THE NO.

1 MISTAKE CRIME VICTIMS MAKE PAGE 70

BEST
DEFENSIVE

AMMO
OPTIONS

EXCLUSIVE

Q&AS

EX-BURGLAR
REVEALS WHO,
WHY HE TARGETED
HOW A VICTIM
FOUGHT BACK

SELF-DEFENSE

TIPS

HOW
SOCIAL MEDIA

WHICH STRIKES
TO USE, WHICH
TO AVOID

CONTRIBUTES TO
CRIME PAGE 88

SHOOT
BETTER TODAY
DRILLS
THE PROS USE

MUST-HAVE
ITEMS FOR
HOME DEFENSE

SIDEWINDER

VENOM
RAPID RELOADS,
INCREASED CAPACITY
FROM THE EDITORS OF WORLD OF FIREPOWER
SPRING 2015
DISPLAY UNTIL: 4/7/15 U.S. $8.99

49

PLUS: NEW PRODUCTS HANDGUNS SHOTGUNS and More

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BEDSIDE BACKUP

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

32

>COVER STORY
18

78

>FEATURES

84

88

You can be a better shot than the

Sundance Kid, but that wont
mean much if youre not mentally
strong.
By Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D.

70

HARD TARGET
We assembled a ve-member panel
of law enforcement officers to provide
tips so you can reduce the likelihood
of a burglary.
By Torrey Kim

4 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

TACTICAL REALITY

POWERFUL PERIMETER
Your rst line of defense is your perimeter, and we have simple, effective and
inexpensive ways to strengthen it.
By Charlie Kim

WHEN THE DEVILS

AT THE DOOR

NEVER SAY DIE

118 OL FAITHFUL
This line-up of 1911 handguns is a great
starting point when youre looking for a
gun for home defense.
By Home Defender Staff

124 NO ESCAPE, NO SURRENDER

If you have to go hand-to-hand with a
bad guy, youll want these tips for
close-quarters combat.
By Michael DAngona

If you cant decide between a shotgun

and handgun for home defense, the
pros and cons of each should solve that
problem.
By Louis Awerbuck

This seven-item checklist is critical

to stop a home invasion.
By Terrill Hoffman

58

SMOOTH AND FAST

These reloading and transition drills
will bolster your defensive shooting
skills.
By Richard Crays

THE SIDEWINDER VENOM

Rapid reloads and greater capacity
mean more security for your home
defense.
By Terrill Hoffman

32

46

SECTION:
>SPECIAL
BURGLARY 360
44

94

INTRODUCTION

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION
Our expert provided the ve top
rearms you should consider for personal safety.
By Abe Elias

46

102 MAN OR MACHINE?

To answer all your questions, we delved
headrst into laser sights.
By Larry Schwartz

114 OVERWHELMED BY
OPTIONS?
This is your guide to the best defensive
ammunition.
By James E. House

PRIME TARGET
In this exclusive interview, an ex-burglar
reveals insight into his illegal operation,
from picking a house to best method of
entry.
By Kerry Michael Li

52

THE AMERICAN NIGHTMARE

We talked to a couple whose home was
broken into. You might be surprised by
what lessons they learned from this incident.
By Aileen Natalia

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

78

18

84
94

108

>BUYERS GUIDES
12
26
38
64
108

NEW PRODUCTS
SHOTGUNS
VESTS & GEAR
FLASHLIGHTS
HANDGUNS

>COLUMNS
6
FIRST WORDS
8
NEWS AND TIPS
130 LAST SHOT

THE COVER
Photo: Adaptive Tactical/Eric Rose
Designer: Johann Frederick Mendoza

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

FIRST WORDS

Is It Luck
or Something Else?
By Kerry Michael Li

6 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

These days it seems

like were under some
sort of a real threat
all the time.

So far, Ive been lucky.

Ive never been robbed and my
home has never been broken into.
But is it really luck or just preparation?
By nature, Im basically a trusting
person. But I still lock my door whenever I leave my home, and Ive always
left lights on at night when Im gone
to make it look like somebodys
home, which I did even when I was a
kid.
Ive always lived in large metropolitan areas. When traveling to the
countryside to Lake Michigan or the
Catskill Mountains as a child, I always
thought it was strange that people
would leave their doors unlocked, especially when it was dark. I guess
growing up with Big City Values
taught me security concerns automatically: always lock your doors,
dont talk to strangers, avoid dark alleyscommon sense stuff.
But these days, with the proliferation of technology and rampant cybercrime, it seems like were under
some sort of a real threat all the
time. Is it safe to use my ATM card? Is
somebody spying on me? Is my identity safe? Its daunting, really.
I started martial arts training
young (in the 1970s, after the movie
Billy Jack came out). So Ive had a
defensive mindset for most of my

life. We had an adage in my old dojo:

You dont start ghts, you nish
them. What does that mean? It
means you should avoid altercations,
not look for them. It means following
your gut instincts when you feel
threatened and react to them.
Ive noticed the same pattern
when it comes to home defense. I
dont want to be robbed, but Im prepared for it. I have alarms, Im armed,
Im trained in tactical shooting. Does
that mean trouble will eventually nd
me because Ive accepted the possibility of it happening to me? By the
same logic, I guess Im going to get
sick by going to the doctor for a
checkup or get in a car accident because I buckled up. So, no, being prepared for the worst doesnt mean the
worst will happen.
But if it did are you ready for it?

IN THIS ISSUE
Speaking of worst-case scenarios, in this issue we highlight both
causing and being on the receiving
end of a burglary. We spoke to a victim who offers real insight into this
nightmare. You can benet from his
insights and his mistakes.
I also got to interview a home
burglar who has never been caught
(for real). I learned a lot from him,
and I let his words speak for himself.
And you know whats the scariest
thing of all? Hes a really nice guy. I
actually enjoyed interviewing him.
You would never know what he used
to do because he doesnt t the
stereotype of a criminal. Hes just
another guy, like you and me, trying
to make a living.
And when I was done talking to
him, I went straight home and upped
my security and made sure he
doesnt know where I live.
You know prepare for the worst.

SPRING 2015
EDITORIAL
Group Editor: Doug Jeffrey
Editor: Kerry Michael Li
Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick
Senior Creative Director: Eric Knagg
Art Director: Johann Frederick Mendoza
Contributors: Louis Awerbuck, Bob Campbell, Sean Cooper,
Richard Crays, Michael DAngona, Abe Elias, Terrill Hoffman,
James E. House, Charlie Kim, Torrey Kim, Thomas J. Nardi,
Ph.D., Aileen Natalia, Larry Schwartz

ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel: Ad Sales Director
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or responsibility by Engaged
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completeness or technical accuracy.

THINKSTOCK

NEWS, QUICK TIPS

ARE YOU SURROUNDED?

SECURITY TIPS FOR
APARTMENT LIVING
Due to the rise in population,
large apartment buildings and
multi-use buildings that integrate residential apartments
with commercial storefront ofces or stores seem to be popping up everywhere.
Securing your living space can
prove challenging, especially
when you live in a busy building
with people coming in and out at
all hours of the day.
Here are a few tips and guidelines that might make you a little
safer:
Secure Lobby Apartment
buildings, which have unit doors
that open into interior hallways,
will generally have a lobby. The
lobby doors should be locked
from the outside at all times, unless theres a receptionist or security guard present. To restrict
entry into the building, a swipe
card or fob is better than an oldfashioned lock and key system.
There are three main advantages
8 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

to having a card or fob system:

rst, they can be deactivated
when lost or stolen; second,
when the user swipes their card
or fob, an electronic record is created and can easily be tracked;
and nally, cards can be programmed to restrict access at
certain times of the day for building maintenance personnel. In
addition, telephone-entry system should be installed for visitors and delivery people to
contact residents so they can be
either buzzed in or met by
residents.
Hardware First, you should
make sure that you have a deadbolt on your door. Some doorknob locks can be breached very
easily by slipping a credit card to
catch the latch and then pushing
the door open. Hinges should be
placed on the interior of the door,
not the exterior. Even if you live in
a building with a secure lobby or
security door, you should insist
on having your hinges moved to
the interior. Its important to have
a doorframe thats not made of

wood, but steel. Steel frames are

nearly impossible to kick in.
Lighting Dont underestimate
the dangers of having a burntout light bulb, especially in common areas like the laundry room,
parking garages or elevator lobbies. Darkness is a predators
best friend. Report any outages
to the building manager or maintenance. Exterior lights should either be activated by a timer or
have motion sensors.
Property Maintenance One
of the benets of living in a larger
apartment building is that they
have onsite managers whose job
is to manage the maintenance of
the building. If you see a broken
window, screen, lights or gate
locks, let your building manager
know immediately. Properties in
disrepair attract criminals because they show that the owners
and residents dont pay attention
or care about the property. In
that instance, criminals know
that the probability of nding a
weak point will be greater than in
a well-maintained building.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

INSTALLING SECURITY
CAMERAS TO USE OR NOT
TO USE THATS THE
QUESTION

wallet and watch. Before exiting

opened. He watched as the per-

the house, he also stole a laptop

petrator proceeded to take his

and some food. The man is still

electronic equipment.

at large but police are hoping the

The owner was able to yell at

A Houston, Texas, homeowner

surveillance footage will eventu-

the invader by using his smart-

discovered that mounting secu-

ally lead them to an arrest. The

phone to tap into the cameras

rity cameras was not much of a

homeowners are in the process

speakers. He warned the intruder

deterrent.

of adding more cameras.

to leave his home in hopes of

At 9:45 p.m. on a Thursday

On the other hand, a Louisville,

scaring the alleged criminal off.

night, cameras clearly show an

Kentucky, man, watched from his

And it worked.

intruder hopping over the fence.

phone as an intruder entered his

Because of the surveillance

Although his rst attempt was

home through an unlocked slid-

footage, the police quickly ar-

unsuccessful, the burglar

ing glass door.

rested the alleged burglar, who

persisted.
Later video shows the perpe-

The burglar spotted one of the

was held on $25,000 bail.

surveillance cameras and turned

trator skulking around the patio

it around. But he didnt know

Dropcam Smartphone

and then entering the home.

that there were two other cam-

App: Free

Once he gained access to the

eras still rolling.

Mounted Cameras: $150

The owner of the house was

Catching a criminal while

on, he made his way up the

eating dinner nearby when his

youre out having dinner:

stairs. He entered a bedroom

Dropcam security system sent a

Priceless.

where one of the homeowners

warning to his smartphone that

was asleep and quickly took a

his sliding door had been

house, which had lights and a TV

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Source: ABC News

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

NEWS, QUICK TIPS

FIGHTING GRANNIES
NEVER TOO OLD TO FIGHT
BACK
Criminals beware. Even brave
grandmothers have managed to
fend off intruders.
Granny #1: In Houston, an 83year-old Houston woman went
to put clothes in the laundry
when she noticed that her belongings were out of place and
her window was wide open. The
victim heard a mans voice demanding money. Instead of
telling him where the money
was, she exclaimed, What kind
of momma you got that raised
you up like this? You ought to be
ashamed of yourself.
The burglar then attempted to
choke her. The victim reached for
a stick and began striking him
with it. Then she remembered
that she had some sausage
cooking on the stove and followed up her strikes by pouring
hot water on him.

10 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

The burglar quickly retreated.

Granny #2: While in Liverpool,
England, a 101-year-old woman
was tricked into inviting a female
intruder inside who asked to use
the phone. Once inside, the female intruder ordered the elderly
woman to give her money.
When the elderly woman
didnt comply, the female intruder proceeded to snatch the
victims purse. But the old

woman clutched her purse while

ordering the intruder to leave.
Frustrated, the female intruder
left.
Police have heralded the lady
as having remarkable spirit. The
elderly woman was upset by the
ordeal but only suffered minor
abrasions to her arms.
Sources: ABC News and
BBC News

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

8 SIMPLE TIPS
AVOID TROUBLE WHEN
YOU VENTURE OUT
Experienced criminals roam
the streets in search of easy
marks. Here are a few tips to
avoid being caught in their
crosshairs:
Dont dress like a chump If
you dress like a tourist or wear a
lot of bling (i.e. fancy jewelry or
expensive watches), you are basically painting a target on your
back.
Stay in well-lit places and
crowds In other words, dont
take the shortcut through the deserted alley or unlit park. Stick to
major streets with lots of people.
Plan your route Muggers
often strike when tourists get
lost and bury their noses in a
map. If you memorize the way to
your destination, you can walk
with a sense of purpose.
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Avoid the bad parts of town

If you arent sure where the
bad neighborhoods are, talk to
the locals. Someone will tell
you which parts of town to
avoid.
Travel in groups Just like in
the wild, groups are harder to
prey on.
Try riding a bike When riding a bike, its much harder to
be confronted than a pedestrian, mainly because youre
going faster.
Be alert Simple distractions
such as listening to music on
earbuds, talking on the phone
or reading a map can make you
a target. Always be aware of
your surroundings.
Listen to your instincts
Fight Or Flight is built into all of
us. If you have a sense that
someone is following you or
you are being watched, then
act on it. Seek refuge in a
crowded restaurant or street.
Make noise or call for help.

Dont be afraid to attract

attention. HD

DO YOU
LIVE HERE?
CITIES WITH
HIGHEST
BURGLARY
RATES
Fayetteville, NC 1,827.4
Flint, MI 1,448.4
Toledo, OH 1,389.5
Little Rock, AR 1,379.9
Memphis, TN 1,303.3
Montgomery, AL 1,389.8
Bakerseld, CA 1,271.6
Spokane, WA 1,239.1
Winston-Salem, NC 1,220.8
Columbus, GA 1,211.0

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

11

NEW PRODUCTS

Total
Preparation
By Bob Campbell

Secure Your Home Defense

With These 14 Products that
a Retired Law Enforcement
Officer Recommends

aybe you have your highcapacity handgun. You

have practiced and you
have a suitable holster for daily
use.
But the demands of home
defense are different. Do you have
a less lethal option? Do you have a
laser aiming device or a combat
light? You will probably be ghting
in dim to no light.
Do you have a rst aid kit?
Things may get bad quickly and
you do not wish to win the battle
and lose the war. The following
guide will introduce you to some
of the best new products available
for personal defense. Saddle up!

12 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

M 21

DESCRIPTION
No matter what your walk of life, you need an edged tool. For
the tactical minded, a superior edged tool must be at the top of the
list. A folder with a positive locking mechanism and rapid opening
device gets our attention.
The M 21 offers a degree of safety not found in the day of the
slip lock. The AutoLawks system and dual hilt are safety features,
but the rapid opening ability of the knife is never compromised. The
M21 was designed by retired Sgt. Major Kit Carson. He says he designed this knife for heavy-duty use because they do not call them
the Sorta Special Forces.

Company: Columbia River Knife and Tool

MSRP: $135.00
Website: Crkt.com

QUICK SPECS
Open Length: 9.25 inches
Closed Length 5.3 inches

98150

Company: Hornady Manufacturing

MSRP: $276.50
Website: Hornady.com
DESCRIPTION
The Hornady RAPiD Safe is a home defense item that cannot be ignored.
While a 24-gun safe offers security, rapid access is needed for home defense.
A personal handgun safe answers this need. With an increasing number of jurisdictions demanding the handgun be secured in the home, the Rapid Safe is a desirable
device. The RAPiD Safe may be opened with an RFID bracelet, car or key fob, or a programmed code. A key lock may be used in the unlikely event the 110-volt powered system goes down. Overall, its vault-tough in a compact package.
QUICK SPECS
Exterior: 15 inches by 9 inches by 3 inches
Interior: 11 inches by 8 inches by 3 inches
Weight: 15.65 pounds

DESCRIPTION
Hornadys Critical Defense bullet has been proven in rigorous testing. Now,
Critical Defense Lite 9mm offers an effective reduced recoil option.
This load maintains a balance between penetration and expansion not
possible in a light for the caliber bullet before the advent of modern Critical
Defense technology. The Critical Defense Lite maintains 10 inches of penetration
in ballistic gelatin while expanding and maintaining bullet integrity.
This load is an excellent choice for compact handguns in particular.

90840

Company: Hornady Manufacturing

MSRP: $28.12
Website: Hornady.com
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

QUICK SPECS
Average Velocity: 1,125 fps
Penetration: 10 inches
Expansion: .58 inch
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

13

NEW PRODUCTS

DESCRIPTION
If youre using a tactical rearm, sometimes the AR-15
quad rail or even the forend of a pump shotgun may abrade
the palm.
We like to use gloves in training and a set kept near the
tactical rearm is a big plus. However, you cannot use department store gloves for tactical manipulation. The Tactical
Shorty glove offered by Hatch allows unlimited wrist movement and never interferes with control of the rearm.
In many cases control is actually enhanced by wearing
tight-tting gloves in inclement weather. Posi-grip non-skid
surfaces are a Hatch advantage.

TACTICAL GLOVES SOG-L50

Company: Safariland
MSRP: $50.53
Website: SafariLand.com

QUICK SPECS
Kevlar construction
Cut resistant
Heat and ash protection
Elasticized wrist
PosiGrip for weapon retention

HOLSTER J-122

Company: Jason Winnie Leathergoods

MSRP: $94.99
Website: JasonWinnie.com
DESCRIPTION
A good inside-the-waistband holster must incorporate several design
features that are not debatable. A reinforced holstering mouth or welt, a
strong spine and belt loops that securely x the holster to the gunbelt.
The Jason Winnie IWB holster delivers with more than a little style.
Crafted from high-grade leather the old fashioned way, this is a good kit that
makes the professional grade.
QUICK SPECS
Reinforced holstering welt
Dual belt loops
Well molded
Double stitched

DESCRIPTION
Many of us carry a handgun during the day in a quality holster, but are lost
when it comes to keeping the handgun ready at night.
Laying the handgun on the nightstand or shoving it between the mattress
and box springs is not ideal. The modular Bedside Backup has a component that
slips between the mattress and box springs for stability, but offers a rapid draw
from a well-designed holster.
A handgun stored in the same manner may be difficult to draw if youre leaning on the mattress. The rig comes with one Ohai modular holster and the holster
components may be easily changed.

BEDSIDE BACKUP

Company: Crossbreed Holsters

MSRP: $73.95
Website: CrossbreedHolsters.com
14 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

QUCIK SPECS
Modular holster included
Product Size: 13.25 inches by 1.50 inches by 9 inches
Product Weight: 15.0 ounces
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

TAC 300

Company: Bayco Products

MSRP: $37.99
Website: BaycoProducts.com

DESCRIPTION
You have to have a lightand a compact portable light that
will not shatter if dropped should be at the top of the list.
With a polymer frame, LED-light powered by lithium batteries and a deep parabolic reector to provide a useful beam to 190
meters at a powerful 180 lumens, theres much to recommend
here. The TAC 300 series offers a lot of power for the modest
price.
QUICK SPECS
Sharp focused beam
Non slip grip
Large textured switch with momentary option
Waterproof

BATON

Company: ASP
MSRP: $110.50
Website: Asp-Usa.com
DESCRIPTION
Everyone needs a less than lethal response. In the home, gunre may not be appropriate.
Learn the various locks and tactics for the ASP baton and you will have a reliable,
effective and handy home defender. ASP set the standards for a baton that opens with
a rapid wrist motion and closes simply by forcing the top against a hard surface.
Workmanship, design and execution are tactical grade.
QUICK SPECS
Open length: 15.75 inches
Weight: 16.3 ounces

XT 120 XTREME
TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT
Company: Burris
MSRP: $209.99
Website: MidwayUsa.com

DESCRIPTION
If youre going to use your handgun for home defense, you need to
marry it to a combat light.
If the rearm is a modern rail gun, then theres no good reason
not to mount the light for home and night operation. The Burris XT 120
Xtreme Tactical Flashlight features a Xenon bulb and a 123A Lithium
battery. The Burris is a snug t on Picatinny or Glock rails and offers
excellent illumination.
QUICK SPECS
120 Lumens
Ambidextrous controls
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

15

NEW PRODUCTS

TBLIR

Company: Mission First Tactical

MSRP: $59.99
Website: MissionFirstTactical.com

DESCRIPTION
The Torch Backup Light is a rugged and effective yet affordable tool. This tool is designed as a backup to the primary illumination and the output is 10 lumens. For looking over locks,
examining alarm pads, and other chores necessary without giving
the location of the homeowner away, the Torch is an effective device that mounts on the Picatinny rail.
The Torch series is available in combination of red and white
light or red and white alone.
QUICK SPECS
Output: 10 lumens
Weight: 22 grams

X5L

Company: Viridian Green Laser Sights

MSRP: $409.00
Website: ViridianGreenLaser.com
DESCRIPTION
Viridian calls their green laser a a big surprise for bad
guys. We could not agree more.
The Green Laser is designed to cut through darkness
indoors and out. The light is actually programmable for a number of custom models of operation. You may adjust the modes
as desired to keep the advantage on your side.
QUICK SPECS
Beam intensity: 160 lumens continuous,
190 lumens in strobe mode
Beam divergence: .5 inch at 50 feet
Weight: 3.3 ounces

BDRC-HSL TACTICAL
BLUE DOT SERIES 340
Company: Brite Strike
MSRP: $136.30
Website: Brite-Strike.com

DESCRIPTION
Tactical illumination is serious business. The Brite
Strike light is in use with professionals in the police and
military. The ultra-strong body is CNC control machined
from a single billet or aircraft-grade aluminum.
The black nish meets Mil-Spec requirements. A
crenelated strike crown is an important feature for close
quarters combat and to protect the lens if the light is
dropped. This is a highly rated light by the National
Tactical Officers Association.
QUICK SPECS
Maximum output: 340 Lumens
Run time: 2.5 hours, high output to 8+ hours,
low output
Length: 5.2 inches

16 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

GRIZZLY

Company: Adventure Medical Kits

MSRP: $125
Website: AdventureMedicalKits.com
DESCRIPTION
Its an unpleasant reality that we must be
prepared for bodily injury to ourselves or our
loved ones. If youre in a stght, you will be
hit. If youre in a knife ght, you will be cut, and
if youre in a gunght, you may be shot.
The Grizzly is just one kit, but the one we
nd ts most common and serious injuries.
Penetration wounds and also compression
fractures may be treated. You need to have
something to handle severe bleeding, such as
the QuickClot or the battle may be lost.
QUICK SPECS
Size: 11 inches by 8 inches by 3 inches
Weight: 2 pounds, 6 ounces

.38 SPECIAL

Company: Liberty Ammunition

MSRP: $29.99
Website: LibertyAmmo.com
DESCRIPTION
Over penetration is always a concern for home defense.
With that understandingand the need to maintain
cartridge integrity and accuracyLiberty Defense has
introduced their Civil Defense loads.
The .38 Special loading breaks 1,500 fps from most
handgun barrels. This is a lead-free bullet designed to
fragment in the attackers body. Its also designed to break
up on heavy resistance.
QUICK SPECS
20 rounds per box
Accuracy in service grade handguns : 2 inches at 25 yards

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

17

18 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

The
Sidewinder
By Terrill Hoffman

Venom
T

he time may come when prevention isnt enough proprotection. The criminal may force the actionbut you
should control the outcome.

