The MWS is an Average-condition rifle sold at Hot Springs from Trust level 2. It is a clear step up at close to mid range with a 35-round magazine. It makes a solid primary for the middle of the north.
It handles Freaker packs, Newts and human ambushes at short to mid range. Ammo is common, so you can stay in a fight longer than with a shotgun.
The US556 from the same camp at Trust level 3 reaches further and takes a 50-round magazine. The MWS is the cheaper bridge until you get there.
.22 Repeater
The .22 Repeater is a Poor-condition primary rifle you unlock at Tucker's Hot Springs camp. It fires fast and its ammo is everywhere, but each shot hits soft. Use it for early Swarmer packs, then replace it.
Combat Shotgun
The Combat Shotgun is a Military Spec pump-action shotgun sold at Hot Springs from Trust level 3. It hits hard with a tight spread and holds 9 shells. It is the best buyable pump gun in the north.
Frag Grenade
The Frag Grenade is a military fragmentation grenade you cannot craft. Hot Springs, Lost Lake and Wizard Island sell them from Trust level 3. Use them on human groups behind cover and on tight Freaker packs.
Lil' Stubby
Lil' Stubby is a sawn-off lever-action shotgun that fits the sidearm slot. It comes in three grades, Poor, Better and Pristine, each sold at a different camp. As a sidearm, you can fire it from the bike.