I've given some thought to this subject. A serious terrorist attack that may disrupt the infrastructure. A government that may run amok on law-abiding citizens for whatever reason. A nuclear attack. A natural disaster - flood, hurricane, earthquake. All of these things may or may not be probable, but they are possible.
So the question is - what rifle would YOU use to defend home and hearth? I'm not talking shotguns or handguns here, only rifles, which can serve for both short and longer-range duty.
In my case, I want something relatively short, handy and light weight for manuevering. It doesn't need to be a really long-range proposition, as I anticipate an urban or suburban environment. The typical range will probably be within 200 yards. The ammo must be readily available and as light as possible for packing. Optical and open sights both. 6-position collapsible stock to compensate for differing clothing. A flash suppressor. Parts availability will be a factor. Don't need a "battle rifle" cartridge with the power of a .308 or .30/06; an intermediate "assault rifle" cartridge should do the trick. Full magazine capability desirable.
Here's my pick for duty: It's a Colt AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel, configured as a collapsible stock M4. Optical sight is an Aimpoint Comp ML2 with a 4-minute red dot for quick target acquisition. Back-up flip-up rear iron sight adjustable for windage; front sight is adjustable for elevation. Forward vertical grip for control. A Surefire high-intensity LED flashlight is attached for low- or no-light situations. Simple lightweight web sling. Extra batteries for the Aimpoint stored in the grip. Plenty of extra reliable 30-round magazines holding G.I. 5.56mm ammo in pouches.
It may never happen, and I hope it won't. But if it DOES hit the fan, I think I will be adequately armed.
How about you?
John
So the question is - what rifle would YOU use to defend home and hearth? I'm not talking shotguns or handguns here, only rifles, which can serve for both short and longer-range duty.
In my case, I want something relatively short, handy and light weight for manuevering. It doesn't need to be a really long-range proposition, as I anticipate an urban or suburban environment. The typical range will probably be within 200 yards. The ammo must be readily available and as light as possible for packing. Optical and open sights both. 6-position collapsible stock to compensate for differing clothing. A flash suppressor. Parts availability will be a factor. Don't need a "battle rifle" cartridge with the power of a .308 or .30/06; an intermediate "assault rifle" cartridge should do the trick. Full magazine capability desirable.
Here's my pick for duty: It's a Colt AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel, configured as a collapsible stock M4. Optical sight is an Aimpoint Comp ML2 with a 4-minute red dot for quick target acquisition. Back-up flip-up rear iron sight adjustable for windage; front sight is adjustable for elevation. Forward vertical grip for control. A Surefire high-intensity LED flashlight is attached for low- or no-light situations. Simple lightweight web sling. Extra batteries for the Aimpoint stored in the grip. Plenty of extra reliable 30-round magazines holding G.I. 5.56mm ammo in pouches.
It may never happen, and I hope it won't. But if it DOES hit the fan, I think I will be adequately armed.
How about you?
John
. It may have been cheap, but it shoots straight and reliable.
