Where I live in West Virginia, there is the "Three Hits Law" (Thats just what I call it). Apparently, if someone hits you three times without you striking back, it counts as assult and battery and you are allowed to defend yourself by breaking limbs. However, if someone breaks (key word) into your house, you can do whatever you feel necessary to subdue them. I know one man who shot an armed burglar through the stomach, severing three intestinal links and striking his spine. This man wasn't using a gun, he was using a hunting arrow and a compound bow. The arrow pinned the burglar to the wall while the man called 911.