasture or something more serious. You want something that can live in less-than-ideal conditions and still run when you need it. These thirteen guns have earned their keep in trucks across the country, not just for being convenient, but for hitting hard when it counts.
Ruger Ranch Rifle (7.62×39)
The Ruger Ranch in 7.62×39 is about as no-nonsense as it gets. It’s short, handy, and hits with enough energy to handle hogs or anything else you run into. Plus, that caliber’s affordable and proven.
It feeds from detachable mags, so reloads aren’t a pain, and the Mini-30 style action has years of field use behind it. If you’re looking for a semi-auto that still feels like a traditional rifle, this one earns its spot in the cab.
Mossberg 590
The 590 isn’t pretty, but it gets the job done. A 12-gauge pump with a decent barrel length can handle a lot—from personal defense to pests around the farm. Buckshot or slugs, take your pick.
It’s simple to use, rugged enough to rattle around in a rack, and dead reliable. You don’t need batteries or optics to make it work, either. Just load it, rack it, and you’re ready to go.
Marlin 1895 (45-70 Gov’t)
If you want something that truly hits, the 1895 in .45-70 doesn’t play around. It’s a lever-action with deep roots in hunting and backcountry work, and it still makes sense today—especially in bear country.
It holds well behind the seat and doesn’t need glass to be effective. You get hard-hitting rounds in a fast-firing package, and there’s something comforting about cycling that big lever when things get sketchy.
KelTec SUB2000 (9mm or .40 S&W)
This one folds in half and still manages to pack a decent punch. The SUB2000 isn’t a battle rifle, but it gives you more reach and control than a pistol. It fits in a backpack, toolbox, or under the seat easily.
It uses common handgun mags, so you can run your pistol and long gun with the same ammo. Not ideal for big game, but for defense or pest control, it works—and it’s light enough to carry all day.
PSA AK-47 (7.62×39)
You’re not looking for precision here—you’re looking for something that runs and hits hard. The PSA AK fits that bill. It shrugs off grime, handles steel-case ammo, and keeps sending lead.
It’s perfect for short-range threats or rough terrain. Toss it in the truck bed, slam a mag in, and go. You won’t cry if it gets scratched, and it’ll still be running long after some fancier rifles choke.
Winchester 1300 Defender
This old-school pump-action might not get talked about much anymore, but it’s fast, light, and hits with authority. The action is smooth, and it cycles quick, which matters if things get close and loud.
It doesn’t care about dust, dirt, or heat. Load it with slugs or buck, and you’ve got a serious fight-stopper sitting in your truck. It’s also easy to find used without spending much.
Henry Big Boy X (357 Mag)
Lever guns still make sense in a truck, especially when they’re chambered in something like .357 Magnum. The Henry Big Boy X gives you a reliable platform that can shoot both .357 and .38 Special.
It’s quiet with subsonics, hits hard with full loads, and the side loading gate makes reloading easier. It won’t get you weird looks if you’re stopped with it in the backseat either—just a classic-looking rifle that still does work.
AR Pistol (5.56 or .300 BLK)
If you want compact with firepower, an AR pistol fits that role well. Whether you’re running .223/5.56 or .300 Blackout, you’ve got rifle performance in a short, packable format.
Add a red dot and a sling, and it’s fast on target in tight spots. It’s not great for plinking out at 300 yards, but for truck use—fast, close, and simple—it gets the job done.
Remington 870 Hardwood Home Defense
Short barrel, 12-gauge, and wood furniture—it’s a classic combo that’s still serious business. The 870 has been around forever for a reason, and this version is compact enough to stash but still hits hard.
It’s got the look of a traditional shotgun with the guts to work in any setting. From snakes in the barn to trouble on the trail, this one handles it all.
Ruger American Rifle (308 Win)
A bolt-action might not be the first thing you think of for a truck gun, but the Ruger American makes a solid case. Chambered in .308, it hits hard and shoots straight.
It’s lightweight, not picky with ammo, and doesn’t mind a little dust or banging around in the backseat. If you hunt from the truck or want a tool that can reach out, this one’s worth keeping close.
Smith & Wesson M&P12
This bullpup pump shotgun gives you a ton of firepower in a compact footprint. It’s a bit heavier than your average pump, but it holds more shells and keeps everything tight and centered.
It’s not your granddad’s shotgun, but it’s built for tight spaces and serious stopping power. If you’ve got room under the rear seat, it’s a strong candidate for a modern truck setup.
CZ Scorpion EVO 3
Pistol-caliber carbines might not get much respect from rifle purists, but they’re great truck guns. The Scorpion gives you a ton of control in a small package, with easy mag changes and good capacity.
9mm won’t win long-range contests, but it’s more than enough for close encounters or pest control. Toss it in a soft case and it’ll ride just fine till you need it.
Springfield M1A Scout Squad
If you want something that really reaches out and punches hard, the M1A Scout Squad is worth a look. It’s got the power of .308, with a shorter barrel and traditional layout.
It’s not as light as an AR, but it’s rugged and proven. For ranch duty or big game scenarios, this one keeps hitting hard no matter what gets thrown at it. Might not be cheap—but it’ll serve.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
