In the Gravest Extreme: The Role of the Firearm in Personal Protection

by Massad Ayoob

When I decided to write this book, I resolved not to fill it with grisly cases of criminals shot by citizens in self-defense. Those who believe that the private citizen should not be permitted to possess defensive firearms rely heavily on anecdotes of murder for shock effect; Carl Bakal's "No Right to Bear arms" is a case in point. Actually, almost every incedent Bakal and the others depict can be argued either way. Their opinion is that each atrocity could have been averted if the assailants could have been prevented from having guns; my contention is that almost every one could have been prevented or mitigated had the intended victims been armed and able to fight back against their murderers. An exception is the accicdental shooting, a statistically unlikely occurence that can, in my opinion, be eliminated by proper training. This book makes no attempt to convince the private citizen to acquire or carry firearms. It speaks to those who have already made the decision to do so, and endeavors only to advise them in the legal, ethical, and practical use of the deadly weapons they already own. The above was taken from part of the introduction from the book. 131 pages Gluded Softcover.

Genres: Nonfiction, How To

130 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1980

About the author

Massad Ayoob is an internationally known firearms and self-defense instructor. He has taught police techniques and civilian self-defense to both law enforcement officers and private citizens in numerous venues since 1974. Ayoob has appeared as an expert witness in several trials. He has served as a part-time police officer in New Hampshire since 1972 and holds the rank of Captain in the Grantham, New Hampshire police department.

Ayoob has authored several books and more than 1,000 articles on firearms, combat techniques, self-defense, and legal issues, and has served in an editorial capacity for Guns Magazine, American Handgunner, Gun Week, and Combat Handguns. Since 1995, he has written self-defense- and firearms-related articles for Backwoods Home Magazine.

Reviews

[Reepacheep · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know people personally who have taken classes from Massad F. Ayoob. I also found his name mentioned in a recommended reading list on Kathy Jackson's website, "Cornered Cat".

I read this book straight through. It is very readable and very practical. Written almost thirty years ago, I can't help but wonder if some of the specifics (gun and ammo recommendations, certain legal issues) are out-dated. Even so, this is a minor concern and it is certainly worth reading and puts a clear light on many important aspects of using a firearm for self-defense.

"Those of us who have seen violent death up close, who have seen what high-powered bullets can do to living human tissue, have a horror of inflicting that nightmarish, never forgotten damage on a fellow human being. Perhaps the only more terrifying prospect is that such a fate should befall us or our loved ones. This is why we, a representative cross-section of America's population, keep deadly weapons for personal defense." ~ Quote from the final chapter, "The Aftermath"

[Todd Coburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great little book for those contemplaring carrying a firearm for personal protection. The author is clearly an expert, and is wise in the way the content is presented.

[TΞΞL❍CK Mith!lesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

During passionate struggles, it can be cognitively challenging to discern situations that actually constitute the application of lethal force. Ayoob forcefully dismantles arguments against defensive firearm usage. The author demonstrates a profound grasp of both sides in regards to this controversial issue. Ultimately, judgment is issued in favour of firearm possession. The conclusion is not arrived at in a light-hearted manner, but it touts significant ethical justifications that are impossible to dispute.

[Randol Hooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

"...The taking of one citizen's life by another is an unnatural act, justified only as a last desperate escape from grave criminal danger" sums up the philosophy of this excellent primer on self-defense.

Books like this are desperately needed now more than ever in light of the how easily half truths and outright false information can be spread and perpetuated. The fact that concealed carry is more popular than ever only increases the need for an easily digestible treatise on self defense laws for the lay audience written by someone with great knowledge and experience in the subject.

"In the Gravest Extreme" is just that; it's easily digestible for the non-expert in law and the author is one of the foremost authorities on self-defense law in the country. I heartily recommend this book to anyone who considers keeping firearms for personal protection, either in their home or on their person. However in recommending this book I must issue several caveats.

