hello and welcome ive had and made quite a few h&r riflels in the last 23 years untill a year ago all i had in shotguns was single h&rs i got real good even killed a few doubles in dove season with them. as far as rifles i killed 90% with a single h&r. thats about 34 deer. yes ill be there opening morn. this season with my girlfriend we will both be using h&rs for muzzy and rifle season.nef four self defence???only if you only have one intruder. good first shot backup with a good wheel gun or auto and you will be in good shape.