I love my muzzleloaders, but would never consider using them as a home defense "go to". When my family's life is in danger, I will not risk a "flash in the pan", or a failed cap. Even when I hunt, I use a 209 conversion to prevent misfires. If I HAD to use a muzzleloader for home defense, I would use one of my shotguns, but again with the 209 conversion for the reason stated above. In a split second life or death situation, a shotgun is the best way to prevent the inevitable adrenaline rush and shaky hands from causing a miss. (Hold on mr. bad guy while I reload my long rifle...) BTW, I also keep a very sharp short sword handy in case I can't get to my primary weapon of choice in time.