Steve_In_29
Semper Fi
Not disputing the 20G is better in general but it is also heavier and has APPRECIABLY more recoil then the .410. In the particular instance I provided (4"10"/95lb/60+yo wife) the 20G is not an option. She owns a 20G semi-auto youth model and it is still too much gun for her. Though even if the 20G was an option it doesn't make the .410 any less lethal or viable in an HD situation.Interesting thread. My only issue with the .410 is that a 20 guage can do everything and and more (with some more recoil...but not much).
And an AR can do it all better with virtually no recoil.
I dispute the AR being a better weapon though and is still too heavy for her. Each .410 round sends FIVE 70Gr projectiles down range (350Gr total) where the AR sends ONE 55/62Gr projectile. Sorry but 5 pellets that are each larger then a single 5.56 bullet are going to hit harder and with MUCH less chance of over penetrating. Even with the relatively lightweight AR weight is still a factor and her .410 weighs 5.25 pounds which is roughly a third less then the average 8ish pound loaded and accessorized AR does.
To shoot girly 5.56 she has a KelTec SU16CA that stock weighs 4.4 pounds and doesn't crap where it eats (piston operated).