Anytime were discussing home defense, the conversation

can usually be broken down into three segments: First, we

should start by reviewing procedures to make our homes a
less desirable target for the criminal; Second, from that point,
we may even look at various alarm systems and other methods of warning should someone actually try to invade our
homes; Lastly, just about any conversation on home defense
is going to evolve to the point where we are discussing various
weapons up to and including rearms.
Unfortunately, too many people skip the rst two steps
and go right to the more interesting topic of rearms. Even I
will admit that talking about a handgun, rie or shotgun has
more appeal than thinking about cutting back shrubbery or
adding exterior lights, but I cannot overstress the importance
TERRILL HOFFMAN

of trying to prevent the crime before it happens.

However, once someone has gained access to the interior
of the house, were forced to consider the best way to stop the
threat and to protect ourselves. We may debate what the best
self-defense weapon is, but if you ask Vice President Biden,
he will tell you to get a shotgun. In an effort to give our V.P. the
best chance of being right this time around, we have decided
to review the products of Adaptive Tactical LLC.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

19

The additional
advantage of the
10-round magazines
is also obvious. The
capacity of the
shotgun is increased
by 66-100 percent.

There are very few rearms

that have the intimidation
factor of a shotgun.

ADAPTIVE TACTICAL
Adaptive Tactical, based in

Adaptive Tactical has chosen the

magazine or a 10-round rotary

Mossberg models for its method

drum magazine.
If youre wondering why you

Idaho, has dedicated themselves

of tting the standard magazine

to taking what many would con-

tube, which allows a predictable

would want to replace a ve-

sider the best choice for self-de-

result in their modications.

round tube with a ve-round

stick magazine, just consider the

fense, the pump-action shotgun,

and enhancing its defensive capabilities.

SIDEWINDER VENOM
To fully understand the conver-

speed of reloading. The standard

conguration requires single

sion work of Adaptive Tactical,

loading of each shellbut with

gineering, Adaptive Tactical has

you need to look at their modi-

the new magazineyou can load

focused on improving the speed,

cations to the pump-action

ve rounds in one action.

performance and versatility of

Mossberg in creating their

the 590, 500 and 88 series

Sidewinder Venom model.

Using the latest in polymer en-

Mossberg shotguns.

The most obvious change is

The additional advantage of

the 10-round magazines is also
obvious. The capacity of the

the conversion of the shotgun

shotgun is increased by 66-100

shotguns, the various Mossberg

from a tube-feed to a magazine-

percent.

and Remington models have al-

feed weapon. The standard ve-

ways been considered the most

or six-round tube is removed and

forearm of the shotgun is re-

reliable and neither manufac-

replaced with a mounting block

placed with a polymer version,

turer can really claim a great ad-

(magazine well), enabling the in-

which improves the grip over

vantage over the other. However,

sertion of a ve-round stick

standard designs. The forearm

When it comes to pump-action

20 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

In the conversion process, the

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

also has a pronounced lip at the

However, when it comes to

designed for 2 - or 3-inch

rear to prevent your hand from

your chosen self-defense

shells. At this point it should be

slipping during the charging

weapon, you want a little more

noted that the magazines are all

cycle. A Kelly Grip is also sup-

show me before you jump on

sized for 2 -inch shells. In a

plied and can be mounted in a

the bandwagon. For this reason,

home defense situation I see no

horizontal or 45-degree angle to

when I spoke to Adaptive Tacti-

sense in the use of the longer 3-

the forearm for either a left-hand

cal, I requested the chance to

inch shells, because the stan-

or right-hand position.

handle and re one of their shot-

dard confrontation takes place

guns. They went a step further by

at a distance measured in feet in-

the magazine modication get

sending in a Sidewinder Venom

stead of yards.

interesting. A Mossberg Series

Mossberg and a sample of the

88 with the Sidewinder Venom

10-round rotary kit.

At this point, the options for

magazine conversion can be or-

Because the kit included the

If you really have a great urge

to use 3-inch shells, they will
have to be hand fed directly in

dered in a ve-round unit with a

polymer forearm, they had in-

the barrel one at a time. Before I

pistol grip butt stock, or as a 10-

stalled a new style forearm on

even thought about loading and

round rotary drum unit with an

the shotgun that they are plan-

shooting the weapon, I went over

M4 style buttstock.

ning on introducing shortly. I also

the rearm to see the features

found a new 10-round stick

the Venom conversion offered to

magazine to go with the ve-

the basic Maverick. The safety

round magazine and the 10-

and slide release were in the

round rotary drum.

same spot as before, but I did

PRODUCT EVALUATION
All of us have seen claims
being made in a brochure or
website which offer the latest

The foundation of the

notice one drawback to the addi-

and greatest improvements on

Sidewinder Venom was a Moss-

tion of the M4 butt stock with its

just about every product known

berg Maverick Model 88. The 18

pistol gripthe slide release

to man.

-inch barrel has a Cylinder Bore

must be operated with your

An M4 style butt stock

with pistol grip can be
ordered on a completed.
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

21

support hand and cannot be

well and then its rocked to rear

are loaded into the magazine

reached with your dominant

to lock in place.

they can be removed by depressing a lever on the side. While

hand. In the long-term scheme of

A paddle it at the rear of the

things, this may require a modi-

well will release the magazine,

doing so just remember the

cation to your training. This

and it will drop free. There was

strength of the spring.

would not be a problem with a

nothing imsy about how the

rearm tted with the magazine

magazines locked in place and

ture I did not have my hand in

conversion sans the M4 butt

they all t securely. While on the

place to catch the shells and

stock.

subject of the magazines, it

sent them ying across the

The rst time I tried this fea-

In looking at each magazine I

should be mentioned that the

room. I also realized that the

was impressed with how robust

springs are not going to remind

magazine system not only

they felt. The material used and

you of an AR or AK. As with the

speeds the process of loading a

the thickness of the walls led me

body of the magazine, the

shotgun, but it also speeds the

to believe that they would stand

springs were rather stout.

process of unloading.

up well to constant use and ac-

In the instruction supplied with

Both the new standard

tually being dropped during re-

both the kit and the shotgun, it

handguard and the latest de-

loading drills. The magazines are

was mentioned that care should

signed handguard felt comfort-

loaded in the shotgun similar to

be taken while loading rounds

able and even though they

the method used to load an AK

into the magazine. You want to

supplied a rm grip they did not

magazine. The forward section

make sure that the brass rim on

abrade my hand even under

of the magazine is inserted at an

each round ts just forward of

heavy usage. Maybe Im old fash-

angle where it catches a protru-

the brass rim of the previous

ioned, but I chose not to try using

sion in the front of the magazine

loaded round. Once the shells

the addition vertical grip. The

This new style with the

overhead rail should
be available soon.

22 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

new style forearm that Adaptive

tioned the ashlight to where it

Tactical is coming out with has a

gave perfect illumination of the

bridge which rides over the barrel

front sight as well as the in-

and provided a Picatinny rail-

tended target in total darkness.

type mount for a laser, red dot, or

white light.

Although the M4-style buttstock and combined pistol grip

My rst impression was that

did hinder reaching the slide re-

this unit looked a bit bulky, and it

lease, the four positions of ad-

wasnt until I mounted a 200-

justment were a bonus. The

lumen light to the rail that I saw

length of pull was easily adjusted

the benet of this system. The

from one shooter to the next.

arch is great enough that it does

The soft 1-inch recoil pad was a

not interfere with the function or

blessing during all of the

use of the front sight, but it posi-

shooting drills.

ADAPTIVE
TACTICAL
SIDEWINDER
VENOM
SPECIFICATIONS
Mossberg Maverick Model 88
Gauge: 2 inch 12 GA
Capacity: 5 or 10 rounds
Average weight: 8.71 pounds
Barrel length: 18.5 inches
Overall length: 36.43
to 39.43 inches
Choke: Cylinder Bore

Rapid reloads
and increased
capacity have their
advantages.

Go for the max

and get the
10-round drum.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

23

THE SHOOTING LINE

After owning a Mossberg 500

100 percent! I even tried to intentionally twist the forearm while

for well over a decade, I have a

racking the slide and could not

great deal of faith in the reliabil-

get the shotgun to bind or fail to

ity of Mossberg shotguns. What

feed.

concerned me was if any of the

modications would affect the
function of the shotgun.

If you decide to take the advice

After running through several

of our V.P. and countless others

20-round boxes of standard bird-

to arm yourself with a pump-ac-

shot, my worries were proven un-

tion shotgun, consider the modi-

founded. Again, I will note my

cations offered with the

appreciation of the recoil pad. I

Sidewinder Venom. Rapid re-

also red several drills using OO

loads and increased capacity

buckshot at close range (20 feet

have their advantages. Mossberg

and less) because thats the

has earned their remarkable rep-

longest distance you will en-

utation and Adaptive Tactical

counter in the average home.

only enhances the basic

After all, were discussing a de-

package.

fensive weapon and not a shotgun designed for bird hunting.

I did notice that at 20 feet the
The heart of the
Sidewinder Venom is
the Mossberg pumpaction shotgun.

SPEW VENOM

Discuss the rst two aspects of

home defense and then enjoy a
conversation about rearms.

impact of the pellets were about

Also, dont forget to discuss the

six inches higher than the point

fourth aspect of home defense

of aim. I also noted that at that

how do you handle the situation

distance the total spread of the

after you have been forced to use

18 pellets for two shots was only

a rearm? HD

seven inches. Contrary to what

some may believe, you still need

Terrill Hoffman, a lifelong rearm

to aim while using a shotgun.

enthusiast, is a contributing editor

The difference in point of aim

for World of Firepower magazine.

and point of impact was a result

Hes a professional photographer

of the decrease in drop with the

by trade and a writer by passion.

M4 buttstock over the standard

Mossberg stock. Function was

OWN A MOSSBERG SHOTGUN

ALREADY? NO PROBLEM
Customers who already own a Mossberg can order a kit from Adaptive
Tactical to convert their weapon to the ve-round model, the 10-round
model, or the 10-round model with the M4 buttstock.
If that wasnt enough, they also offer the service of allowing you to send
in your shotgun and they will modify it for you. Reach them at Adaptive
Tactical.com.

24 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

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BUYERS

SHOTGUNS GUIDE

They say a mans home is his

castle. If youre looking to defend
it, you cant go wrong with the
sheer repower of a shotgun.
Its no coincidence shotguns
are the backup weapon of choice
for law enforcement agencies
across the country. Why would
you choose a shotgun? One of
the reasons is the spreading effect: its believed that its easier
to defend yourself and hit your
target at close range.
In the following pages, we offer
a wide range of shotguns. Before
you use your shotgun for self-defense, its important to make
sure youre comfortable with it.
Consider going to your local ring
range to make sure you can maneuver it and handle its recoil.
THINKSTOCK

Here are our picks of the best

shotguns to keep your family
safe and sound from those foolish enough to invade your
property.

Rustle Up
A Shotgun
Defend Your Homestead With Sheer Power
26 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

STOEGER
INDUSTRIES

PRODUCT: DOUBLE DEFENSE SHOTGUN

WEBSITE: www.StoegerIndustries.com
PRICE: $479
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 36.5 inches
Weight Empty: 6.4 pounds
Capacity: 2 -inch and 3-inch shells
DEFINING FEATURES:
Defending yourself in close quarters can
be challenging, especially when carrying
around an oversized shotgun. The Double
Defense Shotgun is ideal for home
securityits made specically for tight
quarters and dealing with tense situations. This shotgun is fast and easy to
deploy, thanks to its single-trigger design.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

EMF COMPANY
PRODUCT: ESCORT SEMIAUTO AND PUMP ACTION
HOME DEFENSE SHOTGUNS
WEBSITE: www.EMF-Company.com
PRICE: $530 (semi-auto),
$450 (pump)
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Overall Length: 18 inches
Capacity: Six rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
The Escort shotgun is a semiautomatic and pump action
home defense weapon all
rolled into one. The stock also
has a built-in shell holder that
carries two extra rounds. Pistol
Grip has cushioned inserts.
Sights have been designed for
quick target acquisition, using
a height adjustable ber optic
front sight in an elevated
housing and a ghost ring rear
sight that is a fully adjustable
upper Picatinny Rail.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

27

BUYERS

SHOTGUNS GUIDE

EMF COMPANY

PRODUCT: ESCORT MARINE GUARD

AND AIM GUARD HOME DEFENSE
PUMP SHOTGUNS
WEBSITE: www.EMF-Company.com
PRICE: $450 (Marine Guard), $350
(Aim Guard)
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Overall Length: 18 inches
Capacity: Six rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
The Escort Marine Guard and Aim Guard
Home Defense Pump Shogun is one
versatile weapon. These tough polymer
stocks are impervious to water. They have
a short stroke action for quick repeat shots
over a ve-round tube magazine and have
a large, easy-to-nd slide release ahead of
the trigger guard. The short barrel makes it
ideal for tight spots and easy handling.

28 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

STOEGER
INDUSTRIES

PRODUCT: P-350 DEFENSE

PUMP SHOTGUN
WEBSITE:
www.StoegerIndustries.com
PRICE: $349
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 40.25 inches
Weight Empty: 7.1 pounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
If youre looking for a reliable
shotgun, look no further than the
P-350 Defense Pump Shotgun.
This is no ordinary shotgunits
made specically for close
quarters, perfect for home
defense. Choose from two
rugged models with an optional
pistol grip to improve accuracy.
Two hands may be better than
one, but try telling that to the
P-350; you can operate the
rearm easily with only one hand.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

MOSSBERG & SONS

PRODUCT: FLEX 500 TACTICAL
WEBSITE: www.Mossberg.com
PRICE: $877

SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 42 inches
Weight Empty: 7 pounds
Capacity: Eight rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
Mossberg combines performance with
versatility in the form of the Flex 500
Tactical. This shotgun lets you load ammo
while on the go, perfect for home defense
when every second counts. Dont leave home
without the Flex 500 Tactical.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

29

BUYERS

SHOTGUNS GUIDE

MOSSBERG & SONS

PRODUCT: 590 TACTICAL LIGHT FOREND

WEBSITE: www.Mossberg.com
PRICE: $698
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Overall Length: 41 inches
Weight Empty: 7.25 pounds
Capacity: Nine rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
Mossberg has once again outdone itself
with its latest shotgun offering. The 590
Tactical Light Forend is the premier
weapon in self-defense. This 12-gauge
rearm includes cylinder bore, bead sight,
and convenient clean-out tube, so your
weapon will always be in tiptop shape.

30 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

REMINGTON

PRODUCT: 870 Express

Seven Shot
WEBSITE:
www.Remington.com
PRICE: Starts at $399
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 38.5 inches
Weight Empty: 7 pounds, 7
ounces
Capacity: Seven rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
The shotgun features a
xed-cylinder choke barrel
with a single-bead front
sight. The magazine holds
six 2 -inch or 3-inch shells;
one is in the chamber.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

BENELLI

PRODUCT: M4 Tactical
WEBSITE: www.BenelliUSA.com
MSRP: $1,899

SPECIFICATIONS:
Average Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Weight: 7 pounds, 8 ounces
Capacity: 5+1
DEFINING FEATURES:
This features the auto regulating gasoperated system, and it has a standard fully
adjustable ghost-ring rear sight and xedblade front sight.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

31

32 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

When
the Devils
at the Door

Key Ways to
Stop a Home
Invasion

By Terrill Hoffman

raumatized, violated, injured or dead are

nothing more than simple words. Yet, these
adjectives are often used to describe the

victims of a burglary or home invasion.

These simple words have an even greater
meaning when they are applied to you personally,
and usually indicate a life-changing, or life-ending,
event. However, the greatest deterrent to your

TERRILL HOFFMAN

safety is yourself. Its human nature to see reports

on the evening news, or to read them in the
newspaper and say, It wont happen to me. For
those with this attitude, I suggest that you look up
and read the annual reports published by your local
police departments, the FBI and the Department of
Justice. When the number of burglaries per year in
the United States number in the millions its time
for you to pay attention.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

33

the time you hear the proverbial

breaking glass and when the
police arrive.

1.

THE PLAN
The least expensive item is

also the most important, a prearranged plan on how to react.

Consider what may happen and
what actions are needed to
counter the situation. Those who
live alone will have a totally different plan than those who live
with a roommate or spouse.
Families with children will need
to react totally different.
When making your plan, every
member of the household needs
to take part and learn their individual obligations. Even a small
child can learn to stay put and
Once you have a home defense
rearm, you also have the
responsibility to keep it safely
stored. Hornady has just
introduced a safe that protects
the rearm but also gives you
instant access.

quiet until Mommy arrives. Being

honest with children is a main
aspect of a safe home. We dont
hesitate to tell a child not to take
candy from a stranger, and it will
not traumatize them to learn
scare you into paying attention

how to react to someone break-

when I looked up the data for my

youre totally wrong. My purpose

ing in. Every good parent has

local county. Five years ago I

is the exact opposite since no

taught their children how to react

moved out of a major city to a

one needs to go through life wor-

should a re occur and planning

rural county with a total popula-

rying about what might hap-

for a break-in can be part of the

tion of about 44,000 and only

pen. Those who realize what

lesson.

about 20,000 separate house-

could happen and plan ahead

holds. I reviewed the latest crime

are also those who can relax

of planning ahead just imagine

numbers from the past year and

knowing that they are prepared.

you and your spouse being awak-

saw that we had 296 burglaries,

Im not even going to discuss

ened by breaking glass. You both

or one per 67 households. These

rearms, alarm systems, or

dash to Timmys bedroom and

numbers come into perspective

structural changes to your home.

realize that neither one of you

when you walk into an average

These are subjects that require

checked on your daughter Nancy.

restaurant and realize that the

much more space and time than

Meanwhile, no one has called 911

odds are someone sharing dinner

I have with this single article.

and your shotgun is sitting in the

with you that night is going to be,

What I am going to do is to point

closet at the other end of the

or has already been, a victim.

out half a dozen must-have

house. Nancy has heard the

items that you will need between

commotion, is scared, and

Even I was caught off-guard

If you think my purpose is to

34 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

To fully understand the values

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

comes out of her room crying. You

but at the same time do not

conventional key lock. As with

tell your wife to stay put and head

allow the phone to totally con-

holstered rearms, and your per-

to the living room to nd Nancy.

sume your attention.

sonal home defense plan, you

should spend time practicing re-

At that point you see a stranger

trieving your weapon. The Barska

ve-year-old daughter. This sce-

3. Were reaching a point

nario does not end well, and could

where its time to spend a little

$150-$200 dollar range and are

have been avoided by good plan-

money. Im a strong proponent of

worth every penny.

ning. A two-dollar notepad and

having a home-defense rearm,

pencil is the only cost other than

and being well trained in its use.

some of your time.

In fact, I keep a few that are 100

4. LIGHT
Theres a reason things go

percent intended for home pro-

bump in the night. Darkness has

tection. Each stays in a particular

been mans weakness since the

spot and is never moved for any

beginning of time, and even

sitting near you right now and will

reason other than practice and

everyday sounds become myste-

not need an additional expendi-

cleaning. The object of this pro-

rious in the dark. The majority of

ture on your parta cell phone!

cedure is to make sure I have ac-

robberies take place during these

positioned between you and your

2. The second item is probably

CELL PHONE

THE SAFE

and Hornady safes are in the

cess to them when needed, but I

hours of darkness, but with good

to discipline yourself to keep it

also have the obligation to make

planning thats to the home-

nearby and fully charged. This es-

sure I, or my wife, are the only

owners advantage.

pecially includes after you retire

ones with access. This is impor-

for the evening since most home

tant now but was even more im-

for any period naturally learns

invasions occur at night. Keep

portant when my children were

how to navigate around walls or

your cell phone handy and at

still young enough to be at home.

furniture in almost total dark-

The only thing you need to do is

night right beside your bed.

Barska is one company that

Anyone whos lived in a house

ness. Unless the robber is a very

Charging times should be in the

has a full array of safes sized to

close friend or family member

middle of the day. It takes very lit-

t any need. While most of my

(yes, this can be the case), he

tle effort for a criminal to defeat a

rearms are locked in a full-size

does not have this advantage.

land-line and your cell phone be-

safe, having a single handgun in

During a robbery you not only

comes your only contact to the

a small safe in the bedroom has

want to be able to have light, but

outside world and help.

always been a good practice.

even more important you want

Barska has several sizes and

to control the light. Once you

for help. The faster you make that

work with either a key, a keypad,

start ipping on the house lights

call the faster help will arrive.

or even opened when your n-

(which the robber may have dis-

Again, plan ahead if theres more

gerprints are pressed on a pad.

abled) youre putting the crimi-

than one person in the home and

Firearm retrieval is quick, yet they

nal at the same advantage as

assign the duty to call 911 to an

are totally protected and secure.

yourself.

adult. Think about what you need

While I have not tested one yet,

to say to the operator now and

Hornady has also entered this

light you can direct the light

put it in your plan. Tell them your

market with a new handgun safe

where you want it. Flashlights

name and address and a quick

called the RAPiD Safe. This safe

have come a long way since the

summary of the problem. If youre

can be opened with an RFID

days of the two D cell units

armed, dont forget to let the po-

bracelet, card, key fob, or with a

that always failed to work when

lice know. Once contact is made

manually entered personal code.

needed. Modern LED lights are

with the police do not hang up,

Its also accessible with a

more powerful than you can

As soon as you hear trouble, call

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

By having a handheld ash-

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

35

imagine and every family

yard. Several other companies

magazine pouches or simply

should have several. Keep one

produce similar lights and good

with MOLLE straps. Once ad-

light at your bedside 24/7. This

quality products are again avail-

justed for an individual user the

ashlight should never be

able in the $100-$200 range.

vest can be donned in mere seconds. You could keep a ashlight,

moved and every member of

the household should under-

A SPEEDING BULLET

handgun, cell phone and spare

stand this simple rule. Also

One item that most of us

5. have
seen on television but

magazines all in one place for in-

make sure you dont make the

common mistake of getting a

have not considered for our-

Keep one fact in mind when

light thats too bright. A good

selves is the bulletproof vest.

considering a bulletproof vest. If

ashlight of 100 to 200 lumens

Think about it, theres a reason

stant protection.

you get hit in the vest youre

is more than enough to tem-

why law enforcement officers

going to feel it and it will hurt,

porarily blind an attacker but

wear them. Thankfully, U.S. Palm

but thats a far cry from taking a

with anything more powerful in

has introduced a model tailored

round in the chest. If you have

close quarters and you run the

for the average homeowner. The

wondered if these vest really

risk of blinding yourself with

Defender comes equipped with a

work put your mind to rest. I was

the reection off the walls of

front ballistic panel for $199 or

able to test one of the panels

the house. I found a couple of

with front and rear panels for

against everything from a small

lights manufactured by Fox-

$299. Both soft armor panels

.380 ACP up to a .357 Magnum.

Fury that have served me very

offer a Threat Level Protection

The rounds created small holes

well for the past three years.

IIIA, which will stop just about

in the outer shell but totally

Their Rook is ideal as a bedside

any handgun round. The 500d

failed to enter the soft ballistic

light with 220 lumens and the

Cordura Nylon vest (panel

panels. Your living room couch

Rook Checkmate with 600 lu-

holder) can be ordered with

may or may not stop a bullet, but

mens comes in handy search-

pouches for a handgun and

theres no doubt that the De-

ing the darkness around the

spare magazine, AR or AK

fender will do the job.

FoxFury offers several models of

high-powered LED Flashlights. After
three years, I have complete faith in
their quality. Match their power
rating to your need and remember,
brighter may not always be better.

36 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

you should consider

before waking the
dead with an
ear-piercing

best alarm systems you can buy.

