7 Reasons The Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway Is The Ultimate Ultralight Survival Firearm Of 2025
The Dark Mountain Arms (DMA) Stowaway series has rapidly captured the attention of survivalists, preppers, and backcountry enthusiasts, establishing itself as a revolutionary ultralight, single-shot, take-down firearm. As of December 24, 2025, this innovative rifle and pistol combination, which was a standout at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits (NRAAM 2025), is redefining what a true emergency or "stashable" weapon should be. Its core design focuses on extreme portability, reliability, and multi-caliber functionality, making it arguably the most versatile firearm to hit the market in years.
The concept behind the Stowaway is simple yet brilliant: a firearm that can be completely disassembled and packed into the smallest possible space, ready for immediate deployment. This veteran-owned company, started by Voight in 2024, has executed this vision with exceptional creativity, offering both a rifle and a pistol variant at a highly competitive Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). For anyone building an emergency kit, a bug-out bag, or simply needing a discreet, powerful tool for the trail, the Stowaway demands a closer look.
The Ultimate Survival Tool: Stowaway Specifications & Configurations
The Stowaway is not just another firearm; it is a purpose-built survival tool. It is an ultralight, bolt-action, single-shot firearm, a design choice that maximizes reliability and minimizes weight and complexity. This focus on simplicity is what allows the Stowaway to achieve its primary mission: being the most versatile and packable shooter available.
Key Stowaway Specifications:
- Caliber Options: The primary caliber is the high-velocity 5.7x28mm FN, known for its flat trajectory and light recoil. The system is also designed for quick caliber change-outs, with readily available 9mm conversion kits.
- Configurations: Available in two main variants: the Stowaway Pistol and the Stowaway Rifle.
- Barrel Length: The Rifle version features a 16.65-inch barrel, providing excellent velocity for the 5.7x28mm round. The Pistol version is significantly shorter, utilizing a 7.1-inch barrel.
- Action: A straightforward, reliable single-shot, manually operated bolt-action mechanism. This requires the user to place a single round in front of the retracted bolt for chambering.
- Weight: True to its name, the Stowaway is exceptionally lightweight, making it ideal for long-distance backpacking or discreet carry in an emergency kit.
The decision to utilize the 5.7x28mm caliber is a strategic one. This round offers superior performance to common rimfire cartridges, providing a capable self-defense or small-game hunting option while maintaining a low-profile and lightweight ammunition supply. The option to convert to 9mm further enhances its utility, allowing users to switch to a more common and often cheaper pistol caliber for training or specific defensive needs.
7 Reasons Why the Stowaway is Redefining the Take-Down Market
The market for take-down rifles and survival pistols is competitive, but the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway stands out due to several key design and functional advantages. These seven points highlight why this single-shot firearm is becoming a favorite among experts.
1. Unmatched Packability and Discretion
The Stowaway's take-down design allows it to be broken down into two or three small components in seconds, making it incredibly easy to stash. It can fit into a small backpack, an emergency vehicle compartment, or even a laptop bag. This level of discretion is crucial for a firearm intended for survival or low-profile carry.
2. Multi-Caliber Versatility (5.7x28mm & 9mm)
Unlike most take-down rifles that are limited to a single caliber, the Stowaway's modular design allows for a simple barrel and bolt swap to switch between the high-performance 5.7x28mm FN and the ubiquitous 9mm. This versatility provides the user with options for different scenarios, from small varmint control to defensive applications.
3. Extreme Ultralight Construction
Weight is the enemy of any serious backpacker or survivalist. The Stowaway is engineered to be an ultralight rifle, minimizing the burden on the user's loadout. This focus on shedding ounces without compromising structural integrity is a major selling point for those who measure weight in grams.
4. Simple and Reliable Bolt-Action Mechanism
By opting for a single-shot, bolt-action system, Dark Mountain Arms has maximized reliability. There are no magazines to fail, no complex gas systems to jam, and fewer moving parts to break. The manual operation is inherently more robust and easier to maintain in harsh, dirty environments.
5. Easy Field Stripping and Maintenance
The modular nature of the take-down design translates directly into ease of maintenance. The Stowaway is exceptionally easy to work with when it comes to routine cleaning or changing out the barrel and bolt for a different caliber. This is a significant advantage for a survival pistol or rifle that might go long periods without a full cleaning.
6. Competitive and Accessible MSRP
Despite its innovative design and high-quality construction, the Stowaway is priced aggressively. The pistol version starts around $369 to $389, while the rifle version's MSRP begins at a highly competitive $399 to $419. This accessible price point makes it a viable option for a wider range of consumers looking for a dedicated emergency firearm.
7. Proudly Made in the USA by a Veteran-Owned Company
Dark Mountain Arms is a veteran-owned and operated gun manufacturing venture. For many consumers, supporting a company with this background that manufactures its products in the USA is an important ethical and quality consideration. This heritage speaks to a commitment to robust, reliable equipment designed for demanding situations.
Price, Availability, and the Dark Mountain Arms Story
The launch of the Stowaway at major industry events like NRAAM 2025 cemented its status as a serious contender in the survival firearm space. The company, led by founder Voight, has quickly gained a reputation for innovation, delivering a product that fills a specific, long-standing niche: a powerful, packable, and truly stashable firearm.
Pricing Breakdown:
- Stowaway Pistol (5.7x28mm): Starting MSRP is typically in the $369.00 to $389.00 range.
- Stowaway Rifle (5.7x28mm): Starting MSRP is slightly higher, generally around $399.00 to $419.00.
- 9mm Conversion Kits: Available separately, these kits include the necessary barrel and bolt components to complete the caliber change-out.
The low barrier to entry, especially for the rifle variant, makes the Stowaway an extremely competitive option against other popular take-down models. Its price point, coupled with its unique features like the 5.7x28mm chambering and modularity, offers exceptional value for money.
The overall length of the rifle, even at 31.78 inches when assembled, is manageable, but its true strength lies in its disassembled form. The design prioritizes the ability to quickly and easily break down and reassemble the firearm, ensuring that it is ready when needed, whether for a spontaneous target practice session in the backcountry or for a genuine emergency scenario. The Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway is more than just a gun; it is an essential piece of ultralight gear for the modern adventurer and prepared citizen.
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