The first is that the book is, as many other reviewers have mentioned, outdated. The sections on technical equipment are over 30 years old. Since then lightweight, reliable polymer framed pistols have spread like wildfire throughout the public and the law enforcement community. New cartridges have been developed that aren't even mentioned in the book. Weaponlights are now commonplace.

Secondly, this is a general treatise based on a survey of the law as it was 30 years ago. The law has changed, and multiple court decisions have changed the legal landscape of personal defense.

Despite these caveats much of this book still holds true. The duty to train and become familiar with one's firearm is as great now as it ever was. The advice on how to maintain one's home or on how to instruct one's children to behave around guns is still valid. In general terms, much of the book still holds true.

As this is meant to be a general primer on self defense law I do not fault the book for considering state to state variations in homicide statutes. However, the fact that it is a general primer and not an exhaustive reference must be stressed; there are going to be variations in the law from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. The core philosophy of "In the Gravest Extreme" is that the use of lethal force by the public is justifiable only "when undertaken to escape imminent and unavoidable danger of death or grave bodily harm [to the innocent]", a philosophy is deeply grounded in US law.

I like this book, it's readable and authoritative. It's very straightforward and simple to understand. I still recommend it even with all of it's problems simply because there is not another book out there, to my knowledge at least, that is comparable.

[Scott Holstad · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yes, this book is a classic. I've seen it referred to in many articles I've read. But why hasn't it been updated? It's 35 years old and is woefully out of date. The guns discussed, the calibers discussed, the role women play or do not play in self defense -- all of these and more are beyond outdated. There's good information on the legal and literal implications of using your weapon in self defense, and frankly, it's pretty sobering. You can't shoot people who are attacking you unless you are firmly in belief that your very life is in danger. So people who are attacking you with non-lethal methods (ie, pepper spray to rob you...) are off limits, even though your life COULD be in danger. And if you do shoot someone, prepare to go bankrupt as you're sued through the roof. It's really depressing. And be prepared to be charged with murder and get horrible press, even if it was completely in self defense. It's crazy! It almost makes me want to not carry at all. May as well get killed if I'm going to spend my life in prison and go bankrupt defending myself. I'm sad to say I can't recommend this book. It needs to be made current and I don't know why the author or publisher hasn't done so.

[Edward Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mas Ayoob is well known in law enforcement, in pistol competition and as a self defense writer and trainer. He has also testified for many years as an expert witness in self defense cases. This book is a short and concise summary of the legal, practical and mental preparation you should undertake if you plan to study the ways of self-defense. Even though the book is 30 years old and needs to be updated somewhat, it still shares enough useful wisdom to be worth reading.

"Though defensive violence will always be 'a sad necessity' in the eyes of men of principle, it would be still more unfortunate if wrongdoers should dominate just men."
- St. Augustine of Hippo 354-430

"Without doubt one is allowed to resist against the unjust aggressor to one's life, one's goods or one's physical integrity; sometimes, even 'til the aggressor’s death.... In fact, this act is aimed at preserving one’s life or one’s goods and to make the aggressor powerless. Thus, it is a good act, which is the right of the victim."
- Thomas Aquinas 1225-1274

[Christian D. D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been a fan of Massad Ayoob's writings since 1990, when I was a mere 14 y/o. Surprisingly now, I've only now finished reading "In the Gravest Extreme," arguably his most famous and best-regarded book. It's been out for 43 years now, but it's still considered one of the best books ever written on the subject of owning and carrying a firearm for self-defense. The only thing that keeps me from giving this book a perfect 5-star writing is that the specific recommendations for handgun makes & models and ammunition & calibers alike are outdated; thank God so many options and improvements in all of those categories have come along in the past 43 years!