Just make sure youre willing to
make the commitment before
you add to your family.

sound. First, as

These items may not guaran-

soon as you hit

tee your safety, but each one will

the button the

make you better prepared should

bad guys

someone consider making you a

knows where

victim. Start by devising your

you are. If the

own defensive home plan and

sound does not

add the other items as you can.

deter him you need

Remember, the worst can hap-

to be prepared to stop

pen and the last thing you want

him with force. Second,

is to be a statistic. HD

you do not want to be in sight

The most serious commitment
you can make to your safety is
adding a canine member to the
family. Even at only 65 lbs. my
Australian Shepherd mix, Aussie,
would deter most criminals. Mess
with her pack, and she instantly
loses that sweet look.

of him when you let loose with

Terrill Hoffman, a regular contrib-

an air horn. You will need time to

utor to Engaged Media, has been

have both hands free (or

writing about rearms for more

wrapped around a rearm)

than 25 years.

should the assault continue. Air

horns can be found rather inex-

HORN
6. AAIRcriminal
gains entry into

pensively at most stores that

your home thinking he knows

your ashlight, you will want to

what will happen. He has

keep the horn in easy reach.

carry sporting goods. As with

thought about and planned the

events in his mind. Its your job to
make sure hes wrong.
He may expect you to yell and

7.

A DOG
My last suggestion is also

the most expensive. Add another

scream, but I doubt he expects to

family member to your house-

be hit with a 120-decibel air horn.

hold by getting a dog. You may

An inexpensive unit with a re-

even get one free, but the upkeep

placeable air canister may be

over the lifespan of the dog can

just enough to convince him that

be substantial.

youre ready and maybe he

admit that the one thing they

tim. As with the overpowering

dont want to face is a protective

ashlight, the purpose is to dis-

canine. A good dog doesnt need

orient the criminal long enough

to be a trained attack dog (but it

for you to gain the upper hand.

does help), nor does it need to

Not only will an air horn confuse

be huge. It just needs to be part

the criminal but it will also alert

of the family. As such it will have

everyone else in the house that

a natural urge to protect the

theres a major problem.

other members of its adopted

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

U.S. PALM
23025 N. 15th Ave. Suite 103
Phoenix, AZ 85027
602-281-2940
www.USPalm.com
FoxFury Lighting Solutions
3528 Seagate Way, Ste 100
Oceanside, CA 92056
760-945-4231
www.FoxFury.com

However, most criminals will

should leave to nd another vic-

There are one or two things

FOR MORE
INFORMATION

pack. Dogs are also one of the

Hornady Manufacturing
Company
3625 West Old Potash Hwy
Grand Island, NE 68803
800-338-3220
www.Hornady.com
Barska
855 Towne Center Drive
Pomona, CA 91767
909-445-8168
www.Barska.com
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

37

VESTS & GEAR

BUYERS

GUIDE

You know the term, dress for

success. How about, dress for

Practical
and Tactical
Vests and Gear
That Get the Job Done

a possible self-defense scenario? Doesnt have quite the

same ring to it, well grant you
that, but it does make a point.
Why not dress for success in a
different kind of arenathe one
where your life may depend on
it? From vests to belts to tactical
shorts and more, weve gathered
some top examples of apparel
that satisfy both the eye and the

By Home Defender Staff

walletwhether youre in the

home or out and aboutand
hopefully will help keep you out
of harms way.

38 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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BULLET PROOF ME BODY ARMOR

MODEL: Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest)
MSRP: Starts at $710
WEBSITE: BulletProofMe.com
DESCRIPTION
This Outer Tactical Vest features front-opening convenience.
Add optional rie plates to achieve Level III, mil-spec SAPI, or Level
IV rie protection on the Chest and Back (Rie Plates sold separately).
MOLLE web strips cover the front, plus the kidney areas on the
back (MOLLE web strips compatible with all pockets from the
MOLLE and RACK Systems, plus the SPEARS/BALCS Systems).
This superior vest includes torso coverage and rie plate pockets, plus detachable collars and over-the-shoulder protection

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

(shoulder yoke), with detachable front throat protector and a detachable

groin protector.
Its easily customizableadd or remove the front throat protector, the
collar/over-the-shoulder protection or the groin protector componentsas
desired. Level III-A standard (for police departments that must adhere to NIJ
standards). Level III-A is tested to stop .44 Magnum.
QUICK SPECS
Weight: Size Large: 11.7 pounds
Aramid Kevlar/Twaron
8.6 mm thick
Camouage Colors: Multicam, Woodland, Digital Woodland, Three-Color
Desert, Digital Desert, Advanced Combat Uniform Digital
Solid Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Olive Drab, Dark Tan, Light Tan, Safety Yellow

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

39

VESTS & GEAR

BUYERS

GUIDE

Its reminiscent of the rigs worn in American

Westerns in the 1950s and 60s.
The 3-inch wide belt is made of premium
saddle leather rough side out, with a nickelplated buckle and .38/.357 caliber cartridge
loops centered on the belt for right or left
hand used.
Available in tan, or tan with Havana cartridge loops. The holster is not included, but
can be purchased separately in Galcos Western Holster section.

GALCO GUN LEATHER

MODEL: 1880s Cartridge Belt
MSRP: $129.95
WEBSITE: GalcoGunLeather.com
DESCRIPTION
Feeling a little Western-y? The 1880s
Cartridge Belt is the rig for the single-action
shooter on the budget of the working cowboy.

NUMA TACTICAL
Model: Chisel Frame
MSRP: $79.99
Website: NumaTactical.com

QUICK SPECS
Premium Center Cut Steerhide
3 inches wide
Nickel-plated brass buckle
Waist Sizes: 34-44 inches
Holster(s) sold separately

DESCRIPTION
These are trim and light glasses that t ush to the
face. They feature a comfortable nose bridge and slight
wrap-around contour that does not pinch or cut into your
temples.
The interchangeable lenseswhich are
available in madarose, smoke and yelloware scratchresistant and shatter-proof, as they exceed ANSI Z87.1
safety standards.
They also block 100% of UV A-B-C rays. They offer
good protection with interchangeable lenses for different
lighting, and are ideal for the shooting range.
QUICK SPECS
100% UV protection
Weigh 21 grams
Anti-scratch hard coat on lenses

40 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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CONDOR

MODEL: Condor Elite Tactical Vest

MSRP: $62.95
WEBSITE: TacticalGear.com
DESCRIPTION
When it comes to combat-ready equipment, Condor has more than 20 years of
experience in the ever-evolving tactical and outdoor industry. The Condor Elite Tactical
Vest offers complete, battle-ready construction that provides durability and comfort
with premium material and workmanship for intense use and protection.
It's built to be sturdy and customizable both in t and use. Its features include
easily accessible pouches: six magazine pouches and two small utility pouches. Plus a
heavy-duty cartridge belt designed to be a sturdy foundation for holsters, individual
drawstrings attached at the back of the vest to allow adjustable tension at the chest,
waist and hips for a customized t.
Add two zippered document pockets at the left and right interior, six rows of
MOLLE webbing on the back, double-ply mesh in the back that can accommodate a
hydration bladder, two metal D-rigs at the shoulders, zippered front reinforced with two
plastic buckles, a carrying handle for easy transport, hook-and-loop areas on large
pouches for patches or nametapes and youre ready for action.
QUICK SPECS
Weight: 2.5 pounds
Size: One size ts most
Length can be adjusted at the shoulders with long hook-and-loop strips
Cartridge belt included
Colors: Black, OD Green, Tan

5.11 TACTICAL

MODEL: Taclite Pro Shorts

MSRP: $47.99
WEBSITE: 511Tactical.com
DESCRIPTION
5.11 manufactures tactical gear full of functional innovation while delivering exceptional value to the customer.
This is the reason federal, state and local law enforcement
officers trust in 5.11 Tactical to serve their gear needs for more
than 30 years. All 5.11 military apparel is made to government
specications with the best manufacturing processes.
These shorts feature a lighter weight, cooler, faster drying material. Its stain and oil resistant. Wide snap, locking
zipper, action waistband, extra wide belt loops, D-ring, utility
strap and extra pockets will make sure all your supplies are
handy while youre on the run.
QUICK SPECS
6-ounce 35/65 Cotton/Poly blend
Rip-stop cloth
Teon coated
Diamond gusset

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

41

VESTS & GEAR

BUYERS

GUIDE

SPYDERCO

PRODUCT: Pacic Salt Black Blade

MSRP: $139.95
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
DESCRIPTION
Made with H-steel, this blade will not rust, adding reliable
prociency when selecting a tactical knife. The Pacic Salt is the
answer for those who need a full-size knife but cant carry a
blade openly.
The slim design enhances its concealed carry options, yet
the trademark Spyderco hole allows this blade to be instantly
brought into action. The time-proven lock-back design assures
the blade will stay locked open until the user wants to close it.
QUICK SPECS
Overall Length: 8.6875 inches
Length Closed: 4.875 inches
Blade Thickness: .125 inch
Blade Length: 3.812 inches
Weight: 3 ounces

GUN TOTEN MAMAS

MODEL: Wristlet
MSRP: $35
WEBSITE: GunTotenMamas.com

DESCRIPTION
Concealed carry poses a problem for the fashionable
woman in todays society. Not any more, thanks to Gun Toten
Mamas. For times when a handbag is too much to carry, this embossed brushed leather Wristlet is just the ticket.
With leopard spot design and embossing that creates a
two-tone effect, youll be quite stylishand ready to draw if the
need arises. It can also holds your keys and iPhone. It features two
extra inside zippered pockets and special padding to prevent gun
imprinting, with an outside zippered pocket as well.
QUICK SPECS
Wrist strap with clip
Leather removable tassel bling
Overall Bag Size: 9 inches long, 5 inches tall, inch deep
Gun Footprint: 7 inches long by 4 inches tall
For small gun sizes like P380

42 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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NORTH FACE

MODEL: Reversible Kingston Jacket

MSRP: $149
WEBSITE: TacticalDistributors.com
DESCRIPTION
Its okay to be two-faced in the reversible Duck
Camo/Black North Face Kingston Jacket. One side has the
Tigers Eye Tan Duckmo print, the other is solid black, making
it versatile for any occasion.
Completely reversible. Envelope kangaroo outer pockets
with welted inner pockets. Reversible eyelet/drawcord system. Quilted through sleeves. One minute youre blending into
the foliage, the next youve disappeared into the night. Wear
it on the cold evenings when youre carrying.
QUICK SPECS
348g
100 percent polyester
Insulation: 140g Heatseaker
Sizes: MXX LG
Imported

BULLET PROOF ME BODY ARMOR

MODEL: ProMAX Tactical Vest with Rie Plates Carrier
MSRP: $160
WEBSITE: BulletProofMe.com

DESCRIPTION
Who doesnt need Tactical Body Armor in this day and age? Youll feel protected
with Bullet Proof Mes ProMAX Tactical Vest with rie plates carrier. Side opening torso
protection, rie plate pockets, lots of MOLLE real estate, two-pull Velcro quick release
on shoulder and side for customized tting in an highly ergonomic Tactical vest.
It offers lots more Level III-A body coverage versus just a rie plates carrier. Bullet
Proof Me can custom t you in 2-inch increments to your torso and 1-inch increments to
your height; for shorter or taller folks, this is critical for optimum coverage and comfort.
This vest is very quick to drop in an emergencyjust one Fastex buckle and two
Velcro pulls. Add optional rie plates to achieve Level III rie protection and Level IV
armor-piercing rie protection on the chest and back (rie plates sold separately).
QUICK SPECS
Optional Polyester/Cotton carrier for more comfort wearing under clothes
Tough 1,000 Denier Cordura nylon carrier
Colors: Coyote, Black, Multicam
All-coated for waterproong
Allows side rie plate pouches to be added as well as front and back rie plates

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

43

BURGLARY

SPECIAL SECTION 360

Real People,
Real Situations,
Real Answers
D

o you ever wonder whats going on in the mind

of the burglar whos robbing your house?
So do we.

Thats why we talked to one and found out for

ourselves. The answers might surprise you.
To get the complete picture, we talked to the
ipside of that cointhe victim. Please dont make the
same mistakes he did.
And nally we picked the brain of a doctor to help
make your brain stronger and deal with the stress of
coping with emergency situations.
In the following section, you will get real people,
real situations, real answers.
So buckle up and enter Burglary 360.

44 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

THINKSTOCK

THE SECTION
46 Prime Target
52 The American
Nightmare
58 Never Say Die

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

45

46 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Prime
Target
An Ex-Burglar Provides Insight
Into His Operation From Picking
a House To Method of Entry
By Kerry Michael Li

met Raul at a busy Westside

restaurant in Los Angeles.
It was a sunny afternoon, and we

were surrounded by suits and

techies in this hip, bustling eatery.
You would never know from looking
at us that I was engaged in a conversation with a lifelong thief who
breaks into homes for a living and
hes never been caught.

Raul, an ex-burglar, said he used to

make as much as $3,000 from the
sale of stolen goods.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

47

GEORGERUDY FOR THINKSTOCK

Thieves buy information

from people who have
worked in your home.

Raul agreed to meet me with

you in the eye when he talks and is

me after I sent out feelers to

quick to laugh. He just so happens

people I know who know peo-

to be a thiefor, as he puts ita

ple. Several of the burglars

former thief who has since

didnt want to meet face to face

changed his ways (or so he says).

or have a phone conversation for

fear of being traced and subse-

FOLLOWING IS HIS STORY

quently busted. I made it clear

they were only to be used as pro-

Home Defender: When was the

tected sources and their identity

first time you stole something?

would not be compromised. Nobody wanted to do it.

Raul: I was in kindergarten, and I

EXCEPT ONE

"Where's Waldo?" book. My par-

stole a book. I wanted this

Raul is a handsome, affable

Raul has suggestions for you on how

not to be a victim of a home burglary:
Get insurance for all your belongings,
even if you live in an apartment.
Dont give out information to service
personnel who do work in your home.
Make it appear to them as if somebodys always at home during the day.
Get a good alarm and advertise it on
your property.
Find the weak spots in your home that
are easy to enter and reinforce them
with lights and sensors.
Watch for people who are doing surveillance in your neighborhood that
look out of place.

ents didn't buy it for me, and I did-

male in his 20s, born in the ol US

n't understand why. So, when I

of A. Hes stocky, casually

was in the store, I put it under my

dressed with groomed facial hair

shirt. I had the urge to have it in

and is very vocal about his up-

my hands, enjoy it and look for

bringing in this country as the

Waldo on every page. I don't re-

poor son of legal immigrant par-

member feeling anything when I

ents who worked full time in

took it, but I do remember having

rural Northern California. Hes an

that book in my hands and being

instantly likable guy who looks

very happy.

48 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

DONT BE A
VICTIM
A THIEFS
ADVICE TO YOU

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Its like the lottery.

Sometimes you make a
lot of money, especially if
theres jewelry and
watches. A good haul is
around $3,000.

emotions... I noticed that this

the fth grade. I was feeling I was

world is unfair to people like me

a badass, a big-timer.

because when you have money

I got home, and I saw my

you can do whatever you want

neighbors orange tree. I jumped

and get away with it.

the fence, got two grocery bags

full of oranges. My dad got home

HD: What was your attitude

after a long day at work and saw

HD: How did It escalate from

about the people you were

me on the front porch eating or-

there?

stealing from?

anges. He asked me where I got

RAUL: At rst, it was for stuff I

RAUL: I would never think of

Then a couple of days later our

wanted. I moved on to little toy

anybody as weak or as a victim.

neighbor was all pissed, saying,

cars and Hot Wheels, but I did

Its just survival of the ttest. I

Somebody stole all my or-

not take them from stores, be-

would not put any emotions to

anges! So my dad kicked the

cause I knew there were cam-

anything I did, because if I did, I

sh** out of me and told me,

eras, and my parents said, If you

would fail. You have the pizza.

Whenever you want something,

steal, they're going to see you.

Im hungry. I want the pizza. As

youve got to go out there and

They were telling me that to

long as no one caught us, we

work for it. He made me apolo-

teach me right from wrong. In-

were going to continue stealing

gize to the neighbor, and he

stead, I started taking the cars

pizza as a group. Especially when

made me clean his house for

from my cousins' houses. They

youre a kid, you dont think

weeks. He embarrassed me. Plus

had so many toys they didn't

about the victim.

he told everyone I was a thief. It

them. I didnt give him an answer.

was a big lesson for me.

count them. They didn't know.

HD: Its seductive. What hapHD: What happened after that?

pened after the Pizza Gang?

HD: What did you learn?

RAUL: As you grow up, you hang

RAUL: We moved on to buying

RAUL: Dont get caught.

around friends who are poor like

bigger things with the money we

you, and you start to do bad

made from what we stole: soccer

things with them. For example, in

balls, marbles, yo-yos, things

elementary school we stole food.

kids wanted in the early 1990s.

RAUL: You become a teenager in

Growing up poor, I had these

We did that until I got caught in

a very different, completely dif-

HD: Then what happened?

ferent society. Everything is materialistic. Everything is about

being cool, tting in and the
IPGGUTENBERGUKLTD FOR THINKSTOCK

lack of income that my parents

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

had? That helped me t into this

new culture.
They didnt understand. They
were looking at it from the outside. They werent in it. I was in it.
Buying me K-Mart jeans was not
Raul and his boys
would just keep
looking for a house
without an alarm.

the same as buying me Levis

jeans. They didnt understand
the difference. Im the rst
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

49

right up to the house. Or a moving

truck. We used those, too. Thats
how my place was robbed, with a
hauling truck.
HD: Wait, you were robbed?

THINKSTOCK

RAUL: My neighbor saw that they

were taking a lot of stuff out of my
house. He never paid attention
A window was usually
the method of entry.

because of the truck.

generation in this country. I didnt

and they would give them all the

HD: So the robber got robbed.

have an older brother to look up

answers. It was designed to be

How did you feel?

to or ask advice. I was asking ad-

about carpets in your house, but

vice from the wrong people. Im

we were really asking questions

RAUL: Well it did give me a

13, I cannot work, except for dur-

about robbing them like where

smile, because I thought now its

ing the summers picking rasp-

are the high-traffic areas, when is

my turn, you know? But I was se-

berries. And that doesnt give me

that area the least used, when is

cure because I had house insur-

enough for the whole year. So

the best time to clean when no-

ance. I covered my a**. They got

what do I do? So we started

body is there. Stuff like that. He

my microwave, my TVs, my

going to into peoples houses to

would give them pointers that

PlayStation, my washer and dryer,

get as much as we could to pay

actually worked on how to care

but I had receipts and insurance

for what we needed, what we

for their oors, so they never sus-

so I got all new appliances.

wanted.

pected a thing.

HD: How did you pick houses?

three out of 10 houses we visited

We were successful with about

HD: So how did you get into the

houses?

like that. The trick is not to rob

RAUL: First, you have to go to the

the house for a few weeks or a

RAUL: Usually through a window.

fancier parts of town, the higher

month so they never thought it

When you do it, you use a spark

end. Nice properties. We didnt

was you. You have to be patient

plug. You know the white porce-

even think about security. You

when you rob houses. There are

lain on a spark plug? You break it

just wear a ski mask or go in the

seasons to do it, too, like the Hol-

off, throw it at a window as hard

dark. You watch a house for two

iday season or summer vaca-

as you can and it absorbs all the

to three days, seeing the

tions. We were very busy.

sound. You put a towel on the

ground to catch the glass, and

schedule.
I had a buddy of mine who
would go and knock on doors,

HD: How did you physically break

into the house?

that makes it quieter, too.

You never enter a house you
have not checked out, and you

asking if they needed services.

He got the idea from his cousin

RAUL: We had an individual in

must respect the elderly; you

who was doing it in bigger cities.

our group who had a [satellite

never break into old peoples

He would knock on doors and

provider] van. Nobody says any-

homes.

offer a free vacuuming and car-

thing or notices a service van

pet cleaning. He would have a

parked out front. They dont pay

HD: So you guys had a Code of

questionnaire for the owners,

attention. We could just back it

Conduct?

50 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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RAUL: Exactly and no weapons

of any kind. Plus, we would not
hit houses in rural areas like
ranches, because they all have
guns and they can shoot us once
were on their property. They
have animals, too.

FBI STATS
VIOLENT CRIME
IN THE U.S.
Theres a violent crime every
25.3 seconds.

HD: How do you know the house

is empty?
RAUL: You knock on the door. If
they answer, you run. If no one
answers, thats the green light to
go in. Then we go through the
wardrobes, the closets, desks

A property crime occurs every

3.5 seconds.

5,479 burglaries every day.

73.9% of burglaries are on
residential properties.

More than $5,000,000,000

in stolen property every year.

60.5% of burglaries are

forcible entry.

everything. Good places to look

are under furniture and mattresses. If theres a safe, usually

pipeline. Were after jewelry and

because I wanted stuff. Then, at

in a garage, we load it up on a

electronics. We keep all the cash.

a certain age, you want the

dolly and roll it into the truck and

Its about whatever we can take

money. I grew up thinking, Why

open it later with welding equip-

and make a quick sale. The team

me? Why am I poor? It became

ment and electric saws. My fa-

consists of the inside person, the

a business, a challenge, to sur-

vorites are the small safes and

dirty workers or cleaners, the

vive. You play hide-and-go-seek.

lockboxes. We just take the

people who actually do the job.

You go in there and if you do get

whole thing.

The fence sells all of it.

caught, youre done.

HD: What about alarms?

HD: Do you get one lump sum for

HD: Why not revert back to those

the whole job?

ways? What stops you now?

to deal with that. Also, its all

RAUL: We haggle over every-

RAUL: My kids. Once I became a

about teamwork. I could get my

thing. Hes like, Ill give you 10

father, I wanted to make sure I

[satellite provider] friend to tell

bucks for this and 20 bucks for

set a better example for them. I

me about this house or that

this. Then he sells it to people

didn't want to have kids and be

house. It helps to have an inside

for a prot. Its like the lottery.

in prison. I want to be a role

guy. He gets paid to provide us

Sometimes you make a lot of

model for them. I'm struggling. I

with information. Then we buy

money, especially if theres jew-

have to keep pushing. I know that

the information from him, and let

elry and watches. A good haul is

if I keep walking through hell, I'm

me tell you something: Every-

around $3,000.

gonna make it, I'm gonna suc-

RAUL: Fortunately, Ive never had

ceed, I'm gonna be perfect. HD

body has a priceeverybody.

HD: What goes through your
HD: What do you do with the

mind when youre burglarizing

Kerry Michael Li lives and writes in

goods once youve stolen them?

somebody?

Los Angeles.

RAUL: Its all about having a

RAUL: Its a business. I started

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52 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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The
American
Nightmare
By Aileen Natalia

Lessons to Be Learned Before,

During and After a Burglary

ohn W. of Southern California picked the

house he bought with his wife, Jeanette,
because it was next door to her child-

hood home. It was familiar, it was safe, and it

had great memories. But that was about to
change.
Purchased from Jeanette's uncle for
$685,000 in 2007, the modest 1,300square-foot, one-story home with two bedrooms, a den and a living room had a nice
backyard, a porch, a big gated driveway that
led to the garage in a quiet neighborhood
with limited traffic. It was the American
Dream.

THINKSTOCK

But this dream residence shared a block

with two privately run recovery homes
(halfway houses) as neighbors on either
side, down the block.
Isn't that a red ag?

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

53

You need to make

preparations for a
break-in today!

