Out by the barn, the simplest gun is often the right one. The Henry H01512 is a single shot 12 gauge with a blued finish, a break-open design with nothing to jam and nothing to forget. One shell goes in, one comes out.

A ranch hand keeps a gun like this behind the truck seat or on a hook by the door. It handles snakes, varmints, and the occasional coyote near the chicken house. With the right load, it takes rabbits and squirrels as well, and with turkey shells it works in spring.

It is also a fine first shotgun for a young hunter, since the single shot teaches careful aim and safe handling. Expect a plain tool, not a showpiece. Keep the bore oiled and the hinge clean, and it should last for generations. Take your time on the first few cycles of the action and learn how it feels in your hands.

Firearms ship to a licensed FFL dealer you choose at checkout. The dealer handles the background check when you pick it up, so line one up before you order.