Home Defense Options in the Netherlands

Seeking Advice
1

I’ve had the .45 caliber long air rifle for a while now; it produces 435+ ft/lbs, but it’s kind of bulky, so I added a .25 caliber pistol which produces 84 ft/lbs. Do you think this setup would be reliable for home defense? I’m from a European country where firearms and bear/pepper spray are illegal. I don’t think I need to explain the baseball bat though.

Besides that, we have a 360-degree view around the property using both wired and wireless cameras.

Any advice or tips on how to prepare for threats?

2

You can own firearms in the Netherlands under strict conditions, but your current setup with the air rifle and pistol seems reasonable. Focus on proficiency and make sure to pair them with other deterrents like strong locks, alarms, and good lighting.

3

@Oli
True, but I can’t apply for a firearms license until 2028 due to a prior issue. My air rifle and pistol will have to suffice for now.

4

Dallas said:
@Oli
True, but I can’t apply for a firearms license until 2028 due to a prior issue. My air rifle and pistol will have to suffice for now.

Consider black powder firearms if legal. They may not be ideal but could add an extra layer of defense.

5

@Kade
Black powder firearms are legal, but the ammo isn’t, and I don’t want anything illegal in the house. Still, good to know. Thanks!

6

Your setup is solid, especially if you’re proficient. The air rifle is powerful enough to be lethal, and the pistol is good for closer ranges. Practice often.

7

Darin said:
Your setup is solid, especially if you’re proficient. The air rifle is powerful enough to be lethal, and the pistol is good for closer ranges. Practice often.

Thanks! Both are semi-auto, so I feel better prepared.

8

@Dallas
That’s great. The rifle could be a significant deterrent, but the bat remains a reliable last resort.

9

Keep a small fire extinguisher in your bedroom. If an intruder enters, spray them to impair their vision and breathing, then use the extinguisher as a blunt weapon. It’s practical and legal.

10

Avery said:
Keep a small fire extinguisher in your bedroom. If an intruder enters, spray them to impair their vision and breathing, then use the extinguisher as a blunt weapon. It’s practical and legal.

I hadn’t thought of that! Great advice, thanks! :muscle:

11

Over 70J is considered the threshold for cranial penetration. Your setup exceeds that, so it’s potentially lethal. Practice accuracy and situational awareness.

12

Leander said:
Over 70J is considered the threshold for cranial penetration. Your setup exceeds that, so it’s potentially lethal. Practice accuracy and situational awareness.

Thanks! Good to know the power is sufficient.

13

Consider defensive architecture: steel doors and frames, deadbolts, window film for impact resistance, and external alarms. Dogs are also excellent for early warning.

14

Look into the AEA Terminator or Megalodon air rifles. They are high-power, semi-auto options that might suit your needs better.

15

Oak said:
Look into the AEA Terminator or Megalodon air rifles. They are high-power, semi-auto options that might suit your needs better.

I’ve had the Megalodon but returned it due to leaks. Reliability is key for me.

16

A crossbow might be a good addition if legal in your area.

17

Consider moving to a country with more lenient self-defense laws if this is a long-term concern.

18

Jules said:
Consider moving to a country with more lenient self-defense laws if this is a long-term concern.

Not an option for me, but thanks!