"It wasn't, because of the fact

like that, he said. Its a nice

Everything was status quo.

that we talked to my wife's uncle

neighborhood, an upper middle-

We were happy with the set-up,

and to the neighbors before buy-

class locale. But we are a few

John said.

ing the house, and there had

blocks away from a dividing line

never been any issues, said

between us and a not-so-good

their new home, each leaving

John. Actually, when my wife

neighborhood, where things

separately in the morning to go

was a small child living next

change dramatically.

to work and arriving home in the

door, those recovery homes were

Thats a very common situa-

there. She knew about them.

tion in constantly growing,

There never were any problems."

densely populated urban areas.

The couple fell into a routine in

evenings at different times as

well.
We would only put on the

Along with that overcrowding

alarm if we were going to be

tween John's new home and the

comes the inevitable unfortu-

gone for extended periods of

halfway houses? A pastor and

nately.

time, like to work. But not to go

And serving as a buffer be-

to the store or something like

his family to the left and a single

mother and her son to the right.
Sounds pretty cozy. And it was.

MOVING IN
John and Jeanette kept the se-

that, he notes. The day that it

happened, I got a call from my

For the most part, everybody

curity system that was already in

wife. I was at work. It was 1:30 in

knew each other and their neigh-

her uncles home when they

the afternoon.

bors house.

bought it. The front and back of

Its the perfectly manicured

the house were well lit, with mo-

THE BREAK-IN
Jeanette had gone home in the

lawn with the perfectly mani-

tion sensors at the end of the

cured bushes90 percent of the

driveway by the garage and rear

afternoon and noticed that the

homes in our neighborhood are

door to the house.

window in the back door to the

54 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

house had been broken. Doing

provide the password to turn off

the smart thing by not entering

the alarm (she did). She waited

the home, she called John right

to call her husband until she

away.

made the 15-minute trip over to

The reason my wife went

the house in broad daylight to

home in the rst place was be-

check things out and discover

cause she got the call from the

what had happened.

alarm company, John explains.

Jeanette found out that the

They call you and tell you that

police had already been at the

this sector of your house has

house before she had arrived,

been disturbed, that the sensor

and they had closed the gate to

in a certain part of your house

their driveway, which had been

went off.

opened by the thieves. The po-

The alarm company called

lice had then taken a quick drive

Jeanette to see if she was home

around the neighborhood, but

(she wasnt), to see if she set off

unfortunately didnt see or catch

the alarm (she hadnt) and to

anybody.

MEET AND
GREETS
COULD SAVE
YOU
The one thing John W. said
he learned from the aftermath of
the break-in to his home was his
appreciation for getting to know
his neighbors better after it
happened.
He just wishes he did it
earlier.
Dont make the same
mistake. Get to know your
neighbors now before you regret
not doing it. Its never too late to
meet your neighbors.

Why wait to upgrade your

alarm system? Do it now.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

55

my smartphone or tablet to see

inside my house right now.
The system is even set up to
text John in the case of a disturbance and the camera will then
start recording on his computers
hard drive. The extras cost the
couple about $50 a month more.
Ive never dealt with a breakin. Ive never been robbed. I
wasnt prepared. Its not something I think about.
What has changed?
Im more attentive coming
home now. I look for weak
pointsshadows in the driveway,
house, John said, her mind

behind a shrub. Im more aware

glars had opened the gate in the

went straight to, I want bars on

of ways that Im vulnerable. I

middle of the day, went to the

that back window, I want new

have a new car that can turn on

back of the house, broke the rear

deadbolts.

the lights inside the car before I

We discovered that the bur-

The next day the couple called

get in. And now were more

home and the motion inside the

the alarm company and updated

steadfast about setting the

windowthe curtains moving

and upgraded everything.

alarm every time we leaveeven

window, started to enter the

if its for 15 minutes going to the

had set off the alarm. So the

Now we have more motion

alarm didnt go off until they

sensors that extend to the de-

store. If were not in the house,

were actually entering the

tected areas, even through the

the alarm is on.

house, said John.

kitchen, said John. And the add-

When I got there, my wife was

frantic, which is understandable,

on package has cameras set up

GUT REACTIONS

in there. I can even use an app on

The emotional and psycho-

John said. One of our neighbors

said they saw three young individuals running down our driveway after the alarm went off.
As troubling as it was, it could
have been worse. They could

6 METHODS TO BREAK THE ICE

WITH NEIGHBORS
1 Use a current event to break the ice, like What about that storm last night?
You guys okay? or Did you hear about the break-in in our neighborhood?
Do you want to exchange numbers?

have lost a lot of valuable electronics gear or Jeanette could

have encountered the burglars as
they were leaving.
THE AFTERMATH

2 Although a bit old fashioned, bringing a new neighbor some cookies can
make them feel welcome and provide an opportunity to get to know one
another.
3 Contact your local police for info on your Neighborhood Watch program.
4 Leave a key with trusted relatives or neighbors to use to get into your home
when youre not around.

Afterward, they felt a sense of

violation.

5 Follow simple guidelines to make sure your residence doesnt look empty
during the holidaysneighbors can be your best allies at that time.

Even though there was relief

they didnt get all the way in the
56 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

6 Remember, theres strength in numbers!

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

logical impact from the incident

hit John hard, too.
My reaction was the same as
hers, he said. I can see that bars
on the back window will deter
somebody from breaking in. Im
now more conscious of entry
points, places where you can
break in. Then we discussed the
extra cost of the added security.
We spend that in one night going
to the movies. I was okay with
that. But where we were different is in how we react to situations. HD
Aileen Natalia lives and writes in
Los Angeles. She upgraded her
home security after writing this

UPGRADE YOUR HOME ALARM

SYSTEM DO IT BEFORE
ITS TOO LATE
Does your home alarm system include
the following:
Wireless cameras
Smoke, re and carbon monoxide detectors
Wireless receivers
Glass break sensor
Wireless siren
Water level sensor
Remote control key fob
Cellular backup
Panic button
Freeze sensor
Driveway alarm
Cellular network connection

article.

Discover the
World of Firearms
at Your Fingertips.
Visit our new website Today!
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www.gunworld.com
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

57

58 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Never
Say Die
4 Ways To Develop
Emotional Muscle So You
Can Handle Any Crisis
By Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D.

TERRILL HOFFMAN

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

ow do you strengthen your body?

By exercise.

How can you strengthen your mind? The

same way you exercise.
Emotional muscle can be developed as
surely as physical muscle. But to do so you
need a plan of specic exercises. Here are
some things you can do to develop your
emotional muscles. They are designed to
strengthen your ability to use your mind to
your best advantage. If followed, they will
ll you with the almost unlimited power of
mental strength and will prepare you to
better handle whatever crisis or unexpected adversity may arise.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

59

this. They allow their perception

of whats happening to them to
defeat them.
By contrast, the mentally
strong give themselves very different messages: they think differently. They remind themselves
INGRAM PUBLISHING

that what they're feeling is the

body's way of preparing them for
action. Sure, their heart is pumping harder, but its doing so to ensure they have enough oxygen to
give them energy.
They know their arms are feel-

Dont be afraid of your fear.

ing cold because the blood is

Just as physical strength can
only be attained by consistent
practice, so too emotional

dangerous or threatening situa-

withdrawing into their torso. This

tions.

way if theyre hit or cut, their

Acknowledge your fear. Be

arms will not bleed as much. The

strength. Daily practiceif only

mindful of it as you feel the

blood is going to the torso where

for 10 or 15 minutesis better

changes its producing in your

its needed.

than an hour of practice once a

body. Your heart rate has in-

week. These exercises can be

creased, you may feel your limbs

just more indications that their

practiced throughout the day. In-

growing cold, you may begin to

body is ready to spring into ac-

deed, they can be done when-

tremble and sweat. You may

tion. Adrenalin is being produced

ever you have a few free minutes.

even feel nauseous.

and is surging through their sys-

The shaking and nausea are

Emotional muscle goes by

Everyone feels the same basic

tem. This release of adrenalin

many different names: mental

psychological impact of fear. The

produces whats known as the

strength, mental toughness, sto-

difference between those who

Flight Fight Reaction, the body is

icism, intestinal fortitude, a

have mental strength and those

preparing itself for optimal effi-

"never say die" attitude differ-

who lack it lies in how they react

ciency and action.

ent terms for the same phenom-

to these physical sensations.

enon. Its rugged determination

Most people feel overwhelmed

The decision to ee or ght is

your choicebut either way, the

in the face of adversity, the abil-

by the sensations. They tell

sensation youre labeling as

ity to persevere to a goal regard-

themselves something like, I'm

"fear" is just an indicator light

less of the obstacles.

scared, I'm afraid, I can't face

telling you that youre ready to

whats happening, I can't do

take decisive action. Knowing

1.

FEEL THE FEAR

Some people erroneously

believe that mental strength

means being free of fear. Nothing
could be further from the truth.
The rst step in becoming
stronger emotionally is to accept
fear. Its naturaland indeed
healthyto be afraid when in
60 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

GOOD WAITERS
Patience Really is a Virtue
Good waiters get rewarded and not just in restaurants.
You should also try waiting. Practicing delayed gratication is the fth way
to build emotional muscle.
In a hurry to grab a bite to eat? Wait 15 more minutes.
The discipline of self-control will denitely help you to be stronger
psychologically.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

and really believing this will

although not always articulated,

greatly increase your mental

is the thought, "It will be 100 per-

strength. Your fear, with all the

cent awful and catastrophic. I

physical sensations it produces,

won't be able to handle it.

is your ally, not your adversary.

To become stronger emotionally, learn to challenge and dis-

2.

WHAT IF...

pute this awfulizing and

To become stronger emo-

catastrophizing. Change your

tionally you also need to be able

self-talk to "Yes, this is truly bad

to combat anxiety.

but its only bad. Its not truly

Anxiety can produce a con-

awful. Its not catastrophic. It will

stant sense of foreboding and

be rough, but I can and will han-

dread. Sometimes we can iden-

dle it.

tify exactly what we are anx-

But you may be asking, How

iously dreading; other times its

do I know I can handle it? The

less dened and more vague.

answer is simple: the reality is al-

Develop your emotional mus-

WISDOM FROM
THE 1800S
If you can keep your head when
all about you
If you can trust yourself when all
men doubt you
So begins the famous poem by
Rudyard Kipling.
Written more than 100 years ago,
the verses still speak to us today,
as it captures the essence of
mental toughness.
Search for the poem online. Print
it out and post it where you can
see it often.
Its the sixth way to develop mental strength, and this may inspire
you.

most never as bad as we imag-

cles by learning to identify your

ine. Youre a lot stronger than you

never give into the belief that

self-talk. What messages are you

might think.

things are catastrophic. They re-

giving yourself?

Everyday people are surprised

mind themselves that no matter

at how well they handle crises

how bad a situation is, they will

quite likely youre giving yourself

that they never thought they

get through it. Once again,

a "What if..." message. Youre

could handle. Youre more of a

changing your thinking builds

probably asking yourself, "What

survivor than you might think.

your emotional muscles. Exercise

If you're feeling anxious, its

if this happens?" or "What if that

Those who are mentally strong

and strengthen your mind by

happens?"
Inevitably there are two parts
to a "What if" message. First,
youre telling yourself something
bad is going to happen. This may
or may not be true. So, before
your anxiety increases and turns
to panic, ask yourself: "How likely
is it that something bad will happen?" Are you unwittingly exaggerating the actual threat? Are
you taking whats possible and
reacting as if its probable?
Question yourself. You may, indeed, have nothing to fear.
The second part of a "What
if" message, after due consideration, may indeed be, "Yes!
Something bad is going to happen!" What quickly follows,
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

61

identifying and challenging your

strong mentally while facing a

negative thoughts.

crisis. After any crisis, whether a

3.

natural disaster such as a ood,

TALK TO YOURSELF

snowstorm or hurricane, or per-

Your emotions come

haps a man-made eruption of

from your thoughts, your self-

violence such as a shooting,

talk, and the messages you give

heroes emerge.

yourself. To change or strengthen

These heroes are ordinary peo-

your emotions you need to

ple caught in extraordinary situa-

change or strengthen your self-

tions. They became heroes by

talk.

staying calm. Read about them.

How do you feel when you tell

Learn from them. Theyre no dif-

yourself, This is horrible; I'll

ferent than you. What they did,

never succeed?

you can do. By reminding your-

How would you feel if you

self of what other "average"

changed it to, "This is bad, but

people have done, you can culti-

not horrible; I will succeed.

vate a stronger mental outlook.

Or, There's too much work to

They can inspire you to be psy-

do; I'll never nish" compared to

chologically strong when you

Slow and steady wins the race.

may nd yourself facing adver-

And speaking of races, imagine

youre out for a jog. You come to
a hill. Do you tell yourself, Oh,

If they could do it, so can you!

What if no heroes emerged?
This gives you another exercise

ally challenge myself and get

to strengthen your emotions.

Your thoughts will make a big

Can listening to music strengthen

your emotional muscles?
Yes, it can, and its the seventh way
to build emotional muscle.
As British playwright William Congreve wrote in 1697, "Music hath
charms to soothe the savage
breast.
Music can calm you. It can help
relax you so that you can control
your emotions. On the ip side,
music can also strengthen your resolve. Exercising is much easier
while listening to music.
Think about how many boxers and
MMA ghters enter the ring to the
rousing motivating beat of their
training music. It puts them in the
proper psychological frame of
mind to compete and win.
Let the right tunes help you succeed as well.

sity.

no, a hill or Good, now I can restronger"?

MUSIC HATH
CHARMS

Think about the situation. Visualize yourself in the crisis. Exer-

done and what can be done.

The more you know, the greater
your mental strength.
IT'S UP TO YOU
You now have the blueprints to

difference in how you feel and

cise your mind and emotions by

build your emotional muscles and

what you do. As Henry Ford once

thinking what you would have

mental strength. The next step is

observed: If you think you can or

done in the situation.

the most important of all. Now

if you think you can't, youre

probably right.
You may not be able to control

For example, the news reports

a home invasion, describing what
the perpetrator did to gain ac-

you need to take what you have

learned and put it into action.
Remember, youre worth the
effort! HD

what happens to you, but you

cess. Now, think of how they

can control what you tell yourself

could have been stopped, of

about what happens.

what you could have done to

Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D. is the Direc-

stop them. What preparation

tor of the Counseling programs at

could you have made that would

Long Island University Hudson

Change your thinking, and you

change your emotions.

4.

have prevented their entry?

Graduate Centers in Orangeburg,

STAY INSPIRED

What could have been done dif-

New York, and West Point, New

Another exercise to build

ferently when they entered?

York. Hes a licensed psychologist,

emotional muscle requires read-

What would you have done dif-

certied in Critical Incident Stress

ing.

ferently?

Management and the creator of

Keep yourself inspired by reading about others who stayed

62 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Knowledge replaces fear.

Know what could have been

Eclectic Cognitive Behavior

Therapy.
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Now

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BUYERS

COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS

FLASHLIGHT GUIDE

Scrambling at the last second

is something you dont want to

Perfect
Visibility
Off-the-Chart Lumens and
Airplane-Rugged Construction,
These Lights Are Ideal for Personal
Safety By Home Defender Staff

do. So, whats on your home defense ashlight list?

You should have a reliable
ashlight that provides a ton of
lumens. Your light source should
be rugged, waterproof and impact-proof, and affordable. After
all, the safety of your family is
paramount.
To ensure youre armed with
bright light, weve selected some
of the best ashlight options
available. Some of these are new
products, hot off the manufacturers shelf.
Because well-prepared homeowners dont scramble.

64 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

XBT D3

COMPANY: 5.11 Tactical

MSRP: $139.99
WEBSITE: www.511Tactical.com
DESCRIPTION

The XBT D3 provides durability, output and

runtime, and thats just the start of an impressive
lineup of features.
Its hard body features aerospace-grade
aluminum, high-quality polycarbonate lens,
regulated circuit and three Cree XMLB LEDs. The

XBT A6

COMPANY: 5.11 Tactical

MSRP: $94.99
WEBSITE: www.511Tactical.com
DESCRIPTION
Similar to the XBT D3, the A6 is also packed
with features, including the aerospace-grade aluminum, the tough polycarbonate lens, a regulated
circuit and the Cree XMLB LED, which scores on
durability, output and runtime. In addition, itll run
you just a little bit less.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

lumens are off the charts, as it has 1,231 on high

and 100 lumens on low.
For an added bonus, it features a crenellated bezel,
an anti-roll rubber ring and water- and
impact-resistant construction.
QUICK SPECS
Two-hour runtime on high and 72 hours on low
188-meter beam distance on high
12.06 inches long
2.438-inch diameter head
1.75-inch diameter body
Weight with batteries is 32 ounces

Even so, the XBT A6 casts 629 lumens on high and 111 lumens on low. Another way that its different is that the XBT A6
can run at full power with just three batteries installed
(but the runtime is reduced by about 50 percent).
QUICK SPECS
629-lumen output on high and 111 on low
10-hour runtime on high and 57.5 hours on low
328-meter beam distance
10.188 inches long, 2.188-inch diameter head,
1.44-inch diameter body
Weight with batteries is 16 ounces

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

65

BUYERS

FLASHLIGHT GUIDE

M600 FUSION

COMPANY: ExtremeBeam
MSRP: $129.95
WEBSITE: www.ExtremeBeam.com
DESCRIPTION

Big things come in small packages.

The M600 features a Cree 600-lumen LED
matched to a machined-aluminum reector, and
that equation means the Fusion generates what
the manufacturer calls the tightest beam angle in
the industry. It throws a focused beam to nearly a
mile with an operating range of 1,300 feet.

SX21-HO BLACKBIRD
COMPANY: ExtremeBeam
MSRP: $59.95
WEBSITE: www.ExtremeBeam.com

DESCRIPTION
When it comes to home defense, the SX21-HO
Blackbird ies high.
Its affordable, it has 220 lumens and the battery is long lasting. It also features the SuperLumen
reecting cone, and the single-mode LED projects

66 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Its constructed from a double-sealed

aircraft aluminum billet housing and its
waterproof to 30 feet.
QUICK SPECS
Modes: High, medium, low, strobe, off
Weight: 8.9 ounces with batteries
Total Length: 6.38 inches
Head Bezel Width: 1.75 inches
Main Body Width: 1.125 inches
Average runtime: Six hours (high), 12 hours
(medium), 24 hours (low), 10 hours (strobe)

light to 274 meters. It also features an anti-recoil

system, and the double O-ring seals for up to 30
feet of waterproof protection.
QUICK SPECS
Weight (with battery) is 5 ounces
Total Length: 5.42 inches
Head Bezel Width: 1.36 inches
Main Body Width: 1.02 inches
Average runtime: Seven hours
Average runtime: Seven hours
Weapons mountable
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2AA PROPOLYMER HAZ-LO

COMPANY: Streamlight
MSRP: Starts at $13.95
WEBSITE: www.StreamLight.com
DESCRIPTION

The 2AA ProPolymer could be renamed the

all-purpose light, as its applicable for the home or
law enforcement, re and rescue and security.
The Pro, which has 65 lumens and a 96meter beam distance, is durable, waterproof and

PROTAC HL 3

COMPANY: Streamlight
MSRP: $134.94, but it varies
WEBSITE: www.StreamLight.com
DESCRIPTION
In the ProTac series, the HL3 is the new kid on
the block.
It has 1,100 lumens, the latest in power LED
technology and three different user selectable
programs. For good measure, it has a removable
pocket clip and holster.

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showcases a push-button tail switch for

momentary on and off.
QUICK SPECS
Runs 24 hours
Powered by two "AA" Alkaline batteries
The Smooth parabolic reector produces a
tight beam with optimum peripheral illumination
Waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes
1 meter impact-resistance tested
Total Length: 6.40 inches
Total Weight: 3.6 ounces

QUICK SPECS
Three Programs: High/strobe/low;
High only; Low/high
90-minute runtime on high
36-hour runtime on low with 35 lumens
90-minute runtime on strobe
Durable anodized machined-aircraft
aluminum construction
Waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes
1-meter impact-resistance tested
Total Length: 7.10 inches
Total Weight: 9.3 ounces

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

67

BUYERS

FLASHLIGHT GUIDE

E2L AA OUTDOORSMAN
COMPANY: Surere
MSRP: $250
WEBSITE: www.SureFire.com

DESCRIPTION
The SureFire E2L is your go-to ashlight for

emergency, survival or everyday needs.

Two power settings activate with a simple
click of the tail cap switch, producing instant
low- (ve lumens) to high-level (115 lumens)
lighting. It features a Total Internal Reection lens
that creates a tight beam with extended reach
while clearly illuminating your peripheral vision
range. Its outer casing is constructed of a rust- and
corrosion-resistant, lightweight aluminum, anodized with a Mil-Spec nish.
Multiple O-ring seals keep out damaging
moisture, dust and debris.
QUICK SPECS
115 lumens
Runtime: 8.5 hours
Length: 6.8 inches
Bezel Diameter: 1.125 inches
Weight with Batteries: 4.7 ounces

68 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

PELICAN 7000

COMPANY: Pelican
MSRP: $79 but prices vary
WEBSITE: www.Pelican.com
DESCRIPTION

Turn darkness to light with the 7000, which produces 602

lumens of LED light. It has four light modes (high, medium, low and
strobe) for close-quarter to long-distance viewing.

POLYSTEEL 600

COMPANY: Coast
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: www.CoastPortland.com
DESCRIPTION

This may be a candidate for the ultimate ashlight.

It features a tough, stainless steel core thats wrapped in a
grip-textured nylon polymer. Sporting 579 lumens, the Polysteels
beam distance is 856 feet. With a runtime of more than 13 hours on
low and a lifetime warranty, the Polysteel 600 is a ashlight you
need to seriously consider.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

QUICK SPECS
90-minute runtime on high
runtime of two hours, 15 minutes on medium
16-hour runtime on low
Optional recharging kit
Battery level indication
Waterproof
Aluminum body, polycarbonate resin
Length: 5.31 inches
Weight with Batteries: 5.6 ounces

QUICK SPECS
runtime of two hours and 15 minutes on high
runtime of ve hours and 30 minutes on medium
Length in Flood Mode: 7.87 inches
Length in Spot Mode: 8.12 inches
Poly casing, stainless steel core
Weight: 0.75 pounds
Diameter: 1.87 inches
Waterproof
3-meter drop tested

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

69

More lights equals

fewer opportunities
for criminals to hide.

70 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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Hard
Target

Home Defense Tips from

5 Top Law Enforcement
Experts
By Torrey Kim

ow would you like a personal security guard

for your home 24 hours per day? That would
be great, of course, but its obviously

unrealistic. So do the next best thing.

We all can benet from police officers vast
knowledge on how to keep our homes safe, so check
out the advice from the following ve law
enforcement officers. Let them help you break down
the truth about the best ways to protect your home

THINKSTOCK

and everything inside of it, especially your family.

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

71

Locking your house

whether youre home or
notis a top priority.

1.

FRANK DONCHEZ, CHIEF

all, if you were a criminal and

property, which can often take

OF POLICE, OVERLAND

were walking up a residential

place right in your driveway.

