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One and a half seconds is pretty good (provided you can hit the target, too). Does that include reaction time?
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Yep. Clock starts when the attacker starts rushing.
You then go for your gun, draw, and fire.
It's not an absolute--just the result of a study performed some time ago. The purpose was to establish the danger radius based on an
assumed capability of a 1.5 second draw and fire time. The answer was 21 ft.--also not an absolute.
The point is, unlike the soldier in the field or a law enforcement officer on duty, the civilian carrying concealed may not draw just because he senses potential danger. He may draw
only when it is
immediately necessary--and in most jurisdictions, when
deadly force is immediately necessary. The old A, O, J triad comes into play. Situational awareness can help you stay out of trouble, but it does not permit you to draw sooner.
Regardless of the "exact" distance (actually, there isn't such a thing), which will depend on circumstance, the time allowed is very short indeed. If the guy can move more quickly than average, you'll have less time.
You do not want to choose any weapon or method of carry that will not give you a high probability of success. The stakes are just too high.
DA revolvers and DAO or striker fired semi-autos with rounds chambered can meet that requirement with a
practiced shooter, with the
right holster and clothing, provided that
nothing snags.
So can a 1911, cocked and locked.
Add the step of cambering a round under duress and it becomes more questionable, notwithstanding the bravado and claims of some shooters. Personally, I cannot think of any good reason to chance it.
If you are sooting at center mass at someone who has closed to a distance of five feet, accuracy will not be an issue. However, that may not describe the encounter.