When it comes to self-defense, everyone takes a different approach. Some choose to leave their fate with the government and local police. Some go a step further and carry a weapon concealed. It is good to be prepared for those crucial few seconds before the police arrive. While we train and prepare for that self-defense incident, we hope it never comes.
For many of us, the perfect self-defense weapon is some type of CCW handgun. Something that can be easily concealed and carried on our person, but not so large that it becomes a nuisance or gets in the way. But is there a need for a larger weapon during a major incident?
Most self-defense incidents take place at 20 feet or less and last only a few seconds. That does not mean there has never been an incident that could last longer and involve more people. In the past, there have been large-scale incidents that significantly increased the danger for people in affected areas, such as natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and tornados as well as riots and civil unrest. If an incident is unfolding that could become deadly, why not be prepared? Transition to a weapon that is more accurate, holds more ammo, and is easier to control under stress. I refer to this as a secondary defense weapon.
To some, the rifle is the primary weapon and that’s fine. But for this article, I will refer to larger weapons as secondary, and the daily CCW as primary. That does not mean a secondary weapon cannot transition into a primary weapon when things go bad. And unfortunately, they can go bad. Let’s look at some types of firearms that could be beneficial for a secondary defense weapon and how to be prepared with it.
Do you need more than a handgun?
Any type of gun can be a primary defense weapon. But handguns are carried and used the most during self-defense situations. A handgun is just one tool, a PCC (pistol caliber carbine) another, and a rifle yet another. Different tools are needed for different things. What a person prepares for will dictate what tools are needed to help be prepared. A handgun is a great option for what most would call a “typical” self-defense incident. But I would argue that no self-defense scenario is typical. We need to be prepared for any scenario and some may require more than the daily carry weapon.
Clint Smith, a Marine Corps veteran, reportedly said “a handgun is for shooting your way to a rifle.” A handgun is convenient and more accessible than most other weapons. But if the worst does happen, a larger gun could be lifesaving. In the law enforcement world, we teach that a handgun is what we use because it’s on us and quick to get to. But if we know ahead of time that a gun is involved, we respond with a rifle, shotgun, or sub-gun.
Secondary Defense Weapons
If a larger platform of weapon is needed, there are lots of options to pick from. Some are more compact than others and some are larger calibers. For home defense, I like to have an AR-15 and shotgun ready to go. For vehicles and traveling, I like the smaller PCC guns. An AR-Pistol, Stribog, Scorpion, or B&T (if you can afford it) with a folding stock or brace can make the weapon very compact. This allows it to be carried in a backpack or kept in a car.
Regardless of the weapons system you decide to use, there are plenty of options out there. It really comes down to personal preference and what you are comfortable with. I have my preferences, but what works for me may not work for everyone else.
Once a secondary weapon has been selected, training can begin. And by training, I’m not just talking about throwing rounds down range. I’m talking about practicing retrieving the weapon from the carried position to the ready position. Practicing the best way to carry a weapon, reload it, and use it is a crucial aspect of training. If it’s in a backpack, practice getting it out. If it’s under the seat of a vehicle, can you get to it quickly?
Training and Range Time With a Secondary Weapon
Training with a gun can be fun, but it can also be a lot of work. Training should include range time, weapons cleaning, carrying, and using the weapon. During training events on the range, I find people do well with drills and qualifications. But they begin to have problems when the training starts in the vehicle with their weapon in transport mode. Every aspect of a scenario involving firearms and self-defense should be included in the training program. Don’t forget about your emergency kit with a tourniquet!
If the weapon is carried in a backpack, retrieving it from the backpack should be part of the training. In a car, some simple drills that include accessing the weapon and locating the best defensive position can be practiced. This does not require any live ammo or range time. Training creates repetition and builds muscle memory and in turn, helps the body react better and faster under stressful situations. Wherever a shotgun or rifle is kept in a home, practice retrieving it. And don’t forget it could be dark during a home invasion.
Summary
The weapons used, the training conducted, and the level of preparedness will vary depending on the overall objective of each person. I’m not going to lie and say that being prepared is easy. It takes work—dedicated work that is not always fun.
It is easy to find the perfect CCW weapon, pick out the ammo and holster, and get it ready to go. But then clothing is needed that allows the gun to be concealed. Training is needed so you are familiar with the weapon. It takes money, time, and responsibility. Carrying a secondary weapon in a vehicle, on you, or just sitting around the house is no different. But if the unthinkable ever happens, having another weapon ready to deploy for self-defense could be critical. The good thing is there are lots of compact guns with high-capacity mags that range from low to high in price. Full-size rifles and shotguns can also do the job. Whatever the choice, just don’t forget, prepare, train and then defend.