PARK, KANSAS

street, would you target the

Criminals target open and un-

house with the closed screen

locked vehicles parked in drive-

home defense is to actually fol-

and storm door, or the house

ways and inside of open garages.

low through on making it impen-

with the garage door, front door

Residents often leave valuable

etrable by locking it up. Although

and side door all wide open?

property in plain view inside of

One way to increase your

this may seem straightforward to

Obviously, the criminal wants

an unsecured vehicle.

most homeowners, it seems to

to take the easiest path possible,

escape a growing number of

and youve helped him do that by

device or computer on the seat

people, says Chief Donchez.

providing an open invitation

of your car, the criminal will sim-

and entrywayto your most

ply open the door and run off

valuable items.

with your belongings. Worse yet,

The number one mistake is

leaving the garage door or front
door open or unlocked, he ad-

Close and lock the door and

For instance, if you leave a GPS

they may not run anywhere

vises. In over half of all residen-

you may have just prevented a

they may take the items in the

tial burglaries, entry is made

criminal from selecting your

car as just an appetizer, with the

through an open or unlocked

home as his next free-for-all.

main course waiting in the house.

In addition, Donchez says,

If you have a computer charger in

door.
This advice makes sense. After
72 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

avoid luring criminals onto your

the car, that could whet the

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

burglars appetite just enough to

go searching for the actual computer, which will lead him right
through your front door. Once
hes inside, theres no telling how
much of your stuff he can run off
with.
Your key could be your number
one defense against a burglary.
A homeowner can reduce
their chance of being a victim
just by locking things up,
Donchez says. Landscaping and
lighting can also be evaluated to
reduce criminal opportunity
along with just being a good

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Theres No I In Team
Public Information Officer Susan Danielsen recommends starting a
Neighborhood Watch program, but do you know what this entails?
Although you might see it as a vigilante group wandering the streets
and taking the law into their own hands, thats absolutely not the case, the
Greensboro PD says. Instead, Community Watch is a system where neighbors know one another and can therefore identify someone who doesnt
live in the neighborhood and is acting suspiciously. If the neighbors see anything potentially illegal happening, they know to report it to their block
captain and the local police department, which can take the matter from
there.
Most police departments have a community relations department or
public information officer who can help point you in the right direction on
how to establish an effective Community Watch program.

neighbor and reporting suspicious activity. Our city offers free

security surveys to residents

Criminals love to hide, says

Wherever theres a dark place,

where several methods of hard-

Hudson, so if youre able to en-

criminals can hide. But if you

ening the target are discussed.

sure that they dont have an op-

have lighting around, people can

portunity to escape your

see whats going on, he says.

DANIEL HUDSON, PUBLIC

watchful eye, youve already

The lighting is not necessarily

INFORMATION OFFICER

thwarted a percentage of poten-

for you in the home, its also for

tial crimes.

the neighbors who hear a noise,

2.

WITH THE NORFOLK, VIRGINIA

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Lighting is a big deterrent.

or someone driving past who

The more eyes and ears

that are watching the
streets, the better.

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

73

3.
Home security cameras are
good deterrents, law
enforcement officials say.

sees someone around your property. You wouldnt want to waste

any time fumbling for a light
switch if you hear anything, so
lighting is a huge asset.
You should not only light your
front porch, but your entire property. Flood lamps placed on your
house, solar path lights placed
along your walkway and driveway and motion-detecting lights
that are triggered when someone
walks onto your property are just
a few examples of ways you can
light up your domain.
In addition, dont forget to keep
lights in areas that you wouldnt
think youd ever need to see,
such as the spot where you store
your trashcans or rakes. In reality,
those dark, forgotten areas are
exactly the places that burglars
would hide out and easily go
unseen.
In addition, knowing how to

LOCAL OR MONITORED SYSTEM

Which One Is Better?
Youve got locks on your solid metal doors and a state-of-the-art security system installed, but if you fail to use those things, theyre worthless.
Make sure you make good use of the resources you already have, says
Daniel Hudson.
When you leave the home, make sure you lock the deadbolt, he says.
The other lock, the dead latch, isnt enough by itself. Plus, make sure all
your doors and windows are locked, and if you have an alarm system, make
sure you turn it on. Well often respond to a residential burglary when the
victim didnt activate the alarm system because they were only leaving for
a few minutes, but it only takes a few minutes for someone to get into a
house and take their belongings.
If youre considering an alarm system for the rst time, you should
know the difference between local and monitored programs.
Monitored means you pay for a central station to monitor it, Hudson
says. When someone sets it off, the alarm company gets a notication
from the home, and the alarm company will contact the resident and if
they cant get in touch, they contact the police department and we investigate. A local system, on the other hand, is a good avenue for people who
dont want to pay for the service. It just isnt monitored, so if someone
breaks in, the alarm system will go off and is audible and deters the person
breaking in because they dont know whether its monitored or not.
In addition, Hudson says, you can get a system that you self-monitor
using an accompanying app on your smartphone. If youre away from home
and see something suspicious show up via the phone app you can
determine whether or not to call the police department.

audit your own property for

74 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

vulnerabilities is extremely

the officers can go over the

valuable.

specics of home security with

Our crime prevention unit can

all of the neighbors at the same

perform a Residential Security

time. If you cant get a home as-

Survey for free to residents of our

sessment performed, take it on

district where we talk to the resi-

with your neighbors. Ask one of

dent, discuss their security

them to hide on your property

habits and then after we talk to

and see if you can nd themif

them we learn what theyre most

not, youve just found an area of

scared of and we take them

vulnerability that you can tackle.

around and do an inspection of

the doors, locks, windows and

3.

lighting to look for vulnerabilities

DEPUTY POLICE CHIEF,

that a suspect could take advan-

GERMANTOWN, TENNESSEE

tage of. We also offer ways to se-

RODNEY A. BRIGHT,

If youve never met your neigh-

cure the home with lighting,

bors, you could be making your-

doors, locks, sliding glass doors,

self vulnerable to a burglary.

the garage, etc. We also do sur-

Although there may not initially

veys for businesses as well.

seem to be a correlation be-

If youd like to determine your

NO ACCESS!
Harden Your Target
Chief Frank Donchez refers to
hardening the target during
residential security surveys but
what does that mean? Essentially,
the target is your house, and
hardening refers to making it
more difficult for that target to be
compromised.
Anything you do to secure
your home makes it harder for the
criminal to target you, so the more
layers of protection you can add,
the better youve done in terms of
target hardening to convince a
burglar that your house is the
wrong target.

tween these two factors at face

areas of vulnerability, contact

value, the reality is that your

your local police department to

neighbors are essentially your

call them our force multiplier.

nd out if they can perform such

backup force for home defense.

Being aware of people, vehicles

a survey in your area. If your law

Relationships with neighbors

or situations that seem suspi-

enforcement officers prefer to do

is a potential deterrent, says

cious for the particular neighbor-

the home audits for small

Bright. Were always encourag-

hood may prompt them to call

groups, you can gather several

ing our citizens to help be the

the police to investigate. Having

neighbors who also want to ben-

eyes and ears of the depart-

this awareness helps them de-

et from such a presentation and

ment in their neighborhoods. We

tect things that are not normal.

Leaving your keys in

your car is a bad idea!

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

75

should approach your home always being on the lookout for unusual activity.
Just as shoppers are told to always be aware of their surroundings when shopping, so, too, should
the homeowner be aware as they
come and go from home as well as
while at home, he says. Take advantage of technology such as
cameras, home alarm systems,
etc.

4.

KEITH MCCULLOCH, CRIME

PREVENTION OFFICER,

ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

Counting on robbers to simply
choose another house? You could
be rightbut dont count on it.
The number one mistake most
homeowners make is that they
think it wont happen to them,
McCulloch says. Most homeowners procrastinate when it comes to
crime prevention at home. During
2013, there was a burglary every
A barking dog is a
deterrent to most
burglars.

16.4 seconds in the U.S. with a total

of 1,928,465 burglaries committed.
Most burglaries are crimes of op-

Even if you dont see someone

house. If your neighborhood

portunity and the best way to pre-

breaking into a home, you might

doesnt have such a list, you

vent burglaries is to target harden

see would-be burglars who are

should consider creating one and

your home in order to be less at-

casing your neighborhood.

asking the neighbors to register

tractive to burglars.

Some criminals may survey

so everyone is made aware of

You should operate as if a rob-

an area before they decide to

potential safety and security is-

bery not only could happen to you,

commit a crime, Bright says.

sues.

but that you will denitely be the

In addition, Bright says, you

intended target of a burglar even-

stincts and call the police rst

could be leaving the keys to your

tually. If you assume it will happen

when something or someone

home in plain sight.

to you, youre more likely to appro-

People should trust their in-

seems suspicious.

Don't leave garage door open-

priately secure your home, remem-

ers visible, he says. They can

ber to lock your doors, improve

email lists so that if someone

provide a simple way for burglars

your lighting and otherwise reduce

sees suspicious activity, they can

to easily access your home and

the opportunity for a criminal to

disseminate it through the group

clean it out.

penetrate your house. Besides, we

Some neighborhoods maintain

quickly and without leaving their

76 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Essentially, Bright says, you

know that it could happen to you.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

In addition, McCulloch recom-

doors. Rotting and decay around

mends a four-legged security

door frames make it very easy for

system to help deter criminals.

a burglar to break away at the

DID YOU KNOW?

At no cost, many local law
enforcement agencies perform a
residential security survey in which
they discuss security and crimeprevention tips.

Post-arrest interviews with

door and easily enter your struc-

burglars have indicated most do

ture, so check the security of all

not like to break into homes that

of your doors (both inside and

have dogs due to the fact that

out) every few months. For ex-

they are noisy, alert neighbors

ample, if you have a double-door

and also the fear that the dogs

leading to your basement that

may attack, he says.

opens from the outside, you

dont drop your guard when

probably have a chain around it

youre on your property. Just be-

matter, because the barking

to keep it secure. A burglar can

cause you lock the house when

alone is typically enough to deter

cut the chain in a few seconds

youre leaving doesnt mean you

a thief. Anything that calls atten-

and get in.

should keep it unlocked if youre

The size of the dog shouldnt

hosting a barbecue or taking a

tion to your house is bad for a

draw the eyes of a neighbor,

5.

which the thief doesnt want. As

OFFICER, GREENSBORO,

should keep all structures

long as your dog makes noise

NORTH CAROLINA POLICE

locked, she advises. For in-

when someone is at the door,

DEPARTMENT

stance, if youre mowing in your

burglar. Excessive barking could

youre giving your home an extra

layer of security.
In the same vein, security

SUSAN C. DANIELSEN,
PUBLIC INFORMATION

If you want to thwart burglars,

nap.
Even if youre at home, you

backyard, you may not be able to

you should put as many obsta-

see a person entering your

cles as possible in place that can

garage.
You should also remember

alarms are a very good deterrent

slow them down. They wont

when properly used, McCulloch

want to rob your home if it will

theres power in numbers. We

adds.

take too long.

always encourage our residents

Alarms are designed to deter

Burglars want easy targets,

to start a Neighborhood Watch

criminals by actively posting with

Danielsen says. They want to

program, Danielsen says. Look-

signs on doors, windows, and

get in and out of a residence as

ing out for each other and report-

yards that the property is

quickly as possible and without

ing suspicious behavior is

alarmed and also by alerting the

being detected. Homeowners

incredibly effective in reducing

police when there is a break-in.

make themselves vulnerable by

crime.

However, you should not rely

leaving doors unlocked or win-

solely on your home security system as your only line of defense.

dows open.
You should think of your home

This applies both when youre

in town and away from home. If
youre traveling, a trusted neigh-

security strategy as a series of

bor should be aware of that and

lulled into a false sense of secu-

layers that can create a thick

stay on the lookout for items that

rity by not locking their doors or

wall of prevention. Several locks,

might make it obvious that

windows because they feel safe

a thick door, short shrubs, great

youre away. HD

with the alarm, he adds. Crimi-

lighting, dogs, home security sys-

nals break in because the owners

tems, secure windows and

Torrey Kim is a freelance writer in

do not have the barriers in place

closed garage doors mean that

North Carolina who counts her

that would deter a thief from

robbers will nd your house too

two rescue dogs as her most im-

committing the burglary.

problematic.

portant assets when protecting

Homeowners are sometimes

Make sure you lock all of your

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

In addition, Danielsen says,

her home.
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

77

78 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Smooth
and Fast

Bolster Your Defensive Shooting

with These Speed Reloads and
Transition Drills
By Richard Crays

ouve seen it too, havent you? Most of us

do a fair amount of reloading drills on a
regular basis, but I see shooters doing it

the wrong way all the time. The guy shoots the
gun to lockback, relaxes a bit, looks downrange
admiring his handiwork and then drops his head
down to look at his empty gun. He pops the
magazine into his hand, gently lays it on the
bench, picks up another mag and gently pushes
it into the gun as he looks at it. Then he does the
ol Danny Glover Lethal Weapon head roll as

RICHARD CRAYS

he comes up on target to shoot again.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

79

At the end of the day, he takes

those targets home and shows
them to the wife, proclaiming
himself a true gunghter of the
10th degree. Nice and tidy as that
is, it does nothing to get you
ready for the ght actually, it
probably makes things worse!
The following series of drills will
get you into shape for smooth
and fast shooting for home defense that you should have been
training for from the beginning.
With all of these drills, you must
start dry and empty.
THE RELOAD
Pistol: As the slide locks to the
rear, bring the pistol back toward
your chest, just under your view
of the target (threat). You should
be able to see the threat with
Let the magazine fall free after
giving it a tug with the support
hand if necessary.

your direct vision and the pistol

with your lower peripheral vision.
As youre bringing the pistol

Yikes! Over time he has trained

himself to do that in a gunght.
The reload (like these transition
drills) should be done smooth
and fast. The eyes should never
leave the threat. If you train to
look down, then you will look
down when you can least afford
it!
Still looking at this same guy,
you see him put the pistol in a
gun rug, drop it in his bag and get
his rie out and go through the
same: shoot a mag, look down at
it to load, look up, snuggle that
rie into the shoulder for two
minutes and then slow-re a
magazine full, look down to reload and do it again.
80 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Reloading the AR-15

from either the 5.11 4Banger Go Bag or the
Blade Tech Thigh Pouch.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

back, activate the mag release

on an empty magazine. This

Drop the magazine as you reach

and pull out the magazine. Let-

stages the weapon for your dry

for your reload, grab the next one

ting it fall on its own creates a

practice. Press the trigger to

and insert it with authority. I in-

habit of assuming that will hap-

build the physical movements

sert and then tug on it to make

pen. If its dirty, lled with snow

into your neural pathway (mus-

sure it locked in. Loading your

or slush, it wont drop free. Train

cle memory), slightly rotate the

magazine one or two rounds light

yourself to pull it out and drop it

weapon so you can see the open

increases the likelihood of a

as you reach for that reload.

bolt, rotate the weapon back to

good seat. I slap the bolt lock

That support hand comes back

vertical and, while keeping the

lever rather than pushing on it

up with a new magazine and you

weapon in your shoulder, acti-

with my thumb, as the whole

insert it with authority. Let that

vate the magazine release, grab

hand is less likely to miss that lit-

support hand rotate and come

the magazine and pull it out.

tle button in times of stress.

up over the top of the slide.

Grasp the slide, pull back hard
and let it go all without taking
your eyes off the threat. Do this
about 25 times dry, then load up
all your magazines and master it
live. If youre light on ammunition, just put three or four rounds
in each magazine for the live re
drills.
Rifle: With the rie never leaving
your shoulder, lock the bolt back

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

TIPS FOR FAST IMPROVEMENT

A few things to be considered when doing these drills:
Slow, perfect practice will make you faster in the end than poor, quick
repetitions early on.
Similar operating systems on both weapons can make you faster with both,
but practice is the key to being procient. Your AR-15/M4 works just like a 1911,
as an example.
If the rie quits working, take a millisecond to try that safety and if youre
training with old, cheap ammunition, dont forget to consider hang-res.
Moving that rie off the target to a transition position has, when done poorly
or prematurely, resulted in many a bullet hitting the ground
unexpectedly.
When a good quality magazine is used with a good quality AR-15 platform,
the bolt will lock to the rear when the magazine is empty. Check your
equipment to make sure this is so before going live. If it isnt doing that, x it
before your next gunght.
When doing these drills live, load your magazines with one, two and three
rounds, respectively. If you load them all with two rounds each, your
subconscious will start gaming and you wont get the true training benet
of starting from surprise. Load the mags and dont look at which one is going
where. Youre not doing this to impress anyone, only to make yourself better.
When you go to live re practice, youll need to nd a range that allows moving
the rie outside of the 150-degree rule that most ranges have. The muzzle of
that rie will arc to about 220 degrees with a two-point sling transition and
over to 240 or 120 degrees (for southpaws) on a no-sling drill. Some
Range-masters get worked up about the muzzle of the rie pointing up-range.
Check the rules before you get started.
Shooting a handgun with one hand, accurately, requires practice. Punch the
pistol out there like youre punching someone in the chest. Raise the thumb on
that hand and lean into the pistol. As you raise the thumb, notice that your collateral ligaments (those ridges that appear from your wrist to the thumb)
tighten up. This stabilizes and strengthens your grip. Canting the pistol, like
youre punching, also lines up the bones and muscles to give you better recoil
management.
If youre wondering about gun to knife transitions, you should consider
an old adage rst: If you brought a knife to a gunght, you were
planning on losing.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

81

And establish a two-handed grip

and present the gun to the threat.

Bang, youre back in the ght.

Transitioning to a different gun
will often be faster than a reload.
Remember Keanu Reeves in The
Matrix dropping empty guns
and drawing new ones? Thats
faster than reloading, but since
we didnt take the red pill with
breakfast, we need to hold on to
the empty guns when we transition to a full one.
RIFLE TO PISTOL TRANSITION
The most common transition is
from the best weapon to the
second best one. This is usually
done because we ran out of
ammo in the rie, but could also
be necessary because of a malfunction, close-quarters engagement making it impractical
(hallway then into a boiler room)
82 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

PROS AND CONS

One-Point Sling:
Benets:
It keeps the gun in front of you and makes transitions quicker.
You have more control of it when searching or in crowds.
Problems:
Takes more time to get it out of the way when climbing ladders as you have to
pull the sling around your body, and then for most of us, the rie hangs low
and hits our feet on the climb.
Requires working a clip or release to go to a prone or off-shoulder position,
and thats a ne motor skill thats not done easily when under stress.

Two-Point Sling:
Benets:
Allows for rapid transition from right to left shoulder to clear corners or to go
to prone.
Provides a handy drag strap for performing a downed victim rescue while allowing you to continue to use the rie in the ght.
Problems:
Slower to transition than a one-point.
The sling often dangles and can get hung up on door knobs or bushes. To overcome this problem, I have put a Sling Band-it on my Benelli. Made by TAT
Jacket, these handy little hook and loop bands hold it all together. (Go to
www.SlingBandit.com for more info.)

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Remember Keanu
Reeves in The Matrix
dropping empty guns
and drawing new ones?
That is faster than
reloading, but since we
didnt take the red pill
with breakfast .

the rie behind you and the sling

support hand grips the forend

in front, drop it over your head

and starts the rie up to a shoot-

and support shoulder. As the rie

ing position. The strong hand

drops, control it with your sup-

catches the grip and nishes the

port hand as the strong hand re-

transition back to the shoulder.

trieves the pistol. This will require

at least 50 repetitions before

Cross-eye Dominant Shooter:

calling your ready. Only go as fast

Thought I forgot about you,

as you can go perfect and dont

didnt you? Nope, because Im

go live until you can do it without

one. Heres your drill: Rie is on

any mistakes.

your left shoulder, pistol on your

right. The left hand comes off the

or youre thinking over-penetra-

One-Point Sling: The easy one.

grip, grabs the rear sling swivel

tion of the rie round is possible

This is as simple as check the

and rotates the sling up and over

and bad.

safety, lower the gun to a sus-

the left shoulder, letting the rie

pended position with your sup-

fall to a muzzle-down position,

go to the handgun, heres how to

port hand as the pistol is

sights to the rear carry position

do it best, and as always, start by

retrieved with the strong hand. If

as the right hand recovers the

doing this with two dry, empty

it drops uncontrolled, you might

pistol. To go back to the rie, hol-

guns. Depending on what sling

regret what stops the rie at the

ster the pistol as you grip the

you have, you can go three ways

end. Really.

forend with a thumb-down hand

Regardless of why you want to

position. As the left hand comes

to get rid of the long gun.

PISTOL TO RIFLE TRANSITION

up, rotate the rie to a sights-up

No Sling: From the shooting po-

Youre coming out of the boiler

position, exchanging the hands

sition, press the trigger. The gun

room and back into the hallway.

on the forend as the rie reaches

goes click instead of bang. Try to

Time is everything, so dont

the shoulder. The left hand drops

activate the safety. If the gun is

waste any of it looking down at

back to the grip and youre back

empty, it shouldnt activate.

that holster. Its in the same

in business.

Lower your support hand (the

place it was when you got out

one on the forend) to your front

the pistol. Keep your eyes up and

PRACTICE AND PRACTICE

pocket area as you release the

toward the threat zone as you

Be sure to practice these drills

grip. The strong hand will be

holster the pistol with your

slow and dry until you master

moving to the pistol at the same

strong hand.

them. Then, when you need

them, they will be there to save

time the rie is going to the hip.

The pistol comes up and in a

Two-Point Sling: Strong hand

your life. HD

practiced one-hand grip, en-

thumb will go up under the sling,

gages the threat.

near the rear swivel and raise it

Richard Crays has 39 years of mil-

up, over your head. As the rie

itary and law enforcement experi-

Two-Point Sling: From the

clears your cabeza, pull it for-

ence. Hes on the board of

shooting position, press the trig-

ward and catch the forend with

directors for the International As-

ger. Click, no bang. Try the safety,

your support hand, rotating the

sociation of Law Enforcement

then release the grip and with

stock back to your shoulder.

Firearms Instructors, a Master In-

your strong hand, grab the rear

structor Trainer and is the senior

sling swivel. Raise the sling and

One-Point Sling: As the strong

rearms instructor for a state law

rie above your head and with

hand holsters the pistol, the

enforcement academy.

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

83

Tactical Reality

By Louis Awerbuck

An Uncommon Look at Common Sense Firearms,

Training and Tactics

o matter how well

are the handgun and the shot-

portability and relative simplicity

versed you may be in the

gun. Assuming the homeowner is

of operation. It is, however, an ex-

martial arts, a rolled-up

adequately trained in the manip-

tremely difficult weapon to shoot

copy of the Brady Bill is no match

ulation, marksmanship, and tac-

accurately in real-world stress

for an armed intruder. Some

tical use of his weapon of

situations, and its terminal bal-

politicians may not like it, but

choicebecause without opera-

listics fall short of satisfactory, ir-

one of the few means accessible

tor skill a gun varies from being

respective of caliber.

to the law-abiding citizen for de-

useless to being a liabilityit be-

fending his life and limb is the

comes a matter of deciding

other hand, gives tremendous

great equalizera rearm.

which weapon is more suitable

close-up power, and its easier to

for a specic scenario.

hit your mark under ghting con-

TOP CHOICES
The two most commonly selected guns for home defense
84 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Both have salient features, and

Using the shotgun, on the

ditionsbut more manipulation

both have liabilities. The obvious

training and a more thorough un-

advantage of the handgun is its

derstanding of the weapon and

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its ammunition are required than

pattern you may as well be

with the pistol.

shooting slugs.

shotgun every time and blow

Overpenetration is a big con-

that sucker to Kingdom Come

sideration in a home defense sit-

when he puts one toenail past

uation, as family members can

my front door? Because theres

for home defense? The rst

often be in the line of re in

a thing called the law, even to

question is that of overpenetra-

rooms behind the intruder.

the extent that in some states

BETTER FOR HOME D

Which of the two guns is better

tionthe What if I miss? prob-

Question two asks, Is the

you have to prove that you could-

lem. And the answer is that a

shotgun too long for gunghting

nt have escaped from your own

pistol bullet will penetrate more

at home? And the answer to

house, irrespective of the in-

apartment walls than will buck-

that one is no, as long as intelli-

truders intentionsor actions.

shota much-misunderstood

gent ready positions are used

And secondarily it aint over til

fact. By the same token, using

relative to the situation at hand.

its over, which means either help

birdshot instead of buckshot to

Weapon retention should, of

has arrived or you have person-

counteract the same potential

course, be practiced with both

ally bound his hands together

problem is not the answer either

the shotgun and the pistol. Nei-

an extremely difficult thing do

because if the intruder/rapist/

ther protrudes more than the

when youre carrying a shotgun.

mugger is at any distance farther

other if employed intelligently.

