When it comes to the best home defense weapon, people are always debating handgun vs. shotgun. Except, what if there was another choice? What if there was a tool that combined the best of both guns? Let’s take a look and what the AR-15 can offer you and why it may be the best choice for you. Both its benefits and possible disadvantages.
- Stopping power
- Ammo capacity
- Lightweight & little recoil
- Is it too “big?”
- Negative “connotation”
Stopping Power
The AR-15 is one of the best home defense weapons because of its stopping power. Most AR-15’s use .223 Remingtons. This will give you enough power to stop anyone in their tracks. Not to mention, you can also buy special ammo that is specific for home defense purposes. As opposed to a shotgun, which sprays small metal balls, AR-15’s fire single bullets in a targetted direction. This will leave you less worried about accidentally shooting a family member or damaging your home when it matters most.
Ammo Capacity
Unlike other options for the best home defense weapon, you aren’t going to be limited in your ammo capacity. The AR-15 usually allows 20-30 rounds to be fired before you need to switch magazines. This means, even if there are multiple intruders in your home, you still have enough ammo in a single magazine to protect yourself. Again, there are modifications you can make to this as well. You can buy parts to upgrade your ammo capacity and be ready for literally anything. That’s what makes it one of the best home defense weapons.
Lightweight & little recoil
The AR-15 is lightweight, averaging a little under 7 pounds. It’s easy to move in and out of rooms, even for those who may not be as strong. On top of that, the AR-15 has little recoil, making it a perfect weapon to train on and fire repeatedly. With less recoil, you can be more accurate whether you are at the gun range or defending your home.
Contrast that with a pistol or shotgun. A typical Glock 19 is a great weapon for self-defense, but if you don’t have good hand strength it may not be the best choice for you because you can’t use your shoulder to help with recoil. On the other hand, a shotgun does allow you to use your shoulder for recoil but may still be too powerful to handle.
An AR-15 is still light enough to be easily movable and easy to handle, but still powerful enough to make your home secure.
Let’s talk about some potential drawbacks.
Is it too “big?”
One of the most common misconceptions about the AR-15 is that it’s too big to handle deftly in a combat situation. There are a couple of false factors about this notion. First off is weight, and we’ve already covered that. Second, the AR-15 can be attached with a short barrel, making it even smaller and lighter than the original. Third, everyone finds reacting to an emergency situation stressful. Doing so with any gun is difficult. However, if you want to become better in this area with any gun, you should take self-defense training. This training will help you overcome fear to move succinctly and with confidence. You don’t have to be limited when you take training and can use the best home defense weapon that works for you.
Negative “connotation”
The AR-15 is powerful. Because of this, it has been used in several shootings and has garnered somewhat of a negative connotation amongst the public who does not own guns. If you want to buy one of the best home defense weapons, you may want to consider this. Some people may judge you for owning such a firearm. However, when it comes down to someone breaking into your home, don’t you want the best you can buy?
Are you looking to purchase a gun for home defense? Not sure if an AR-15 is right for you or if you need something different? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! At Spring Guns and Ammo we can help novice and veteran gun owners alike! Contact us today to find the perfect gun for you!