Meet the CAR-15: We’ve been discussing self-defense weapons here lately, but the options for home defense are also highly varied. Most people have a favored pistol that they like to carry and shoot at the range. These are usually kept within arm’s reach at night, usually on a nightstand, where they can be drawn quickly.
One of the most popular choices today is the Glock 19, which is an outstanding weapon. I prefer my SIG Sauer P365 XL for the job. That is enough for some people, but others will draw a pistol until they can grab more firepower.
Some people opt for a carbine, such as an AR-15, CAR-15, or Ruger Mini-14. Still others opt for a shorter shotgun, such as a Remington 870 or a Mossberg 590.
There is an adage that says, “When they come in the day, they’re after your property, but when they come in the night, they’re coming after you.” And this adage is one that I’ll always believe.
So…What Is The Best Home Defense Weapon?
Any of the aforementioned weapons are outstanding home-defense weapons for protecting your family, your property, and yourself. It comes down to personal preference. We’ve said that a lot the past few days, but it is true.
Whatever weapon you choose must be comfortable for you to aim and shoot. You must also be aware of what is most tactically advantageous, given the layout of your home. Safety comes into play, and where the weapon is stored plays into the safety factor. Is it secured, but in a place where you can get to it quickly during an emergency? That’s why I keep my SIG handy until I get more stopping power.
CAR-15 Is The Best
This is the best home defense weapon, in my opinion. It blends the best overall application of firepower, ease of use, and accuracy that will defeat the wolves at the door.
Some of the factors for the CAR-15 include:
Penetration: Yes, the 5.56-mm ammo can penetrate walls and travel elsewhere in the surrounding area, but those rounds will go through the body of an intruder first.
And that is the primary purpose of this weapon, because if one or more intruders enter your home at night, they’re coming after you.
It should be noted that large caliber pistols, such as .357 or .44 Magnum, actually penetrate more than a 5.56 mm, which tends to break apart when it connects with walls or human tissue.
Magazine Capacity: A CAR-15 holds 30 rounds of ammunition. Sounds like overkill, right? Wrong. Home invasions are frequently conducted by three or more intruders. A shotgun is great, but it only holds a few rounds.
Even the 15 +1 of a pistol may not be enough, but 30 well-aimed rounds will be enough to handle the situation.
A spare magazine is always a good idea for rifles and pistols. It is better to have more ammo and not need it than the opposite.
Accuracy: There is a reason the AR-15/CAR-15/M16/M4 has served the military for more than 60 years. They are accurate, reliable, and deadly. They will knock down anyone, even if they’re wearing body armor.
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey – An Airman assigned to the 39th Security Forces Squadron fires his M-16 during a mock real world exercise here Sept. 7. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Bradley A. Lail)
Compact and Maneuverable: The CAR-15 with a 10.5- or 11-inch barrel is perfect for home defense. It allows you to maneuver around your home without being too cumbersome. It is worth considering the addition of a suppressor.
CAR-15s are loud—and in a home, they’ll be deafening. Another consideration is a mounted light that will illuminate your target.
Remember, this is the last line of protection for your family and yourself against those who would do you harm. Their safety is not a concern at all. They made a decision and will have to live with it, or not.
About the Author: Steve Balestrieri
Steve Balestrieri is a 19FortyFive National Security Columnist. He served as a US Army Special Forces NCO and Warrant Officer. In addition to writing for 19FortyFive, he covers the NFL for PatsFans.com and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA). His work was regularly featured in many military publications