This nal problem is the

And no, using a pistol-gripped,

biggest decision maker of them

wont do the job, and if hes close

stockless shotgun is not the an-

all. If theres anything but good

and situated next to a wall, a

swer, because even at close

ambient light, you will need

load of birdshot will penetrate

quarters you will miss if you

ashlight illumination to be used

the wall like a slug before the

dont use the sights, and a stock-

in conjunction with either

pellets disperse. An ounce of

less shotgun actually projects

weapon. This means either a

lead is an ounce of lead, and if

further from your body than does

ashlight mounted on the

birdshot hits drywall in a 2-inch

a fully stocked model.

weapon, which can be operated

than ve or six yards it probably

THINKSTOCK

So why shouldnt I just use the

The handgun wins in the

portability department.

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

85

that would warrant my running

headlong into someone elses
battleeld of choice, irrespective
of weaponry.
PROS AND CONS
As stated above, both
weapons have pros and cons.
The shotgun wins the ballisticsand-marksmanship contest, as
long as you understand the vagaries of shotgun ballistics and
patterning. The handgun wins in
the portability department, plus
possibly some extremely closeThe shotgun wins
the ballistics-andmarksmanship contest.

quarters tactical points. The best

answer is to have both weapons
at hand, but, buck-naked at

by the ring hand or, in the case

you will need a ashlight (and

of the shotgun, an on/off over-

with the shotgun a carry strap)

ride switch in addition to the

to transition the weapon out of

conventional fore-end pressure

the downed intruders reach and

switch.

to leave your hands free for other

shotgun with a pressure switch

duties.
Bear in mind, too, that often

mounted on the fore-endbut if

you wont shoot, which also

you have to use your support

leads to tactical problems with

hand to open doors, tie up Mr.

either weapon. And if you do

Baddie, etc., all you have is one

shoot, youre responsible for

shot and no vision. This may af-

every single projectile you sling

fect your decision whether to buy

downrange.

a pump gun or semiauto or even

opt for a handgun.
The bottom line in a home de-

So whats the perfect answer?

There isnt one.
This authors personal prefer-

fense situation is that youre at-

ence is to stabilize close to a

tempting to stop a deadly force

telephone with a shotgun (a) be-

threatthis does not necessarily

cause of the weapons inherent

mean killing. And even if your in-

power, (b) the fact that its eas-

truder is dead (which is the ex-

ier to hit the target with a shot-

ception to the rule), you still have

gun than with a handgun, and

to control the situation. This isnt

(c) I will wait for the intruder to

a matter of shooting steel or

come to me, as opposed to

paper targets! You have to nish

hunting him down, unless I have

the job tacticallyyou cant just

manpower for backup. Theres

walk away. With either weapon

no material possession I own

86 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Gentlemen, choose your

weapons. HD

PALADIN PRESS

Its all very well to have a pump

0300, this is highly unlikely.

RUN WITH
PERMISSION
1. Excerpted with permission from
Paladin Press.
2. www.Paladin-Press.com
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Now DW\RXUQJHUWLSV

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88 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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Powerful
Perimeter
Simple, Effective and
Inexpensive Methods To
Strengthen Your First Line
Of Defense
By Charlie Kim

erceptions and reality are not

always accurate. Take home

defense, for example.

When you think about a burglar

intruding into your home, the rst

thought that comes to mind is typically
the need to improve security around
your actual home, including your locks
and security systems.
In reality, however, its sometimes
much more crucial to rst secure your
perimeteryour yard, driveway and the
property that surrounds your home.
Once someone breaks through the
perimeter, they are much more likely to
gain access to your house.
To reduce the likelihood of this
happening, Police Chief Tim Lentz of
Covington, Louisiana, has provided

THINKSTOCK

some tips on how to easily increase the

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security of your own home without the

need for expensive equipment.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

89

Maintaining a fence around

your house tells potential
intruders to stay out!

1.

ELIMINATE THE

is the opportunity. Simply by

not commit a crime at a well-lit

OPPORTUNITY

locking your doors, having your

home with the doors locked.

lights on at night, or even owning

They just dont want to work that

things need to happen, Lentz

a dog can have an inuence on

hard.

says. First, you have to have a

the opportunity provided to a

motivated offender. Second, that

criminal. Chances are they will

For a crime to occur, three

By ensuring that your yard is

well lit and the home looks

offender has to have time. Third,

the offender has to have opportunity.
Homeowners can really have
an impact on only one of those
three factors, he says, and thats
the one you should focus on
when trying to secure your home.
The motivation an offender
has might be to support his or
her drug habitnot much as a
homeowner you can do about
that, he says. One of the ways
you can control the time an offender has to commit a crime is
to keep him or her locked up
not much as a homeowner you
can do about that. The one area

IN AND OUT IN A FLASH

How Secure Is Your Door?
Burglars typically spend less than 60 seconds getting into your house,
according to statistics from the Washington DC Metropolitan Police
Department.
If your home is secure enough that it would take criminals longer than
that to get in, they will probably pass your house in favor of an easier target.
One way to strengthen your perimeter is by ensuring that your door is
criminal-proof.
One of the least secure options available is a screen door. Even if you have
a lock on it, the screen itself can easily be compromised with a quick swipe of a
knife.
In addition, any door with a thin pane of glass is easy prey, because it can
be smashed quickly with anything thats lying around.
The ideal exterior door for your home is made of metal or solid wood, the
DC PD advises. In addition, you should have a peephole or other viewer so you
can see who is at your door without having to open it.
Door chains can easily be clipped or pulled out of their bolts and are
therefore not as secure.
In addition, doors that dont t properly in their frames can be jostled out
of place or pried open. You should add weather stripping to any gaps around
the frame to make sure theyre in place securely.

where you can have an inuence

90 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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occupied and secure, youve already stopped a burglar from

a potential target.

HOW ENVIRONMENTAL
DESIGN CAN HELP

2.

Chief Lentz recommends using a concept referred to as Crime

Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) to keep your property
safe. The National Crime Prevention Council offers the following tips in
ensuring that your environment is designed to keep criminals away:

being tempted by your house as

ERADICATE
HIDING PLACES

Another way to ensure that

your perimeter is rock solid is to
wipe out any potential areas
where burglars could easily conceal themselves. If you give criminals a place to hide, youre
making your home vulnerable.
I have never been a big fan of
bushes next to a home, especially large bushes near an entrance, says Lentz. You have
provided a criminal a place to
hide and do something bad to

Access Control: Ensure that your property is clearly separated from the
public areas. For instance, a gate between the sidewalk and your yard is a
great way to alert people to the fact that your yard is not part of the public
sidewalk.
Surveillance: Make sure that your yard, parking area, cars and the road
are visible from your house so you can always look outside and see whats
going on in your area. You can strategically place windows and your parking
spaces to enhance this.
Territorial Reinforcement: Use your landscaping and fences to remind
potential trespassers that the yard is your personal property.
Maintenance: Even the best-designed yard can be ignored long enough
to let criminals think that the house is abandoned. You must maintain your
area to let potential trespassers know that youre proud of your property and
willing to maintain it. Ensure that any burned-out bulbs are replaced, trim
back hedges, mow the grass, bring in newspapers, and repair broken glass or
shingles.
For more on environmental design, visit the National Crime Prevention
Council at NCPC.org/resources.

you as you approach your home.

The sole exception, he says,
would be if you had a prickly type

things, like leaving a window

have their mail or newspapers

of bush surrounding your home,

open when they are not home,

picked up.

such as cacti, which would actu-

says Lentz. Leaving their garage

ally deter criminals from hiding

door open, or their car doors

and newspapers from your front

anywhere near it.

open with the garage door

door and driveway, keep your

What I encourage people to

opener on the sun visor. When

path mowed and clear, and close

do is to look at the front of their

they go out of town, they fail to

and lock your doors and

Make sure you clear packages

home and see if there are any

places someone can hide as you
approach your home, he says.
If you do nd any such areas,
you should immediately remove
them so criminals wont nd a
safe haven in your yard.

3.

DONT ADVERTISE THAT

YOURE AN EASY TARGET

Although your yard is your personal domain, you could be enticing trespassers if you make
your house look like it would be
easy to rob.
Sometimes its the simple
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Keeping expensive items

in your front lawn can
serve as bait that lures
criminals.
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

91

DONT OFFER
THEM BAIT!
One factor thats sure to lure
criminals into your yard is keeping
expensive items in plain view,
which can serve as bait and
make you vulnerable to a
break-in.
Keep these commonly
displayed items out of sight to
help secure your property:

Bicycles
Scooters
Skateboards
Leaf blowers
Lawn mowers
Snow blowers
Weed trimmers
Large empty boxes
indicating you just
bought an expensive
item
Small trampolines

Dont leave valuables out.

out on vacation and posting pic-

walking through the coffee shop

tures of themselves at various lo-

can make you a target. In short,

cations around the world. What

keep your travel plans to your-

have you just told a potential

self, he notes.

criminal? Nobody is home, come

take my stuff.
As common as this is on social

5.

BE OBSERVANT OF THE
PEOPLE YOU KNOW

According to active burglars,

windows. Any time you offer easy

media, its also possible to ad-

access to a criminal, youre in-

vertise your empty home in other

targets are often acquaintances,

creasing your chances of getting

ways as well. Posting in the clas-

Lentz says. If youre facing a

robbed, he says.

sieds or on Cragislist that you

more experienced burglar, theres

need a house sitter or dog walker

a chance he will stake out a resi-

4.

DONT COMPROMISE

while youre out of town is just as

dent to learn their targets

YOUR PERIMETER

risky as putting your vacation

routine.

ONLINE

photos on Facebook. Even talk-

Although you might only think

about securing your perimeter in

Lentz refers to the book Bur-

ing too loudly about your upcom-

glars On The Job: Streetlife And

ing trip to Florida while youre

Residential Break-Ins by Richard

terms of thwarting passersby

from entering, the truth is that
you can make yourself vulnerable to people both near and far if

YOU KNOW THAT HIDDEN KEY?

youre too free with your comings

The Burglar Knows, Too

and goings, especially online.

You might think youre being clever by stowing a spare key under your
welcome mat or in a fake boulder, but burglars know where to look for them
and will readily use them if they can nd the keys.
The reality is that if you get locked out of your house and you can nd a
way inside, then burglars can as well.
To run a test of how secure your home is, you should deliberately lock all
the doors and then try and nd a way in.
Time yourself and determine how quickly you can access the interior.
Assume that a professional burglar can get inside in a fraction of that time.
Then use the lessons you learned from your dry run to further secure the
house.

The one that gets me the

most is social media, says
Lentz. People today post way
too much information out on the
worldwide web. Im not a big social media guy, but Ive seen,
through my kids, entire families
92 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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DID YOU KNOW?

In the book Burglars On The Job: Streetlife and Residential Break-Ins,
the authors interviewed various burglars. Following are tips that you should
be aware of if youre trying to avoid getting robbed:

Most avoid occupied residences, considering them

high-risk targets.
Most are not deterred by alarms and elaborate locks; in fact,
these devices tell them theres something inside worth
stealing.
Some call the occupants. If their phone is ringing when they
arrive, they know no one is home.
Once entering the residence, they rst turn to the master
bedroom for money and drugs. They also search kitchens,
believing that some people keep money in places like a
mayonnaise jar.
Most work in groups, one serving as a lookout while
the others ransack the place.
Many approach a target masquerading as workmen, such
as carpenters or house painters.

T. Wright and Scott Decker when

and doing everything in your

he outlines what burglars look

power to deter thieves is de-

for in a home. For tips to prevent

nitely the way to go. HD

Back
Issues
Available

burglaries, see the accompanyCharlie Kim is a freelance

ing sidebar.

writer and videographer from

PERIMETER DEFENSE
While you dont have to do

North Carolina who has a black

belt in taekwondo. He is ready

something as drastic as digging a

to use his martial arts training

moat around your home, being

if he ever has to defend his

aware of your perimeter defense

home.

Call us at
1-800-764-6278
www.engagedmediamags.com
Dont make it easy for burglars. Close and
lock your windows when youre not home.
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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

93

94 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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An Ounce
of Prevention
7 Key Elements Your
Home Defense Plan Must Have
By Abe Elias

ome defense isnt something

to take lightly.

To be adequately prepared, its

critical to have an all-encompassing

plan that includes training, planning
and hardware. In the following story,
we will provide the information you

THINKSTOCK

need to bolster your home security.

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

95

BERETTA

Berettas CX4 design allows

for numerous add-ons.

1 &2 TRAINING AND

would be well worth it to add a

ATTITUDE

good training course and regular

cade ourselves in the room. Or if

practice at the local range.

we chose to confront the intrud-

Put yourself in this situation.

ers, when we re off our rearm

A guy breaks into your place, hes

holding a handgun and hes
shaking like a leaf. Or this a guy

We could hold up and barri-

3 THE PLAN
There are a number of different

we know a stray shot wont nd a

family member because we are

with a black powder rie breaks

scenarios that can take place in a

aware of where they are. Most

into your place, and he has a look

home invasion: An invasion can

importantly, we will know its an

in his eye like he could kill.

take place in broad daylight; at

intruder because everyone is ac-

night while the family watches

counted for and we arent about

TV; late, when all are asleep.

to put a pistol in the face of your

Neither scenario is likely, of

course, but either way you need
to be prepared with the right

In the event of a home inva-

mental attitude and training.

sion, the rst thing to do is to se-

teenager sneaking into the house

after hours.

Training will help give us con-

cure your family. Pick a place in

dence and teach us a set of skills

the house that all family mem-

to apply to the situation. Practice

bers will go to. I realize that this

will ingrain those skills so that if

may not be possible in some sit-

than the intruder. So, before any-

we can control our emotions, we

uations but we have to have a

thing happens, look at the points

can pull our training and practice

working goal. The purpose of

of access to your home and nd

together and be effective.

having a gathering point allows

the place you can best stand

us to get our family out of harms

that provides you cover and a

(for example, a rearm) is

way. After that, any actions we

clear line of sight to those points.

enough to end the conict and

take against the intruders, we

send an intruder running, but we

know that the intruders are the

get used to walking around your

dont want to depend on that

only ones at risk. An example

house in the dark. You might

alone. Its safest to make sure we

would be in the event of a late

know your house in the light, but

can back up our threat if need be.

evening break-ingetting all the

some people never actually walk

members to the master bedroom

around in the dark. Its good

allows us a number of options.

practice. Take note of the little

In most cases a display of force

In addition to the investment in

a rearm and ammunition, it
96 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

4 YOUR ADVANTAGE
You know your home better

Walk the house in the dark and

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

house and traveling to the

have more control over your rate

neighbors.

of re. With a semi-automatic,

Second is the Benelli Super

you just have to pull the trigger

Nova (SBR). The version I have

and could nd yourself emptying

has a 14-inch barrel on it and a

your rearm in no time. With a

collapsible stock. The platform is

pump action theres a little more

totally adjustable to t length of

to focus on and this can be a

pull and makes a compact sys-

benet, causing you to make

things. In my house if you step

tem to maneuver through your

your shots count in stressful

just right of the fridge, the air

house with.

situations.

duct below the oor makes a

Its available in 12 or 20 gauge

My third choice is the Beretta

noise. If you know where your

and digests everything you can

CX4. The CX4 is a pistol caliber

family is and you hear that famil-

put through it. Its a pump action

carbine available in .40S&W, 9x

iar noise you now know where

like the 870. I like pump actions

19 Parabellum and 9 x 21 IWI. A

the intruder is.

for these situations since you

bonus feature of this rearm is

5 THE HARDWARE
Next, lets discuss rearm
options. First off is a traditional
standby: the Remington 870.
I chose the 870 because its a
basic solid reliable pump-action
shotgun. Available in 12 and 20
gauge, it gives us the versatility
to have a rearm that can be
friendly for a number of people in
the house of various strengths
and sizes. Pick the gauge that
best ts your situation.
Also, the 870 has a number of
aftermarket add-ons to make it a
great rearm for home defense. I
use a number of ATI aftermarket
parts to upgrade my 870 allowing for a light, ammo storage and
adjustability.
People feel that a shotgun
gives them a better chance to hit
the intended target. I can tell you
that at 21 feet the pattern
doesnt disperse that much, so
ABE ELIAS

you still need to practice. I recommend using #4 shot because

it has good dispersal and has
less of a chance of exiting your
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Shotguns are versatile

rearms that use a multitude
of different ammo.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

97

An adjustable butt stock makes

the shotgun easier to maneuver.

Number four is any depend-

that the magazines are the same

factor down while still providing

magazines as the Beretta 90 se-

you with the stability of a large

able 9mm pistol. Yes, I know this

ries pistols and the PX4. When

shouldered weapon. Berettas

is vague. If the pistol is for home

defending your house you wont

CX4 platform is capable of sup-

defense, then your life relies on it,

have to worry about having dif-

porting add-ons like a light, verti-

so spend on it accordingly. Some

ferent magazines for your rie

cal grips and laser sight.

pistols I would recommend are

The carbine also features a

the Glock 19, Springeld XD 4-

one parent could stay back with

picatinny rail so you can mount

inch Compact Service model,

the children using the pistol and

your favorite red dot for close-

Smith and Wesson M&P 9mm

the other could secure a perime-

quarters shooting. Magazine ca-

(4.25-inch barrel) and the

ter and you wouldnt have to fuss

pacity for the CX4 ranges from 10

FMK9C1.

over magazines.

for the .40 S&W to 10 or 15 for

and pistol. In the case of a family,

A carbine format that uses pistol ammo keeps the penetrating

98 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

the other calibers.

All these are dependable 9mm

weapons. Theyre not too large,
which will allow smaller hands to
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

gain control. In the end you have

to a .38 Special revolver. Re-

to spend some time testing sev-

volvers are great rearms for

eral models and pick out the one

long storageyou can pretty

that best suits you. If it feels

much get dust all over them,

good to shoot, you will shoot it

gum them up with pocket lint

more and get in the practice you

and they still work.

will need if something goes

wrong.

There are a number of revolver

manufacturers I would recom-

The 9mm is a good blend of

mend, the top being Smith and

stopping power and penetration.

Wesson, long known for its de-

With the right ammunition you

pendability and craftsmanship,

can feel secure the ght is inside

so you cant go wrong with a

your house.

wheel gun from them. I would

Lastly is a good revolver. I pre-

TOP 5
WEAPONS
FOR HOME
DEFENSE
1. The Remington 870 pump
action shot gun.
2. The Benelli Super Nova (SBR).
3. The Beretta CX4 pistol.
4. A 9mm pistol: Glock 19,
Springeld XD, S&W M&P
9mm, FMK9C1.
5. A good revolver, like a .357
Magnum.

also look at the Chiappa Rhino

fer revolvers chambered in .357

because of its design. The Rhino

reducing muzzle rise. Controlled

Magnum and would load it with

has a unique feature with the

muzzle rise allows you to get

38 special. I feel I get a two-pur-

barrel being red from the bot-

back on target faster to line up

pose rearm that way, leaving

tom position. So instead of the

your next shot.

the .357 Magnum for other things

barrel being on top and the tradi-

like woods trekking or hunting.

tional counterweight being

If you were dealing with a situ-

below, its reversed. Reversing

ation where someone needed a

the barrel position also puts the

smaller frame to be able to hold

muzzle on a lower level closer to

the rearm better, you could go

the center axis of the pistol,

6 AMMO
Ammunition requirements can
change with the situation.
Do you live in a tightly built
subdivision or in an apartment
building? Then you will want to
consider frangible ammunition
that will reduce the likelihood
your shot will penetrate the walls
of your living space and harm an
innocent bystander.
Even hollow-point ammunition
can sometimes penetrate more
than people expect, but if you
feel that you have a good, safe
perimeter around your house the
stopping power of hollow-point
ammunition can be a benet.
Full metal jacket ammunition
is the cheapest to shoot and
functions well in a rearm but
the trade-off is that it could easily penetrate through interior
walls and even exit your

There are plenty of good home

defense rounds to choose from.

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dwelling, especially if you use a

rie caliber.
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

99

off your magazine and the only

downtime is while youre inserting the shell.
With the other two, the magazine has to be dropped or the
cylinder opened. The ability to
doing a rolling reload give the
shotgun a great advantage in a
home defense situation compared to large caliber pistols that
take about the same number of
round as a shotgun with an extended magazine.
YOUR CALL
All of the rearms mentioned
above would be ideal for home
defense for the prepared person.
We cant substitute preparedness by simply buying a rearm
and letting it collect dust. Take
training, practice often and plan.
Getting in some range
time with the FMK.

But dont stop there. You

should incorporate all of these
elements into your game plan.
We can all benet from an ounce

Amongst the whole group, the

7 RELOADING

of prevention. HD

shotgun is the easiest to do a

rolling reloading practice: like

Abe Elias is a rearms expert and

one should practice, so its best

the revolver and pistols, you can

frequent contributor to Home De-

to incorporate it in to your drills.

reload the rearm with practi-

fender.

Out of the list of rearms men-

cally no downtime if you keep

tioned here, you will notice a

feeding it. A shotgun can be fed

couple of different ways of re-

through the bottom tube, so lit-

loading have to be mastered.

erally between shots you can top

Reloading is a skill that every-

With the semiautomatics, the

use of the magazine makes the
act of reloading easy and has a

HONORABLE MENTION

low learning curve.

Low Recoil, High Capacity

Where the revolvers are concerned, its a bit more difficult to

master the speed loaders (for
some at least). After much
practice you start to get the
hang of it.
100 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Kel-Tecs PMR-30 is a great rearm for self-defense. Many people get hung up on
a large caliber rearm for stopping power. At the ranges you will be using a rearm
inside the house a .22WMR can be devastating.
A rearm like the PMR-30 has the benet having low recoil making it easy to
control. The PMR-30 also comes with a high-capacity magazine of 30 rounds so you
can put more rounds down range before having to reload and dont have the bulkiness of other caliber high-capacity magazines. The rearm is affordable and so is the
ammunition, so practice will be less expensive.

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VIRIDIAN

Rail-mounted lasers work on any model

of handgun that has an accessory rail.

102 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Man Or
Machine?
The Pros and Cons of Laser
Sights, How To Decide
Which Is Right For You
By Larry Schwartz

icking a laser sight for

your handgun or long gun
is a very personal thing

because it will depend on several

and during trigger pull.

Faster follow-up shots if

theyre needed.

They move your focus from

factors: what you shoot, how its

the sights on your gun to the tar-

configured, when and where you

get, which gives you a wider field

plan to use it, and your shooting

of vision to detect threats.

style.
Lets explore what lasers do,
what they cant do, their common features and how they at-

You dont block your view of

the target with the gun and its
sights.

