I have heard you should not use handloads in your personal defense weapon, beacause you could cook up a load that is more devastating than factory ammo. It could be seen as cruel and unusual punishment if you shot someone that broke into your house and tried to kill you. The way I look at it you can't go wrong by practicing with your handloads and then at night have you magazine ready with hydrashoks, glaser rounds, or some hornady FTX.

Figure that if you shoot or kill an intruder you will end up in court and you will likely get sued. A lawyer will try to introduce anything he can to win the case (notice I said win and not prove truth). A lawyer told me NEVER to use handloads in a self-defense handgun.

A FMJ is more likely to go through a person and possibly injure someone else. And it may not stop the intruder. Hollow point pistols are meant to deposit their energy and not exit, and are less likely to injure someone else. I've seen studies where the hollow point have filled with plaster when going through a wall and have not expanded - same with some clothing. But I'd take my chance with the hollow points. It's about practical self defense and protecting yourself and the ones you love.

Lets first pray that NONE of us will ever need to take a life, but if it were necessary to stop an intruder from hurting you, or a family member, and you do shoot someone there is a chance of being held liable; either in criminal or civil court. I would recomend having "layered" security in your home. Better doors, windows, lights and an alarm system to include a dog! The average break-in crook will be scared away, as for true killers/dope heads that's another story. My defense weapons has "bullets" in them, regardless of type, can kill. My Prof at college, a seasoned officer gone lawyer, recommended to shoot them with whatever you have for defense and when the police arrive ask them you would like to call your lawyer BEFORE answering any questions!

My .40 is loaded with hollow-points. I'll take my chances

WRONG WRONG WRONG. First of all THE INTRUDER is the one breaking the law. YOU are the one DEFENDING yourself and others. Most people will find it a justifiable shoot and not even bother with an autopsy but if the do there is a dead body filled with whatever you shoot him with and thats that. If you cut the guy in half then so be it. Dead men tell no tales! You probably will be sued in civil court which is for money not jail time. Just be propared, you'll loose a couple of grand defending youself but that's the way the system works, unless its just a crack head with no money then you will be alright.

It sucks either way and I'm sorry, but the only people that really get sued are city or state officers that roll thier own. And that is only because it is worth a LOT of money to sue the state.

streack has a valid and true point! Never use reloads even if they are reduced loads to prevent less damage. Always use factory ammo and make sure your NRA Membership is up to date!!! I always told my students that if you clear leather, it will cost you $10,000 dollars regardless!!!!!

To answer your question, I went thru training for 2nd Man qualification for Law Enforcement. I carry pending on the environment and threat condition, 230 grain Black Talons, Federal Hydro Shocks or 230 grain Military Ball in my 45ACP, never carry reloads except for hunting and for plinking period!!!!!!!

I say no as well for an answer. You have the right to protect yourself and your property. Just use factory ammo it sounds like. Didn't know that myself.

I say use the most frangible devastating bullet you can get your hands on. you are protecting your life property and in many cases more importantly the lives of those you care about most. you want to put as much energy into that bad guy as you can while at the same time limmiting the likely hood of unwanted penetration in our home. if asked for your reasoning simply answer that the object was to prevent unintended penetration through your home.

Ralph gives excellent advice. Do everything you can to avoid having to shoot anyone. If you do, be prepared for one of the most trying times in your life, as the family of the intruder will most likely file civil charges against you with the help and encouragement of a bottom feeding lawyer.

One quick note to add to all the rest. If a person breaks into your home, sees you armed and turns to flee, if you fire you will be prosecuted regardless of the bullet or other extenuating circumstances.

what is the castle law all about?