Home and Self Defense: Choosing the Right Firearm and Accessories

Choosing the right firearm for home and self defense is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of several factors, including performance, cost, and utility. In this article, we delve into the author's personal choices and the rationale behind them, covering handguns, rifles, and lighting accessories.

Handguns for Self Defense

The author prefers a Glock 35 with a 9mm conversion barrel for self-defense scenarios. He opts for 9mm over .40 SW due to the lower cost of practice ammunition, allowing for frequent and consistent training. He also emphasizes the practicality of owning a less expensive firearm as it may be impounded by the police during legal proceedings, reducing potential costs.

Contrary to the belief that higher-priced firearms are inherently better, the author argues that well-practiced, lower-cost firearms can perform as well as expensive ones. This leads to the unambiguous recommendation to get a Glock.

Rifles for Home Defense

For home defense scenarios, the author uses a BRN-180S with a suppressor and 77gr OTM ammunition. This rifle is chosen for several reasons:

Barrel Length: Although a 10 barrel is considered the shortest practical length for 5.56 ammunition, the author has found that it provides sufficient performance while minimizing certain issues like gassing and blowback. Piston Operation: The BRN-180S uses a piston system, offering superior reliability and easier maintenance, particularly for indoor use. Suppressor Compatibility: The suppressor effectively mitigates noise and concussion, enhancing accuracy and reducing the psychological impact of gunfire.

The rifle is equipped with several key accessories:

An Aimpoint COMPM3 red dot sight for precise aiming. A Surefire M300 Scout light for positive identification of threats. A compact BRN-180M lower receiver with a 1913 rail, providing additional modularity.

Personal Carry Option

For personal carry, the author uses a P365 XL with a Streamlight TLR-6 flashlight. While he favors the TLR-7 for its powerful light and toggle switch, the P365 XL remains a reliable choice. He notes that electronic sights, like the Romeo1 red dot, can be troublesome and inconsiderate to users, comparing them to expensive funeral costs.

The author also emphasizes the importance of using a flashlight, especially for situational awareness, as it can prevent unintended shootings. This tool is not only cheaper than attending a funeral but can also ensure that you positively identify a threat before taking action.

Consider these points when making your own choices in firearms and accessories for home and self-defense. Whether you choose a firearm for its reliability, affordability, or advanced features, always prioritize safety and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.