AR as my HD weapon????

[Tomac]

I faced a similar dilemma and ended up choosing a 3rd option, the FN PS90:
Light, short (26" OAL), scary fast, no muzzle flash, mild muzzle blast, easy to use from prone, can be effectively aimed/fired w/one hand, 50rd mag & the rd is specifically designed not to overpenetrate.
Tomac

 

[benEzra]

I am as curious as Evil Monkey about Soft-points in .223. I usually use my M855 handloads and I'm curious about other alternatives. Does SP perform any better than standard "ball" in the .223?

Yes, and some JHP is better still, IMO.

Good introduction to the topic, if you can find it:

Roberts, GK: "Law Enforcement General Purpose Shoulder Fired Weapons -- The Wounding Effects of 5.56mm/.223 Carbines Compared With 12 Ga. Shotguns and Pistol Caliber Weapons using 10% Ordnance Gelatin as a Tissue Simulant." Police Marksman, July/August 1998.

 

[JShirley]

Don't know if it's still available, but I tested penetration of a few different bullets
in water-filled jugs. The .223 Federal American Eagle 50-grain HP had the least penetration of anything tested. I would choose any varmint .223 round and test
in water-filled jugs. The formula is something like 10" of water penetration equals 4" in gel, but Google it. (For me, it worked down to penetration of 2-4 milk jugs being ideal HD loading.)

Load appropriately, and as 'nuther guy said, hit your target.

And have a nice day.

John

 

[taliv]

tomac, which round are you talking about? you should clarify because some of the 5.7x28 rounds have AMAZING penetration.

 

[dverna]

Choice is a wonderful option - why make it until you know what you need.

On the floor near my bed lie a Surefire and my main carry guns - Kahr 9mm and XD 45. These are the guns I will use to get to the closet (if I have time). In the closet is an 870 Defense shotgun with collapsible stock and pistol grip loaded with #6 game loads. Also in the closet is an AR15 with collapsible stock loaded with factory SP bullets.

When at home, I carry 90% of the time.

I take SD training and practice with a variety of weapons. But for me, living in the suburbs, the 870 is my weapon of choice. It is utterly reliable and, at close quarters, utterly devastating. If anyone wishes to "keep on coming" after the 870 is dry the AR15 will have 30 surprises awaiting them.

I will not attempt to "clear the house" unless a family member is in danger -they can steal all the "trinkets" they want. If everyone makes it into my bedroom - we are relatively safe - and more than one of us knows how to shoot.

Lastly do not forget a cell phone - get help ASAP. A dog is also very useful to awaken you before the invasion commences.

It is all about being prepared. There is no logical reason to limit your defensive choices to one gun. Each has a place - depending on the situation that is presented. Such things cannot be predicted.