California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) Practice Exam

In a home defense situation, what is important to remember about over-penetration?

1. Bullets can pass through walls and potentially harm others

2. It ensures the intruder is stopped

3. The firearm should have maximum stopping power

4. Over-penetration is not a concern with modern ammunition

The correct answer is: Bullets can pass through walls and potentially harm others

The importance of recognizing over-penetration in a home defense scenario stems from the understanding that bullets may travel through walls and other barriers, which poses a significant risk to individuals who might be in adjacent rooms or homes. This concern highlights the potential for unintended harm to innocent people. When defending oneself, it is not only critical to stop an intruder but also to ensure that the chosen method of defense minimizes the risk to others in the environment. While other choices can seem relevant, they don't address the key risk associated with over-penetration. Stopping an intruder is certainly a vital aspect of home defense, but the safety of others in the vicinity should always be prioritized. Similarly, while the idea of maximum stopping power seems appealing, it could inadvertently lead to higher chances of over-penetration. Lastly, the notion that modern ammunition eliminates concerns about over-penetration is misleading; even advanced ammunition types can still pose risks in these scenarios. Therefore, understanding and mitigating the risk of bullets traveling beyond the intended target is crucial in home defense situations.