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Originally Posted by LivingAlmostLarge
We used to live between 2 cops in a bad neighborhood. I asked them once about owning a gun? Both gave me the same answer, get a big dog. Ah well, I got two small white furballs. Guess I'm screwed.
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Not at all! Though no one would argue that a well-trained German Shepard or Rottie would be the ideal choice, any barking dog will do. Dogs greatly contribute to the "Awareness" factor, and that's really what's important. Alarms basically perform the same function, but I agree that dogs are the better choice.
Just to be clear, I wouldn't recommend a dog only for the sake of security, but if someone is a dog lover who is committed to caring for one, then the option here is a no-brainer.
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Originally Posted by maat55
I won't deny that evil people have the upper hand, but I for one will not lay down for them. Having a gun may not help in every case, but it will in many, so I will have one in those cases. Dumb, drugged out crazy's will die at my house. If someone I don't know, enters my house uninvited, they will be shot, whether they have a weapon or not. I know that's easier said, but I have conditioned myself along time for that possibility.
It's always been my belief, that your home is your safe place and is not to be trespassed. I reserve the right to kill anyone who crosses that line. A home is sacred.
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Well, then I would say that you have down what I see is the most important factor: Mindset. The mindset to be willing to fight it out. That's good so long as it is tempered with preparation and training that takes into account the physical and legal risks of firearms.
To be fair, not everyone agrees with that mindset. And among those who may agree, not everyone is willing to go that far. And there are even those who think they can go that far, but in reality, they are not able to because they are not trained or prepared enough to go that far. (For some reason, many people don't seem to realize that burglaries and home invasions are closer to CQC conditions. Static target shooting on paper at the local range is a fine start, but it's not adequate in my personal opinion.) For these people, they are better off seeking alternative strategies. But I don't see anything wrong with that.
In self-defense, there isn't a one-size-fits-all strategy. What will work for us will not work for others, and vice versa.
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Originally Posted by m3racer
I've been told by several LEOs to get one. They told me to take classes so that I would be mentally prepared for every possible situation. They've told me they know of countless incidents where the assailant was thwarted because the potential victim had a gun. However, the key was the victim knew what they were going to do before the event occurred. I'm sure when this happens you get tunnel vision and only have seconds to make a decision. The whole idea is that getting a gun and firing it should just be a programmed response. Pretty scary stuff IMO.
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Yeah, now you're getting it!
Er, I would say that even LEOs don't always give the *cough* best advice.... But I was also a cop once so... for what that's worth. The best rule of thumb is to simply get a dog. Big one and well-trained if that makes you feel better. Firearms are optional, but you gotta know what you're getting yourself into, and how far you're willing to go.
Even if you are in the legal right for self-defense, potentially maiming or killing another human being is no laughing matter. Not everyone wants to go that far. That and I once read that the average court cost of clearing yourself in a lawsuit-- even when you are in the legal right!-- is about 20k. If you're OK with those potential risks, then come on in!
But like I said, if you do decide to come in, please do so with your eyes wide open, and not with any delusions as the next John Rambo.
Quote:
Originally Posted by zakity
Someone with a long driveway posted a sign about half-way up the drive "Warning: You are now in range." It had a picture of a rifle or a pistol (can't remember) on it. I thought it was great!
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Haha! I used to put up my own signs that read, "Will shoot for food and sport." And it included an image of my rifle that rested on a paper target that included my shot group.
But that was a long time ago, and I was much younger and dumber then.
Never had a burglary incident though!