“What should you do if you notice a person with one or more of these descriptors [of a bomb] or even a suspicious package?” Greg Ellifritz asks at activeresponsetraining.net. “GET AWAY! Time, distance, and shielding are the only defense. Realize that a 20lb suicide bomb vest loaded with shrapnel is dangerous within 400 meters. That’s a long distance! Recent research has determined . . .
that 15 meters (about 50 feet) is the distance that means the difference between life and death in most suicide bombing incidents. If you are within 15 meters of the bomber when he detonates you will likely die. If you are beyond 15 meters, you will likely live, but may be seriously injured.
Got it. But what’s this about using your gun to stop the threat?
If you are armed with a firearm, should you shoot the bomber? That is a tough call. If you are right about your guess and kill the bomber before he detonates, you will be a hero. If you are wrong you will be either blown up or arrested. It makes the decision a little difficult.
I will say this…if you decide to shoot the bomber, you must expect to die. Remember that danger zone of 400 meters I talked about earlier? How many of you can make a head shot at 400 meters with your concealed carry pistol? If you can’t, you are in the kill zone. If the bomber detonates you may be seriously injured or killed. By definition, if you are close enough to take a shot, you are going to be within range of the bomb’s blast. If you do shoot the bomber, you must go for a head shot. If he is wearing a bomb vest, your bullet will likely detonate the bomb if you hit it.
Kobayashi maru? Still, a man’s gotta do. . .