Nonetheless, I still highly recommend this book to novice gun owners or those contemplating a first-time firearms purchase for self-defense usage, whether home defense and/or concealed carry outside of the home.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you own a firearm, or are thinking of owning a firearm, this is an essential read.
A must-read for all who have to ponder whether or not they want to own firearms. I was on the fence, and this absolutely was the one thing that pushed me to my decision. There is nothing biased here, and no agenda in the writing. The author clearly points out facts, discusses issues, and offers things to think about in deciding whether or not to own a firearm.

This book really made me think.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books has earned its status as a classic. Ayoob is brutally honest about both himself the realities of his subject. Some of the information is a little out-of-date, but that's to be forgiven. The principles are solid and timeless.

[Neil Blankenship · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent book. The author covers the source material in straight forward and engaging manner. My one problem with the book is that it seems to present females as a lesser sex incapable of handling a firearm.

[Mattheus Guttenberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the Gravest Extreme focuses on the context of armed self-defense. Light on both firearm mechanics and self-defense law, it covers mostly the various times and places when one might need to use a firearm for personal defense, how to avoid and deescalate such situations, and the psychology of carrying a deadly weapon. With chapters on carrying in a car, in a business, on your person, in your home, women and guns, etc., Ayoob answers many hidden questions and debunks many myths that both gun-owner and otherwise have regarding armed self-defense and successfully instills an attitude of extreme responsibility and caution around the prospect of taking another's life. A former policeman, pistol marksman, and editor of gun magazines, Ayoob recognizes the irreplaceable value a loaded piece can have for the endangered person and the horrifying destruction it can wreak when used outside of the gravest extreme. This was an enjoyable and elucidating read, and will be the first of many as I acquaint myself more with such matters.

[Nick Valentine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in the 80s, this book was a MUST read if you already decided to buy a handgun for self-defense. Massad provided many women and men alike valuable advice on protecting themselves while on the job, heading to and back from work, home, and other situations in which concealed carry might save their lives. My divorced sister took his advice when she lived alone and felt vulnerable at night. She told me she slept much better at night. No BS. There have been many imitators since then. Thank you, Officer Ayoob!

[Jessica]

Recommended by Kathy Jackson on The Cornered Cat's good books list:

An oldie now, but still the definitive before/during/after the shooting book. Most firearms books deal only with what you might need to know during a deadly force situation. This one explores the decisions you must make beforehand, the tactics and techniques you may need during the attack, and the fallout you may experience afterward. Essential information for the well-prepared citizen.

[Don Freas]

I bought This Book in My 20's When I got my First CCW Permit. When My wife Got Hers I Bought Another, Why I DID not want Her to see my Highlighted points.This Book saved Me Twice without Firing a Shot, Example ,....If Carrying a weapon never let anyone hug you arms below yours.... why they can get to your weapon.... so Many lessons.....Mas Thanks still on the Green side at 70.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great info- a little dated. A PROFOUND grasp of both sides of this controversial issue. Ultimately, judgment is issued in favor of firearm possession. Legally, morally, and forcefully dismantles arguments against defensive firearm usage.
The conclusion is not arrived at in a light-hearted manner, but it touts significant ethical justifications that are impossible to dispute.

[Cameron · Rating 2 out of 5]

A conscientious gun owner should already know most of the wisdom in this book. It would be good for folks new to ownership. Chapters 13 and 14 should be skipped - they have a lot of dated, false information about ballistics and firearms.

[Vincent Sargenti · Rating 5 out of 5]

a great little read for anyone who ever picked up a pistol and wanted to put it in their pocket and walk out into public with it. Think again! Then think about it harder!! This book will put you in a reality check about what it is to carry concealed and have to defend your own life.

[Caroline Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for anyone!! Especially if you have a gun or CWP. Just read it because it could save you financially and legally.

[Bill Zawrotny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book...must read for anyone who keeps firearms for self-defense. I love his no nonsense way of explaining things.

[Colin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled how to rate this book. I enjoyed the content but it's absolutely dated at this point. The elements of the book that deal with timeless principles are still (and always have been) fantastic. I simply love Massad Ayoob's knowledge of defensive firearm use and think he has a tremendous mind for the legal repercussions. However, there are several sections of the book (most notably, the discussion of the best firearms "currently available") which simply haven't aged well.

