Choices
The M-1 carbine is a handy gun, and with hollowpoints instead of GI ball, an effective stopper. (Maybe not on heavy clothed opponents, apparently the M-1 didn't perform well in Korea in the winter.)
The PC carbines from Ruger are nice, but obviously pistol caliber. Might as well go with a Mini-14 (.223) or Mini-30 (7.62x39). Probably get a good deal on a used one. Accuracy isn't great, but ammo for either is dirt cheap. They're both handy and reliable shooters.
Any of those choices will fit the bill for what you want, with the pistol carbines on the weaker side. Also check out Marlin Camp Carbines and the Hi-Point already mentioned.
Shoot well!
The M-1 carbine is a handy gun, and with hollowpoints instead of GI ball, an effective stopper. (Maybe not on heavy clothed opponents, apparently the M-1 didn't perform well in Korea in the winter.)
The PC carbines from Ruger are nice, but obviously pistol caliber. Might as well go with a Mini-14 (.223) or Mini-30 (7.62x39). Probably get a good deal on a used one. Accuracy isn't great, but ammo for either is dirt cheap. They're both handy and reliable shooters.
Any of those choices will fit the bill for what you want, with the pistol carbines on the weaker side. Also check out Marlin Camp Carbines and the Hi-Point already mentioned.
Shoot well!