Discuss. I know many Redditors in this sub would say a handgun or shotgun is better for home defense, but some pretty good points are made in this video.
I don’t get it. Tests show AR-15 rounds go through a lot of walls. Even 9mm penetrates multiple layers.
Case said:
I don’t get it. Tests show AR-15 rounds go through a lot of walls. Even 9mm penetrates multiple layers.
Here’s a gel test with two gel blocks and a wall between them.
@Zinnia
What’s your point? Both 9mm and .223 penetrated through the ‘intruder’ and into the wall behind.
Case said:
@Zinnia
What’s your point? Both 9mm and .223 penetrated through the ‘intruder’ and into the wall behind.
9mm actually penetrates deeper than .223 in some scenarios. The video explains that .223 slows down faster and overpenetrates less than 9mm in controlled environments.
Case said:
@Zinnia
What’s your point? Both 9mm and .223 penetrated through the ‘intruder’ and into the wall behind.
5.56 loads often penetrate fewer walls than 9mm, depending on the ammunition. The misconception about overpenetration is common, but bullet choice matters a lot.
I prefer a handgun indoors for its size, but a rifle offers more accuracy. If I lived in a rural area, I’d choose an AR for dual-purpose defense.
I can’t imagine firing an AR indoors without hearing protection. The noise would be devastating.
It depends on your home layout, neighboring structures, and personal proficiency. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
After watching videos like this, I’m investing in reinforced walls and bulletproof windows for my home. Safety first!
I own a musket for home defense.
Reagan said:
I own a musket for home defense.
Charging an intruder with a bayonet would be legendary.
The AR-15 is arguably the best home defense weapon: lightweight, accurate, and customizable. The key is choosing the right ammunition to minimize overpenetration.
1911 is the best gun for home defense. Change my mind.
Tavi said:
1911 is the best gun for home defense. Change my mind.
Glock exists.
AR-15s are great, but for intruders already inside your home, a shotgun is more practical.
This discussion is interesting, but don’t forget to consider local laws and jury biases if you ever need to use an AR for self-defense. Public perception of ‘tacti-cool’ weapons matters in court.
An AR-15 is the best tool for home defense. That said, most intruders flee at the first sign of resistance, so any firearm should suffice in most situations.
Remember that frangible rounds exist for situations where you’re concerned about overpenetration.
YouTube tests often show bullets going straight through drywall without simulating a body. Real-world tests through ballistic gel and drywall would be more useful.