This is a thorny issue to answer, I keep coming up with different answers, due to differing scenarios.
The points you raise Mark are all valid but are all dependent on the situation, for example would anyone of us care about what any authority says if that authority is none existent in a WROL situation? I certainly wouldn't.
I would doubt the effective range of a .22 LR would be anything over 200 meters but for absolute accuracy I would keep it under 150 meters. The .22 wmr is more powerful but no more accurate and the rounds are much harder to find. With both of these rim fire rifles shot placement is everything, they have good penetration but very poor energy transfer.Think I would opt for something along the lines of a bull pup.
Preferably semi auto.
Short and manoeuvrable in tight spaces for close quarter, easier to conceal.
The 22 is a good shout, you can carry plenty as HD said, and stop most things with ease with good shot placement too 300+ mtrs.
So, close protection, hunting, and mid range abilities.
OK, I know nothing about guns but having watched the Terminator, I'm going for an Uzi 9mm. Why? I think the sound alone is going to really scare the hell out of people and they're more likely to leave me alone More seriously, I'm reading all the posts to get an idea of what a more realistic alternative is
L129A1 I reckon, I'm familiar with it, its got a nice range and has a decent punch.
When is power too much? I don't know to be honest.Probably a bit of overkill for most purposes other than long range shooting.
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A weapon is just a tool that can be used offensively and defensively, I don't see a philosophical argument that says weapons can't be both.Just to be clear, my choice of firearm is just for putting food on the table...not as a weapon.
It'll do the job for larger game and I'd likely be fishing more than I'm hunting anyway. Plus it punches through the gunwale of most vessels at a decent range which is useful.Probably a bit of overkill for most purposes other than long range shooting.
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