AR-15 for home defense?

[FAS1]

While I currently don't own an AR, it is on my short list to get for home defense. Currently I have my G17 in one of my FAS1 safes mounted to my bed and a Beretta 1201FP shotgun loaded in my RSC. I think for a lot of people the handgun is so much easier to keep handy, for instance near your bed and keep is secured in one of the many quick access safe options you have on the market. In my mind, I would probably make my way for my shotgun after grabbing my handgun if I had the opportunity. I also keep a loaded 30-30 as well. There are a few ways to secure long guns if you have kids and still have them reasonably accessible, I just haven't found one that I like and I don't like leaving guns laying around even though my kids are grown and gone. When I do get an AR (hopefully this year) I might just have to make a way to secure it and keep it handy.

 

[Art Eatman]

Thread drift: No reply needed.

If you don't have a safe but need security, an inexpensive and convenient setup is via two 3/8" screw-eyes, a length of chain and two locks.

Screw the eyes into adjacent studs. Lock one end of the chain, then run the chain through the trigger guard, and lock the other end to the other eye.

Wrap the chain to prevent scratching. A fairly snug fit precludes a smash-and-grab burglar (or kid) from unscrewing an eye from a stud.

No defense against bolt-cutters, of course, but those aren't common items for the quick-hit types.

 

[Strykervet]

Well, I have an interesting take. I prefer the devastating power of the shotgun myself, but I have pretty bad shoulder arthritis sometimes, I wake up with the pain. I couldn't use a shotgun efficiently in that case.

So I went to the M4. Been shooting them since I was a kid, I toted one in the army, was an SDM, etc., so I'm fairly proficient with 'em. I keep mine loaded with XM193 ball in the mag, have a pressure switch Surefire light, and a Trijicon reflex. All I have to do is pick it up and rock and roll. If I run out, I have a Beta-mag full of M855 nearby. I figure if I have to reload a 30 rd. magazine, I need more firepower (but mostly they are range toys!).

The bad guy wouldn't stand a chance once that weapon is in my hands. In addition, like was mentioned, you have less chance of overpenetration. Those rounds fragment like crazy... They will also punch through soft armor like it isn't there, something the shotgun won't do.

I'd say go with what you are proficient with. I am fairly proficient with the shotgun, but mostly for dove hunting and door breaching (what a combo, huh?). I am more proficient with the M4, it just feels like an extension of my own body. This combined with the shoulder issue sort of forces the decision with me.

You also have amazing follow-up capability and range of motion with the M4. I'd guess in a duel, if I had to pick one or the other, I'd go with the M4.

I keep my handgun nearby too, but that is just because it is my CCW and I like to keep it handy. Doesn't hurt to have it too though...

 

[Sheepdog1968]

There are pros and cons to the three major weapon classes: handguns, rifles, shotguns. All three will likely penetrate sheetrock (google boxotruth). I can't tell you which one you should use. I can tell you that you should take formal training classes from legit instructors to learn how to use all of them. Based on this and what you own, then make a choice.

 

[1stmarine]

By the way the neighbors two doors down aren't alive anymore because of a home invasion gone bad. They had no guns/ way of defending themselves

Irondavi,
I am sorry to hear that. If you are doing those things and running drills with your entire family that is not the way. I would move as far away as I could from trouble and try to live a normal life. That is the best defense there is.

When bad things are in motion there is no recall button in real life.

 

[Rail Driver]

I would move as far away as I could from trouble and try to live a normal life. That is the best defense there is.

Not to be rude, but not everybody has the resources or the desire to move away from their neighborhood. The "move away" advice is bunk... We need to do what's necessary and what's legal to take back our neighborhoods. Moving away just lets the criminals win. Where will we go when there's no more "away" to move to?

 

[1stmarine]

I understand but the person has a family, it seems small children. I said this is what I would do, at least I would think about it very seriously. I would do whatever possible to keep my family away from trouble.
Even very powerful people if huge trouble is coming the first thing they do is to send their family to a safe place.
I understand this might not be possible sometimes then other options need to be analyzed but the one I proposed is the safest.

 

[irondavy]

"If you are doing those things and running drills with your entire family that is not the way. I would move as far away as I could from trouble and try to live a normal life. That is the best defense there is."

1stmarine,

You are indeed correct, If I could move away I would. Due to family and other restrictions (i won't bore you) I can't. Due to some shady bars moving in and many of my aging neighbors moving and or dieing my quiet street is getting worse and worse every day.

As far as the original question of weather or not an AR is a good home defense platform I am getting one tomorrow. I will load it with the best ammo possible and shoot it regularly. They seem the best to defend against multiple determined targets but for now my trusty 12 Ga will still be my go to with the 1911 in reserve.

ID

 

[1stmarine]

irondavy,
I am sorry man. I hope things get better. A trusty pump is extremely effective in CQ. Cylinder + High velocity tungsten heavy shot is the ticket, it turns flesh and bones into pudding. TRain a lot, fast reloads.