You dont have to have the

tach to your gun so you can make

gun between you and the target

an informed decision that you

to aim the gun; you can shield

will be happy with long after you

yourself behind a barrier and

have made your purchase.

hold the gun next to the barrier

and still get the laser beam on

STRENGTHS
OF LASER SIGHTS
Laser sights provide several

Aiming only requires you to

align one thing with the target,

advantages that other types of

the laser dot, rather than two

sights do not offer:

things, your front and rear sights.

A very fast way to get your

gun pointed at your target.

An excellent training aid to

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

the target.

Rail-mounted lasers also

add some forward weight that
can help balance your handgun

show pistol movement while

and reduce recoil and barrel rise,

aiming with your regular sights

which can improve accuracy.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

103

Its also a denite advantage if

one hand is injured or otherwise
unavailable. The only weakness
of this design is that there may
LASERMAX

not be one designed for your

handgun. Installation is performed by removing the existing
grip and replacing them with the
Crimson Trace laser grips. The
laser is zeroed using elevation
and windage screws built into

Guide rod-mounted lasers

are easy to install but are
not as adjustable.

the sight housing.

Guide Rod Mounted: Another

WEAKNESSES

lax when shooting at distances

design that integrates the laser

OF LASER SIGHTS

other than the one they were

sight into the body of the hand-

sighted in for.

gun are guide rod lasers.

have some weaknesses or chal-

DIFFERENT DESIGNS

tube replaces the guide rod in a

lenges:

FOR DIFFERENT USES

semi-automatic pistol. In most

Like all things, there is a yin for

A laser and battery built into a

every yang, and laser sights do

They can reveal your location

There are a variety of different

cases, the controls are built into

if left on continuously or when

approaches to mounting a laser

a lever on the side of the pistol.

aiming if theres dust in the air.

sight on a handgun and how to

The guide rod design brings the

control it. The most common

sight the closest to the centerline

as others so they may be difficult

methods are grip mounted, guide

of the barrel of all the designs in

to see in daylight or under

rod mounted and rail mounted.

use today.

Some sights are not as bright

The weakness of this approach

brighter lights. This has been addressed in large part by the ad-

Grip Mounted: Pioneered by

is that they are only available for

vent of green lasers, which are

Crimson Trace, grip-mounted

a relatively small number of

much easier for the human eye

lasers offer several advantages

handguns. Unlike other designs,

to see during daylight.

over the other methods. Since

the guide rod lasers do not have

they are integrated into the exist-

the ability to ne-tune them for

mechanical device, which may

ing grip and do not protrude from

windage and elevation. The sight

fail or lose power. If you depend

the handgun, grip-mounted

is factory set to be within an inch

on your laser sight for aiming you

sights are the least obtrusive of

or two of the regular sights at a

should also continue to practice

the designs.

predened distance.

It makes you dependent on a

The controls are integrated

Rail Mounted: The most com-

into the grip and you turn the

mon mounting method, because

expensive than on types of

laser on or off by applying pres-

it can be used on any gun that

sights, ranging from $200 to

sure to the grip with the ngers

has an accessory rail, the rail-

$400 or more, depending on

of your shooting hand. This gives

mounted laser sights offer a

their options.

you instant, one-handed, on and

good balance ease of control

off control, which is a feature

and availability for different

are not close to the barrel, laser

that you dont have with the

models of handgun.

sights can be affected by paral-

other designs.

with your iron sights.

Laser sights are also more

Like other types of sights that

104 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Although some peoples hands

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?

DIFFERENT TYPES OF MOUNTS
Design Style

Features

Grip Mounted

Pro: Easy on and off with grip-mounted nger controls, no need for a rail on the gun.
Con: May not be available on your model of gun, slightly offset from the center line of the
barrel.

Guide Rod Mounted

Pro: Internal to the slide so nothing sticks out on the gun, close to the barrel so
parallax is minimized.
Con: Not able to adjust for windage or elevation, relatively small number of handgun
models they are offered for.

Rail Mounted

Pro: The most common design since it can be used on any handgun with an accessory rail,
more features than other designs.
Con: Requires two hands to use in many cases, one to operate the laser and one to hold
the handgun.

are large enough for their ngers

distance of a normal hallway.

longer wavelength of the red

light would get washed out by

to reach the controls on rail-

With this method, your laser

mounted lasers, they are de-

will point at the same point of

signed to be used with one hand

aim as your iron sights at your

holding the handgun and one

zero distance, but it will be lower

lenge with the development of

hand manipulating the controls.

or to one side if youre closer

green lasers. Initially only a few

than the zero and higher or to the

manufacturers offered green

use of one or two screws to x

other side if you are farther. As a

lasers, but now most major mak-

the sight in place on the acces-

result you have to adjust more at

ers have them in their product

sory rail. The added weight up

different distances.

families.

Installation only requires the

front also helps reduce barrel

rise and recoil.
SIGHTING IN

The second method is to align

the brighter light.

The industry met this chal-

Green lasers have a shorter

the laser sight in parallel with the

wavelength than red lasers so

barrel or iron sights. With this ap-

they show up better in brighter

proach the laser will be slightly

light. They also, unfortunately,

Because they are farther away

to one side or below the point of

use more power so the batteries

from the barrel than regular iron

aim for the iron sights, but it will

dont last as long as the batteries

sights, laser sights will suffer

be that same distance below or

in red lasers. They also reect

from parallax if youre shooting

to the side at all distances, so

back more light from paper tar-

at something closer or farther

theres no need to adjust due to

gets and light-colored objects

than the distance they were

distance to the target.

than red lasers do, which can be

a distraction to some people.

zeroed for. For this reason you

will need to decide how you
want to align the laser sight.

RED VS. GREEN

For years, the only color you

TRAINING

You can align it, or zero it, to

could get a handgun laser in was

In most cases, the dot from

coincide with the iron sights at a

red and it worked ne in most in-

your laser sight will be below

specic distance that you expect

stances. The scenario where it

your line of sight if your gun is at

most of your shooting to be

didnt work so well was in

eye level. For this reason, if you

within (for instance) 20 feet, the

brighter environments where the

plan to use the laser as an aiming

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

105

TIME TO BUY
WHERE TO FIND
LASER SIGHTS
The major manufacturers of
laser sights for handguns
and long guns are:
LARRY SCHWARTZ

Crimson Trace at
www.CrimsonTrace.com
Viridian at
www.ViridianGreenLaser.com
LaserMax at
www.LaserMax.com

device you will need to hold it

The challenge comes with the

However, if you dont want to

lower than eye level and practice

rail-mounted designs. The good

and train with it that way.

news is more and more holster

risk the laser beam itself giving

makers are bringing new designs

away your location then conven-

you will use both laser and iron

to market every day so there will

tional iron sights or a top-

sights depending on the situation

probably be a model out there to

mounted optic might make more

you will need to practice and train

meet your needs at some point.

sense for you.

The training challenge is that if

If you dont want to, or dont

for both situations so that you will

not hesitate when you transition

SHOULD YOU GET A LASER

have time to practice your shoot-

from one method to the other.

SIGHT?

ing techniques with both laser

and conventional sights, then a

Although wanting to use two

The real question is: Would the

methods of aiming will require

way you shoot and the situations

laser sight might actually put you

more training time, a laser also

in which you would use your

in danger in a real-life situation.

brings with it training advantages.

handgun as a home defender

Instructors all over the country

benet from using a laser sight?

use laser sights to help their stu-

If you expect that the condi-

If youre condent in your ability to hit the target quickly in

bright and low light settings then

dents improve their form and

tions you might be shooting in

you probably dont need a laser

trigger pull since the laser shows

will be dark, then a laser sight

sight.

even the slightest movement of

may make sense for you.

the handgun while pulling the

If you expect that you would be

So, get some hands-on experience shooting your gun with a

trigger or working on holding

shot at and need to shoot from

laser sight and see which of

steady on a target.

behind cover, then a laser sight

these criteria make sense for

might make sense for you be-

you. HD

IS THERE A HOLSTER?
The last challenge that comes
with using a laser sight on your
handgun is how you will carry it.

cause you dont have to hold the

gun in line between you and your

Larry Schwartz is an experienced

target.

outdoorsman, husband and fa-

If you dont expect to be shoot-

ther who has been writing and

Grip-mounted and guide rod-

ing much farther or closer than

teaching about being prepared

mounted lasers do not provide a

the distance you zeroed your

for challenging situations in and

challenge for use with most

sight at, then a laser sight might

out of the home for over a

holsters.

make sense.

decade.

106 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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Now DW\RXUQJHUWLSV

Home Defender
Home Defender is now available
on Apple Newsstand, Google
Play and Kindle.

Home Defender is devoted to bringing you the latest news and

product reviews to keep you, your family and your home, safe.
Plus, easy and proven self-defense methods.
Download the FREE APP and get a 1-year subscription (4 issues) for only
$11.99 and save 67% off newsstands!
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BUYERS

THINKSTOCK

HANDGUNS GUIDE

If youre looking for a selfdefense weapon in close quar-

Tried
and True

ters like your home, you cant go

Top Handgun Selections To

Keep Your Loved Ones Safe

at the ring range are time and

By Sean Cooper

wrong with a tried and true

handgun. If a burglar bursts into
your home, youll thank your
lucky stars your handgun is in the
drawer of your night table.
But thats only part of the
equation. Remember, a handgun
is only useful if youve had proper
training. Gun training and hours
money well spent.
Heres our pick of the best
handguns to protect your family
from those who want to do you
harm.

108 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

84FS CHEETAH

COMPANY: Beretta
MSRP: $770
WEBSITE: www.Beretta.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Barrel Length: 3.82 inches
Overall Length: 6.77 inches
Cartridge: .380 ACP
Action: Blowback
Weight: 23 ounces
DEFINING FEATURES:
Double the action means double the fun. The Beretta 84FS Cheetah is a double-action pistol. Holding up to
13 rounds, it features a frame-mounted manual safety. Not only is it perfect for two-handed use, its enlarged
opening makes it ideal while wearing gloves. Featuring corrosion-resistant anodized alloy frame, the 84FS
Cheetah is made to last. It also comes nished in nickel with your choice of plastic or wood grips.

9E CENTERFIRE
PISTOL
Company: Ruger
MSRP: $429
WEBSITE: www.Ruger.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Model No.: 3340
Barrel Length: 4.14 inches
Overall Length: 7.50 inches
Weight: 27.20 ounces
Capacity: 17+1 rounds

CZ P-09 FDE 9MM

COMPANY: CZ-USA
MSRP: $596
WEBSITE: www.CZ-USA.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Barrel Length: 4.53 inches
Overall Length: 8.1 inches
Weight Empty: 1.85 ounces
Capacity: 19 rounds

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

DEFINING FEATURES:
Featuring ergonomic grips and narrow slides,
the Ruger 9E Centerre pistol is both comfortable and easy to maneuver. Fire when it matters mostthe trigger is only a short distance
away from the back-strap. Speaking of the
back-strap, its fully reversible, so you can easily customize the size and feel while youre on
the go. Not only is it low-maintenance, its one
of the most reliable guns on the market today.

DEFINING FEATURES:
If youre looking for power, look no further
than the P-09 from CZ-USA. Featuring an
amazing 19+1 round capacity, it blows other
9mm service pistols out of the water. This
handgun gives an all-new meaning to versatileits de-cockers are easy to switch a manual safety in a jiffy. Small, medium and large
back-straps means this weapon works no
matter how big, or small, your hand is. The
Omega DA/SA trigger is reliable, performing
when it matters most.
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

109

BUYERS

HANDGUNS GUIDE
P30

COMPANY: Heckler & Koch USA

MSRP: $1,054
WEBSITE: www.HK-USA.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 40 S&W
Barrel Length: 3.85 inches
Overall Length: 7.12 inches
Weight Empty: 26.8 ounces
Capacity: 13 rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
If its good enough for trained law enforcement agents, it should be good enough for you. Combining functionality
with safety, it comes with a number of ergonomics goodies. Interchangeable back-strap inserts means youll get
the most of it no matter how big your grip is. Its key selling feature is the HK Law Enforcement Modication (LEM)
trigger system, which couples the strengths of a cocked striker with a double-action hammer system.

M&P45

COMPANY: Smith & Wesson

MSRP: $599
WEBSITE: www.Smith-Wesson.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: .45ACP
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Weight: 27.7 ounces
Capacity: 10+1 rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
When theres an intruder in your house and the lives of your family are on the line, the Smith & Wesson
M&P45 is the weapon youll want by your side. The M&P45 was designed with military and law
enforcement officers in mind. It comes with a number of enhancements, including reinforced polymer
chassis, superior ergonomics, ambidextrous controls and proven safety features.

1911 R1 CARRY
COMMANDER

COMPANY: Remington
MSRP: $1,299
WEBSITE: www.Remington.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 45 Auto
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Overall Length: 5.5 inches
Weight: 38.5 ounces
Capacity: 2(7) rounds
110 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

DEFINING FEATURES:
Remington is known for making top-notch
handguns and the 1911 R1 Carry Commander is
no exception. Youll struggle to nd a better
weapon that combines craftsmanship and
high performance. Despite measuring 5.5
inches in overall length, it weighs only 38.5
ounces (its parts are made of ultra-light tolerances). It features a crisp trigger, dovetailed
front and rear sights, precision-machined slide
and frame, and available ne-checkered
American walnut grips.
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

90TWO

COMPANY: Beretta
MSRP: $700
WEBSITE: www.Beretta.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: .22 LR
Barrel Length: 4.9 inches
Overall Length: 8.5 inches
Cartridge: 919mm Parabellum / 921mm IMI / .40 S&W
Action: Short recoil of barrel
Weight Empty: 32.5 ounces
DEFINING FEATURES:
Featuring a redesigned frame, you should have no problem with insertion and holster extraction with the Beretta
90Two. Recoil is minimized due to the guns unique metallic recoil buffer. Beretta takes the guesswork out of ring
the trigger guard is rounded to make sure when youre ring with both hands youre holding the gun in the correct
position. It comes in two types (type F and G), which feature your choice of double or single action.

LCP CENTERFIRE
PISTOL
COMPANY: Ruger
MSRP: $379
WEBSITE: www.Ruger.com
Specications:
Model No.: 3701
Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
Overall Length: 5.16 inches
Capacity: 6+1 rounds

CZ P-09 9MM

COMPANY: CZ-USA
MSRP: $530
WEBSITE: www.CZ-USA.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Barrel Length: 4.53 inches
Overall Length: 8.1 inches
Weight Empty: 1.85 ounces
Capacity: 19 rounds

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

DEFINING FEATURES:
Ruger LCP (short for lightweight compact
pistols) Centerre pistols offer the perfect
blend of power and versatility all wrapped
into one. Whether youre looking for a
weapon for home defense, or youre part of
law enforcement and looking for a backup
weapon, you cant go wrong. The LCP is
exible and able to t a host of holsters.
This rugged weapon features a number of
advancements, including xed front
and rear sights.

DEFINING FEATURES:
Earlier we took a look at the CZ P-09 FDE. This
time were going to look at its cousin, the CZ09 9MM. It features many of the same features as its counterpart, including small,
medium and large back-straps for a highly
customizable grip. When darkness falls, burglars are often on the prowl. The integrated
1913 Picatinny rail means its simple to use
when theres little to no light. You can re at
will with the single-action trigger break.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

111

BUYERS

HANDGUNS GUIDE
P2000

COMPANY: Heckler & Koch USA

MSRP: $939
WEBSITE: www.hk-usa.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 40 S&W
Barrel Length: 3.66 inches
Overall Length: 6.85 inches
Weight: 24.96 ounces
Capacity: 10/12 rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
The P2000 from Heckler & Koch USA takes the repower up a notch from its counterpart the P30. It features
a reliable trigger system used by law enforcement officers around the world. It combines the strengths of a
cocked-striker with a double-action hammer system. If that isnt reassuring enough, this well-crafted, highly
reliable weapon was designed to meet the strict stands of U.S. government agencies.

1911 R1 STAINLESS
COMPANY: Remington
MSRP: $789
WEBSITE: www.Remington.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 45 Auto
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 8.5 inches
Weight: 38.5 ounces
Capacity: 7 rounds

M&P9

COMPANY: Smith & Wesson

MSRP: $812
WEBSITE: www.Smith-Wesson.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 9mm
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Overall Length: 7.5 inches
Weight: 23.4 ounces
Capacity: 17+1 rounds

112 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

DEFINING FEATURES:
With a ring capacity of seven rounds, Remington 1911 R1 Stainless is one pistol you dont
want to mess with. Its no coincidence this is
one of the most popular handguns on the
market. Brought to market way back in 1911,
even a century later it remains a highly reliable
weapon. Remington borrows from the classic
design and adds a slew of upgrades, such as a
at mainspring housing, beveled magazine
well and G.I. thumb and grip safeties.

DEFINING FEATURES:
A household name in gun manufacturing,
Smith & Wesson doesnt disappoint and
delivers the goods with the M&P9. The
M&P9 is similar to the M&P45 with a
whole host of upgrades, such as an enhanced trigger. Not only does it have an
adjustable trigger stop, its quiet as a
mouse thanks to its ported barrel and
slide, which reduce muzzle ip to a
virtual whisper.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

M&P Shield .40 S&W

COMPANY: Smith & Wesson
MSRP: $449
WEBSITE: www.Smith-Wesson.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: .40 S&W
Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
Overall Length: 6.1 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Capacity: 6 and 7 rounds

DEFINING FEATURES:
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a slender, easily concealable handgun. With its lightweight
frame, its perfect in home defense scenarios.
This weapon is living proof that reliable doesnt have to mean complicated. Its simple design means youll be ready to defend yourself
when it matters most. It features a highstrength polymer frame with a black, durable,
corrosion-resistant nish, and coated stainless steel slide and barrel.

USP
COMPANY: Heckler & Koch USA
MSRP: $789
WEBSITE: www.hk-usa.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Available Calibers: 9mm, 40 S&W, .45
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Overall Length: 7.68 inches
Weight Empty: 1.82 pounds
Capacity: 10/13 rounds
DEFINING FEATURES:
Not only is Heckler & Koch USAs USP (short for Universal Self-loading Pistol) a hit stateside, its in use and beloved
worldwide. The USP draws inuence from some of the best weapons on the market, including the 1911 pistol. Stress
and friction are no match for the USP, thanks to its ber-reinforced polymer frame stiffened by stainless steel inserts. It features a unique recoil reduction system to reduce the recoil felt when youre ring this powerful weapon.

CZ P-07 .40 S&W

COMPANY: CZ-USA
MSRP: $524
WEBSITE: www.CZ-USA.com
SPECIFICATIONS:
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Overall Length: 7.2 inches
Weight Empty: 1.7 pounds
Capacity: 12 rounds

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

DEFINING FEATURES:
This isnt your fathers weapon. The CZ P-07 is
an upgraded version of the already-popular
CZ 75 P-07 Duty. This compact weapon features a nitrated slide nish designed to wear
longer with increased corrosion resistance.
The P-07 borrows the P-09s upgraded trigger
shape, which is best suited for home defense
or long days at the range. Features include
metal three-dot sights and an enhanced
magazine spring.

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

113

JAMES E. HOUSE

Overwhelmed
By Options?
A Guide To Your Best
Defensive Ammunition
By James E. House

e live in a day of specialization.

There are vitamin capsules designed especially

different types of hair. When it comes to coffee, the

number of special avors is almost unlimited.
With regard to ammunition, the situation is not
much different and there are loads designated as

for men and others for women and even

target, reduced recoil, defense, hog loads, etc.

these are subdivided with regard to whether the

Theres some overlap in usage, but choosing am-

user is under or over 55 years of age. There are

munition for home defense can be confusing for

shampoos intended for women and others for

some people. Hopefully, this discussion will shed

men, and within each group there are products for

some light on the subject.

114 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

CHOOSE YOUR WEAPON

Its important to consider carefully the type of rearm chosen

DONT SHOOT A HANDGUN?

for home defense. Handguns,

Try These Shotgun and Rie Loads

shotguns and ries are all offered

Special loads are also available for those who select a shotgun or rie for
defense. Traditionally, buckshot loads have been the choice when using a
shotgun, but Winchester offers 12- and 20-gauge shotgun loads in the Defender
line that utilizes a slug that separates into three large segments on impact. As if
that were not innovative in itself, Winchester also produces a load in 12 gauge
that features a 1-ounce slug that has three 00 buckshot above it.

in styles that are suitable for defensive use. In most situations

convenience and accessibility
point to the selection of a handgun, but in other situationsparticularly in rural or remote

However, thats sometimes not

the target. As a result, except

areasa rie or shotgun may be

the case, so the rearm must be

where prohibited by military con-

more appropriate. Because hand-

relied on to make it impossible

vention, bullets utilized in defen-

guns are often chosen for de-

for the perpetrator to press the

sive ammunition are almost

fense, the majority of this

attack. When that happens, you

universally of an expanding type

discussion will be devoted to

must rely on a rearm to render

to transmit energy quickly and

handgun ammunition.

the assailant unable to cause

facilitate tissue disruption with-

you harm. Your rearm gives you

out undue penetration.

After a handgun has been cho-

In order to ensure expansion,

sen, the choice of ammunition

the means to accomplish this,

may be almost as important, es-

and its the bullet that transmits

the bullets have hollow points

pecially for a small-caliber hand-

energy to the assailant.

that expand on impact. However,

gun. Such low-powered centerre

In the press today we some-

fragmentation of the bullet is not

calibers as .25, .32 and .380 Auto,

times hear of a rearm that

normally a desirable characteris-

and all rimres, need as much

holds 10 bullets, but a magazine

tic so most bullets used in de-

performance as possible and ap-

or cylinder holds cartridges. The

fense ammunition have a tough

propriate ammunition can help.

bullet is the projectile whereas a

outer jacket that encloses a

Fortunately, the ammunition

cartridge consists of a case, a

softer lead core. Bonding of the

manufacturers know this and

primer, powder and a bullet.

core and jacket to prevent their

have responded with excellent

Of these components, its only

separation on impact is a com-

the bullet that transmits energy

mon characteristic of defensive

to stop an attacker. Therefore, a

bullets that must perform reli-

cartridge of defense ammunition

ably over a range of velocities.

may differ very little from several

Recent developments have led

ammunition have been rapid with

other typesexcept with regard

to bullets that do not have a sep-

the interest in defense and con-

to the type of bullet.

arate jacket and core but rather

products.
ADVANCEMENTS
The developments in defensive

are made of a solid copper alloy.

cealed carry that has reached epidemic proportions.

The objective when using a

THE BULLET
In order to do its job, a bullet

Ammunition companies seek

to develop a bullet that pene-

rearm for defense is to be able to

must transmit its kinetic energy

trates adequately but not exces-

keep someone or something from

to the target rapidly and, prefer-

sively, expands reliably in a

doing you harm. If the perpetrator

ably, completely.

variety of situations and does

is rational, the mere fact that you

Its desirable for the bullet not

not fragment on impact. Nomi-

have any rearm available to pro-

to pass completely through the

nal ballistics for a given weight

tect yourself is sufficient reason to

target because of potential harm

bullet in a specic caliber do not

go elsewhere quickly.

to someone or something behind

vary greatly because the

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

115

used correctly. Many handguns

To be effective, large
calibers such as the 45
Colt (left) do not need
as much bullet expansion as does the little
380 Auto (right).

chosen for defense have short

only with that type of bullet.

