[Adam Helmer]

Esox 357,

Are you a LEO? If so, send me a PM and we can chat.

Yes, in 26 years law enforcement changed a lot along with our arms. I began duty on 11-7-70 with a 4-inch M10 S&W .38 Special and semi-annual use of the Remington 870 12 gauge riot gun. In 1976 I became the Firearms Coordinator (Instructor) for all 100 Inspectors in the 6 New England states and 250 Uniformed Security guards. I ran the semi-annual qualification for all these folks as a collateral duty as well as working my own cases as a field agent and later as a supervisor.

Changes did occur: In 1987, we dropped the revolvers and went to the Glock 17/19 9mm. We also went to #4 Buck and stayed with the 12 gauge slug and the #6 "High Brass" load for the 12 gauge and got in 12, H&K MP-5 9mm sub-machine guns. If you check our Firearms Manual, you will see fine shot is listed as an authorized round in the 12 gauge, along with #4 Buck and slug.

In the standard home, a load of #6 shot from a 12 gauge will blind a home invader, presupposing the home owner shoots for the head where no body armor covers that vulnerable spot.

I am not sure about your statements about "home owner ambushing" the home invader and facing "incoming fire." I have endured home invasions and I am here. In no case did the invader give incoming fire since the house was dark and quiet. I knew the interior of my home at 3:00 a.m. and the mopes did not. I am not spouting theory, I lived the stuff I talk about. Rest assured a 12 gauge with birdshot will defend your home if you snap the cap.

I have nothing more to say on this matter. You can have the last word and please tell us what it is based upon.

Adam