>>63816251
>The only times I see the ruger backpacker being suitable is if you're keeping it in a survival bag

That's what i got my folding short barrel 410 sxs for. A gun meant to sit in the pack and be carried around hiking even if i don't think i'll need a gun. So lightweight, you almost can't notice you're carrying it.

>But you're better off getting a hinged barrel or folding stock 12ga shotgun at that point. I feel like anything you need a gun for in the woods would be better served by a shotgun; just carry birdshot, buckshot, and slugs with you depending on your situation.

The one advantage a 22 will have is ammo volume. You can carry a fuckton of 22 rounds (even more if you buy shorts) in the space occupied by one or two 12 gauge shells.
My choice of 410 was a compromise on that. I can carry 34 assorted shells in an empty 9mm box. 12 gauge would only fit maybe a dozen shells in that space.
410 slugs are still powerful enough to take deer, and with birdshot i can take flying or ground game.