A firearm is more useful against home invasions than a stealth burglary of an empty home. The latter may cost you some possessions, but they're just things. Renter's or homeowner's insurance will replace things, and even if it doesn't, they're still just things. The home invasion scenario is far scarier. The perps may intend to rape or kill the occupant and don't care at all if you live or die. Often the crime may involve drugs. Your life isn't so easily replaced as your flat screen TV. That's the reason to be armed. If you're not home, then obviously the thief is probably going to steal your gun along with all your other stuff!