Having described defensive

barrels and with a given type of

ammunition in general terms,

cartridge, such handguns give

its appropriate to look more

lower velocity than those having

closely at some specic types.

longer barrels. In order to provide

the most dependable ammuni-

CRITICAL DEFENSE

tion, some manufacturers pro-

Several years ago, Hornady

duce cartridges specically for

introduced the Critical Defense

use in short barrels utilizing bul-

line of ammunition in most

lets that expand reliably even at

popular handgun calibers.

a lower velocity.
If the choice of handgun for

The bullets, known as the

FTX line, are a hollow-point

Sporting Arms and Ammunition

defense is a revolver, as long as

design but have a polymer in-

Manufacturers Institute (SAAMI)

the cartridges can be loaded in

sert in the cavity. The insert

regulates such matters.

the cylinder easily, theres no

prevents the cavity from be-

issue with feeding. However, in

coming lled with material, but

the case of semiautomatics,

the hollow cavity facilitates

some types of ammunition may

rapid expansion.

POPULAR CHOICES
Theres an old saying that your
survival knife is the knife you

not feed reliably because the

have with you when you must

shape of the bullet nose may not

loads in several calibers, and

survive. An equivalent saying

match the contour of the feed

the performance has been ex-

with regard to defense ammuni-

ramp or the ramp may have a

cellent. Velocities have been

tion is that your defense ammu-

rough surface.

equal to those advertised and

nition is what you have loaded in

If youre going to rely on an au-

I have tested Critical Defense

expansion is dramatic even

your rearm when you have to

toloader for defense, make sure

when short-barreled handguns

defend yourself.

that the cartridges you choose

are used. Realizing that some

will feed reliably from the maga-

people prefer a compact re-

to choose your ammunition care-

zine. In the past, fully jacketed

volver chambered for the .22

fully before some type of critical

bullets (hard balls) were uti-

WMR, Hornady has recently in-

encounter arises. Fortunately,

lized almost exclusively in am-

troduced a Critical Defense

there are a considerable number

munition intended for use in

load in that caliber featuring a

of excellent choices and most of

autoloaders so they fed reliably

.45-grain FTX bullet. The

Therefore, it makes good sense

them are available in all popular

calibers.
The most popular handgun
calibers for defense are the .380
Auto, 9mm Luger, .38 Special,
.357 Magnum, .40 S&W and .45
Auto. Other calibers used less
frequently include the .32 Auto,
.357 SIG, 10mm Auto, .44 Special, .44 Magnum and .45 Colt.
A handgun in any of these calibers can provide protection if
116 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

USE RELOADS?
MAYBE NOT A GREAT IDEA
Many shooters reload their own ammunition. So its natural
to ask, Why not use reloads for defense? There are two issues involved:
1. If you use some favorite handload in a defensive situation, someone may
try to make the case that you produced a particularly potent concoction
and were in a truculent mood looking for an opportunity to use it. If you use
hand-loaded ammunition, you should stick to moderate loads listed in
handbooks and not use some exotic bullet.
2. Make sure that you have resized cases full length so they will feed reliably in an autoloader or easily enter the cylinder of a revolver.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Hornady Critical Duty ammunition is similar Critical Defense,

but with a different jacket design

DONT SHOOT A HANDGUN?

to facilitate penetration of

Try These Shotgun and Rie Loads

barriers.

Special loads are also available for those who select a shotgun or rie
for defense. Traditionally, buckshot loads have been the choice when using
a shotgun, but Winchester offers 12- and 20-gauge shotgun loads in the
Defender line that utilizes a slug that separates into three large segments
on impact. As if that were not innovative in itself, Winchester also
produces a load in 12 gauge that features a 1-ounce slug that has three 00
buckshot above it.

DEFENDER
Bullets in which the core and
jacket are bonded have become
popular, and the Winchester Defender loads are of that type. Offered in calibers that range from

munition that employs the

expansion after penetration of

.22 WMR to .45 Colt, Defender

Hydra-Shok bullets. These bul-

various types of barriers have

has earned an excellent reputa-

lets feature a jacketed hollow-

been conducted and in each case

tion.

point design with notches in the

weight retention is virtually 100

jacket to facilitate expansion. A

percent. Factory loads are avail-

offered that feature bullets

hardened center post in the cav-

able in calibers from .25 Auto to

weighing 124 and 147 grains. The

ity helps keep the hollow point

.45 Colt. Speer also offers Gold

.38 Special offering utilizes a

from becoming clogged with

Dot loads that feature bullets de-

130-grain bullet that is loaded to

material that would retard

signed to expand even when

+P specications. Defender

expansion.

red at the lower velocities pro-

In 9mm Luger, two loads are

loads in .40 S&W are available in

Remingtons defense ammuni-

duced by short-barreled hand-

165- and 180-grain weights.

tion utilizes a hollow-point bullet

guns. This Short Barrel line

Recognizing that shooters

known as the Golden Saber, fea-

includes popular center-re cal-

need to practice with a load that

turing a brass jacket that has

ibers as well as .22 WMR.

duplicates that chosen for de-

notches to facilitate expansion.

fense, Winchester offers the

Interestingly, the notches in the

of defense ammunition thats

Train & Defend line. The idea is to

jacket are cut diagonally to the

loaded with the XTP bullets pro-

offer a less expensive round

axis of the bullet.

duced by Hornady. Its not possible to review the extensive array

loaded with a fully jacketed bullet for training and a round

loaded with a bonded hollow-

Fiocchi offers an extensive line

MORE SOLID CHOICES

Speer offers a complete line of

of defense ammunition, but it

should be noted that excellent

point bullet loaded to the same

defense ammunition in their

products are available from Cor-

velocity for defense.

Gold Dot products. Gold Dot bul-

Bon, Magtech and others. HD

In each case, the loads are de-

lets are formed by depositing a

signed to produce somewhat

heavy plating of copper onto a

Jim House, emeritus professor of

less recoil than does full-power

core made of a lead alloy, which

chemistry at Illinois State Univer-

ammunition. The matching Train

results in bonding that prevents

sity and an adjunct professor at

& Defend loads are available in

separation of core and jacket.

Illinois Wesleyan University, is a

.380 Auto, 9mm Luger, .38 Special, and .40 S&W calibers.
HOLLOW POINT
For many years, Federal has
produced premium defense amWWW.GUNWORLD.COM

These bullets are produced in a

contributing editor for The

wide variety of calibers and

Varmint Hunter, The Back-

weights as components for

woodsman, and other publica-

those who hand-load ammuni-

tions.

tion as well as in factory loads.

Tests of bullet performance and
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

117

Ol
Faithful
By Home Defender Staff

American Ingenuity Meets

European Renement: The 1911

t a recent tactical gun course we attended,

into the 21st century with the renement todays

we asked the instructor the obvious ques-

shooters demand, they said. The SIG Sauer 1911

tion: Whats your favorite weapon?

proves that close tolerances equal complete relia-

The response was, Although we teach this

bility and need not be incompatible in an off-the-

course with a Glock 17, my weapon of choice is the

shelf pistol. SIG Sauer has introduced clean,

1911.

distinct lines that American shooters have em-

When asked why the 1911, the answer was sim-

braced, while retaining the crisp trigger pull, clas-

ple and to the point: Because nothing else feels

sic ergonomics, and exceptional accuracy they

like it.

expect.

So we went to renowned rearm manufacturer

Indeed. If youre in the market for reliability and

SIG Sauer and asked them to tell us about their

accuracy for home defense, two obviously-critical

1911 line.

components, behold some highlights from their

The legendary 1911 design has been brought

118 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

extensive 1911 line.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

The 1911 STX

from the SIG Sauer Custom Shop is a two-tone 1911
thats loaded with features. This non-railed pistol
features a Nitron slide over a Natural Stainless frame
and is accented by beautiful custom wood grips. The
slide is further accented by polished cocking serrations and a at top, which enhances the two-tone
aspect of this pistol. The slide is topped off with adjustable combat night sights while the frame is outtted with a magwell for fast smooth reloads.
The all stainless steel frame and slide of the
STX are machined to exacting tolerances and
hand-tted to insure reliability and performance.
The frame features 25-line per inch checkering on the
front strapwhile the mainspring housing has 20line per inch checkeringand both the frame and
slide are de-horned for comfortable full-size carry.
Like all SIG Sauer products, the 1911 STX pistol contains only premium internal parts including a match
grade barrel, hammer/sear set and trigger. For safety
the 1911 STX features a beavertail grip safety with
speed bump, extended ambidextrous thumb safety,
ring pin safety and hammer intercept notch and
ships in a plastic gun case with cable lock.

The 1911 C3
is a 7+1 compact .45ACP featuring
rosewood custom wood grips and is
available in a Two-Tone nish. Weighing
in at just under 30 ounces unloaded, each
1911 C3 is machined to exacting tolerances
and hand-tted to insure reliability and
performance. The C3 frame is machined
from a lightweight alloy and includes
25-line per inch front strap checkering and
checkered mainspring housing. SIG Sauer
uses only premium internal parts such as
a match grade barrel, hammer/sear set
and trigger. The C3 is also available in a
durable Nitron nish.

Grips
Frame Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

MSRP

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

MSRP

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights

1911-45-STX
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.7 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Adjustable Combat
Night Sights
Burled Maple Grips
Stainless
No
Beavertail Frame,
Ambidextrous Safety,
Flat Top, Magwell
$1,213

1911CO-45-T-C3
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
7.7 inches
4.8 inches
1.4 inches
4.2 inches
5.7 inches
29.5 ounces
7 Rounds
Low-Prole 3-Dot
Contrast Sight
Slim Prole Custom
Rosewood Grips
Black Hard Anodized
Stainless
No
Custom Wood Grips,
Checkered Front Strap
$1,213

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

119

The 1911 Tactical Operations model

features a SAO trigger, low-prole night
sights, integral accessory rail, ambidextrous
safety, Magwell and Ergo XT grips. Also available in a threaded barrel version.

The 1911 Scorpion

is truly unique, from its desert tan
Cerakote-coated stainless frame and slide.
Complete with a 5.0-lb SAO trigger, eightround magazine, and low-prole night sights.
The 1911 Scorpion features Hogue's
innovative Magwell Grip Set. The advanced
design combines grip plates and main spring
housing in an integrated magazine well
extension that promotes rapid magazine
changes. Manufactured from G10, the
Magwell grips provide strength and light
weight in a highly functional assembly. The
grips feature Hogue's Piranha texture for
excellent retention in any environment and
come in a multi-layer green and black pattern
that accents the Scorpion's Cerakote Flat
Dark Earth nish.

120 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

1911R-45-TACOPS
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Low-Prole Night Sights
Ergo XT Grips
Nitron
Nitron
Yes
Checkered Front Strap,
Integral Accessory Rail,
Ambidextrous Safety,
Magwell, Ergo XT Grips

MSRP

$1,213

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

1911R-45-SCPN
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Low-Prole Night Sights
Hogue Custom G10 Grips
Custom Flat Dark Earth
Custom Flat Dark Earth
Yes
Front Cocking Serations,
Hogue Custom G10 Grips

MSRP

$1,213

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Item Number

The 1911Fastback Nightmare pistol

features a stainless steel frame with
rounded grip and mainspring housing. Each
pistol is built using premium internal parts
including a match grade barrel, hammer/
sear set and trigger. The all-Nitron coated
frame and slide is contrasted with natural
stainless controls, barrel bushing extractor
and grips screws. The Nightmare is nished
with a set of black G10 double diamond grips
that makes this 1911 SIG Sauer look as good
as it performs.

Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

MSRP

The 1911 Spartan

features a full-sized, precision-built
1911 in a unique oil-rubbed bronze
PVD nish. This striking classic is
offset with black controls and black
custom grips emblazoned with the
Spartan Helmet design. Both the
grips and the slide are engraved
with 24KT gold in the original Greek:
MOLON LABE translated as
Come and Take Them.

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish

Accessory Rail
Features

MSRP
WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

1911F-45-NMR,
1911F-357-NMR,
45 ACP, 357 SIG
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds 45 ACP,
9 Rounds 357 SIG
Low-Prole Night Sights
G-10 Double-Diamond
Grips
Nitron
Nitron
No
Flashblack Frame Prole,
Skeletonized Trigger,
Stainless Controls
$1,242

1911R-45-SPARTAN
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Low-Prole Night Sights
Hogue Spartan Grips
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Nitron Finish
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Nitron Finish, with 24kt
Gold Inlay Engraving
No
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Finish, Molon Labe
Engraved Slide (Ancient Greek)
Come and Take Them Hogue
Custom Spartan Grips
$1,356
SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

121

The Sig Sauer

Extreme Series pistols
feature a Nitron-coated machined
stainless steel slide and frame. Built
standard with low-prole night sights,
a built-in accessory rail, front cocking
serrations and SAO trigger. Aggressive
styling is provided by Hogue Extreme
Series grips. These black and gray G10
grips with integrated magwell, feature
Hogue Piranha texture and the
SIG Sauer logo.

The 1911-22
is built to the same dimensions as the fullsized 1911 pistol. It features a lightweight
metal frame and slide, low-prole three-dot
sights, working grip safety and ambidextrous
thumb safety, making the 1911-22 a perfect
training tool for 1911 fans as well as a fun
plinking pistol for all ages. This Camo version
is coated in a black and green camo coating
with camo grips.

122 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

1911R-45-XTM-BLKGRY
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Low-Prole Night Sights
Hogue Custom G10 Grips
Nitron
Nitron
Yes
Accessory Rail, Ambi,
Low Prole Night Sights,
Magwell, Flat Trigger

MSRP

$1,213

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

1911-22-C1
.22LR
SAO
N/A
4.2 lbs - 5.6 lbs
8.5 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
5.4 inches
34.0 ounces
10 Rounds
Contrast Sights
Polymer Camo
Camo Coating
Camo Coating
No
Camo Slide/Frame/Grips,
Skeletonized Hammer
and Trigger

MSRP

$518

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Traditional Reverse Two-Tone

features the recognizable round-top
1911 slide prole, front cocking serrations
and a lightweight, three-hole trigger.
Standard on all models are a matchgrade barrel, at mainspring housing and
speed bump grip safety. Front straps
have 25LPI checking and the mainspring
housing has 20LPI for optimum grip and
user comfort. The 1911 Traditional Reverse Two-Tone is a full-size 1911 featuring a natural stainless steel frame and
Nitron-coated stainless slide. Black control levers, low-prole Siglite night sights,
and Hogue Black Diamondwood checkered grips round out the sleek look.

Item Number
Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity
Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

1911T-45-RTSS
45 ACP
SAO
N/A
5.0 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
8 Rounds
Low-Prole Night Sights
Blackwood Grips
Natural Stainless
Nitron
No
Traditional Round Top
Slide, Blackwood Grips

MSRP

$1,142

Item Number

The 1911 Traditional Match Elite

is the rst SIG Sauer 1911 to be offered
in a caliber other than .45 Auto. A
full-size 1911, the Match Elite
chambered in .45ACP, is available as
a two-tone with a natural stainless
steel frame and a Nitron-coated slide.
The 9mm and .40S&W Match Elite
models are also full sized, but feature
a natural stainless slide and frame,
white controls and adjustable target
sights. The Match Elites feature
Hogue custom wood checkered grips.
This version is available in 9mm,
.40S&W and 38 Super.

Caliber
Action Type
Trigger Pull DA
Trigger Pull SA
Overall Length
Overall Height
Overall Width
Barrel Length
Sight Radius
Weight w/Mag
Mag Capacity

Sights
Grips
Frame Finish
Slide Finish
Accessory Rail
Features

MSRP

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

1911T-40-SME, 1911T
-9-SME, 1911-38-SME
9mm or 40S&W, .38 Super
SAO
N/A
5 lbs
8.7 inches
5.5 inches
1.4 inches
5.0 inches
6.5 inches
41.6 ounces
9 Rounds (9mm),
8 Rounds (.38 Super,
40S&W)
Adjustable Target Sights
Custom Wood Grips
Stainless
Stainless
No
Traditional Slide,
Adjustable Target Sights
$1,213

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

123

No Escape,
No Surrender

13 Tips On How To Defend Yourself

In Extreme Close Quarters

BIGSTOCK

By Michael DAngona

124 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

Missing key signs of danger

can lead to major trouble.

any self-defense programs teach you

techniques that can momentarily distract
or disable an attacker, enabling you that

split-second to escape and run to safety.

But what if you nd yourself at home in a location
where escape is not an option, a place where your
attacker can trap you and block your only exit?
This is a very real and common scenario.
Whether you live in a single-family home, a high-rise
apartment building or a tiny studio, you may nd
yourself traveling through very tight or compact
places many times throughout your day.
These space-restricted areas, unfortunately, are
the perfect hiding places for an assailant to attack
and cause you severe harm. In spite of this fact, a
conict doesn't have to end in tragedy for you,
because unbeknownst to your attacker, you will not
be a helpless victim.
You do have many options to survive at your
disposal. Awareness, adaptable self-defense
techniques and a touch of basic common sense
could not only keep you safe, but teach your attacker
he made a horrible mistake in targeting you.

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

125

Redirect your attacker's strike (above) and gouge his eye with your left hand. Secure his left arm and
deliver a knee to the solar plexus (right).

While locking his arm, grab his neck and drive

him into the wall.

While locking his right arm, pin him against the

wall.

Finish with a palm strike and then move to

safety as quickly as possible.

COMMON SENSE TIPS

whats happening all around you.

to the control board. If someone

Photos by Michael D'Angona

An assault in your apartment building can

happen in an instant.

Walk with your head high, con-

enters who may appear to you to

confrontation occurs is to mini-

stantly scanning your forward

be out of place or suspicious due

mize your attackers advantage

path, as well as side to side and

to their appearance (although

by staying alert of possible dan-

behind you.

you cant judge a book by its

1. Your rst priority before any

ger situations and following

some basic common sense rules.

Stay off your phone when ap-

cover, its better to err on the side

proaching your house at night.

of caution) you have the ability

Dont ddle through your purse

to immediately leave the eleva-

aware of your surroundings is

or briefcase and never proceed if

tor. If you position yourself to the

constantly reinforced for a rea-

something feels strange. Your

back of the elevator, your ability

sonits vitally important to you

sixth sense, or gut, tells you the

to react in time to exit may be

staying alive and to avoid be-

truth. Dont let your brains rea-

limited and the chances of es-

coming a statistic on the evening

soning or your hearts emotions

cape will be severely shortened.

news report.

convince you otherwise and

The clichd expression Be

override your natural instincts.

laundry room, avoid going during

2. Attackers prey on the weak

or distracted. When you nd

4. If you use your apartments

3. When entering the elevator

late hours. Use the facility when

yourself in a possibly dangerous

to your apartment building, al-

other people are present. Never

location, always be alert of

ways stand close to the door and

stay in the room alone or when

126 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

WWW.GUNWORLD.COM

theres only one other person

need be: grip them rmly in your

within close-quarter defense and

present who may come across to

hand and use as a jabbing

others that should be ignored

you as suspicious or possibly

weapon (to the eyes and face of

due to their ineffectiveness in

dangerous. Theres safety in

your attacker) if the need may

tight or constricted places. Lets

numbers.

arise.

take a look.

Again, it's better to be safe

5. When approaching the front

than sorry.

7. First and foremost, high

door of your home, be alert of

kicks, even to the waist level of

possible places an attacker may

USE WHAT WORKS

your assailant, should be

be hiding. These could include

DISCARD WHAT DOESN'T

avoided. Limited space will

Even with the many precau-

thick bushes, blind corners or

lessen the power of the impact

shadowed alcoves under stair-

tious that you may take to avoid

and leave you off balance should

ways.

a dangerous situation, there may

your attacker rush you at the

be a time when confrontation is

same time as your execute your

inevitable and an attack occurs.

kick.

6. Always carry with you a per-

No matter if you have had ex-

sonal alarm on your keychain

and be ready to pull the quick re-

tensive martial arts training or no

lease cord at the earliest sign of

experience whatsoever in self-

is within a few feet or even a few

danger. Your keys also make

defense, there are some tech-

inches of you, focus your energy

great improvised weapons if

niques that should be used

into a knee strike to your

8. Instead, when your attacker

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SPRING 2015 HOME DEFENDER

127

attackers groin or midsection.

you too can use the compact

even a laundry cart or basket can

This will shock him and enable

area around you to gain an ad-

be used to momentarily block an

you to escape his grip and ee or

vantage.

attack.

follow up with additional strikes.

For example, if you nd yourself assaulted while walking up

PRACTICE REAL LIFE

9. Wide-swinging round-

or down a stairway, use the un-

SCENARIOS

house style punches and other

even surface to off-balance your

As with anything else in life,

telegraphed strikes are very in-

opponent. During his initial lunge

personal self-defense becomes

effective in close quarters. Keep

or advance toward you, dont re-

natural and instinctive through

your counter-offensive limited to

sist his advance with strength.

repetitive practice. Several styles

short, quick and focused strikes

Instead, increase his oncoming

of martial arts and self-defense

to your attackers vital areas.

energy by pulling or pushing his

classes are usually available

These areas include his eyes, the

body (depending upon whether

nearby to where you live. If so,

bridge of his nose, his groin, and

he drives you back or grabs you

stop in and watch a class. If your

his throat, as well as his nger

toward him) quickly in the same

interest is peaked, ask to try a

joints if youre able to secure

direction of his advance. With

free class. You may quickly nd

them.

your assailants attack not meet-

one that interests you; if not,

ing the resistance he expected,

continue your search until you lo-

great amount of strength to exe-

his body movement will continue

cate the right class that ts your

cute and can momentarily stun

unimpeded, causing him to fall

particular needs.

or incapacitate your assailant al-

hard on the stairs. This will allow

lowing you time to escape. If

you time to make your escape.

These attacks dont require a

you will nd yourself feeling

more condent physically as well

grabbed, which is a common

scenario for both men and

Through continued practice,

12. Compact areas, such as an

as mentally. There are no guar-

women, your chances of survival

elevator or a tight hallway, can

antees in life or in self-defense

are actually greater than you

also be used to help inict dam-

specically, but your chances of

may think. With your attackers

age upon an attacker. If youre

surviving a close-quarter attack

arms occupied on securing your

unexpectedly grabbed, try to turn

will certainly be increased with

body, your main weapons (arms

your body so you and your at-

"hands-on" training in a rep-

and legs) are free to let loose a

tacker are both in contact with

utable martial arts dojo or self-

barrage of offensive self-defense

the wall. Then with your free

defense class. HD

moves.

hand push your attackers head

forcibly against the hard surface

Michael DAngona is a freelance

and continue until he lets go of

writer, fth-degree black belt and

attack with short precise strikes

his grip. This can do severe dam-

self-defense instructor. He

can do more damage and keep

age, especially if youre able to

teaches in Coral Springs, Florida.

your attacker off balance than

target his face, which has many

trying to land one solid knock-

fragile and sensitive vital areas.

10. Keep in mind, a nonstop

out shot.
13. Finally, there may be items
USE YOUR ENVIRONMENT TO

around you that could be used

YOUR ADVANTAGE

to form a makeshift barrier be-

11. Just as an attacker may as-

tween you and your attacker.

sume he has the upper hand by

Garbage cans outside of your

trapping you in a conned space,

home, chairs or stools inside, or

128 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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The home to everyone

is to him his castle and fortress,
as well for his defense
against injury and violence,
as for his repose.
Edward Coke, 1552-1634

130 HOME DEFENDER SPRING 2015

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