The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Re-examining the HD 410...

JNewell · November 1, 2001, 09:19 PM

As you note, Dave, the .410 is a limited range tool.

But, in most folks' homes, we are talking about limited ranges.

Within its limited range, a .410 ought to be a more potent and more easily aimed defensive tool than a handgun, and if the recoil is more tolerable and encourages more practice, it's probably a net gain.

Since there's an exception to every rule, though, I guess I'll also observe that although I far prefer a shoulder weapon for defensive use in most situations, if you are having to move around a house with a gun (a situation we will hope never happens), in many houses a handgun just might be superior even though it is harder to aim and delivers a less potent defensive force -- because the shoulderarm is harder to maneuver and (especially for those not well trained) the take-away potential of a long arm is probably greater.

Gotta estimate your own circumstances and do the best you can to anticiapte how problems may arise and develop!

November 1, 2001, 09:19 PM	#6
JNewell Senior Member Join Date: March 12, 2000 Posts: 1,092	Random thoughts... As you note, Dave, the .410 is a limited range tool. But, in most folks' homes, we are talking about limited ranges. Within its limited range, a .410 ought to be a more potent and more easily aimed defensive tool than a handgun, and if the recoil is more tolerable and encourages more practice, it's probably a net gain. Since there's an exception to every rule, though, I guess I'll also observe that although I far prefer a shoulder weapon for defensive use in most situations, if you are having to move around a house with a gun (a situation we will hope never happens), in many houses a handgun just might be superior even though it is harder to aim and delivers a less potent defensive force -- because the shoulderarm is harder to maneuver and (especially for those not well trained) the take-away potential of a long arm is probably greater. Gotta estimate your own circumstances and do the best you can to anticiapte how problems may arise and develop!