I decided on the Smith & Wesson M&P .40 with a Streamlight TLR2 flashlight/laser combination unit. Also, in accordance with my earlier discussion of keeping others safe, I’ve loaded it with what some people consider as special ammunition. Instead of using a full metal jacket bullet or jacketed hollow point , the first three bullets in my clip are frangible bullets. Frangible ammunition is made of finely ground copper /tin powder that is molded into a bullet when tons of pressure is applied. The advantage is upon impact with a hard surface; the bullet turns to dust and imparts all its kinetic energy into the impact area.

The likelyhood of the bullet passing through the wall or a person injuring someone else is far less due to its nature.
Now, don’t kid yourself. I said the first three rounds. After that, the other 12 rounds are jacketed hollow points. Again, in my opinion I want to protect myself and my loved ones. That being said if the first three don’t do the job I figure I’ve given the intruder the chance to retreat and whatever happens after is on them.
Again, safety in mind – its kept fully loaded in a safe. Enter the combination and I have access to it in a flash. Not something you can do with a shotgun. Also, its smaller than a shotgun and easier to handle. The attached light allows positive identification before pulling the trigger and the laser is very intimidating when the laser dot is on your chest. Next we’ll talk about the compromise between the shotgun and pistol.