In this post I was going to offer up Taurus Internationals revolver, “The Judge” as a compromise between a handgun and shotgun.The first time I saw it was at a gun show and it was an earlier model which took 2 ½ inch shells, there is a newer version which accepts 3 inch shells. The gun that can be loaded with a .410 shotgun shell filled with birdshot or buck shot and it can also shoot a regular .45 long colt bullet. Versatile weapon, definitely something that gives you a choice of load to use and I like that. At the same I don’t think of it as a sole home defense weapon. I’ve changed my mind after reading several other articles. Let me start with it only holds 5 rounds, just 5. For it to really to do its job and because of its low capacity it would have to be loaded with the .45 cal. long colt. This is a man stopper for sure and it will over penetrate. You could step down to #4 buckshot but its capability is reduced when compared to the larger 12 gauge shotshell as it does not pack the punch to stop someone. Physically the .410 holds less shot.

It definitely complements a person’s collection but it wouldn’t be the first or only choice for a self defense weapon. In snake country or on a farm where there are rodents this would be a very useful weapon to own. Additionally, where state and local laws permitted, it would be a great car gun. If I were a long haul driver whose truck had a sleeper compartment I’d have one in a second. I see one in my future, probably used, at the moment there are too many other things on my list. In the next post I’ll finish up this discussion and we’ll move on to something more interesting.