improperlyaged
Member
- Joined
- May 3, 2013
- Messages
- 422
The .223 is, also known as the 5.56x45. There shouldn't be any doubt as to the absolute supremacy of the 5.56x45 for home defense. Many would argue that the 12 gauge shotgun is the superior home defender and if the 5.56x45 had never been invented I would agree. 9 lead pellets weighing approximately 50 grains each travelling at the speed of sound per shot is very impressive. But the 12 gauge is put well under the 5.56 for home defense because of its stout recoil and relatively low capacity. The standard capacity for a 12 gauge is 5 to 9 rounds, the standard semi auto 5.56x45 is 20 to 30 rounds. There is also a much greater need for training involved with shotguns in order to use them most effectively under stress. However there is relatively a small amount of training with rifles chambered in 5.56x45. For many it is simply rack the charging handle and align the sights then press the trigger. The majority of rifles chambered in 5.56x45 are light weight and have adjustable stocks that can be used by the whole family. The caliber itself is a low recoiling round that when it contacts human flesh at in home distances it causes massive wounds. Even the low powered Russian made ammo still has enough velocity in home defense situations to leave severe injuries. The bullet construction leads itself to not be too aggressive on penetration. It has been shown many times that the light weight bullets used by the 5.56x45 penetrate less than handgun ammo that is significantly less effective in defensive situations. This was considered a problem for the military who desire penetration in combat to reach through walls. But this less penetration is ideal for civilians defending there home, since over penetration could lead to unintended consequences. The 5.56x45 is truly the best home defense caliber currently on the market today.