what about a simple bow and arrow faster rate of fire than a flint lock. silent so you will not draw unwanted attention while hunting.parts and ammo can be made out of abundant materials that are found every where.The hands that practice this type of tool will win when ammo is impossable to find.
2011/2012 catch total
rats 12 raccoon 5 coyote 0 fox o beaver 5 fisher 6 otter 0 skunk 2
in a way i can agree with you all i am saying is a bow should be included in your arsenal to conserve valuable ammo, keep quiet,and as another weapon. by all means in that senerio i want the most reliable firearms available including a flintlock and modern cartrage guns. but the bow is also a great tool to have on the list silent and can be made of local materials.
2011/2012 catch total
rats 12 raccoon 5 coyote 0 fox o beaver 5 fisher 6 otter 0 skunk 2