Agreed...
But if you look at your average sub-urban break in, the assailant is a neighborhood kid looking to snag your 60" plasma or home theater system. Not some blood thirsty, brain eating zombie that is "hunting you and your family". But of course... there are always exceptions.
So IMO, to hide in a dark corner, pop out then blast whomever is in your living room as a "tactical move" is not the smartest thing to do.
Unfortunately (and not that I agree in the slightest), we don't have the same rights as that of homeowners that reside in "real" american states such as Texas for instance.
We CANNOT fire on someone
intruding in our own god damn home to protect our personal property, even if they're walking out the front door w/ your $4000 tv. Or even if they're murdering your OWN FAMILY DOG!!!
It's absolutely rediculous. The criminals have greater rights then WE DO on our own property!!
If I were to put myself in the un-imaginable situation... I'd have to think that I would 1st try to dial 911... and/or be forced to confront the intruder in the most intelligent, easily and quickly defensible manner... ie: Blinding light in the eyes mounted on the barrel of a loaded/chambered shotgun... (from an area that allows quick and un-obstructed retreat). Followed by loud and clear instructions that they are about to be shot if they make any movement.
If said intruder has gun in hand or begins to reach for something or struggle... only then, BOOM... and hope for the best.
At least once you are in the court room you have some sort of evidence on your side. Instead of an angry mob of family members screaming law suit because we are a bunch of "trigger happy gun fanatics" who gunned down the beloved un-armed paperboy that wouldn't hurt a fly.
It downright sucks. But we only have our wonderful state gov't to blame for making it almost literally impossible to legally protect ourselves.