My 7 Favorite Guns for Home Defense [2023 Recommendations]

Ensuring the safety of your home and the people inside it is a top priority for any responsible homeowner. 

One essential component of that safety plan involves having the right firearm for home defense. In this article, we will explore seven of the best guns for home defense, covering all the important aspects you need to know before making a purchase.

Understanding Home Defense Needs

Before we dive into the specifics of each gun, it’s important to understand the unique needs of home defense. Unlike hunting or recreational shooting, home defense requires a firearm that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, effective at stopping a threat quickly, and easy to operate under high-stress situations.

Home defense situations can be extremely stressful and unpredictable. Intruders may be armed, aggressive, and determined to cause harm to you and your loved ones. That’s why it’s important to choose a firearm that you are comfortable handling and can use effectively in a high-pressure situation.

Assessing Your Home’s Layout

One of the first steps in choosing a firearm for home defense is to assess the layout of your home. Consider the potential entry points that an intruder could use, the distance between rooms, and the type of walls and doors that make up your home’s structure. This information will help you determine the length and type of firearm that will work best for your situation.

For example, if you live in a small apartment with narrow hallways and tight corners, a shotgun may not be the best choice. A handgun or a compact rifle may be more suitable for navigating through tight spaces. On the other hand, if you live in a large house with multiple levels, a shotgun or a longer rifle may be more effective at stopping an intruder from a distance.

Legal Considerations for Home Defense

It’s crucial to be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding firearms in your area. While laws may vary, it’s generally considered legal to use deadly force when defending yourself or others against an imminent threat. However, it’s always best to consult with a lawyer or local law enforcement to get a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.

It’s also important to store your firearm safely and securely, especially if you have children or other individuals in your home who are not trained in firearm safety. Many states have laws that require firearms to be stored in a locked safe or with a trigger lock to prevent unauthorized access.

Training and Safety Precautions

Proper training and safe handling of firearms are critical components of responsible gun ownership. Anyone purchasing a firearm for home defense should consider taking a firearms safety course, and regularly practice shooting in a safe and controlled environment.

In addition to firearms training, it’s important to have a plan in place for how to respond to a home invasion or other emergency situation. This plan should include identifying safe rooms in your home, practicing communication with family members, and having a way to contact law enforcement quickly.

Remember, owning a firearm for home defense is a serious responsibility. By taking the time to assess your needs, understand the legal considerations, and receive proper training, you can ensure that you are prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of an emergency.

The Importance of Caliber and Ammunition

One of the most important factors in choosing a home defense firearm is selecting the right caliber and ammunition. This decision will impact the gun’s stopping power, accuracy, and recoil.

Caliber Considerations for Home Defense

The most common calibers for home defense include 9mm, .45 ACP, and .357 Magnum. Each caliber offers its own advantages, with 9mm being the most popular due to its lower recoil and higher capacity. However, the best choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and comfort level.

Types of Ammunition for Home Defense

When it comes to ammunition, hollow point rounds are the preferred choice for home defense due to their ability to expand upon impact and deliver greater stopping power. Frangible rounds are also a good option as they break apart upon impact, reducing the risk of over-penetration.

Handguns for Home Defense

Glock 19 Gen 5

The Glock 19 is a popular choice for home defense due to its size, reliability, and ease of use. With a magazine capacity of 15 rounds and a compact design, it’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The Glock 19 also has a reputation for being one of the most reliable handguns on the market.

Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0

Another reliable and popular handgun for home defense is the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0. Like the Glock 19, it has a magazine capacity of 15 rounds and is easy to operate under high-stress situations. The M&P9 M2.0 also features a comfortable grip and an adjustable trigger.

Sig Sauer P320

The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular handgun that allows the user to swap out the grip and slide for a customized fit. It also features a crisp trigger and a high magazine capacity of up to 21 rounds. The P320 is a reliable and accurate choice for home defense.

Shotguns for Home Defense

Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is a pump-action shotgun that is reliable, versatile, and easy to use. It has a tube magazine that can hold up to eight rounds, and its 12-gauge shells offer superior stopping power. The Mossberg 500 is a popular choice for home defense due to its durability and affordability.

Remington 870

The Remington 870 is a classic shotgun that has been trusted by law enforcement and homeowners alike for over 60 years. It features a pump-action design and a tube magazine that can hold up to seven rounds. The 870 is known for its reliability and versatility, making it a solid choice for home defense.

Rifles for Home Defense

Cobalt Kinetics Pro

The Cobalt Kinetics Pro AR-15 is a top-tier rifle designed for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Boasting exceptional build quality, it feels like one solid piece with no rattling. The CK-Pro comes equipped with premium components, including a 2-stage Geissele G2S trigger, Radian Raptor LT charging handle, 45-degree throw safety, and a VLTOR 5-position buffer tube with a proprietary Cobalt buffer system. 

Featuring ambidextrous controls, it accommodates both left and right-handed shooters. The CK-Pro is the ideal choice for anyone seeking a high-end home defense AR-15.

Ruger Mini-14

The Ruger Mini-14 is a lightweight and reliable rifle that is accurate and easy to use. It features a semi-automatic design and a magazine capacity of 20 rounds. The Mini-14 is a trusted choice for home defense due to its rugged dependability and affordable price point.

Conclusion

Choosing the right firearm for home defense requires careful consideration and research. Each of the guns listed above offers its own unique advantages and should be chosen based on personal preference, budget, and home layout. 

Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership, and seek proper training before making a purchase.