It took two minutes and 10 rounds from 40 yards to stop a mass shooter at a mall.  It took 1 round in 5 seconds at close range to stop a mass shooter at a back yard party. Since we don’t know when violence will happen, and how many rounds it will take to stop it, how many rounds should we carry?

Firearms are used in self-defense approximately one and a half million times annually. The vast majority of incidents are sudden, at close range, take 3-4 rounds and are over in about 5 seconds.  These statistics may serve as a guide not a rule because there is no way to tell how it may unfold for us. Especially, if we are dealing with multiple attackers.

In my opinion, the better trained you are, rather than how many rounds you have, the less likely you will be involved in a situation that requires deadly force because:

1.  You will be more aware of your surroundings, and more likely to avoid a situation to begin with.

2.  You will know what level of force is appropriate, if at all necessary.

3.  You will likely need less rounds to stop a threat.

I often hear that having more rounds and not needing them is better than needing more and not having them. That makes sense, but, in my opinion, only if you are well trained in firearm skills, the gun laws of your state, and have the mindset and discipline of a safe, responsible, and proficient gun owner. Here is why:

1.  You are responsible for every bullet that leaves your gun. If you are not well trained, you are more likely to miss and hit an innocent by stander. 

2.  You may shoot more rounds than necessary to stop a threat. That may make your case more difficult to defend in court.

3.  You will likely respond to a threat thinking your actions were justified and find out the law says otherwise. Instead of going home you end up in jail. 

So, before you concern yourself about how many rounds to carry, get the proper guidance and training so that you can become a safe, responsible, and confident gun owner. The rest will fall into place and put you in a much better position to protect yourself and your loved ones from a violent attack.

Train Hard, Often, and SAFELY!