I recently retired my 12ga Moss 590A1, with a SureFire tac light forend as my primary home defense weapon, in favor of a Colt M4, fitted with a SureFire Millenium vertical grip/tactical light (I'm still taking hell from my wife for dishing out $800 for a LIGHT -- she's right, I must be mad), and an Aimpoint sight. However, for me the decreased weight of the M4 makes a huge difference because in a home invasion scenario, I would have to leave my room to protect the kids upstairs. Lugging the shotgun around at low ready, and going from room to room takes a physical toll on mortals like me. I also find the M4 more versatile and easy to use when navigating close quarters.
Finally, because the #1 Buck I kept loaded in the tube will really only make a rathole sized wound channel through the BG at close distances; I feel fine relying on 5.56mm NATO FMJ 55gr M193, which will enter, break apart at the cannuler and rotate through the torso. The rear of bullet fragments into the temporary cavity, causing severe damage to vital organs/arteries that will cause massive bleeding. Although denigrated by some on the list in many threads currently running, I'm fully confident with the 5.56mm NATO's lethality (nearly the equal of a 12ga at home invasion ranges) in close ranges, as well as in the field at up to 200m for me.
I use to be on an email list where Greg Hamilton was a regular contributor. One of the biggest flame wars was SG vs. AR15 shorty/M4 for home defense. He is certainly one of the best in terms of tactical ability and knowledge. It was that debate where his comments began to sink in that maybe I could defend my home better, considering my abilities and needs, than my SG. I've finally taken his route by going with the M4 (after the sunset of the AWB) for primary home defense weapon. However, I, and nobody on the list should feel underarmed with a SG as long as you're trained with its use and are aware of its limitations.
I would be interested in knowing what firearm (handgun or long gun), if any, people would take to go investigate a bump in the night, or broken glass. . . . sounds like a good poll question.
Finally, because the #1 Buck I kept loaded in the tube will really only make a rathole sized wound channel through the BG at close distances; I feel fine relying on 5.56mm NATO FMJ 55gr M193, which will enter, break apart at the cannuler and rotate through the torso. The rear of bullet fragments into the temporary cavity, causing severe damage to vital organs/arteries that will cause massive bleeding. Although denigrated by some on the list in many threads currently running, I'm fully confident with the 5.56mm NATO's lethality (nearly the equal of a 12ga at home invasion ranges) in close ranges, as well as in the field at up to 200m for me.
I use to be on an email list where Greg Hamilton was a regular contributor. One of the biggest flame wars was SG vs. AR15 shorty/M4 for home defense. He is certainly one of the best in terms of tactical ability and knowledge. It was that debate where his comments began to sink in that maybe I could defend my home better, considering my abilities and needs, than my SG. I've finally taken his route by going with the M4 (after the sunset of the AWB) for primary home defense weapon. However, I, and nobody on the list should feel underarmed with a SG as long as you're trained with its use and are aware of its limitations.
I would be interested in knowing what firearm (handgun or long gun), if any, people would take to go investigate a bump in the night, or broken glass. . . . sounds like a good poll question.