Misfit Child wrote:Have you hiked distances with a heavy rifle? After ten miles all rifles are heavy.
Plus, unless you strap it to your pack, it will bounce and shift around becoming uncomfortable and occupying one hand at most times. The tall front sight of an AK/AR will snag on everything.
I would recommend a revolver. Something in the 4-6", .357 mag to .44 mag will do fine, short of big bear, for self-defense and can be used to take game.
If you're dead-set on a rifle I'd recommend a lever action. The Marlin 1895 stainless Guide Gun, 45-70 gets my vote but any caliber would be sufficient (outside of big bear country). Lever actions are quick handling and streamlined. They also look at home in the woods.