New Home, home defense considerations

[Kaos]

Previously we were renting a full single family house. At the time I determined based on likely points of entry and such in the house that with the right ammo, an AR-15 would provide good capability without too much overpentration.

We bought a townhouse and I'm starting my research over again now that we share a wall. The wall between the units is firewalled so it's a bit more resilent than just wood and drywall.

I still think the AR-15 is likely my choice moving forward, but wanted to solicit opinions of those who have done similar research for apartments/townhomes. Maybe moving to frangible ammo would be worthwhile etc....

I'm considering that for the 9mm at least. I know what that does inside a house.

[normanvin]

Isn't a firewall just drywall that has been treated? With a gap between the studed walls?

[NikeBauer21]

Isn't a firewall just drywall that has been treated? With a gap between the studed walls?

Depends on local codes.. but... Most times for a proper firewall, 1hr rating is created with 2 layers of 5/8" drywall. Along with fireproofed studs and insulation. If you're using CMU, it's going to be longer. IIRC, it's 2hr firerating for 8" block.

[rodder]

check out this article:

http://how-i-did-it.org/drywall/results.html

Apparently any type of expanding .223 (soft point, JHP, etc) is going to be your best bet if you're concerned about penetration through drywall.

Pistol caliber rounds (even JHPs) will zip right through multiple layers of the stuff.

[mojo]

Honestly, I would think that any kind of ammo/caliber that you would want would cause potential problems. It's hard to create a round that can do life threatening damage to a human and not penetrate walls.

At least your thinking about the issue though.

[God's Country]

Wouldn't there be block between the homes in addition to firewall, studs, and drywall?

[chaotic]

Most town homes have concrete block between the homes for firewall and sound proofing. My older townhome is brick but my Dad has one that is 2 years old and the walls between the homes are block.

[Kaos]

Wouldn't there be block between the homes in addition to firewall, studs, and drywall?

I'm still waiting on my request for any plans/prints they may have. I want to know what's load bearing for some kitchen updates I want to do as well.

[NikeBauer21]

Wouldn't there be block between the homes in addition to firewall, studs, and drywall?

It depends on when it was built and how/if it was modified... Some, you will see with a composition dividing wall of drywall, studs, air spaces, fire-rated sheathing, followed by another stud wall of the same. And others, you will find a CMU dividing wall.

[normanvin]

Most town homes have concrete block between the homes for firewall and sound proofing. My older townhome is brick but my Dad has one that is 2 years old and the walls between the homes are block.

There is a new development across from me. These are quarter million dollar town houses. I have watched while these were being built. There is no block between units. It must depend on the local ordinances and the builder.