I absolutely recommend this book - but not to somebody looking for their first material on the subject matter. It's worth reading, but just start with some other options. Mas himself has several other great books worthy of consideration.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think every adult should read this book. It is a great book for explaining the need for a firearm for protection. It doesn’t sugar coat anything either. The firearm is a tool, nothing more, nothing less. When a bad guy is out to do you some serious harm, a firearm is really the only thing that can level the playing field. But Massad Ayoob explains it much better than I do.

Massad Ayoob is considered a firearms guru. If you youtube his name, you will find many informational videos of him speaking. This is true of his book as well. It is a very well written, informational examination of many different scenarios regarding violence and the use of firearms. It delves into very practical considerations including which firearm to choose (although this section is a little dated as it was written in 1980), when to use and NOT use a firearm, the repercussions of using one, and basic principals of handgun philosophy and use. Massad Ayoob is likely the most down-to-earth, reasonable, fair, and unbiased author of firearms information in a world where everyone is an extremist when it comes to firearms.

The book is only 130 pages long. Do yourself and your loved one a favor and take a copy out of your local library. The information you read in this book could save your life someday.

[Tenley Skolfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you carry concealed? Get trained. And then, this is a "must read". Mas Ayoob covers scenarios and what to expect should you find yourself in a lethal force situation protecting yourself with a firearm. Note: This book was written 40 years ago so it is dated, and laws vary from state to state - it is your responsibility to know the law in your state. There's a chapter on knife attacks which is VERY enlightening! If nothing else, this book will put you in a frame-of-mind for being an informed firearm carrier.

[Jake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an awesome book! It's reached legendary status in the self-defense world, and I was very happy to get my hands on it, since it's been out of print for awhile. Some of the tactics/discussions in it are blatantly dated (the author has changed his view on some of the things he covers in the book since it was written, such as using hand loads for self-defense, etc.), but the value of this book is really in it's ability to force the reader to really think through the appropriate reasons to use deadly force, and the awful consequences of using it inappropriately. Those lessons are priceless, and this book should be required reading for anyone concerned with self-defense.

[Dwain · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good introduction to firearms for protection. Ayoob discusses choosing a firearms, the necessity of regular practice, general tactics (such as when to go looking around your house and when to hole up in a room), and legal issues. The sections on legal issues are sobering and should be read by anyone who owns a firearm. One caution: there is some pretty rough language, particularly in the beginning.

[Nmarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book. Straight to the point. While the idea of being forced to use a firearm is not a happy one, Ayoob discusses not only circumstances in which you may have to do so, but also the aftermath of police interaction, courts, emotional trauma, etc.

If you are considering a firearm for either home protection of personal carry, this short read is a must. Ayoob has decades of firearms training, and is plain spoken.

[Nathaniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear discussion of when deadly force is legally permissible for the average citizen. Ayoob explains the responsibility that goes along with carrying a concealed firearm, and argues that anyone who does so must do everything possible to avoid using it. An eye-opener for anyone who wants to carry a gun "for protection," this book ought to be required reading for armed citizens.

[Leonard Pierce · Rating 3 out of 5]

Extremely grim and predictably reactionary book on gun laws and practical methods and approaches to using handguns for personal defense. Despite the pretty gross tone it takes, it's full of extremely useful advice with no sugarcoating. By the way, I have placed this in the "sports" category because I have no shelf for "books about shooting people dead".

[Damon Thueson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book that can help anyone better understand the difficulties of the law when dealing with a self defense shooting or even an accidental shooting. The mental process and adrenaline and what to expect on all angles and fronts is what this book will do.
Love it!

[Emy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concepts behind concealed carry and lethal force laws are fascinating to me. But probably not to many other people.

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book that covers the details regarding the use of firearms as personal protection.