Quote from jasonc:
I looked into getting a handgun and might still for an emergency but do some of you people honestly picture a collapse in the financial system and then suddenly everyone will become savages?
I think it is all a matter of degrees.
There are many possibilities.
Based on the condition of the country ...
depression and/or collapse are possible, unlikely but nevertheless possible.
Hungry, thirsty and threatened people will become anxious and possibly volatile
and lose their sense of moral boundary in times of desperation.
This is human nature.
5 self protective weapons are wise:
- Pepper spray
- Stun gun
- Handgun
- Shotgun
- Semi-auto Rifle that can use 20+ round mags and is accurate to 400+ yards open sight and/or scoped. (AR-15 or M1A)
3 of the above is really a minimum.
The advantage to the guns is obvious. Each has it's function and distance.
However the advantages for pepper spray and stun gun are that they can save lives (Yours and others)
and if an event happens ... you don't have to wait around for police.
If security police breakdown is gradual ... these may be the protective insurance of choice.
If security police breakdown is complete ... it may be necessary to use more drastic measures and form communities of mutual protection.
I would suggest an S&W J-Frame .38 special with
a Galco behind the back belt holster and a
Crimson Trace laser in the handle.
Get 2 speed loaders and practice.
Use cheapo ammo for practice and keep the good ammo in it for self defense.
Get one with a hammer and preferably ultralight or titanium.
Remember it is the weapon that is on you that you need ... not one at home hidden.
Pick one up in whatever neighboring state that sells without any paperwork.
These tiny handguns are about the size of a fully loaded wallet and are light weight.
Oh ... have someone well educated in firearms handling teach you.