Mary S. and her husband live in Wasilla, Alaska.
One Sunday morning, the couple was at home when they heard a noise and soon discovered an unknown man inside their home.
The 22-year-old intruder immediately started fighting with Mary’s husband.
During the scuffle, the intruder stabbed Mary’s husband.
Mary retrieved a firearm inside the home and fired a single shot at the intruder in defense of her husband.
When first responders arrived, they provided aid to the intruder, but he died at the scene.
Mary’s husband was transported to the hospital with a non-life-threatening stab wound.
During the investigation, police discovered some of the homeowner’s belongings in a backpack being carried by the intruder.
It appeared he was burglarizing the home before the homeowners found him.
The intruder also had a large buck knife that he used to stab Mary’s husband.
Police said the shooting was “consistent with an act of self-defense.”
Alaska has one of the highest gun ownership rates in the U.S.
As you know, I think everyone who is capable, and legally able, should have a gun for home defense.
For over 20 million Americans, the gun of choice is the AR-15.
But maybe you don’t like the AR-15, or maybe you want another rifle for home defense that also shoots the 5.56 round (you can never have too many).
If so, here are a few of the best 5.56 rifles that are not AR-15s but are still good options.
Sig Sauer MCX:
The Sig Sauer MCX is a modular firearm so you can configure it for a variety of purposes.
It has a gas-piston operating system that reduces recoil and can be chambered in three calibers.
The MCX can change barrels, handguards, and calibers, and also has a foldable and adjustable stock
The MCX sells for about $2,500 depending on the specific options you choose.
CZ BREN II:
The CZ is a short-stroke gas-operated rifle. It has an adjustable gas block and controls that are similar to an AR-15.
It’s completely ambidextrous and has a non-reciprocating charging handle.
The rifle has additional controls for the bolt catch and release inside the trigger, which helps with faster reloads.
You can get the CZ with an AR stock or its stock system, which is adjustable.
A big selling point for the CZ is that there are tons of aftermarket parts for the rifle.
The Bren II comes in either 5.56 or 7.72, and sells for about $1,800.
Ruger Mini 14:
When it comes to traditional rifles you can’t find a better option than the Ruger Mini 14.
It’s a smaller version of the M14 and uses the same short-stroke gas system.
There is the basic version as well as tactical variants that come with an upgraded stock and iron sights.
You can also get versions with an AR-style grip, folding stock, and mounting points for optics.
The Mini 14 comes in 5.56 or 300 AAC.
The only drawback to the Ruger Mini 14 is that there aren’t as many aftermarket parts as some 5.56 rifles.
The Ruger Mini 14 sells for about $1,300.
While the AR-15 is a great rifle, there are other fine platforms you can add to your collection that also shoot the 5.56 round.
Make sure to find the best recommendations for your home and self-defense firearm arsenal.
